Best Online BSW Programs

No, and the differences are significant. A BSW from a CSWE-accredited program qualifies you for entry-level social work licensure (LSW/LBSW), includes 400+ hours of supervised field placement, and makes you eligible for advanced standing MSW programs that save a full year of graduate school. A BA in psychology provides none of these benefits. If you know you want to work in social services, the BSW gives you a professional credential, hands-on training, and a faster path to the MSW. If you're exploring broadly or interested in research, a BA in psychology offers more flexibility but less professional preparation.

BSW graduates work as case managers ($49,000-$55,000), child welfare specialists ($50,000), victim advocates ($53,000), discharge planners ($50,000), community organizers ($40,000-$55,000), and residential counselors ($37,000-$48,000). Most BSW-level positions involve direct client work: conducting assessments, connecting people with resources, coordinating services, and advocating for clients within systems. Many BSW holders work in child protective services, hospitals, schools, community agencies, and government social services programs. See our <a href="/careers/social-worker/">social worker career guide</a> for a detailed breakdown.

Advanced standing is an accelerated MSW option exclusively available to BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs. Because BSW programs cover foundational social work content, advanced standing students skip the first year of the MSW and complete only the advanced coursework — typically 30-40 credits in 12 months instead of 60+ credits over 2 years. This can save you $15,000-$40,000+ in tuition depending on the MSW program. Most programs require a BSW earned within the last 5-10 years with a 3.0+ GPA in social work courses. If you plan to pursue an MSW, the BSW's advanced standing eligibility is its most valuable benefit.

A traditional online BSW takes four years (120 credits). With transfer credits from community college or a previous degree, students can complete the BSW in 2-3 years. UND's Second Degree Program for students with an existing bachelor's degree can be completed in as few as 3 semesters. UA Little Rock's 2+2 agreements with community colleges let students complete general education affordably before transferring into the BSW. If you already have college credits, contact programs directly for a preliminary transfer credit evaluation.

No. MSW programs accept students from any undergraduate major — psychology, sociology, English, business, or any other field. The MSW does not require a BSW for admission. However, without a BSW, you'll need to complete the full 2-year MSW program instead of qualifying for 1-year advanced standing. For students certain about social work, the BSW is the most efficient path because of the time and money saved through advanced standing. For students who are less certain or interested in exploring multiple fields, other undergraduate majors can still lead to an MSW, just on a longer timeline.

Yes, in most states. Most U.S. states offer a bachelor's-level social work license (LSW, LBSW, or equivalent title) for BSW graduates who pass the ASWB bachelor's exam. This license allows you to practice as an entry-level social worker in case management, child welfare, community services, and direct client work. You cannot provide clinical services (therapy, mental health diagnosis) with a BSW-level license — that requires an MSW and LCSW. The ASWB bachelor's exam is a 170-question, 4-hour test with a 67% pass rate. Check your state licensing board for specific requirements.