Updated
09/26/2023
During times of crisis, social workers often play a critical role in the resolution. They are employed in a variety of settings, including schools, government agencies, hospitals, and clinics, to assist vulnerable populations in coping with various challenges.
Social work positions are projected to grow by 12% in the coming decade, resulting in almost 90,000 new jobs by 2030. If you hold a bachelor’s degree and are already employed in the field, or if you are contemplating a career change and considering entering the social work industry, now is the ideal time to do so.
Finding an affordable online MSW program can make the difference in whether a busy, cost-conscious student decides to go down this path. Learn about the top accredited MSW programs with the most affordable price tags.
50 Most Affordable Online MSW Programs in 2023
Due to the abundance of online MSW programs, finding an affordable option is relatively simple with a little research. Although cost is only one of several factors to consider when selecting a program, it can be a determining factor for some students.
To create our list of the most affordable MSW programs, we ranked schools based on factors such as affordability and quality. The data comes from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). If you want to learn more about how this year’s rankings were calculated, click our “About the ranking” button below.
Keep reading to learn about our picks for the most affordable online MSW programs for this year.
New Mexico State University provides a fully online MSW offered as an advanced generalist program. Those with a BSW can graduate in one year, while students with an unrelated undergraduate degree need two years. The program also has part-time options. Professors use the Canvas learning management system to deliver a mix of synchronous and asynchronous coursework.
In addition to generalist studies, the School of Social Work also is home to the Center on Immigration and Child Welfare for learners interested in targeted research opportunities. Some of the topics covered in the curriculum include policy analysis and change, practice with organizations and communities, and applied research methods. Learners spend six credits completing a field experience.
Required application materials include a bachelor’s degree, official transcripts demonstrating a 3.0 or higher GPA, current resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Program Highlights:
Master’s in Social Work Online
- Credits: 30-60
- Length: 1-2 years
- Cost: $411.50/credit
- Format: Fully online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) (school); Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) (program)
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid65%
The Anne and Henry Zarrow School of Social Work at The University of Oklahoma’s Norman campus provides two options for its online MSW program: a 36-credit advanced standing degree for BSW graduates and a 60-credit program for those with unrelated undergraduate educations.
Using a mix of both synchronous and asynchronous courses, UO students get the rare opportunity to participate in simulations with trained actors playing social work clients. Topics covered in this program include human diversity and societal oppression, client-centered direct practice, social work research methods, and human lifespan development.
In addition to an online application, prospective students must provide a resume, copy of transcripts from previous institutions, three letters of recommendation, answers to essay questions, and a statement of purpose. They must also pay a nonrefundable $50 application fee.
Program Highlights:
Master’s in Social Work Online
- Credits: 36-60
- Length: 1-2 years
- Cost: $625/credit
- Format: Fully online
- Accreditation: HLC (school); CSWE (program)
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid86%
Missouri State University’s Springfield campus provides a fully online MSW for both regular and advanced-standing learners. Ranging from 34-62 credits, students can undertake these programs full time or part time. While all coursework can be completed online, all learners must participate in a mandatory new student orientation.
Classes taken in the first year of studies include social welfare policy and services, foundations in social work practice with families and groups, and a social work field practicum. Advanced classes taken in the second year focus on research, assessment, and practice. Learners complete their time at MSUS by participating in a 525-hour field work practicum and seminar.
Admission requirements include a regionally accredited bachelor’s degree, 3.0 or higher GPA, prerequisite courses, recommendation letters, statement of goals, and updated resume.
Program Highlights:
Online Master of Social Work
- Credits: 34-62
- Length: 1-3 years
- Cost: $6,250/year (residents); $11,524/year (nonresidents)
- Format: Fully-online except for new student orientation
- Accreditation: HLC (school); CSWE (program)
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid59%
The University of Southern Maine in Portland provides a part-time, low-residency online MSW program that takes three years to complete. Students enter the program as a cohort, completing assignments and projects with the same group until graduation. While most courses take place online, degree seekers must visit the campus for two or three Friday meetings each semester.
Classes required for this program include multicultural social work, advanced biopsychosocial assessment, and social work practice with individuals and families. Learners begin taking part in social work practice, as well as fieldwork and seminars, during the fall of their second year.
Admission requirements include an online application, resume, three letters of recommendation, transcripts from all institutions previously attended, and a personal statement. Students must also submit a 750-word essay answering four questions outlined by the admissions committee.
Program Highlights:
Low-Residency Online MSW
- Credits: 61
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $432/credit (resident); $1,186/credit (nonresident)
- Format: Partially-online
- Accreditation: NECHE (school); CSWE (program)
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid85%
The Arizona State University Skysong (ASUS) campus provides a fully online MSW consisting of 20 classes lasting 7.5 weeks each. Learners select from multiple start dates per year. Once enrolled, classes take place on an asynchronous basis to allow for maximum flexibility.
Some of the classes students take include macro human behavior in the social environment, social policy and services, diversity and oppression in a social work context, and assessment of mental disorders. Learners must also participate in an applied project and a field internship/practicum to qualify for graduation.
Students who apply to ASUS’s program must supply an online application, transcripts demonstrating a 3.0 or higher GPA and completed prerequisites, a statement of education and career goals, updated resume, three letters of recommendation, and proof of completing at least 240 hours in a volunteer or professional social services role during a six-month period in the previous five years.
Program Highlights:
Online Master of Social Work
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $6,791/semester
- Format: Fully-online
- Accreditation: HLC (school); CSWE (program)
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid53%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid61%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid99%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid54%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid60%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid51%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid99%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid76%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid44%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid58%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid67%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid61%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid62%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid45%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid45%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid65%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid49%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid83%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid100%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid54%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid59%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid49%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid12%
CounselingYes
PlacementNo
Institutional Aid41%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid48%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid41%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid62%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid57%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid66%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid63%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid41%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid51%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid53%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid47%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid70%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid19%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid57%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid57%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid30%
CounselingYes
PlacementNo
Institutional Aid89%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid61%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid50%
CounselingYes
PlacementNo
Institutional Aid63%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid39%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid46%
CounselingYes
PlacementYes
Institutional Aid48%
5 Ways to Make Your Online MSW Degree More Affordable
If you want to earn your online MSW degree without taking on substantial debt, consider these options to reduce costs, have your loans forgiven, or receive a discounted tuition rate.
1
Apply to scholarships, grants, and fellowships created for MSW students
Plenty of scholarships, grants, and fellowships support students working toward an MSW. Some may award funds based on merit, while others base decisions on financial need. These awards can be quite competitive, so it’s best to start looking for options early. Not sure where to start? Check out our STEPS financial aid guide and scholarships and resources guide for social work students. CSWE also offers examples of funding opportunities.
2
See if you qualify for work-study
Students who fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) may qualify for a federal work-study job based on their earnings. These part-time positions can be virtual or in-person at the school campus and pay at least the federal hourly minimum wage. You’ll need to make sure your prospective college offers this type of funding. Asbury University provides an example of what to look for.
3
Apply for a research or teaching assistantship
Assistantships are offered by colleges and universities as a way for students to assist professors with research and/or teaching responsibilities, gain experience, and help cover their educational costs. Some assistantships provide a stipend while others may qualify students for free or reduced tuition. These roles are both virtual and in person. Check out the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s School of Social Work to see a real-world example.
4
Ask your employer about tuition reimbursement plans
If you are currently employed as a social worker with a BSW degree, it is worthwhile to inquire with your employer about any available tuition reimbursement plans. Under federal law, employers can provide up to $5,250 tax-free per academic year to cover school-related expenses such as tuition, textbooks, and supplies. While some employers may offer more than $5,250 annually, any amount over this threshold will be subject to taxes.
5
Apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program
Social workers employed by a government agency or a nonprofit can qualify for the U.S. Department of Education’s Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Students who make 120 qualifying monthly payments toward their Direct Loans over a 10-year period can have the remainder of their loan forgiven if they work full-time for an approved employer.
What Affects the Affordability of an Online MSW Program?
Many factors can affect the bottom line in terms of how much you pay for your online MSW degree. Understanding these factors prior to enrolling in a program can help you mitigate unexpected expenses and look for the best rates without sacrificing the quality of your education. Check out a few common factors below.
Public vs. Private Institution
Private colleges and universities almost always cost more than state-subsidized public institutions. Data from CollegeBoard shows that students completing a master’s at a public university paid an average of $8,950 for the 2020-2021 academic year. Those at a private institution paid an average of $29,670.
Out-of-State vs. In-state Status
If attending a public university, it matters whether you’re considered a resident or nonresident student. While in-state students paid an average of $10,560 during the 2020-2021 school year, out-of-state students paid an average of $27,020.
Online Learner Special Rate
To appeal to a larger audience of online learners, some schools offer special rates for distance education. Public colleges may enable online students to pay in-state tuition regardless of their place of residence, while private institutions may reduce rates for students who choose to complete their degree virtually.
Fees
Many students see tuition rates for an MSW program and fail to pay attention to the fees. While distance learners avoid many campus-based costs, they still need to factor in charges associated with technology fees, exam proctoring, and fieldwork travel costs.
Transfer Credits Accepted
If you decide to transfer to a different MSW program, make sure your existing credits will come with you. At the University of Southern Maine, for instance, the online MSW program takes place in a sequenced cohort style. Because of this, the program generally doesn’t allow for any transfer credits.