Online Bachelor of Social Work
Make a lasting impact on those around you.
UOnline’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree program at the University of Utah empowers you to become a change agent, working to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Complete online coursework and hands-on learning experiences that prepare you for the field.
Credits Required
What Does It Cost
$520/credit*
*Subject to change without notice
Tuition Estimator
Learning Format
Start Terms
Fall, Spring
Why Choose UOnline’s Bachelor of Social Work?
The University of Utah's online Bachelor of Social Work degree program empowers you to build a more just and equitable society. You learn to collaborate with minority communities—such as people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and rural populations—and work together to address challenges and create effective solutions. With a focus on developing community leaders and new social justice programs, you prepare to create positive change and enhance the quality of life for all members of society as a professional social worker.
As one of only 16 BSW online programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, we ensure you take relevant courses that meet professional standards. And, if you’re interested in working with children and families, you can apply for the Child Welfare Title IV-E Career Path grant, offered in collaboration with the College of Social Work and Utah State Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS).
Application Deadlines
Ready to make a difference? Apply now for the social work bachelor’s degree program and begin your path to a fulfilling career helping others.
Fall and Spring Admission
Apply for the fall semester between Dec. 1 and March 15 or for the spring semester between June 1 and Sept. 15.
Social Work Overview
At the University of Utah, our courses combine the flexibility of online teaching with the advantages and direct engagement of traditional teaching. Enjoy the benefit of studying online at your own pace while still engaging with classmates and instructors. This flexible way of teaching improves your overall experience and your ability to retain what you learn.
Interactive learning comes in a variety of ways:
- Group assignments, where you collaborate via email or a discussion forum to answer a problem set.
- Contributions to a discussion forum, where you directly respond to previous posts.
- Peer reviews, where you review and comment on assignments from other students.
Our classes also offer multiple routes to stay connected and get help:
- Communicate directly with the instructor via email.
- Participate in and guide online discussions.
- Attend online office hours in discussion threads or on the phone.
- Instructors are available in “real” office hours for students on or near campus; for some courses we offer Q&A sessions in a classroom.
Bachelor of Social Work from the College of Social Work.
All courses at the University of Utah, whether online or on campus, are taught by the same expert faculty members.
Before applying to the BSW online program, you must complete the following prerequisite courses:
- POLS 1100: U.S. National Government - University of Utah
- PSY 1010: General Psychology
- SOC 1010: Introduction to Sociology
- SW 1010: Social Work and Social Welfare: The Profession and Institution
- QL: Lower Division Math
- WR2: Lower Division Writing
The BSW online program operates under the transfer policies and procedures of the University of Utah. Under these policies, the Office of Admissions completes an assessment of a student’s academic record with a specific focus on general education requirements.
We assist that office by providing a list of course equivalencies based on our review of syllabi from other schools in the state, including other accredited BSW programs. If the BSW program has indicated that a particular course is the equivalent of a BSW course, the Office of Admissions makes a notation of acceptance of credit in the student’s record.
If the course is not one for which prior approval has been given, the Office of Admissions will send the student to the BSW Program Director for an individual case-by-case assessment. In these cases, students are often asked to provide syllabi, course descriptions, and sometimes information on textbooks and instructors to help determine the degree of comparability. The decision by the BSW Program Director regarding course equivalency is final.
Social work draws from a wide range of disciplines—UOnline social work majors complete courses in behavioral sciences, physical sciences, and the humanities. We carefully select each class in the online BSW program to build a strong foundation for the core social work curriculum. The program consists of general education requirements and 48 credit hours in the social work major, including a hands-on practicum.
Most students complete their BSW coursework and internships over three to four semesters, taking 12 to 15 credits per semester. Part-time options are also available.
To learn more or plan your course schedule, schedule an appointment with an academic advisor at the College of Social Work.
For UOnline’s social work bachelor’s degree, tuition is currently $520 per credit. Get an estimate of your program expenses.
Tuition does not include additional fees such as online textbooks or proctored exams, and fees and materials vary by program. Scholarships are available to students in the BSW program.
View UOnline's pricing information, financial aid opportunities and more.
Note: New students beginning their studies with UOnline in fall 2024 may be eligible for university employee tuition reductions in certain cases. Email us at uonline@utah.edu to find out if you qualify.
To apply to the social work bachelor’s degree program, you must submit an application for the University of Utah and the Bachelor of Social Work program.
Career Outcomes
With a BSW from the University of Utah, you can work in public service, child welfare, nonprofits, policy, health care, education, and more. Social workers advocate for all individuals, communities, and systems, regardless of culture, gender, or different experiences. Social work is grounded in the belief in the worth of all people, and the ultimate value of the profession is its ability to help people realize what they can accomplish.
Potential Roles
- Child Welfare Specialist
- Family Services Provider
- Health Care Coordinator
- Mental Health Advocate
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Further Your Education
You are eligible to apply for UOnline’s Advanced Standing Master of Social Work program once you earn a BSW. Many graduates continue their education and pursue an MSW at the U, which can lead to licensure as a certified social worker or clinical social worker.
7%
Expected Growth
Between now and 2033, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects the demand for social workers to increase by 7%.
$58,380
Median Annual Wage
The median salary for social workers in 2023 was $58,380, according to the BLS.
67,300
Job Openings
As the profession continues to grow, 67,300 new jobs are projected to open annually through 2033 by the BLS.
Department Contact
Have questions about the UOnline’s Bachelor of Social Work degree program? Our team is here to help. Reach out today!
