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Whether you’re looking for online flexibility, advanced standing options to graduate faster, or simply the lowest per-credit costs available, this comprehensive guide will help you find a program that fits both your budget and career goals. From state universities offering in-state tuition as low as $280 per credit to innovative online programs with no campus fees, these accredited programs prove that quality social work education can be accessible.
Find Exactly What You Need in This Guide
- Why Affordability Matters for MSW Students
- Complete Rankings: All 25 Programs
- Quick Comparison Table
- Advanced Standing Programs
- Most Affordable Online MSW Programs
- Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Best Value by State
- How to Choose the Right Program
- Application Tips for Affordable Programs
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Affordability Matters for MSW Students
The financial reality of social work makes choosing an affordable MSW program more important than ever. With employment projected to grow 7% through 2033—faster than the average for all occupations—the field offers stability and growth potential. However, starting salaries often range from $45,000 to $55,000, making loan payments a significant consideration.
Smart financial planning during your education can mean the difference between pursuing your passion for helping others and feeling burdened by debt. The good news? Many CSWE-accredited programs have recognized this challenge and offer competitive tuition rates without sacrificing educational quality.
Complete Rankings: All 25 Most Affordable MSW Programs
1. University of Wyoming – $299 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 31 credits (1 year)
Leading our list with the lowest per-credit cost, the University of Wyoming offers exceptional value at just $299 per credit hour. This translates to approximately $18,000 for the full 60-credit program—less than half the cost of many comparable programs.
- Program Format: Hybrid (online with limited campus visits)
- Total Program Cost: $9,269-$17,940
- MSW Specializations: Advanced Generalist Practice with focus areas in Mental Health, Child Welfare, and Healthcare
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW (on-campus), DSW in development
- Unique Features:
- Western Regional Graduate Program participation for reduced out-of-state tuition
- Strong Native American and rural community partnerships
- Field placements available throughout Wyoming and surrounding states
- Small cohort sizes ensuring personalized attention
- Field Education: 900 hours required with dedicated field coordinator support
2. California State University, San Bernardino – $280 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years full-time, 3 years part-time)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
CSUSB stands out not just for affordability but also for its commitment to serving diverse communities. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, the program emphasizes culturally responsive practice and offers specialized training in Latino health services.
- Total Program Cost: $8,400-$16,800
- MSW Specializations:
- Children, Youth & Families
- Health & Mental Health
- Social Work with Groups
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Minor in Social Work
- Dual Degree Options: MSW/MPA (Master of Public Administration)
- Unique Features:
- Title IV-E Child Welfare Training Program with stipends
- Bilingual Spanish/English emphasis available
- Institute for Child Development and Family Relations
- PATH (Preparing Adolescents for Tomorrow’s Health) program
- Field Education: 1,000 hours with over 200 agency partnerships in the Inland Empire
3. University of South Dakota – $340 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 33 credits (1 year)
USD combines Midwest affordability with comprehensive online options, making it ideal for working professionals. The program’s emphasis on rural social work practice addresses critical workforce needs in underserved areas.
- Program Format: Fully online available, On-campus in Vermillion and Sioux Falls
- Total Program Cost: $11,220-$20,400
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Social Work Practice
- Community & Organizational Practice
- Military Social Work Certificate
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, DSW, Addiction Counseling Certificate
- Unique Features:
- No out-of-state tuition differential for online students
- Native American Social Work specialization
- Disaster Mental Health Response Team training
- Rural behavioral health emphasis
- Field Education: 900 hours with placement assistance across multi-state region
4. University of West Florida – $384 per credit (in-state)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
UWF offers Florida residents exceptional value with its competitive in-state tuition. The program’s fully online option beginning in Summer 2025 expands access while maintaining the school’s reputation for clinical excellence.
- Total In-State Cost: $11,520-$23,040
- Out-of-State Cost: $31,320-$62,640 ($1,044/credit)
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Practice with Individuals & Families
- Administrative Practice
- Healthcare Social Work Certificate
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW with accelerated 3+2 option
- Unique Features:
- Partnership with Sacred Heart Health System
- Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center collaboration
- Military and veteran student support services
- Beach-to-bedside healthcare initiative
- Field Education: 900 hours with extensive Gulf Coast agency network
5. Western New Mexico University – $286 per credit (resident)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2-3 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1-2 years)
WNMU rounds out our top five with a program designed for accessibility and flexibility. The university’s commitment to serving rural and frontier communities is reflected in both its curriculum and affordability.
- Program Format: 100% online asynchronous
- Total Resident Cost: $8,580-$17,160
- Non-Resident Rate: $371 per credit ($11,130-$22,260 total)
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical/Direct Practice
- Bilingual/Bicultural Practice
- Border & Rural Practice
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW (on-campus)
- Unique Features:
- Emphasis on Indigenous populations and border communities
- Telehealth and digital practice training
- Self-paced coursework options
- No residency requirements
- Field Education: 900 hours with virtual supervision options
6. Eastern New Mexico University – $308 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 32 credits (1 year)
ENMU offers one of the lowest overall tuition rates in the nation, with strong support for first-generation college students and comprehensive financial aid packages.
- Total Program Cost: $9,856-$18,480
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Practice
- Community Practice
- School Social Work
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Human Services Minor
- Unique Features:
- Rural Mental Health Certificate
- Substance Abuse Counseling emphasis
- Partnership with regional behavioral health centers
- Evening and weekend course options
- Field Education: 900 hours with placements across Eastern New Mexico and West Texas
7. Fort Valley State University (Georgia) – $318 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
As Georgia’s only HBCU with an MSW program, FVSU combines affordability with a strong commitment to social justice and community engagement.
- Total Program Cost: $9,540-$19,080
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Social Work
- Community Empowerment & Program Development
- Child Welfare Practice
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Rehabilitation Counseling
- Unique Features:
- HBCU legacy with focus on African American communities
- Rural Georgia practice emphasis
- Partnership with Peach County School System
- Community garden and wellness initiatives
- Field Education: 900 hours with strong rural and agricultural community connections
8. University of Arkansas – $437 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 33 credits (1 year accelerated)
The Razorbacks offer an accelerated one-year program for advanced standing students, potentially cutting total costs in half through faster completion.
- Total Program Cost: $14,421-$26,220
- MSW Specializations:
- Children, Youth & Families
- Social Work in Healthcare
- Mental Health & Substance Abuse
- Community & Administrative Practice
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, PhD in Public Policy (Social Work concentration)
- Unique Features:
- Three-semester advanced standing option (fastest in region)
- Partnership with Arkansas Children’s Hospital
- Telehealth training lab
- Stipends available through Title IV-E program
- Field Education: 900 hours with placements throughout Arkansas and border states
9. Concord University (West Virginia) – $485 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2-3 years)
– Advanced Standing: 36 credits (1-2 years)
Located in Appalachia, Concord’s program emphasizes rural practice with specialized training in substance abuse and poverty interventions.
- Total Program Cost: $17,460-$29,100
- MSW Specializations:
- Appalachian Social Work Practice
- Substance Abuse & Recovery
- Child & Family Welfare
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Addiction Studies Certificate
- Unique Features:
- Opioid crisis intervention training
- Coal mining community outreach programs
- Appalachian culture competency emphasis
- Partnership with regional recovery centers
- Field Education: 900 hours focusing on rural Appalachian communities
10. Saint Leo University – $550 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
This private Catholic institution offers military-friendly policies including Yellow Ribbon participation and dedicated veteran support services.
- Program Format: Online and multiple Florida campus locations
- Total Program Cost: $16,500-$33,000
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Social Work
- Military Social Work
- Leadership & Administration
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Human Services BA
- Unique Features:
- Values-based Benedictine education
- Military education benefits accepted at all locations
- 8-week accelerated course format
- International field placement opportunities
- Field Education: 900 hours with military and VA placement options
11. Edinboro University (Pennsylvania) – $516 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 39 credits (1 year)
Part of Pennsylvania’s State System, Edinboro offers a blend of affordability and accessibility with strong regional partnerships.
- Program Format: Online/Hybrid options available
- Total Program Cost: $20,124-$30,960
- MSW Specializations:
- Direct Practice
- Community & Organizational Practice
- Integrated Behavioral Health
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Gerontology Certificate
- Unique Features:
- Lake Erie regional focus
- Cross-border practice with Ohio
- Rural mental health emphasis
- Autism spectrum disorder specialization
- Field Education: 900 hours with tri-state placement network
12. Texas A&M University-Commerce – $351 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 36 credits (1 year)
TAMUC offers significant tuition discounts for Title IV-E applicants, reducing financial barriers for students committed to public child welfare.
- Program Format: 100% Online
- Total Program Cost: $12,636-$21,060
- MSW Specializations:
- Children & Families
- Mental Health & Substance Abuse
- Medical Social Work
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Applied Gerontology Certificate
- Unique Features:
- Title IV-E Child Welfare Stipend Program
- Texas First-Time Social Worker License prep
- Partnership with Dallas-Fort Worth agencies
- Cohort-based learning model
- Field Education: 900 hours with placement coordinator support statewide
13. SUNY Plattsburgh – $453 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
Located near the Canadian border, SUNY Plattsburgh offers unique cross-border practice opportunities and strong mental health training.
- Total In-State Cost: $13,590-$27,180
- MSW Specializations:
- Mental Health & Addictions
- Children, Families & Schools
- Health & Aging
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Substance Abuse Counseling Certificate
- Unique Features:
- Canadian-American social work perspectives
- Adirondack rural practice focus
- Trauma-informed care certificate
- Partnership with Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital
- Field Education: 900 hours with international placement options
14. Boise State University – $574 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 32 credits (1 year)
BSU combines quality education with comprehensive student support, earning recognition for both accessibility and affordability.
- Program Format: Online, On-campus, and Hybrid options
- Total Program Cost: $18,368-$34,440
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Practice
- Community Practice
- School Social Work Endorsement
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Addiction Studies Certificate
- Unique Features:
- Mountain West region’s premier program
- Refugee resettlement specialization
- Partnership with St. Luke’s Health System
- Environmental justice focus
- Field Education: 900 hours with Idaho-wide placement network
15. University of North Dakota – $459 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: Not available online
– Advanced Standing: 36 credits (BSW required for online program)
UND’s online MSW is exclusively for BSW holders, offering a streamlined path to advanced practice with evening classes for working professionals.
- Program Format: Online (BSW required), Hybrid available
- Total Program Cost: $16,524 (Advanced Standing only)
- MSW Specializations:
- Advanced Generalist Practice
- Indigenous Peoples emphasis
- Rural & Frontier Social Work
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, PhD in Educational Foundations & Research (Social Work track)
- Unique Features:
- All online students pay in-state tuition
- Live evening classes for working professionals
- Native American cultural competence training
- Oil field community impact studies
- Field Education: 500 hours with flexibility for employed students
16. Florida Atlantic University – $369 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year) – requires 3.5 GPA
FAU’s Phyllis and Harvey Sandler School of Social Work offers clinical excellence with a fully online option launching in 2025.
- Total In-State Cost: $11,070-$22,140
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Practice
- Gerontology Certificate
- Child Welfare Certificate
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, PhD in Comparative Studies
- Unique Features:
- South Florida’s diverse population focus
- Hurricane and disaster response training
- Partnership with Boca Raton Regional Hospital
- 3.5 GPA requirement ensures academic excellence
- Field Education: 900 hours with Palm Beach and Broward County placements
17. University of Utah – $533 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
Utah’s College of Social Work offers specialized programs including unique certificates and strong healthcare partnerships in the Mountain West.
- Total In-State Cost: $15,990-$31,980
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Mental Health
- Health, Policy & Administration
- Global Social Work Certificate
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, PhD in Social Work, DSW
- Unique Features:
- Neighbors Helping Neighbors practicum
- Partnership with Huntsman Mental Health Institute
- American Indian Social Work Program
- Social Research Institute
- Field Education: 900 hours with Intermountain Healthcare collaboration
18. Georgia State University – $377 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
Located in Atlanta, GSU’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies combines social work education with policy leadership training.
- Total In-State Cost: $11,310-$22,620
- Program Format: On-campus, Part-time evening, Hybrid
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Practice
- Macro Practice & Community Partnerships
- Certificate in Nonprofit Management
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Dual MSW/MPH, MSW/JD
- Unique Features:
- Urban social work emphasis
- Partnership with Centers for Disease Control
- Atlanta’s diverse metropolitan practice settings
- Social entrepreneurship track
- Field Education: 900 hours with Atlanta’s extensive nonprofit network
19. University of North Carolina Charlotte – $402 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
UNC Charlotte emphasizes culturally-informed, community-engaged practice in North Carolina’s largest city.
- Total In-State Cost: $12,060-$24,120
- Program Format: Full-time, Part-time blended (online/campus)
- MSW Specializations:
- Children, Youth & Families
- Health & Mental Health
- Latinx Social Work Certificate
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Gerontology Certificate
- Unique Features:
- Urban-focused curriculum
- Partnership with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
- Carolinas Medical Center collaboration
- Immigration and refugee services emphasis
- Field Education: 900 hours with Charlotte metro placement guarantee
20. Ohio State University – $589 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
OSU’s College of Social Work ranks among the nation’s top programs while maintaining competitive tuition for a Big Ten university.
- Program Format: Online, On-campus Columbus, Regional campuses
- Total In-State Cost: $17,670-$35,340
- MSW Specializations:
- Integrated Behavioral Healthcare
- Child & Youth Services
- Aging & Gerontological Practice
- Leadership & Social Change
- Other Degrees Offered: BSSW, PhD in Social Work
- Unique Features:
- Dual degree programs (MSW/MPH, MSW/MPA, MSW/JD)
- Ohio State Wexner Medical Center partnership
- National leadership in distance education
- Research opportunities with faculty
- Field Education: 900 hours with statewide network and national partnerships
21. Indiana University – $574 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
IU’s School of Social Work offers multiple campus locations and a robust online program ranked #1 in Indiana.
- Total In-State Cost: $17,220-$34,440
- Out-of-State (Online): $716 per credit
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical/Direct Practice
- Community & Organizational Practice
- School Social Work License
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, PhD in Social Work, DSW
- Unique Features:
- Nine campus locations throughout Indiana
- IU Health partnership for medical social work
- Title IV-E Child Welfare Scholars Program
- International field placement opportunities
- Field Education: 900 hours with Indiana’s largest agency network
22. Arizona State University – $561 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
ASU’s School of Social Work offers unmatched flexibility with multiple start dates and format options, plus innovative specializations.
- Program Format: Online (synchronous and asynchronous), On-campus
- Total Program Cost: $16,830-$33,660
- MSW Specializations:
- Advanced Clinical Practice
- Policy, Administration & Community Practice
- Integrated Behavioral Health
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, PhD in Social Work
- Unique Features:
- Nation’s largest MSW program
- Border issues and immigration focus
- American Indian/Alaska Native emphasis
- Seven-week accelerated courses online
- Field Education: 900 hours with placement support in all 50 states
23. Florida State University – $444 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 32 credits (1 year)
FSU pioneered online MSW education and continues to lead with innovation while maintaining exceptional value.
- Total In-State Cost: $14,208-$26,640
- Program Format: Online (100% for advanced standing), On-campus, Hybrid
- MSW Specializations:
- Clinical Social Work
- Social Leadership & Administration
- International Social Work Certificate
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, PhD in Social Work
- Unique Features:
- First university to offer online MSW (1998)
- Living-Learning Community for MSW students
- Institute for Social Work Research
- Public Child Welfare Certification Program
- Field Education: 900 hours with Florida Panhandle focus
24. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay – $485 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 31 credits (1 year)
UW-Green Bay emphasizes multicultural practice and social justice with an innovative curriculum serving Northeast Wisconsin.
- Total In-State Cost: $15,035-$29,100
- Program Format: Hybrid, Weekend options
- MSW Specializations:
- Advanced Generalist Practice
- Individualized Areas of Emphasis
- Trauma-Informed Care Certificate
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW, Human Development Minor
- Unique Features:
- First Nations Studies emphasis
- Environmental sustainability in social work
- Partnership with Oneida Nation
- Weekend cohort for working professionals
- Field Education: 900 hours with Green Bay area focus
25. Campbellsville University – $439 per credit
Master of Social Work (MSW)
– Traditional Track: 60 credits (2 years)
– Advanced Standing: 30 credits (1 year)
This Christian university offers faith-integrated social work education with strong online flexibility and military support.
- Program Format: 100% Online
- Total Program Cost: $13,170-$26,340
- MSW Specializations:
- Advanced Generalist Practice
- Marriage & Family Therapy Track
- Faith-Based Practice emphasis
- Other Degrees Offered: BSW (online and on-campus)
- Unique Features:
- Christian worldview integration
- 8-week accelerated terms
- Military tuition assistance accepted
- International mission field placement options
- Field Education: 900 hours with faith-based agency options
Quick Comparison: All 25 Programs at a Glance
| Rank | University | Cost/Credit | Total Cost Range | Online Option | Advanced Standing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wyoming | $299 | $9,269-$17,940 | Hybrid | 31 credits |
| 2 | CSU San Bernardino | $280 | $8,400-$16,800 | Partial | 30 credits |
| 3 | South Dakota | $340 | $11,220-$20,400 | Yes | 33 credits |
| 4 | West Florida | $384 | $11,520-$23,040 | Yes (2025) | 30 credits |
| 5 | Western New Mexico | $286 | $8,580-$17,160 | Yes | 30 credits |
| 6 | Eastern New Mexico | $308 | $9,856-$18,480 | Partial | 32 credits |
| 7 | Fort Valley State | $318 | $9,540-$19,080 | No | 30 credits |
| 8 | Arkansas | $437 | $14,421-$26,220 | Partial | 33 credits |
| 9 | Concord | $485 | $17,460-$29,100 | Partial | 36 credits |
| 10 | Saint Leo | $550 | $16,500-$33,000 | Yes | 30 credits |
| 11 | Edinboro | $516 | $20,124-$30,960 | Hybrid | 39 credits |
| 12 | Texas A&M Commerce | $351 | $12,636-$21,060 | Yes | 36 credits |
| 13 | SUNY Plattsburgh | $453 | $13,590-$27,180 | Hybrid | 30 credits |
| 14 | Boise State | $574 | $18,368-$34,440 | Yes | 32 credits |
| 15 | North Dakota | $459 | $16,524 | Yes (BSW req.) | 36 credits |
| 16 | Florida Atlantic | $369 | $11,070-$22,140 | Yes (2025) | 30 credits |
| 17 | Utah | $533 | $15,990-$31,980 | No | 30 credits |
| 18 | Georgia State | $377 | $11,310-$22,620 | Hybrid | 30 credits |
| 19 | UNC Charlotte | $402 | $12,060-$24,120 | Hybrid | 30 credits |
| 20 | Ohio State | $589 | $17,670-$35,340 | Yes | 30 credits |
| 21 | Indiana | $574 | $17,220-$34,440 | Yes | 30 credits |
| 22 | Arizona State | $561 | $16,830-$33,660 | Yes | 30 credits |
| 23 | Florida State | $444 | $14,208-$26,640 | Yes | 32 credits |
| 24 | UW-Green Bay | $485 | $15,035-$29,100 | Hybrid | 31 credits |
| 25 | Campbellsville | $439 | $13,170-$26,340 | Yes | 30 credits |
Advanced Standing Programs: Fast-Track Your MSW
If you hold a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program, advanced standing can cut your time to degree—and your total costs—nearly in half. These programs recognize your undergraduate social work education and allow you to skip foundational courses, jumping directly into advanced coursework.
Best Advanced Standing Values:
- Western New Mexico: 30 credits at $286/credit = $8,580 total
- CSU San Bernardino: 30 credits at $280/credit = $8,400 total
- University of Wyoming: 31 credits at $299/credit = $9,269 total
- Fort Valley State: 30 credits at $318/credit = $9,540 total
- University of Arkansas: 33 credits at $437/credit = $14,421 (fastest completion)
Most advanced standing programs require a minimum 3.0 GPA in your BSW program, though some schools like Florida Atlantic require a 3.5 GPA. The typical requirement is 30-33 credits versus 60 credits for traditional programs, representing savings of $8,000-$15,000 on average.
Learn more about advanced standing MSW programs and eligibility requirements.
Most Affordable Online MSW Programs
Online programs often provide the best value by eliminating commuting costs, campus fees, and relocation expenses. Many also offer in-state tuition to all online students regardless of residency.
Top 5 Affordable Fully Online Programs:
1. Western New Mexico University – 100% Online
$286/credit for all online students with asynchronous coursework ideal for working professionals. Total program cost: $8,580-$17,160.
2. Texas A&M Commerce – 100% Online
$351/credit with Title IV-E stipends available. Cohort-based learning with strong peer support. Total program cost: $12,636-$21,060.
3. University of South Dakota – 100% Online
$340/credit for all online students with no out-of-state differential. Strong rural practice preparation. Total program cost: $11,220-$20,400.
4. Campbellsville University – 100% Online
$439/credit with 8-week accelerated terms. Faith-based option with military support. Total program cost: $13,170-$26,340.
5. Florida State University – 100% Online (Advanced Standing)
$444/credit from the pioneer in online MSW education. Total program cost: $14,208-$26,640.
Explore more online MSW programs to find the perfect fit for your schedule and budget.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
Beyond choosing an affordable program, strategic use of financial aid can further reduce your MSW costs. Here are key opportunities to explore:
Federal and National Scholarships
- NASW Foundation Scholarships: Awards up to $5,000 including the Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial and Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial scholarships
- Title IV-E Stipends: Child welfare specialization funding covering tuition plus stipends (available at 8 schools on our list)
- HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Programs: Loan repayment for mental health focus
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Complete forgiveness after 10 years of qualifying payments
School-Specific Aid at Affordable Programs
Many of our top-ranked affordable schools offer additional aid:
- CSU San Bernardino: Special scholarships for Hispanic/Latino students
- University of Wyoming: Western Regional Graduate Program discounts
- Texas A&M Commerce: Title IV-E tuition waivers for child welfare students
- Saint Leo University: Yellow Ribbon unlimited funding for veterans
- Fort Valley State: HBCU scholarships and Georgia HOPE grants
- University of Arkansas: Graduate assistantships covering tuition
Check our comprehensive guide to social work careers and salaries to understand your earning potential after graduation.
Best Value MSW Programs by State
Your state of residence can significantly impact your MSW costs. Here are the best values in key states:
California
- CSU San Bernardino: $280/credit in-state
- CSU Fullerton: $342/credit in-state
- CSU Long Beach: $356/credit in-state
Texas
- Texas A&M Commerce: $351/credit
- University of Texas Arlington: $459/credit (online available)
- Texas State University: $477/credit
Florida
- Florida Atlantic: $369/credit in-state
- University of West Florida: $384/credit in-state
- Florida State: $444/credit in-state
New York
- SUNY Plattsburgh: $453/credit in-state
- SUNY Albany: $492/credit in-state
- SUNY Buffalo: $528/credit in-state
Pennsylvania
- Edinboro University: $516/credit in-state
- West Chester University: $534/credit in-state
- Shippensburg University: $548/credit in-state
Find MSW programs in your state for a complete list of options.
How to Choose the Right Affordable Program
While cost is crucial, selecting an MSW program requires balancing affordability with other key factors:
Essential Considerations Beyond Price
- CSWE Accreditation Status Only CSWE-accredited programs qualify you for licensure. All programs on our list maintain current accreditation, but always verify status before applying.
- Field Placement Support Programs with strong field education departments help secure quality placements, especially important for online students needing local sites.
- Specialization Options Consider whether programs offer tracks aligned with your career goals—clinical practice, macro practice, school social work, or healthcare.
- Licensure Pass Rates Research programs’ ASWB exam pass rates, particularly for clinical licensure if you plan to pursue LCSW credentials.
- Student Support Services Online programs especially should offer robust academic advising, technical support, and career services.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Unusually low graduation rates (below 70%)
- Limited or no field placement assistance
- Hidden fees not included in per-credit costs
- Provisional or probationary accreditation status
- No clear path to state licensure
Application Tips for Affordable Programs
Affordable programs often receive more applications, making admission competitive. Here’s how to strengthen your application:
Timeline for Fall 2025 Admission
- September-October 2024: Research programs and attend virtual information sessions
- November-December 2024: Submit applications for priority deadlines
- January-February 2025: Complete FAFSA and scholarship applications
- March-April 2025: Receive admission decisions and compare financial aid
- April 30, 2025: Deadline to accept offers and submit deposits
Strengthening Your Application
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Volunteer work, internships, or employment in human services strengthens your application significantly.
- Address Financial Fit: In your personal statement, explain why affordability matters and how you’ll contribute to the program community.
- Apply Early: Many affordable programs have rolling admissions but limited seats. Early applications often receive priority for scholarships.
- Consider Multiple Programs: Apply to 3-5 schools to compare financial aid packages and ensure options.
- Leverage Advanced Standing: If you have a BSW, emphasize this in applications to advanced standing programs for maximum savings.
Learn more about MSW program requirements and application strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest CSWE-accredited MSW program?
California State University, San Bernardino offers the lowest per-credit rate at $280, while the University of Wyoming follows closely at $299. Total program costs range from $8,400-$17,940 depending on advanced standing eligibility.
Can I get my MSW for under $20,000?
Yes, several programs offer total costs under $20,000, especially with advanced standing. The University of Wyoming, Western New Mexico University, CSU San Bernardino, and Eastern New Mexico University all offer paths to an MSW for less than $20,000 total tuition.
Are online MSW programs cheaper than on-campus?
Online programs often cost the same per credit but save money on commuting, parking, and campus fees. Many online programs also charge the same rate for in-state and out-of-state students, potentially offering significant savings for non-residents.
How much can advanced standing save me?
Advanced standing typically reduces credit requirements from 60 to 30-33 credits, saving 45-50% on total tuition. This can mean savings of $8,000-$15,000 depending on the program’s per-credit cost.
Do affordable programs offer the same quality education?
All CSWE-accredited programs meet rigorous standards regardless of cost. Many affordable programs are at well-established state universities with strong reputations and excellent student outcomes.
What financial aid is available for MSW students?
MSW students can access federal loans, Pell Grants (if eligible), work-study programs, school-specific scholarships, NASW Foundation awards, Title IV-E stipends for child welfare, and Public Service Loan Forgiveness for qualifying employment.
How do I know if a program qualifies me for licensure?
CSWE accreditation is the key requirement for licensure eligibility in all states. All programs on our list are CSWE-accredited, but always verify current accreditation status and check your state’s specific requirements through our licensure guide.
Can I work while completing an affordable MSW program?
Many affordable programs offer part-time, evening, and online options designed for working professionals. Programs like Western New Mexico and University of South Dakota specifically structure coursework to accommodate full-time employment.
Start Your Affordable MSW Journey Today
Choosing an affordable CSWE-accredited MSW program is one of the most important investments in your social work career. With programs starting as low as $280 per credit and numerous financial aid opportunities available, quality social work education is within reach.
Remember that the “most affordable” program for you depends on your individual circumstances—residency status, BSW eligibility for advanced standing, and available financial aid all play crucial roles in your final costs.
Ready to take the next step? Explore our complete database of MSW programs to compare options, or learn more about becoming a social worker to understand the full career pathway ahead.
