Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2026

Badge for BEST FOR SOCIAL WORK RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES
By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Chloe Dembski
Updated:

The best social work research universities are those with rich histories of influence, proven through the work produced by the program’s faculty and alumni. Beyond demonstrating scholarly impact in the field, the best social work degree programs maximize your opportunities to interact with outstanding social work faculty.

Key Takeaways

  • Leading research universities have extensive networks with healthcare institutions, schools, nonprofit organizations, and community agencies, allowing students to gain practical experience through field placements with a wide range of populations, including children, families, veterans, and individuals experiencing homelessness.
  • Top universities offer social work programs with a strong focus on evidence-based practice, providing students access to cutting-edge research in areas such as trauma-informed care, mental health, and community intervention, equipping them with the latest tools to address complex social issues.
  • Many of the best social work programs encourage interdisciplinary collaboration with fields like public health, psychology, and law, giving students a holistic understanding of social issues and preparing them for leadership roles in various sectors.

Top 10 Research Universities Social Work Programs in 2026

  1. University of California, Berkeley
  2. New York University
  3. University of Pennsylvania
  4. University of Texas at Austin
  5. University of Washington
  6. University of Wisconsin–Madison
  7. George Washington University
    +1
  8. Ohio State University
    –1
  9. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  10. University of Georgia

Choosing a research university for a social work degree means prioritizing institutions that pair rigorous classroom training with sustained, well-supported field research and community-engaged practice. Look for programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education that offer a clear pathway from undergraduate to advanced study, access to funded faculty research, strong partnerships with local agencies for placements, and interdisciplinary opportunities—public health, policy, criminology—that expand practical skills and career flexibility. For students aiming at clinical practice, policy leadership, or a PhD, research universities can provide the mentorship, lab-style projects, and statistical or qualitative methods training that liberal arts colleges often do not.

A bachelor’s degree in social work is an excellent starting point for a career in counseling, case work, rehabilitation, and numerous other important areas of public health and welfare. As a social work major, you’ll learn about the administration of social services, distribution of resources for social welfare, and public outreach to vulnerable groups. As a social worker, you’ll be working closely with communities, populations, families and individuals who are facing challenge, disadvantage, and crisis. The best schools for social work are those which are regionally accredited, which offer a full array of social work concentrations, and which give you the chance to work with the best and most influential professors and classmates.

Related: How to Major in Social Work

If you think a liberal arts college may be a better fit for you, see our ranking of the best liberal arts colleges for a bachelor’s in social work.

Featured Programs

Ranking: Best Research Universities for Social Work Bachelor’s Degree Programs

  1. #1

    University of California, Berkeley

    Berkeley , CA
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #1 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #1 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #1 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $17K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    49K

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of California, Berkeley

    Cost of Degree: $14,850
    Expenses: $30,203
    Starting Salary: $63,537
    Salary after 4 years: $75,172
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of California, Berkeley known for?

    University of California, Berkeley’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UC Berkeley Social Work Major:

    • BA in Social Welfare
    Source
    Compare school
  2. #2

    New York University

    New York , NY
    #8 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #8 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #10 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #10 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $66K

    Acceptance

    9%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    64K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at New York University

    Cost of Degree: $60,438
    Expenses: $27,314
    Starting Salary: $56,301
    Salary after 4 years: $66,752
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is New York University known for?

    New York University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    NYU Social Work Major:

    • BS in Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia , PA
    #5 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #10 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2026 #12 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $71K

    Acceptance

    5%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1540/35

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Pennsylvania

    Cost of Degree: $66,104
    Expenses: $22,924
    Starting Salary: $75,323
    Salary after 4 years: $89,305
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Pennsylvania known for?

    University of Pennsylvania’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Pennsylvania Social Work Major:

    • BA Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  4. #4

    University of Texas at Austin

    Austin , TX
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #4 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #4 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026 #4 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    27%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    56K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1380/30

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Texas at Austin

    Cost of Degree: $11,678
    Expenses: $19,894
    Starting Salary: $51,796
    Salary after 4 years: $61,281
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Texas at Austin known for?

    University of Texas at Austin’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UT Austin Social Work Major:

    • BS in Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  6. #5

    University of Washington

    Seattle , WA
    #1 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #5 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #5 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #5 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    39%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    60K

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Washington

    Cost of Degree: $12,643
    Expenses: $21,909
    Starting Salary: $52,690
    Salary after 4 years: $62,340
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Washington known for?

    University of Washington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Washington Social Work Major:

    • BA Social Welfare
    Source
    Compare school
  7. #6

    University of Wisconsin–Madison

    Madison , WI
    #6 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #7 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #7 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #7 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    45%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1450/31

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Wisconsin–Madison

    Cost of Degree: $11,205
    Expenses: $17,700
    Starting Salary: $50,931
    Salary after 4 years: $60,258
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Wisconsin–Madison known for?

    University of Wisconsin–Madison’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UW Social Work Majors:

    • BA/BS in Social Welfare
    • Bachelor in Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  8. #7

    George Washington University

    Washington , DC
    #23 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2026 #2 Best Research Universities in DC 2026 #2 Best Grad Schools in DC 2026 #2 Best Private Colleges in DC 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $70K

    Acceptance

    47%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    29K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1425/32

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at George Washington University

    Cost of Degree: $64,798
    Expenses: $19,325
    Starting Salary: $59,850
    Salary after 4 years: $70,961
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is George Washington University known for?

    George Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    GWU Social Work Major:

    • BA in Human Services & Social Justice
    Source
    Compare school
  9. #8

    Ohio State University

    Columbus , OH
    #10 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #13 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    61%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    65K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/30

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Ohio State University

    Cost of Degree: $12,859
    Expenses: $18,372
    Starting Salary: $42,530
    Salary after 4 years: $50,319
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ohio State University known for?

    Ohio State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    OSU Social Work Major:

    • BS in Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  10. #9

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Champaign , IL
    #2 15 Best Self-Paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #11 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #15 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #15 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    42%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    63K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/32

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Cost of Degree: $18,060
    Expenses: $17,638
    Starting Salary: $55,540
    Salary after 4 years: $65,711
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign known for?

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UIUC Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor of Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  12. #10

    University of Georgia

    Athens , GA
    #14 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #25 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2026 #1 Best Public Colleges in Georgia 2026 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Georgia Ranked for Students in 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    38%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    46K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1375/31

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Georgia

    Cost of Degree: $11,180
    Expenses: $16,926
    Starting Salary: $48,976
    Salary after 4 years: $57,945
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Georgia known for?

    University of Georgia’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UGA Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor of Social Work
    Source

    University of Georgia’s Online Degrees

    BS in Education
    Degree Concentrations
    • Special Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 48 months
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    Florida State University

    Tallahassee , FL
    #2 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2026 #4 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2026 #2 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    24%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    46K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1340/30

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Florida State University

    Cost of Degree: $6,517
    Expenses: $20,296
    Starting Salary: $43,256
    Salary after 4 years: $51,178
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida State University known for?

    Florida State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    FSU Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor in Social Work
    Source

    Florida State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Public Safety and Security
    • Required Credits: 60
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Interdisciplinary Social Science
    • Required Credits: 43
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    Texas A&M University

    College Station , TX
    #24 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2026 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2026 #2 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2026 #3 Best Research Universities in Texas 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    81K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/28

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Texas A&M University

    Cost of Degree: $12,841
    Expenses: $20,408
    Starting Salary: $49,555
    Salary after 4 years: $58,629
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Texas A&M University known for?

    Texas A&M University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    TA&M Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor in Social Work
    Source

    Texas A&M University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 32
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  15. #13

    Fordham University

    Bronx , NY
    #2 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #5 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #6 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #1 Best Christian Colleges in New York 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $68K

    Acceptance

    59%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1400/31

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Fordham University

    Cost of Degree: $61,567
    Expenses: $27,583
    Starting Salary: $57,448
    Salary after 4 years: $68,112
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Fordham University known for?

    Fordham University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Fordham University Social Work Major:

    • BA in Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  16. #14

    University of Alabama

    Tuscaloosa , AL
    #11 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2026 #1 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2026 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2026 #1 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    77%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    44K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1285/27

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Alabama

    Cost of Degree: $11,900
    Expenses: $21,482
    Starting Salary: $41,897
    Salary after 4 years: $49,569
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Alabama known for?

    University of Alabama’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Alabama Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor in Social Work
    Source

    University of Alabama’s Online Degrees

    BS in Food and Nutrition
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Early Childhood Education
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Human Development and Family Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Child Life
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Human Environmental Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Human Environmental Sciences, Consumer Sciences
    Degree Concentrations
    • Consumer Affairs
    • Family Financial Planning and Counseling
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS/BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 25/ 125
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Mechanical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    BS in Commerce and Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • General Business
    • Management
    • Accounting
    • Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 120
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  18. #15

    North Carolina State University

    Raleigh , NC
    #2 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2026 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2026 #3 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2026 #3 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    42%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    41K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1385/30

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at North Carolina State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,895
    Expenses: $17,709
    Starting Salary: $49,333
    Salary after 4 years: $58,368
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is North Carolina State University known for?

    North Carolina State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    NCSU Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor of Social Work
    Source

    North Carolina State University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Leadership In The Public Sector
    • Required Credits: 12
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  19. #16

    Baylor University

    Waco , TX
    #1 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2026 #4 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #6 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #11 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    51%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    23K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1300/29

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Baylor University

    Cost of Degree: $54,844
    Expenses: $19,425
    Starting Salary: $44,820
    Salary after 4 years: $53,140
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Baylor University known for?

    Baylor University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Baylor University Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor in Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  20. #17

    Loyola University Chicago

    Chicago , IL
    #1 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2026 #5 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #12 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2026 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Illinois 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    19K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1265/29

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Loyola University Chicago

    Cost of Degree: $51,716
    Expenses: $19,694
    Starting Salary: $48,548
    Salary after 4 years: $57,560
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Loyola University Chicago known for?

    Loyola University Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    LUC Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor of Social Work
    Source

    Loyola University Chicago’s Online Degrees

    BA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Web Technologies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Paralegal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Applied Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Strategic Digital Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 1 year
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Applied Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: 4 years
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  21. #18

    Miami University

    Oxford , OH
    #5 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2026 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Ohio 2026 #3 Best Public Colleges in Ohio 2026 #4 Best Research Universities in Ohio 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1305/27

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Miami University

    Cost of Degree: $17,060
    Expenses: $20,948
    Starting Salary: $40,460
    Salary after 4 years: $47,869
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Miami University known for?

    Miami University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Miami University Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor in Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  22. #19

    San Diego State University

    San Diego , CA
    #10 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2026 #10 Best Public Colleges in California 2026 #16 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2026 #1 Best Online Colleges in California 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    36%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    43K

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at San Diego State University

    Cost of Degree: $8,290
    Expenses: $25,782
    Starting Salary: $46,597
    Salary after 4 years: $55,130
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is San Diego State University known for?

    San Diego State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    SDSU Social Work Major:

    • BA in Social Work
    Source

    San Diego State University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 49-55
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 51-60
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  24. #20

    Florida International University

    Miami , FL
    #6 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2026 #6 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2026 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2026 #4 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    55%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    67K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1165/24

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Florida International University

    Cost of Degree: $6,565
    Expenses: $19,406
    Starting Salary: $41,669
    Salary after 4 years: $49,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida International University known for?

    Florida International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    FIU Social Work Major:

    • BS Social Work
    Source

    Florida International University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Theatre
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BFA in Theatre
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Finance
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Hospitality Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Beverage Management
    • Culinary Management
    • Event Management
    • Hotel/Lodging Management
    • Restaurant/Food Service Management
    • Travel And Tourism Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Human Resource Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in International Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Logistics And Supply Chain Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Public Relations Advertising And Applied Communications
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BBA in Real Estate
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Recreation And Sport Management
    Degree Concentrations
    • Parks Management
    • Recreation And Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Internet Of Things
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Crime Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Early Childhood Education Bs
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Asian Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in International Relations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Latin American and Caribbean Studies Ba
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Organizational Communication Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BPA in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Religious Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Social Welfare
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Women's And Gender Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BHSA in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BSN in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Computer Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Electrical Engineering
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Statistics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Sustainability and the Environment
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  25. #21

    University of Central Florida

    Orlando , FL
    #7 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2026 #7 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2026 #7 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2026 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    40%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    81K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1275/27

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Central Florida

    Cost of Degree: $6,368
    Expenses: $18,300
    Starting Salary: $40,250
    Salary after 4 years: $47,621
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Central Florida known for?

    University of Central Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UCF Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor of Social Work
    Source

    University of Central Florida’s Online Degrees

    BS in Hospitality Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Restaurant and Foodservice Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Senior Living Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BAS in Legal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Technical Education And Industry Training
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Anthropology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Communication And Conflict
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Diversity Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in English
    Degree Concentrations
    • Creative Writing
    • Literature
    • Technical Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in History
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BGS in Integrative General Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BAS in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in International And Global Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Latin American Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Religion And Cultural Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Social Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Health Informatics And Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Nursing
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Texas Christian University

    Fort Worth , TX
    #7 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Texas 2026 #4 Best Private Colleges in Texas 2026 #21 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    44%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1245/28

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Texas Christian University

    Cost of Degree: $57,220
    Expenses: $19,840
    Starting Salary: $47,869
    Salary after 4 years: $56,755
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Texas Christian University known for?

    Texas Christian University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    TCU Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor of Social Work
    Source

    Texas Christian University’s Online Degrees

    BSN in to DNP
    Degree Concentrations
    • Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
    • Required Credits: 66
    • Completion Time: 4-5 years
    • Format: Fully online
    Compare school
  27. #23

    Florida A&M University

    Tallahassee , FL
    #7 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2026 #7 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2026 #7 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    21%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1105/22

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Florida A&M University

    Cost of Degree: $5,785
    Expenses: $18,368
    Starting Salary: $33,035
    Salary after 4 years: $39,085
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida A&M University known for?

    Florida A&M University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    FAMU Social Work Major:

    • Bachelor of Social Work
    Source
    Compare school
  28. #24

    University of Detroit Mercy

    Detroit , MI
    #13 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2026 #2 Best Private Colleges in Michigan 2026 #2 Best Small Colleges in Michigan 2026 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Michigan 2026

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1145/25

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Detroit Mercy

    Cost of Degree: $32,300
    Expenses: $15,190
    Starting Salary: $45,871
    Salary after 4 years: $54,386
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Detroit Mercy known for?

    University of Detroit Mercy’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Detroit Mercy Social Work Major

    • Bachelor of Social Work
    Source
    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Social Work Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Social Work

Degree Level: Bachelor's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $10,345
  • Avg. Expenses*: $17,239
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $36,712
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $43,435
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 12 years
  • Job Growth: 6.07%
  • Number of Jobs: 565,400
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Social and Community Service Managers8.22%$77,030
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary3.97%$75,020
Social Workers, All Other5.51%$63,770
Healthcare Social Workers9.68%$62,940
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists3.64%$61,800

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Social and Community Service Managers$77,030
Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary$75,020
Social Workers, All Other$63,770
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Go to all Research Universities for Social Work programs

The Best Social Work Schools in Your State

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