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Best Online BSW Programs: Students Before Profits Award

The Students Before Profits Awards were created to recognize nonprofit colleges and universities offering degrees that put students before profits and education before the bottom-line.  For our ranking of the Online Bachelor’s in Social Work winners, we chose online Social Work degree programs from nonprofit colleges and universities, accredited by independent and trusted accreditation boards, with lower than average tuition costs, and have ranked them by affordability.

These days students have a much larger array of choices available to them when it comes to pursuing a higher education.  While more choices may seem like a good thing, many students find that themselves paralyzed and overwhelmed by the large amount of options.  At Nonprofit Colleges Online, we’ve found that students should be looking towards online degree programs to pursue their higher education due to their many benefits over their on campus counterparts.  First and foremost, online degree programs tend to be much cheaper than on campus degrees despite using the same curriculum.  By offering the degree online, colleges are able to cut out a lot of the overhead associated with offering a degree on campus.  This allows the colleges to charge a lower tuition to students.  Online programs also allow students to create class schedules that work best for their needs.  Rather than being beholden to a set class schedule, students can craft a schedule that works around their job, internship, or any other obligations a modern student might have.  Finally, online degree programs remove the geographic constraints when looking for a college program.  Students no longer need to factor in the ability to move or the cost of living of a city that a school is located in.  Students can shop around and take classes at whatever school offers the best education for the price, regardless of location.

Pursuing an Online Bachelor’s of Social Work degree is the best first step towards a wonderful career in social work and human services.  Students who are looking towards a career as a social worker, caseworker, community outreach worker, probation officer, or much more.  Through a Bachelor’s of Social Work program students will work gain understanding of the proficiencies and competencies needed to become a professional social worker.  That means learning how to assess the well-being of individuals, set and develop care plans, and evaluate client success over time.  Students will also learn how to advocate for their clients and make sure that they are getting the things they need to succeed.  Upon completion of an Online Bachelor’s of Social Work degree, students can either enter directly into the social work field into a variety of entry-level positions, or they can continue their studies towards a Master’s of Social Work degree.

Note that tuition rates listed below are based on cost per credit and individual programs may have additional fees.

Ranking the Top Online BSW Programs

#1. Western New Mexico University

In a rented Presbyterian Church, Western New Mexico University began enrolling its first class of students in February 11, 1893.  Originally known as the New Mexico Normal School, the school was located in what was then the Territory of New Mexico.  Four months later, the Board of Regents called for the establishment of an official school building in the town of Silver City.  In 1896, construction on the school’s first building, Old Main, was completed.  In just twenty years, the school had reached five hundred students.  Still located in Silver City, New Mexico, Western New Mexico University currently enrolls a student body of approximately 3,500 students. Western New Mexico University is a public institution.

Program Overview

Students at Western New Mexico University are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Social Work degree.  Through this program of study, students will begin their education in the field of social work topics including social justice, dignity and the worth of a person, as well as learning to foster human relationships and provide people with a nurturing environment.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Western New Mexico University campus to complete this course of study.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Western New Mexico University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $27,120

#2. Bemidji State University

In 1919, Bemidji State University opened its doors to its first class of students.  Originally known as Bemidji State Normal School, the school’s name was eventually changed to Bemidji State Teachers College, then shortened to Bemidji State College, and finally changed in 1975 to Bemidji State University.  In 1999, the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System urged the school to change its name to Minnesota State University-Bemidji but students and faculty opposed the decision.  Named for its location in Bemidji, Minnesota, Bemidji State University enrolls a student body of over 6,300 students and offers a variety of different programs for students to enroll in. Bemidji State University is a public institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work degree is offered to students at Bemidji State University.  Through this course of study, students will begin to learn crucial concepts and teachings integral to success within the field of social work.  Students will learn how to build relationships with people as well as how to take care of the emotional well-being of others.  This program is available entirely online and does not require any visits to the Bemidji State University campus.  A minimum of 129 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Bemidji State University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $38,184

#3. Southern New Hampshire University

The New Hampshire School of Accounting and Secretarial Science was founded in 1932.  As a precursor to Southern New Hampshire University, the school was co-founded by husband and wife Harry A.B. Shapiro and Gertrude Crockett Shapiro.  Originally located in downtown Manchester, the school operated under the New Hampshire School of Accounting and Secretarial Science name for three decades and was then renamed to New Hampshire College of Accounting and Commerce, and then finally to Southern New Hampshire University.  After outgrowing its original campus, the school was relocated to its current location along the border of Hooksett and Manchester.  Now, Southern New Hampshire University enrolls 3,000 students on campus and an additional 60,000 students online.  Southern New Hampshire University is a private institution.

Program Overview

Students are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services degree at Southern New Hampshire University.  Through this course of study, students will learn how to balance compassion with policy and process.  Students will learn about historical moments that informed current social work principles as well as strategies to work with different populations within the field of social work.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Southern New Hampshire University campus to complete this program of study.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Southern New Hampshire University’s Bachelor of Arts in Human Services degree is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

Tuition: $38,400

#4. Utah State University

After the passage of the Morrill Act, Utah began looking for a site to locate its first public school of higher education.  With Salt Lake City already being home to the Capitol and Provo having the Insane Asylum, it was determined that the new school should be located in Logan.  In 1888, the Agricultural College of Utah was established and in 1890, the first group of students began taking classes at the school. Over the years the school grew and consolidated with nearby schools in order to sustain its growth.  Today, Utah State University is home to over 28,000 students and offers a wide variety of educational opportunities.  Utah State University is a public institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education degree is offered to students at Utah State University.  Through this program of study, students will learn social work techniques and methods as they relate to the care of those who are deaf or suffer from communicative disorders.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Utah State University campus in order to complete this program of study.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Utah State University’s Bachelor of Science in Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education degree is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

Tuition: $39,000

#5. Clarion University of Pennsylvania

The Carrier Seminary of Western Pennsylvania was established in 1867.  Four years later in 1871, the school began accepting its first class of students.  Operating independently of the state for the next sixteen years, Carrier Seminary of Western Pennsylvania was renamed to Clarion State Normal School after receiving backing from the state of Pennsylvania.  Now operating as part of the state education system, the school received college status and was renamed.  By the 1980s, the school had become a member of Pennsylvania’s public education system and received university status prompting the school’s name to be changed once more to Clarion University of Pennsylvania.  Named for its location in Clarion, Pennsylvania, Clarion University of Pennsylvania has a student body of over 5,000 students. Clarion University of Pennsylvania is a public institution.

Program Overview

Students at Clarion University of Pennsylvania are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with Community Services Concentration degree.  Through this course of study, students will learn skills and techniques needed for the fostering and care of people within a variety of different communities.  Learning critical social work skills, students will gain the knowledge needed to become a community service worker and help their communities.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit Clarion University of Pennsylvania to complete their studies.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Clarion University of Pennsylvania’s Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with Community Services Concentration degree is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Tuition: $40,440

#6. Washburn University

The State of Kansas and the General Association of Congregational Ministers and Churches of Kansas issued a charter for the creation of Lincoln College in 1865.  After the donation of a plot of land by abolitionist John Ritchie, construction began on what would eventually become Washburn College.  Renamed in 1868 to Washburn College, the name was changed to honor Ichabod Washburn, another abolitionist from Worcester, Massachusetts who pledged $25,000 to the school.  Over the years, the school continued to grow and act as a beacon for progressive ideals.  Located in Topeka, Kansas, Washburn College is home to a student body of just over 6,600 students.  Washburn University is a public institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree is offered to students at Washburn University.  Through this program of study, students will focus on learning introductory concepts of social work.  Students will be prepared to enter into the workforce as entry-level social workers or to continue their education towards a Master of Social Work.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit Washburn University to complete their degree of study.  A minimum of 124 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Washburn University’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $43,648

#7. Northwestern State University

Established on a plot of land originally belonging to the Bullard family, Northwestern State University was established in 1856.  On this plot of land, a convent was built and a school was erected.  Due to its early date of establishment, Northwestern State University predates the Civil War.  Established by the Louisiana State Legislature, the school was named the Louisiana State Normal School.  As the school grew the name of the school was changed to Louisiana State Normal College in 1921 and then to Northwestern State College of Louisiana in 1944.  Currently enrolling over 9,000 students, Northwestern State University is located in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Northwestern State University is a public institution.

Program Overview

Students at Northwestern State University are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Social Work degree.  Through this program of study students will work to gain a greater understanding of core concepts and strategies of social work.  Students will be prepared to work in the field in jobs such as Youth Services, Substance Abuse Counseling, and much more.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Northwestern State University campus.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Northwestern State University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Tuition: $45,000

#8. Liberty University

Liberty University was founded in 1971 under the guidance of Senior Pastor Jerry Falwell of Thomas Road Baptist Church.  Originally named the Lynchburg Baptist College, the school would grow over the coming decades to become the Liberty University of the modern day. At it’s creation, the school’s goal was to provide an option for higher learning to students with a Christian perspective.  Originally named for its location in Lynchburg Virginia, the school was renamed in 1985 to Liberty University.  Now, Liberty university enrolls a student body of over 15,000 student and an additional 100,000 students online.  Liberty University is a private institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree is offered to students at Liberty University.  Through this program of study, students will study topics including Chemical Dependency, Social Problems, Human Behavior and the Social Environment, as well as Ethics in Professional Helping.  This program is available entirely online and does not require any visits to the Liberty University campus.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Liberty University’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Tuition: $46,800

#9. Campbellsville University

In 1906, the Russell Creek Academy was founded by the Russell Creek Baptist Association as a boys school.  Over the coming years, the school’s curriculum would grow beyond that of a boys school and would eventually lead to its transformation into a full-fledged university.  Eventually the school began offering college courses and then in 1996 the school gained university status.  Named for its location in Campbellsville, Kentucky, Campbellsville University enrolls a student body of over 3,200 students.  Students are able to enroll in a wide variety of programs including associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs at Campellsville University. Campbellsville University is a private institution.

Program Overview

At Campbellsville University, students are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Social Work degree.  Through this program of study, students will learn how to work with and care for a variety of different vulnerable populations.  They will learn topics including social policy, crisis intervention, and marriage and family relationship support.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit Campbellsville University for its completion.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Campbellsville University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Tuition: $47,880

#10. Touro University Worldwide

George Washington spoke at Touro Synagogue in 1790 setting into motion a series of events that would eventually lead to the establishment of Touro University.  Inspired by the words of George Washington, the Touro family began developing a system of nonprofit schools of higher education that were sponsored by the Jewish faith.  Known as Touro College, the school system eventually established Touro University Worldwide in 1998.  Originally known as Touro University International, the school began to offer students a wide variety of different educational opportunities through distance education.  Now, Touro University Worldwide enrolls a large amount of students and offers a variety of different degree programs.   Touro University Worldwide is a private institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work degree is offered to students at Touro University Worldwide.  Through this program of study, students will learn the concepts and competencies needed to begin a career in Social Work.  Students will learn how to provide guidance, counseling and other practical human services.  This program is available entirely online. Students are not required to visit the Tour University Worldwide campus to complete this course of study.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Touro University’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work degree is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Tuition: $48,000

#11. Indiana Wesleyan University

Originally known as Marion Normal College, Indiana Wesleyan college was established in 1890.  Operating under the name of Marion Normal College until 1912, the school was later renamed to Marion Normal Institute.  In 1920, the school’s name was changed once more to Marion College under which name it operated until 1980.  That year, the school was finally renamed to Indiana Wesleyan University. Over the course of the 20th century, Indiana Wesleyan University began offering a larger variety of courses and degree programs.  Now, it is one of the largest private universities in Indiana.  Located in Marion, Indiana, Indiana Wesleyan University has a student body of over 16,000 students.  Indiana Wesleyan University is a private institution.

Program Overview

Students at Indiana Wesleyan University are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Social Work degree.  In this program of study, students will gain first-hand knowledge of individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations in order to learn how their environment effects these different groups.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Indiana Wesleyan University campus to complete this program of study.   A minimum of 124 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Indiana Wesleyan University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $49,352

#12. Limestone College

Thomas and William Curtis, father and son, created Limestone College in 1845.  Scholars, Thomas and William, traveled from England to the United States with the goal of creating a school that would provide women with an opportunity for higher education with the states.  Settling in South Carolina, the two eventually opened Limestone College, one of the first women’s colleges.  Now one of the oldest school’s in the state. Limestone College was named for its close proximity to a nearby limestone quarry. Located in Gaffney, South Carolina, Limestone College still retains many of its original buildings and structure.  In 1960, the school went coeducational and now enrolls a student body of 1,000 students on campus and additional 2,500 students online. Limestone College is a private institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work degree is offered to students at Limestone College.  Through this program of study, students are able to work towards gaining a better understanding of the ways that they can change damaging social conditions and boost the quality of the social and economic well-being of others through guidance and counseling.  This program is entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Limestone College campus to complete this course of study.   A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Limestone College’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Tuition: $52,920

#13. University of Maryland University College

Beginning as a series of evening programs offered by the University of Maryland, the University of Maryland University College was created with the goal of providing working adults with an opportunity to gain a higher education despite not being able to enroll in traditional course schedules.  Now a common practice of most colleges, the University of Maryland University College pioneered distance education and non-traditional delivery formats for courses.  Over time, the program became so popular that it was spun-off from the University of Maryland into its own school.  Called the College of Special and Continuation Studies, the name was changed in 1959 to University of Maryland University College.  Now, the school enrolls a student body of over 90,000 students.  University of Maryland University College is a public institution.

Program Overview

Students at the University of Maryland University College are able to enroll in a Bachelor’s of Gerontology and Aging Services degree.  In this program of study, students will gain an understanding of social work concepts while gaining a foundational understanding of the physiological, social, and psychological aspects that come with aging in order to better help aging populations.  This program is available entirely online and does not require any visits to the University of Maryland University College campus. A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: University of Maryland University College’s Bachelor’s of Gerontology and Aging Services degree is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Tuition: $59,880

#14. Brandman University

Located originally on the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station in Irvine, California, Brandman University was established in 1861. Created as an offshoot of Chapman University, Brandman University operated out of the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station and provided soldiers with an opportunity for a change of a high quality education.  The school grew quickly and eventually separated form Chapman University into its own school.  At this point it was renamed to Brandman University.  Now, the school operates in both California and Washington.  The school offers over fifty different programs.  Brandman University is a private institution.

Program Overview

At Brandman University, students are able to enroll in a Bachelor’s of Art in Social Work degree. In this program of study, students will gain knowledge of the social, political, and cultural change needed to best serve a variety of different communities and their needs.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Brandman University campus in order to complete this program of study. A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Brandman University’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work degree is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Tuition: $60,000

#15. Humboldt State University

In 1913, the Governor of California, Hiram Johnson, established Humboldt State Normal School as a teacher’s college.  The school was named after Alexander von Humboldt, a famous German scientist.  Fighting to have the school located in their city, the people of Arcata and Eureka fought with competing bids for the school eventually resulting in Humboldt State Normal School being established in Arcata, California.  Over the years, the school grew and the name was eventually changed to Humboldt State University.  Now, Humboldt State University enrolls a student body of 8,500 students. Humboldt State University is a public institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work degree is available to students at Humboldt State University.  Through this course of study, students will learn the skills and techniques of social workers that are integral to success in the field.  Students will learn how to take care of a variety of different populations and provide them with guidance and counseling.  This program is available entirely online and does not require any visits to the Humboldt State University campus.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Humboldt State University’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work degree is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

Tuition: $61,200

#16. Union Institute & University

The President of Goddard College gathered a panel of nine different leaders of liberal art institutions in 1964 to discuss the future of innovation in education.  During this gathering, the group formed the Union for Research and Experimentation in Higher Education.  This group was tasked with pushing the boundaries of higher education in a means to advance it.  Leveraging the power of the various institutions, the University Without Walls was formed.  By 1975, the University Without Walls group encompassed thirty-four different institutions.  In 1982, the group was renamed to the Union Institute.  Currently located in Cincinnati, Ohio, the Union Institute and University offers a variety of different programs of study.  Union Institute & University is a private institution.

Program Overview

At the Union Institute & University, students are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree.  Through this program of study, students will work to gain a better understanding of social work concepts in order to better help individuals, groups, communities, and entire organizations.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Union Institute & University’s campus in order to complete this program of study.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Union Institute & University’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $62,400

#17. Pennsylvania State University

Known by its faculty and alumni as Penn State, Pennsylvania State University was founded in 1855.  Originally named the Farmer’s High School of Pennsylvania, the school’s name was quickly changed to the Agricultural College of Pennsylvania after receiving a donation of a 200-acre parcel of land.  This donation allowed the school to expand its scope.  Soon after, the school underwent further expansion after receiving funding through the Morill Act.  By 1874, the school’s name had been changed to Pennsylvania State College.  In 1952, the school received university status and was renamed to Pennsylvania State University.  Located in State College, Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania State University enrolls a student body of over 100,000 students.  Pennsylvania State University is a public institution.

Program Overview

Students at Pennsylvania State University are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies degree.  Through this degree program, students will learn about the ways that humans develop physically, mentally, and emotionally over the years and the ways that they interact within a family.  This program is available entirely online.  Students are not required to visit the Pennsylvania State University campus in order to complete this program of study.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Pennsylvania State University’s Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies degree is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Tuition: $71,520

#18. Thomas University

In a home once belonging to the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, Thomas University opened its doors at Birdwood Plantation.  Originally named Birdwood Junior College, the school began accepting its first class of students five years after its establishment.  With an initial class size of nine students, the school was run by the Primitive Baptist Church.  However, control of the school was soon turned over to the a Board of Trustees in 1976 resulting in the school being renamed to Thomas County Community College.  In 1986, the school was renamed to Thomas College.  Later, in 2000, the school was renamed again to Thomas University.  Located in Thomasville, Georgia, Thomas University is home to 1,200 students.  Thomas University is a private institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Studies degree is offered to student at Thomas University.  Students in this program will learn concepts and core competencies related to social work.  Students will learn how to provide guidance and counseling to a variety of different groups and help individuals with a variety of different social problems.  This program is available mostly online and requires a few visits to the Thomas University campus.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Thomas University’s Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Studies degree is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Tuition: $75,600

#19. Goodwin College

In 1962, the Data Institute Business School was founded and would eventually become Goodwin College.  Operating as the Data Institute Business School for almost four decades, the school was purchased and transformed into Goodwin College in 1999.  Shifting from being just a small business technology training center, Goodwin College began to offer students a wider variety of educational opportunities.  Over the coming decade, the school would grow immensely.  Now located in East Hartfort, Connecticut, Goodwin College enrolls over a thousand students in a variety of different educational programs.  Goodwin College is a private institution.

Program Overview

Through Goodwin College, students are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree.  In this program of study, students will learn social work concepts and how to apply them to a variety of different social problems including support for the disabled, substance abuse, homelessness, domestic abuse, and much more.  This program is available entirely online and does not require any visits to the Goodwin College campus.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Goodwin College’s Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

Tuition: $84,840

#20. Metropolitan State University of Denver

Located on one of the oldest institutions in Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver was founded on what was once the townsite of Aurora.  Established in 1965, Metropolitan State University of Denver was originally an opportunity school with the goal of providing nontraditional students with a nontraditional means of an education.  From its outset, the school was created to be accessible to all and has some of lowest tuition available in the state of Colorado.  The school also enrolls a higher-percentage of students of color than the typical university in order to provide a variety of different types of people with an opportunity for higher education.  Located in Denver, Colorado, Metropolitan State University of Denver enrolls a student body of nearly 24,000.  Metropolitan State University of Denver is a public institution. 

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree is offered to students at Metropolitan State University of Denver.  In this program of study, students will work to gain a greater understanding of concepts integral to social work.  Students will learn how to help a variety of different populations with a multitude of social problems.  This program is available entirely online and does not require any visits to the Metropolitan State University of Denver’s campus.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $94,200

#21. Indiana University

In 1820, the Indiana State Government called for the establishment of Indiana University.  Soon after, construction began on the school in Seminary Square Park within the city of Bloomington.  Named the “State Seminary”, Indiana University accepted its first class of students in 1825.  In 1829, the name of the school was changed to Indiana College and then changed once again to Indiana University in 1839.  Over the course of the 19th century, the school experienced a steady pace of growth that took off wildly in the 20th century.  Soon, Indiana University had become the flagship of the the Indiana University system of higher education.  Now, the school is home to a student body of just under 50,000 students.  Indiana University is a public institution.

Program Overview

Students at Indiana University are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Social Work degree.  Through this program of study, students will study the different aspects of social work including the ways that the environment and society effects people and how to provide proper guidance and counseling to those going through a variety of different problems.  This program is available entirely online and does not require any visits to the Indiana University campus.  A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this degree.

Accreditation: Indiana University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $145,680

#22. Briar Cliff University

Mother Mary Dominica Wieneke, the Major Superior of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Dubuque and Most Reverend Edmond Heelan worked together to found Briar Cliff College.  In 1930, the school was founded upon Briar Cliff for which the school received its name.  The school acted initially as a women’s college but eventually began enrolling male students in the year 1965.  In 1967, the school added residence halls and began providing residency to its students.  Located in Sioux Falls, Iowas, Briar Cliff University enrolls a student body of just over 1,300 students. Briar Cliff University is a private institution.

Program Overview

At Briar Cliff University, students are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Social Work degree.  Through this course of study, students are able to work to gain a greater understanding of the concepts and information necessary to succeed as a social worker.  This program is available entirely online.  As a degree-completion program, students are expected to enter the program with a prior 73 credits of general education credits. A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this program.

Accreditation: Briar Cliff University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $18,753*

*This is a degree-completion program.  Transfer credits are required to complete this program.  This program is 47 credit hours and requires an additional 73 credit hours of transfer credits.

#23. Saint Louis University

Bishop of Louisiana and Florida, Most Reverend Louis Guillame Valentin Dubourg, created the Saint Louis Academy in 1818.  Eventually renamed to Saint Louis University,  Saint Louis Academy was located in a private residence located on the Mississippi River.  By 1820, the school had moved to its own building and was renamed to Saint Louis College.  The school moved through a variety of different locations throughout the city until the end of the Civil War.  In 1867, the school was established on a parcel of land known as Lindell’s Grove and construction began on what is the school’s current campus.  Located in Saint Louis, Missouri, Saint Louis University is one of the oldest universities west of the Mississippi River and enrolls just over 13,000 students.  Saint Louis University is a private institution.

Program Overview

Students are able to enroll in a Bachelor of Social Work degree at Saint Louis Univerisity.  In this program, students will learn the ways that human behavior affects social environments and vice versa.  This program is available entirely online.  As a degree-completion program, students are expected to enter the program with a prior 81 credits of general education credits. A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this program.

Accreditation: Saint Louis University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Tuition: $24,960*

*This is a degree-completion program.  Transfer credits are required to complete this program.  This program is 39 credit hours and requires an additional 81 credit hours of transfer credits.

#24. Brescia University

Founded in 1925, Brescia University was originally known as Mount Saint Joseph Junior College.  Established by the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph at Maple Mount, the school would eventually grow and transform to become the Brescia University of modern day.  Located in Owensboro, Kentucky, the school originally only enrolled women but eventually coeducational campuses were added on to the school.  The school was named after the Italian city of Brescia.  Now, the school enrolls a variety of students enrolled in both undergraduate programs as well as master’s programs.Brescia University is a private institution.

Program Overview

At Brescia University, students are able to enrolling a Bachelor of Social Work degree.  In this program of study, students will learn the information and knowledge to either begin a career as a social worker or begin their studies of social work.  This program is available entirely online.  As a degree-completion program, students are expected to enter the program with a prior 45 credits of general education credits. A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this program.

Accreditation: Brescia University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Tuition: $31,875*

*This is a degree-completion program.  Transfer credits are required to complete this program.  This program is 75 credit hours and requires an additional 45 credit hours of transfer credits.

#25. Appalachian State University

Two brothers, Dauphin D. Dougherty and Blanford B. Dougherty, worked together in leading a group of citizens of the town of Boone to create a school that would provide an education for those who would go on to become teachers in the area.  In 1889, the two brothers opened Watauga Academy.  The school ran successfully for four years and was eventually granted funding from the state of North Carolina and became the Appalachian Training School for Teachers.  By 1967, the school had been transformed into a multipurpose university and was renamed to Appalachian State University.  Located in the mountain town of Boone, North Carolina, Appalachian State University enrolls over 19,000 students and offers 200 different programs of study.  Appalachian State University is a public institution.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work degree is offered to students at Appalachian State University.  Through this program of study students will learn the social, economic, and political processes involved in the development and change of social service institutions and ways to apply intervention methods to clients.  As a degree-completion program, students are expected to enter the program with a prior 52 credits of general education credits. A minimum of 120 credits are required to complete this program.

Accreditation: Appalachian State University’s Bachelor of Social Work degree is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Tuition: $33,436*

*This is a degree-completion program.  Transfer credits are required to complete this program.  This program is 52 credit hours and requires an additional 68 credit hours of transfer credits.

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This concludes our ranking of the best online BSW programs.