Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs

Many career paths, including social work, begin with a bachelor’s degree. For students who want to help others and are interested in public health or counseling, a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) might be the right course. In many states, a BSW is the minimum educational requirement to achieve entry-level licensure as a social worker.

Social workers can be found in various settings, including schools, healthcare systems, correctional facilities, and community mental health centers. Despite these diverse environments, they share a common purpose. Social workers are united by their commitment to advocating for social justice that positively impacts communities. They assist clients in identifying solutions for negative behaviors, developing healthy coping mechanisms for challenging situations, and accessing social resources.

There are numerous BSW programs available on campus for local students, as well as online and hybrid options. Regardless of format, a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is required for entry-level social work licensure, where applicable, and for admission to advanced-standing Master of Social Work (MSW) programs.

The program cards and tables featured on this page were last updated in January 2026. For the most current program information, please refer to the official website of the respective school.

Accredited online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree programs

We’ve identified several online BSW degree programs that are CSWE-accredited, with some offering minors.

What to expect from an online BSW program

In an accredited Bachelor of Social Work online program, you’ll explore the foundations of social work. Your classes will take place online, with some scheduled for specific times and others being entirely self-paced.

Anticipate listening to lectures, completing assigned readings, performing research, writing papers, participating in group discussions, and giving virtual presentations. In hybrid programs, you may take in-person classes in the evenings and on the weekends.

Another aspect of many Bachelor of Social Work online programs is the availability of specializations. Students considering a social work career should think through their preferred work setting, the issues they’re passionate about, or the populations they’d like to serve. You can choose a BSW degree specialization based on your interests.

Accreditation for online BSW programs

Students pursuing a BSW should familiarize themselves with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This organization accredits BSW and MSW programs. Earning a CSWE-accredited BSW degree online may help prepare you for entry-level licensure, depending on your state’s rules.

What will I learn in an online BSW program?

Students in social work programs study how people function individually and in groups. Additionally, they learn about mental health issues, behavioral disorders, and disabilities. This prepares them to work with a wide range of people, including at-risk populations. Bachelor of Social Work online programs also look at how politics and government influence or dictate social welfare policies.

A typical BSW degree curriculum may cover topics such as:

• Basics of psychology
• Basics of sociology
• Basics of economics
• Human behavior and the social environment
• Social issues
• State and local government
• Social welfare and policy
• Social work practice
• Statistics

How long does it take to get an online BSW degree?

Full-time students typically complete a bachelor's degree program in four years. However, many online and hybrid Bachelor of Social Work programs offer part-time study, potentially extending the program's duration for those who choose this option. Whether you’re a full- or part-time student, your curriculum will likely consist of social work and liberal arts credits.

By taking the time to complete a BSW degree, you might save time later if you want to pursue a master’s degree in social work (MSW) or eventually a doctorate in social work (DSW). An MSW generally takes two years to complete. However, with an accredited BSW, you may be able to enroll in an advanced standing program which takes about a year to complete.

Will I need to complete field work?

Yes, all BSW programs incorporate internship or field experiences. According to the CSWE, all accredited programs require at least 400 hours of supervised field experience. This real-world experience gives aspiring professionals insight into the day-to-day work of a social worker. Typically, your school will assist you in finding an internship or field placement. Depending on the state, individuals may need post-degree experience to obtain a baccalaureate-level social work license.

Licensure with an online BSW degree

A Bachelor of Social Work may help you obtain licensure, but it’s important to understand your state’s unique licensing requirements. Typically, a BSW enables you to pursue the base level of social work license: a Licensed Bachelor of Social Work (LBSW) or similar. You may obtain an LBSW license by applying to your state’s board of social work and passing the Bachelors Exam administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB).

If you eventually want to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed master social worker (LMSW), you will require a master’s degree in social work and more supervised work experience. There are also online clinical MSW programs that can help prepare you for LCSW licensure. You’ll also have to take the ASWB’s clinical exam.

Examining how different programs prepare you for licensure in their respective states is helpful. Out-of-state students may face different licensing requirements in their home state than in their school’s state. If you’re considering attending school in a state different from where you plan to work, make sure you’re aware of any differences in the licensure requirements and steps you may need to take to meet additional requirements.

Social work scholarships

Many students rely on federal loans, grants, and scholarships to cover tuition costs. Thankfully, there are many social work scholarships available. You can look for scholarships available through national and state-specific professional organizations, local businesses and nonprofits, and the social work school you choose to attend. It also can be helpful to look for scholarships for specific demographics, such as women, minorities, and veterans.

The following organizations offer various scholarships:

• National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
• National Association of Black Social Workers
• National Association of Social Workers Foundation
• Phi Alpha Honor Society
• Point Foundation

Social work resources

Prospective social work students can learn more about the profession through associations, online publications, and blogs. Here are some resources for undergraduate social work students:

• Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB): The ASWB is a nonprofit focused on the regulation of social work in the U.S. and Canada. Most importantly, it owns and administers social work licensing exams. Students should review the ASWB’s resources for exam candidates.
• Council on Social Work Education (CSWE): The CSWE determines the minimum education and experience qualifications for accredited social work degree programs. It has educational resources for students and licensed social workers.
• National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW): The NABSW provides support and resources for Black students and professionals. Students can look for an NABSW chapter in their area.
• National Association of Puerto Rican Hispanic Social Workers (NAPRHSW): This organization focuses on serving the Latinx community and offers student membership.
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW): The NASW supports the social work profession. Members have access to educational opportunities, networking, job boards, and more. BSW and MSW students, as well as those enrolled in non-CSWE-accredited programs and courses in another subject, may qualify for membership. Verify membership dues on the NASW website.
• Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR): SSWR is a nonprofit organization for social work researchers and other professionals and students. The annual cost for student membership is $50 (currently listed).
• Social Work Today: Social Work Today is a professional magazine with articles and research on numerous areas of social work.
• Social Workers Speak: This site focuses on how social work is portrayed in the media and entertainment industry.