BE READY ON DAY ONE
Practice your skills in a Skills Lab that mirrors real-life social work scenarios, prepare to pursue licensure, and get a jump-start on your Master of Social Work (MSW). Graduate feeling confident, inspired, and ready to make a difference.
OUR REPUTATION, YOUR RESULTS
Trust in a university chosen by 200,000+ alumni who are currently transforming lives and communities in all corners of the world.
SAVE TIME AND MONEY
Stay balanced with flexible online coursework that fits your schedule, and save on your tuition with our Believe & Achieve Scholarship®.
STUDY WITH 24/7 SUPPORT
We’re right by your side—connect with Walden’s Customer Care Team anytime and get 1:1 guidance from your Student Success Advisor.
Earn up to $20,750 in savings!
Walden supports you throughout your program with innovative savings with our Believe & Achieve Scholarship® and new $1,500 Graduation Award.***
GET IN TOUCH
Questions about Walden’s BSW Program?
Our Enrollment Specialists are here to give you answers.
Student Experience
How will I learn?
Walden’s online BSW program features a Skills Lab, video case studies, and hands-on activities. These not only deepen your understanding of social work concepts; they empower you to apply knowledge in practical contexts.
Interactive and Hands-On Learning
Interactive Skills Lab
This interactive Skills Lab combines online coursework with an in-person or live virtual component. The schedule includes three weeks of online learning, followed by three days of face-to-face or virtual live sessions, and then two additional weeks online.
Engaging video case studies
Learn by doing—practice your skills alongside instructors and other students. Apply social work concepts as you work through case studies and watch video scenarios that reflect the real challenges social workers face every day.
Hands-on, expert-guided field experience
In Walden’s online Bachelor of Social Work program, you are required to complete 400 hours in an approved social services agency under the supervision of a licensed social worker. In this practicum experience, you will gain an introduction to the roles of a social work practitioner. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your skills in maintaining social work boundaries and ethics while interacting in a professional manner with clients. You'll also participate in weekly, synchronous, hourlong seminars with your instructor and peers, where you will demonstrate your integration of classroom knowledge with professional practice skills.
Curriculum and Completion Requirements
In Walden's online Bachelor of Social Work degree program, you’ll gain the contemporary knowledge and practical skills needed to make an impact in today’s social work field. Tailor your studies to your interests and goals with a wide range of elective courses.
Featured BSW Courses
Policy and Advocacy
This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge to analyze, formulate, and advocate for social policies that advance individual and social well-being. Students explore various methods of policy analysis and develop advocacy plans that involve collaboration with colleagues and communities to address policy issues. There is a special emphasis on policies that impact human rights and advance social and economic justice. Students will develop skills in the policy analysis process, including the values that influence policy, the legislative process, and the roles of advocacy and lobbying organizations.
Social Work Research II
This course is designed to support students' development as generalist social workers. Students will identify and apply research that can be used to advance social work practice, including social welfare, advocacy, and policy. Throughout the course, students are provided with resources and activities designed to help them develop as critical consumers of research for the sake of ethical, evidenced-based social work practice. Students in this course have the opportunity to select research utilizing the various research methods and evaluate research design, research methods, and applicability of results to diverse populations.
Human Behavior in the Social Environment I
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the intersection between the social environment and the healthy lifespan development of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Throughout this course, students enhance their understanding of how the environment and social context serve to mediate or intersect with the healthy development of each individual, family, group, or community. Students are introduced to the ways gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and disability impact human development. Students also explore human behavior through the lens of human development, environment, and social context.
Diversity and Multiculturalism
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to multicultural social work practice and the importance of cultural competence. During the course, students are encouraged to assess their own level of self-awareness and their ability to engage in critical thinking on the issues of diversity and social justice. Grounded within the professional Code of Ethics, students learn about concepts and theory related to social, economic, and environmental justice. In this course, students analyze and reflect on the impact of oppression and discrimination on diverse groups. They learn how to engage evidence-informed practice, as well as advocate on behalf of others, particularly vulnerable populations. Throughout the course, students learn about various cultural groups and apply their learning to a different population each week. By the end of the course, students will be prepared with the foundational knowledge and skills for social work practice with culturally diverse and vulnerable populations.
Generalist Practice I – Individuals/Families
This first practice course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to utilize in their social work practice with individuals and families. The focus of this course is on preparing students to practice with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and marginalized or oppressed populations. Students demonstrate therapeutic skills to engage individuals and families, to define and prioritize issues, to set mutually developed goals, and to commit to the change process.
*See Tuition and Fees section for more information.
Admissions
You’ll work one-on-one with an Enrollment Specialist who’ll guide you through every step—from finding the right program to funding your education.
Streamlined Admissions Process
Pursuing your online BSW degree is a major decision, which is why we’ve streamlined and simplified the admission process. Start your journey with:
No application fee
Easy credit transfer
No essay or SAT/ACT requirement
View Admission Criteria
Admission is considered for adult students who hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. Applicants must also meet one of the following criteria:
- You are 21 years of age or older.
- You are less than 21 years of age with at least 12 quarter college credits.
- You are an active member of the military or a veteran with documentation of service.
More information for international applicants.
Tuition Breakdown
You have big potential and a bright future. That’s why Walden offers ways to lower your online Bachelor of Social Work program tuition costs and make your degree more attainable. These include:
- Transfer of credit
- Special tuition savings
- Scholarships
Stay Inspired. Stay on Track. Save Money.
Discover progress-based savings that inspire you to stay on track to graduation.
TUITION & FEES**
$68,000**
Tuition
$350 x 182 quarter credit hours
Skills Lab Fee
One in program. In person or Virtual. In person option $1,520 (travel, lodging, and other expenses are additional). Virtual option $1,420.
Program Fee
$180 per quarter
$63,700
$1,420
$2,880
SCHOLARSHIP SAVINGS
-$19,250
TOTAL COST
$68,000 $48,750*
*Represents virtual Skills Lab, minimum time to completion, and Believe & Achieve Scholarship. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship savings based on current tuition. See Scholarship Details for more information.
**Tuition reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition reductions. Walden may accept up to 135 transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost up to an additional $5,000.
WHY WALDEN
Turn your ambition into achievement with Walden Wayfinder™
Stop wondering what’s possible. Walden Wayfinder™ delivers targeted resources and support to transform your degree into your competitive advantage.
MAP YOUR CAREER DESTINATION
Uncover your perfect career match instantly. See high-demand fields, salary potential, and local job openings tailored to your strengths.
NAVIGATE YOUR CAREER PATH
Bypass common obstacles with expert guidance. Your advisor clears the way, experienced faculty equip you with real-world skills.
ACCELERATE YOUR ARRIVAL
Transfer up to 75% of credits. Earn automatic scholarships through our Believe & Achieve Scholarship®. Plus, receive $1,500 upon graduation.*
Become a Social Change Agent
Whether you’re looking to begin your career or build on your experience, Walden’s BSW degree program provides a clear path forward. Expert faculty and hands-on learning opportunities prepare you to graduate feeling confident and ready to make a difference.
Career Opportunities
With a BSW degree, you can open the door to a rewarding future while laying the foundation for your master’s degree.
Work With Families
Child, Family, and School Social Worker
Support the social and emotional well-being of children, families, and students.
Expected Growth: 3%1
Estimated annual wage: $40,580–$78,5001
STEADY Job Growth
Social and Community Service Manager
Coordinate and supervise programs and organizations that support public well-being.
Expected Growth: 6%2
Estimated annual wage: $50,020–$100,6002
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2024)
2Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2024)
Percentile wage estimates are based on the 10th–75th percentiles. The 10th percentile figure reasonably represents entry-level wages. BLS wages are national estimates and are not specific to graduates of Walden University. Wages may vary by state or region. No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls at Walden will obtain a job or earn the estimated salaries.
Program Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of our online Bachelor of Social Work program, you will be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of what is needed to develop a professional orientation and identify as a generalist social worker.
Utilize evidence-based research to inform the practice of serving traditionally oppressed and disenfranchised populations.
Apply theories of human growth and development to social work practice.
Apply ethical standards and values to generalist social work practice.
Apply culturally competent generalist intervention skills as a generalist social worker.
Prepare for Practice in Walden’s CSWE-Accredited Social Work Programs
Do you want to make a real impact in people’s lives? Walden’s CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW), and Doctor of Social Work (DSW) programs help you learn to effectively address the needs of individuals, families, and communities.
Meet Your Academic Team
Our BSW faculty is made up of seasoned educators, researchers, and subject matter experts, all committed to helping you grow and excel in your program.
You Might Also Be Interested In
Explore related degree programs at Walden.
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ALUMNI VOICES
“This degree would help me make a social change impact on my community.”
Shannon Sharp, BSW ’25
Online Bachelor of Social Work FAQ
How do you get a degree in social work?
Social work degrees are available at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW), and Doctor of Social Work (DSW) programs at Walden University are all accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CWSE). A social work degree from Walden’s online BSW program can prepare you for a career in social work.
What can you do with a social work degree?
With a bachelor’s in social work, you can pursue a variety of roles to support individuals, families, and communities. BSW grads commonly hold positions as case managers, social and community service managers, and child welfare workers in myriad settings including healthcare centers, educational institutions, and government agencies, to name just a few.
Can you get a social work degree online?
Yes, you can earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW), PhD in Social Work, or Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree online at Walden University. Our flexible online format allows you to balance your studies with your personal and professional responsibilities, ensuring you can build a strong foundation in social work on your terms.
What is the difference between a social work degree and a human services degree?
An online bachelor’s in social work and a BS in Human Services are both undergraduate degrees that prepare students for careers in the social services sector, but they have distinct focuses and career outcomes. A BSW typically leads to more specialized roles in social work, such as clinical social work, child and family services, or mental health services, where graduates are qualified to work directly with clients, assess their needs, and provide counseling and support. BSW graduates are also more likely to pursue licensure and advanced degrees in social work.
In contrast, a bachelor’s degree in human services often prepares students for broader roles in human services organizations, nonprofits, and government agencies, focusing on program administration, community development, and social policy.
While both degrees can lead to entry-level positions in social services, the BSW is generally more focused on direct practice with individuals and families, whereas human services degree holders may work more in program management, advocacy, or community outreach. Understanding these differences can help you choose the degree that best aligns with your career goals.
What is the difference between a social work degree and a psychology degree?
While both types of degrees help prepare you for a career devoted to improving people’s lives, it’s helpful to look closer to find the ideal match for your interests and goals. If you want to connect individuals or families in need with resources and services that improve their circumstances, you may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work. If you’re more interested in studying the human mind and behaviors, a degree in psychology would be the best fit.
What is National Social Work month and when is it celebrated?
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has designated March as Social Work Month, a national celebration that highlights the important contributions of social workers. Social work professionals make a meaningful impact on nearly every aspect of society as advocates for the vulnerable and underserved. Dr. Barbara Solomon, namesake of Walden University’s Barbara Solomon School of Social Work, exemplifies this tradition of service. A retired Walden University board member and respected leader in the field, Dr. Solomon is recognized by the NASW as a Social Work Pioneer and is an inductee in the California Social Work Hall of Distinction. Walden is proud to count Dr. Solomon as a member of our community and celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of our social work students and alumni.
What does a social worker do?
Social workers help individuals, families, and groups solve and cope with problems that may arise from a range of highly stressful life situations, including poverty, unemployment, inadequate housing, mental health conditions, chronic illnesses and disabilities, and abusive family situations. Professionals with a bachelor’s degree in social work are employed in a variety of settings—hospitals and healthcare facilities, schools, social services agencies, mental health clinics, and private and nonprofit organizations. They advocate for their clients and connect them with social services designed to help alleviate their challenges.
Are there different types of social workers?
While social workers can fill a variety of roles, in general, social workers can be divided into two categories:
- Direct-service social workers identify government and community services that can improve their clients’ situations, such as applying for government aid, finding employment, removing children from abusive homes, and connecting with community resources like home meal delivery.
- Clinical social workers directly address the needs of their clients, many of whom may have emotional and behavioral problems or psychiatric conditions. As clinicians, social workers are trained to perform psychotherapy and even diagnose patients. They are often part of a collaborative team of psychiatrists and advanced practice psychiatric nurses.
What is the difference between a BA and BS in social work?
The difference between a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree and a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in social work lies in their academic emphasis. A BA degree typically incorporates a broader liberal arts focus, allowing students to explore a diverse range of humanities disciplines alongside social work courses.
In contrast, a BS in social work provides a more structured, science-oriented curriculum that places greater emphasis on developing research and professional practice skills. It typically also has more intensive requirements for practice and fieldwork to prepare students to work directly with clients.
While both degrees prepare students for entry-level generalist practice roles, the BA gives students the flexibility to explore non-social work disciplines, while the BS is designed to prepare students specifically for a career in social work.
Is Walden’s online BSW program accredited?
Walden’s online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW), and Doctor of Social Work degree programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education(CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA). CSWE accreditation means that a program prepares you to apply ethical principles and critical thinking to social work practice. Earning a degree from our CSWE-accredited BSW or MSW program also academically prepares you to sit for social work licensure exams.
How do you get a degree in social work?
Social work degrees are available at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW), and Doctor of Social Work (DSW) programs at Walden University are all accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CWSE). A social work degree from Walden’s online BSW program can prepare you for a career in social work.