Most Affordable Online MSW Programs: Reviewing Low-Cost Options
Expertise: EducationSocial WorkOnline LearningAre you interested in pursuing you Master of Social Work degree, but you’re nervous about the price tag? We have tips to help. Find the 50 most affordable MSW programs in this guide, plus innovative ways to reduce your college expenses.
During times of crisis, social workers often play a critical role in the resolution. They are employed in a variety of settings, including schools, government agencies, hospitals, and clinics, to assist vulnerable populations in coping with various challenges.
Social work positions are projected to grow by 12% in the coming decade, resulting in almost 90,000 new jobs by 2030. If you hold a bachelor’s degree and are already employed in the field, or if you are contemplating a career change and considering entering the social work industry, now is the ideal time to do so.
Finding an affordable online MSW program can make the difference in whether a busy, cost-conscious student decides to go down this path. Learn about the top accredited MSW programs with the most affordable price tags.
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Most Affordable Online MSW Programs
Due to the abundance of online MSW programs, finding an affordable option is relatively simple with a little research. Although cost is only one of several factors to consider when selecting a program, it can be a determining factor for some students.
To create our list of the most affordable MSW programs, we ranked schools based on factors such as affordability and quality. The data comes from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). If you want to learn more about how this year’s rankings were calculated, click our “About the ranking” button below.
Keep reading to learn about our picks for the most affordable online MSW programs for this year.
Southern University at New Orleans
New Orleans, LAAlabama State University
Montgomery, ALNew Mexico Highlands University
Las Vegas, NMUniversity of West Florida
Pensacola, FLPrairie View A & M University
Prairie View, TXTexas A & M University-Commerce
Commerce, TXTexas A & M University-Kingsville
Kingsville, TXJackson State University
Jackson, MSUniversity of North Carolina at Pembroke
Pembroke, NCThe University of Texas Permian Basin
Odessa, TXThe University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TXCampbellsville University
Campbellsville, KYDelaware State University
Dover, DEWestern New Mexico University
Silver City, NMAngelo State University
San Angelo, TXLiberty University
Lynchburg, VATexas Woman’s University
Denton, TXUniversity of Southern Indiana
Evansville, INAlabama A & M University
Normal, ALNew Mexico State University-Main Campus
Las Cruces, NMArizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZSaint Leo University
Saint Leo, FLWest Texas A & M University
Canyon, TXTarleton State University
Stephenville, TXLouisiana Christian University
Pineville, LA5 Ways to Make Your Online MSW Degree More Affordable
If you want to earn your online MSW degree without taking on substantial debt, consider these options to reduce costs, have your loans forgiven, or receive a discounted tuition rate.
1
Apply to scholarships, grants, and fellowships created for MSW students
Plenty of scholarships, grants, and fellowships support students working toward an MSW. Some may award funds based on merit, while others base decisions on financial need. These awards can be quite competitive, so it’s best to start looking for options early. Not sure where to start? Check out our DFG financial aid guide and scholarships and resources guide for social work students. CSWE also offers examples of funding opportunities.
2
See if you qualify for work-study
Students who fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) may qualify for a federal work-study job based on their earnings. These part-time positions can be virtual or in-person at the school campus and pay at least the federal hourly minimum wage. You’ll need to make sure your prospective college offers this type of funding. Asbury University provides an example of what to look for.
3
Apply for a research or teaching assistantship
Assistantships are offered by colleges and universities as a way for students to assist professors with research and/or teaching responsibilities, gain experience, and help cover their educational costs. Some assistantships provide a stipend while others may qualify students for free or reduced tuition. These roles are both virtual and in person. Check out the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s School of Social Work to see a real-world example.
4
Ask your employer about tuition reimbursement plans
If you are currently employed as a social worker with a BSW degree, it is worthwhile to inquire with your employer about any available tuition reimbursement plans. Under federal law, employers can provide up to $5,250 tax-free per academic year to cover school-related expenses such as tuition, textbooks, and supplies. While some employers may offer more than $5,250 annually, any amount over this threshold will be subject to taxes.
5
Apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program
Social workers employed by a government agency or a nonprofit can qualify for the U.S. Department of Education’s Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Students who make 120 qualifying monthly payments toward their Direct Loans over a 10-year period can have the remainder of their loan forgiven if they work full-time for an approved employer.
What Affects the Affordability of an Online MSW Program?
Many factors can affect the bottom line in terms of how much you pay for your online MSW degree. Understanding these factors prior to enrolling in a program can help you mitigate unexpected expenses and look for the best rates without sacrificing the quality of your education. Check out a few common factors below.
Public vs. Private Institution
Private colleges and universities almost always cost more than state-subsidized public institutions. Data from CollegeBoard shows that students completing a master’s at a public university paid an average of $8,950 for the 2020-2021 academic year. Those at a private institution paid an average of $29,670.
Out-of-State vs. In-state Status
If attending a public university, it matters whether you’re considered a resident or nonresident student. While in-state students paid an average of $10,560 during the 2020-2021 school year, out-of-state students paid an average of $27,020.
Online Learner Special Rate
To appeal to a larger audience of online learners, some schools offer special rates for distance education. Public colleges may enable online students to pay in-state tuition regardless of their place of residence, while private institutions may reduce rates for students who choose to complete their degree virtually.
Fees
Many students see tuition rates for an MSW program and fail to pay attention to the fees. While distance learners avoid many campus-based costs, they still need to factor in charges associated with technology fees, exam proctoring, and fieldwork travel costs.
Transfer Credits Accepted
If you decide to transfer to a different MSW program, make sure your existing credits will come with you. At the University of Southern Maine, for instance, the online MSW program takes place in a sequenced cohort style. Because of this, the program generally doesn’t allow for any transfer credits.