In a new study conducted by university ranking site Research.com, the most affordable online MSW (Master of Social Work) programs have been identified.
Using data sourced from various databases such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), Peterson’s database, the College Scoreboard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), this study looks at acceptance rates, graduation rates, number of applicants and costs to determine the most affordable program.
An online MSW degree provides students with the opportunity to have a rewarding and diverse career in social work, whilst also being able to study with lower costs, flexible schedules, and an overall better work/life balance.
Ranking as the most affordable program is at the University of Wyoming, with annual tuition fee costs ranging from $9,000 to $17,000 and an estimated cost of $299 per credit. The length of this program ranges from two to three years.
California State University- San Bernardino has the second most affordable online MSW program, costing anywhere between $10,000 to $16,000 in tuition fees per year for two to three years and an estimated cost of $280 per credit.
In third is the University of South Dakota, where the annual tuition costs for this program range from $10,000 to $20,000, a cost of $340 per credit for two to three years.
The University of West Florida ranks fourth, with annual tuition ranging from $11,000 for in-state students to $62,000 for out-of-state students. In-state students pay $384 per credit, while out-of-state students pay $1,044 per credit.
Western New Mexico University takes fifth place as one of the most affordable programs, with tuition costs here ranging from $11,000 to $22,000. Resident graduates pay $286 per credit, whereas Non-Resident Graduates pay $371.
Ranking in sixth place as one of the most affordable options is Texas State University, where the cost of tuition ranges from $11,000-19,000 per year. Students taking this program pay $317 per credit and the program lasts 2-3 years.
Delaware State University ranks seventh, with tuition costing between $13,000-26,000 per year. This program has a duration of 2-3 years, and it costs $438 per each credit received.
In eighth place as one of the most affordable MSW programs is Concord University, with tuition costing students between $17,000-29,000 per year, averaging $485 per credit for a 2–3-year program.
Saint Leo University ranks as the ninth most affordable, costing students between $17,000- $34,000 annually. This program also has a duration of 2-3 years and costs $550 per credit.
Taking the tenth spot on the ranking is the University of Arkansas, where the tuition costs start at $17,000 and is $437 per credit, this program is only one year long.
The ten most affordable online MSW programs in 2024
| University | Tuition Costs (Annually) | Cost Per Credit | Program Length (Years) | |
| 1 | University of Wyoming | $9,000 – $17,000 | $299 | 2-3 |
| 2 | California State University- San Bernardino | $10,000 – $16,000 | $280 | 2-3 |
| 3 | University of South Dakota | $10,000 – $20,000 | $340 | 2-3 |
| 4 | University of West Florida | $11,000 – $62,000 | $384, $1,044 | 2-3 |
| 5 | Western New Mexico | $11,000 – $22,000 | $286, $371 | 2-3 |
| 6 | Texas State University | $11,000 – $19,000 | $317 | 2-3 |
| 7 | Delaware State University | $13,000 – $26,000 | $438 | 2-3 |
| 8 | Concord University | $17,000-29,000 | $485 | 2-3 |
| 9 | Saint Leo University | $17,000 – $34,000 | $550 | 2-3 |
| 10 | University of Arkansas | $17,000+ | $437 | 1 |
Speaking on the findings, research expert Imed Bouchrika from Research.com said, “Recognizing the most affordable online MSW programs is important for prospective students navigating educational choices while managing financial commitments.
“The University of Wyoming’s top ranking underscores the importance of considering both tuition fees and per-credit costs when selecting a program that aligns with individual needs and budgetary constraints – especially for a discipline like social work.
“This data allows prospective students to make informed decisions that will support their career aspirations, especially in the context of online learning, which offers much-needed flexibility and accessibility.”
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