17 Best Schools for Social Work in North Carolina: 2025 Program Guide

North Carolina’s social work education landscape provides solid career prospects. You’ve made a smart career choice. The state has more than 20 social work programs, and the job market looks promising with about 2,000 positions typically open.

Picking the right social work program is a vital step toward your career success. The field shows strong potential with a projected 7% growth through 2032. Social work programs near you could lead to a financially stable career. North Carolina social workers earn around $48,000 annually, ranging from $34,000 for newcomers to $65,000 for experienced professionals.

Your choice of program should match your personal goals and schedule. Each school offers different strengths and timing options that might work better for your situation. This piece gets into 17 top social work programs in North Carolina to help you find the best fit for 2025.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill ranks among the top social work schools in North Carolina and sits proudly in the nation’s top ten. The School of Social Work’s 100-year old legacy has created strong community bonds that continue to grow stronger.

Social work degrees

More than 300 students join the university’s four flexible MSW program options each year:

• 2-Year On-Campus MSW: Students seeking full campus immersion can complete this traditional full-time program from August to May
• 3-Year On-Campus MSW: Working professionals within commuting distance can balance their careers with this part-time option
• 12-Month Advanced Standing MSW: BSW degree holders can complete this intensive program from May to May
• Advanced Standing Online MSW: Working professionals can earn their degree remotely while managing job and family commitments

Program highlights

The social work program’s exceptional faculty leads high-end practical learning and extensive research initiatives. Students gain real-life experience through community partnerships that enhance the interactive curriculum. The program’s high graduate employability rates show how well it prepares creative, independent researchers.

Tuition and affordability

Students pay $9,003 for in-state tuition and $41,211 for out-of-state tuition. These rates fall below the national in-state average of $12,201. Total costs reach $26,054 for in-state and $56,394 for out-of-state students when including food, housing, and other expenses. Need-based aid reduces the net price significantly – $8,330 for in-state and $20,832 for out-of-state students.

Location and accessibility

The Tate-Turner-Kuralt Building (TTK) at 325 Pittsboro Street serves as the School of Social Work’s main hub. Students and visitors can use elevators to access all floors and find accessible restrooms throughout the building. The nearby Dogwood Deck provides parking at $1.50 per hour despite limited on-campus options. Chapel Hill’s small-town charm combines with world-class amenities as part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle.

North Carolina State University

U.S. News & World Report ranks NC State University among North Carolina’s top social work programs. The School of Social Work provides a detailed education to its tight-knit community of 330 students (180 BSW and 150 MSW). Students learn in an environment that values professional ethics, belonging, and community participation.

Social work degrees

The university gives aspiring social workers two main paths:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): This program has prepared students for entry-level professional practice since 1974. Students conclude their studies with a 420-hour Agency Practicum Internship in their final semester.
• Master of Social Work (MSW): The 17-year-old program, accredited since 2009, offers two options:
  • Traditional MSW: A two-year, full-time program that needs 60 credit hours
  • Advanced Standing MSW: A 12-month intensive program that needs 39 credit hours for students with BSW degrees

Both programs earned reaccreditation through February 2029, showing their sustained excellence.

Program highlights

The social work education at NC State teaches students how to help diverse populations affected by social, economic, cultural, demographic, and political changes. Students become skilled at working with both individual clients and community-wide initiatives.

BSW students gain exceptional hands-on experience through three 40-hour pre-professional placements before their final field placement. Students can also take a closer look at specialized areas through electives in child welfare, aging, healthcare, addiction recovery, and international social work.

Tuition and affordability

The 2025-26 academic year costs $9,028 for North Carolina residents and $33,993 for out-of-state students in undergraduate tuition and fees. Graduate students pay higher rates: $12,735 (in-state) and $34,033 (out-of-state).

The total estimated yearly cost for undergraduates living on campus reaches $27,481 for in-state students and $53,004 for out-of-state students. These rates make NC State a mid-range option among social work schools in the state.

Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University sits in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The university’s Beaver College of Health Sciences houses quality social work programs. The Council on Social Work Education accredits the Department of Social Work. Students learn to tackle complex social issues with a justice-oriented approach.

Social work degrees

Students can choose between two social work paths:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): This program teaches students to work with clients from different backgrounds in various human service settings. The program concludes with a 440-hour field placement in the final semester.
• Master of Social Work (MSW): Students can pick from several formats. BSW graduates can opt for an Advanced Standing option and complete their degree in just one year. The MSW lets you specialize in Individuals and Families (clinical focus) or Community and Organizational Practice.

Students can take these programs on-campus or fully online, making App State a great choice whatever your schedule or location.

Program explained

The BSW program builds professional skills through self-reflection and ethical standards. Students work with Appalachian and global communities to improve health and well-being at multiple practice levels.

Field education is foundational to App State’s social work programs. BSW students complete their placements in one final semester to gain intensive practical experience. MSW students do concurrent field placements of 240 hours each semester.

The department’s honors program stands out. Students who maintain a 3.5+ GPA in both overall and social work courses can join.

Tuition and affordability

The 2024-25 tuition and fees cost $8,135 for in-state students and $25,768 for out-of-state students. Food and housing add about $12,868 yearly.

First-year students often receive need-based aid, with 43% getting help. The average need-based scholarship reaches $9,529. Social work bachelor’s graduates earn a median salary of $32,725.

Location and accessibility

You’ll find the Department of Social Work in Leon Levine Hall of Health Sciences in Boone. The offices welcome visitors on weekdays from 8am to 5pm. Students can also connect through phone, email, and Zoom appointments.

The university’s Disability Resources unit helps ensure access and civil rights to students with disabilities.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

UNC Charlotte’s School of Social Work stands nationally recognized through its dedication to culturally-informed education and community service. Future social workers learn through programs that champion social justice principles at every societal level.

Social work degrees

Students can choose from multiple social work education paths:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): The Council on Social Work Education accredits this program that readies students for generalist practice. Senior year students complete a practicum to get hands-on agency experience.
• Master of Social Work (MSW): The program adapts to different student needs with several formats:
  • 1-Year Advanced Standing (for BSW graduates)
  • 2-Year Advanced Standing Online
  • 3-Year Online (for non-BSW graduates)

Credit requirements range from 39-60 hours based on the entry pathway. Each program requires supervised practicum placements.

Program highlights

UNC Charlotte ranks among North Carolina’s top social work schools. Strategic collaborations with over 200 urban and rural agencies provide practicum placements. Students serve vulnerable populations throughout Charlotte while gaining valuable experience.

Faculty members excel in mental health, trauma, public health, substance abuse, and social justice. Their research presentations at national conferences have earned recognition for teaching excellence and community service.

Students learn both theory and practical skills. Graduates build successful careers in schools, hospitals, health departments, trauma centers, and domestic violence services.

Tuition and affordability

Program format and residency status determine tuition rates:

MSW students’ 2024-2025 credit hour rates are $288.82 for NC residents, $536.98 for outside-NC non-residents, and $1,098.21 for non-residents. Traditional campus students pay standard graduate rates, while distance education comes with different fees.

BSW online students pay $189.48 per credit hour (NC residents), $348.32 (outside-NC non-residents), or $800.40 (non-residents).

MSW graduates report average annual salaries of $66,800 after graduation. BSW graduates typically earn $64,000 yearly.

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

UNC Greensboro’s Department of Social Work represents a trailblazing partnership between a historically white institution and a Historically Black College. The department stands out among nearby social work colleges through its multicultural focus. Students learn social justice principles throughout their coursework to prepare them for effective community work.

Social work degrees

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program has maintained continuous accreditation since 1973. This program provides a detailed path toward entry-level generalist practice:

• Students complete 41 credit hours in the major with two community-based volunteer placements
• The Field Internship Program spans two semesters with 440 total hours
• Liberal arts courses fill the first two years, while professional curriculum dominates the final two

UNC Greensboro collaborates with North Carolina A&T State University to deliver the Joint Master of Social Work (JMSW) program:

• The curriculum centers on multicultural clinical practice
• Students choose between a full-time two-year option or a one-year advanced standing program for BSW graduates
• Both campuses provide resources to students and faculty

Program features

Students learn to support marginalized populations through this distinctive program. They work with others at intersections of culture, race, gender, and class to foster healthy functioning across communities.

The Global Work with Immigrant Kids Project enhances education through international study. Seniors can study in Denmark, Belgium, or Spain.

Graduate success rates prove the program’s effectiveness—80% of graduates find social work jobs within one year. Many graduates advance their studies at prestigious schools like Columbia University, Case Western University, and UNC Chapel Hill.

Tuition and affordability

UNCG leads North Carolina universities in affordability with the state’s lowest net cost. Undergraduate students pay about $18,422 yearly, which falls well below other public universities in the state.

The university makes education accessible—86% of students receive financial aid. This commitment has earned UNCG a spot among Washington Monthly’s Best Bang for the Buck universities.

North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina A&T State University is the only Historically Black College or University ranked among the Top 10 Best Social Work Schools in North Carolina for 2022. The Department of Social Work and Sociology, located in the John R. and Kathy R. Hairston College of Health and Human Sciences, prepares students to champion human rights at every level.

Social work degrees

The university gives students several paths to become social workers:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Students learn to promote economic and social justice through this four-year program.
• Master of Social Work (MSW): This program, run together with UNC Greensboro, focuses on multicultural clinical practice.
• D. in Social Work: A collaborative program with UNC Greensboro that lets students conduct advanced research.

U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 Graduate School rankings placed the joint MSW program among the top 75 programs in the United States.

Program details

Students develop practical skills through sociology and social work studies. They learn to evaluate new situations, use qualitative and quantitative methods, and communicate clearly.

The BSW program teaches core values including service, social justice, human dignity, integrity, competence, human rights, and scientific research. Students start with liberal arts courses and move on to specialized social work content that emphasizes diversity.

Senior students get hands-on training through a yearlong Joint Social Work Field Internship. The department also supports Alpha Delta Mu (the Social Work Honor Society) and the Sociology and Social Work Society.

Tuition and affordability

The 2024-2025 costs for undergraduate in-state students include $3,540 in tuition and $3,208 in fees. Out-of-state undergraduates pay $17,200 in tuition plus the same fees. Students living on campus pay about $6,770 more each year.

Graduate tuition for in-state students costs $4,896 plus fees, while out-of-state graduate students pay $17,696 plus fees.

University of North Carolina at Wilmington

UNC Wilmington leads the way in social work education by launching North Carolina’s first-ever online bachelor’s degree in social work. This groundbreaking program creates new opportunities for students from rural counties who couldn’t access such programs before. The School of Social Work at UNCW helps develop professionals who make positive changes in their communities.

Social work degrees

The university provides several CSWE-accredited programs:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Students learn generalist practice through classroom experiences and field placements
• Master of Social Work (MSW): Students can choose the traditional format or advanced standing options for BSW graduates
• HS2SW Program: A special path lets students with an Associate of Applied Science in Human Services Technology from North Carolina community colleges complete their BSW

Students can enhance their expertise with certificates in substance use disorders and addiction, veterinary social work, school social work credentials. They can also join the Child Welfare Collaborative to prepare for careers in child welfare.

Program highlights

Field education is in all of UNCW’s social work programs. These learning experiences help graduates prepare for careers of all types. Students learn through scholarly questions and community service while building skills in generalist practice from a strengths point of view.

Students get chances to study abroad, work on faculty research, join student organizations, and become part of the National Association of Social Workers. UNCW’s global social work opportunities reach across borders through strategic collaborations in London, Ireland, and India.

Social justice principles run through every part of the curriculum. This approach readies graduates to work in disability services, healthcare, mental health, substance use treatment, military affairs, child welfare, and many other fields.

Tuition and affordability

The 2025-2026 costs for undergraduate students include $4,443 in tuition for North Carolina residents and $22,597 for non-residents, plus $2,823 in fees. Graduate students pay more: $5,595 for in-state and $22,646 for out-of-state tuition.

UNCW and its School of Social Work provide various scholarships to help students manage financial challenges during their studies. Financial aid packages average $11,042 per student, and 46% of students receive some form of financial help.

East Carolina University

East Carolina University’s School of Social Work ranks among North Carolina’s top social work schools. The BSW program has held accreditation since 1974, making it one of America’s oldest accredited programs.

Social work degrees

ECU provides two main paths to a social work education:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Students learn professional generalist practice skills and prepare for graduate studies. The program has courses in human behavior, diversity, social work practice, assessment, critical thinking, social policy, and research. Students need 120 semester hours to graduate, with 57 semester hours in social work tier core courses.
• Master of Social Work (MSW): Students build advanced practice skills based on a person-in-environment framework. The MSW comes in regular track, advanced standing, and part-time options.

Program highlights

ECU’s social work program blends hands-on learning with traditional teaching methods. BSW students spend a semester in internships to gain real-life experience.

The program teaches students to serve at all levels of society. They learn to support social justice, embrace human diversity, work together, and create innovative solutions to problems.

Many ECU graduates work in communities where they interned, and several move on to the MSW program. BSW graduates with strong GPAs can earn their MSW degree in just one more year.

Tuition and affordability

Graduate resident students on campus will pay total costs of $30,756 for 2025-26, including $7,973 in tuition and fees. Non-resident graduate costs rise to $44,562 total, with $21,779 for tuition and fees.

MSW students pay $75 more per credit hour in program fees. Distance education costs less: $28,608 for residents and $42,414 for non-residents.

The Net Price Calculator helps undergraduate students estimate their actual costs, which proves useful when comparing different social work schools.

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University stands out among social work schools with its strong programs and NC Promise tuition plan. Students throughout the region can get quality education at an affordable price from its beautiful Cullowhee campus.

Social work degrees

The Department of Social Work at WCU offers two CSWE-accredited programs:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Students learn beginning generalist social work practice. The curriculum helps them develop skills in case management, community advocacy, and resource brokering
• Master of Social Work (MSW): The program prepares students for advanced generalist practice. Graduates can pursue licensure as clinical social workers (LCSW), clinical addiction specialists (LCAS), and school social workers

WCU also offers specialized professional development courses in addiction treatment, culturally-based native health, and school social work. Students can complete the school social work licensure program’s 9 credit hours entirely online.

Program highlights

Students get practical experience through WCU’s network of over 125 community partners. These connections are a great way to get hands-on experience in settings like hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, mental health units, homeless shelters, and health services with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Students develop core competencies in leadership, problem-solving, communication, research skills, cultural humility, and active listening. WCU graduates work in many environments—from hospitals and adoption agencies to correctional facilities and international aid organizations.

Tuition and affordability

The NC Promise Tuition Plan makes education affordable. In-state undergraduate students pay just $500 per semester in tuition and save nearly $3,000 annually. Out-of-state undergraduates pay $2,500 per semester—saving close to $10,000 each year.

MSW students’ tuition and fees come to $4,238 per semester for North Carolina residents and $9,597.50 for non-residents. The university provides various financial aid options. Since NC Promise began, undergraduate student loan debt has dropped by 46.6%.

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

UNC Pembroke’s social work programs serve rural and indigenous communities. The university helps social workers balance their education with other life commitments. The Department of Social Work at UNCP works to improve life quality and tackles rural challenges while enabling at-risk populations.

Social work degrees

UNCP’s online MSW program comes with several flexible options:

• Full-time MSW (2 years) – online or hybrid format
• Part-time MSW (3 years) – online or hybrid format
• Full-time Advanced Standing MSW (1 year) – for BSW graduates
• Part-time Advanced Standing MSW (2 years) – for BSW graduates

The BSW program runs mostly in-person at the Pembroke campus with some online classes. Students learn to become generalist-level social workers ready to tackle rural challenges. Both programs use advanced generalist practice models and keep full accreditation through the Council on Social Work Education.

Program highlights

The MSW program teaches students to work in different settings with diverse groups. Graduates learn to use rural resources and work with indigenous communities effectively. Field practicum stands out as a crucial part of UNCP’s social work education. Students blend theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience and manage real caseloads under professional guidance.

UNCP’s position as a historically Native American Serving Institution gives students valuable insights into social justice within indigenous contexts. The curriculum covers all social work areas including clinical practice, social administration, public policy, substance abuse, and school social work.

Tuition and affordability

UNCP, as an NC Promise campus, keeps tuition costs low for all students. Graduate rates are among North Carolina’s lowest, with MSW program costs around $4,280 annually for in-state students. This makes UNCP one of the state’s most affordable MSW programs. The flexible online and hybrid options work well for students who have jobs.

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University stands out among social work schools in North Carolina through its innovative technology and hands-on experience. The School of Social Work equips professionals to boost the well-being of individuals and families in rural, urban, and military communities.

Social work degrees

The School of Social Work offers multiple pathways for aspiring social workers:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Prepares students for entry-level generalist social work practice
• Master of Social Work (MSW): Develops advanced practice competencies for clinical or leadership positions
• Graduate Certificates: Professional certification through graduate-level programs, including options in Military Behavioral Health, Substance Abuse Studies, and Advanced Clinical Practice

The MSW program consists of 61 semester credit hours and includes a minimum of 960 hours of field practicum experience. Students new to the field can complete the two-year full-time program with complete training, while BSW graduates can opt for the one-year Advanced Standing option.

Program highlights

FSU’s innovative Simulation Skills Lab lifts practical training to new heights. This state-of-the-art facility lets students interact with virtual clients through audio and video communications while they receive feedback on their responses and tone.

Students experience a balanced curriculum of theoretical knowledge and real-life applications. The lab’s virtual reality technology helps them simulate home visits and develop observational skills. The simulations currently focus on food insecurity and HIV/AIDS scenarios, with plans to expand into intimate partner violence and mental health.

The program aims to create competent professionals who promote lifelong learning and strengthen community well-being. The faculty brings varied expertise to the classroom. Dr. Campbell focuses on advancing racial competency among practitioners, while Dr. Bates researches health disparities.

Tuition and affordability

The total estimated cost reaches approximately $20,423 for undergraduate in-state students living on campus. This includes housing ($6,608), food ($4,841), and various fees. Graduate students should expect to pay between $22,833 and $33,938 based on their residency status.

Students who receive need-based financial aid pay an average net price of $6,319. Family income affects this range, from $4,178 for families earning under $30,000 to $12,842 for those earning $75,001-$110,000.

North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University gives you a complete social work education that centers on social and economic justice principles. The university places special emphasis on helping vulnerable populations from different backgrounds. The CSWE-accredited program at NCCU has managed to keep its prestigious accreditation status since 1998.

Social work degrees

NCCU’s social work department runs two main programs:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Students get a deep understanding of social welfare systems, professional social work practice, policy analysis, human behavior, and social environments. The program builds entry-level professional skills through coursework and field placement.
• Master of Social Work (MSW): This two-year, full-time program creates advanced generalist practitioners who deliver culturally competent services at local, national, and global levels. Weekly classes happen on Tuesdays and Thursdays (6-8:30 p.m.) and Saturdays (9 a.m.-6 p.m.). Students can also choose some online options.

Program highlights

NCCU keeps class sizes small with 25 students at most in regular classes and 18 in seminars. This approach helps create meaningful interactions between students and professors. BSW students must complete over 400 hours of internship experience. MSW students need 224 hours per semester (2 days weekly) during their first year. This requirement increases to 336 hours (3 days weekly) in the second year.

The BSW program requires a separate application process before students can advance to 4000-level courses and internships. This process works much like applying to graduate school. BSW graduates who achieve a 3.0 GPA or higher can apply for Advanced Standing MSW programs. This option lets them finish their master’s degree in just one year instead of two.

Tuition and affordability

Undergraduate in-state students pay $185 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $727.67 per credit hour. Graduate rates run higher at $299.23 per credit hour for North Carolina residents and $1,038.57 for non-residents.

The total estimated yearly cost reaches $6,700 for in-state undergraduates and $19,736 for out-of-state students. Financial aid helps reduce these costs by a lot. The average net price ranges from $12,256 for families earning under $30,000 to $22,618 for those earning over $110,000 yearly.

Johnson C. Smith University

Johnson C. Smith University stands out as the first historically Black college to become an IBM ThinkPad University. The university’s Charlotte campus blends technological breakthroughs with community-centered learning to create a unique path for future social workers.

Social work degrees

Students can choose between two main social work paths:

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): This nationally accredited program helps students understand behavioral reactions that occur when simple human needs go unmet and the psychology behind these reactions. Students learn through a mix of classroom teaching and hands-on practice.
• Master of Social Work (MSW): The program comes in two flexible formats—Advanced Standing (1 year) designed for BSW graduates and a traditional full-time option (2 years). Evening and weekend classes let students balance their studies with work.

MSW coursework covers graduate-level subjects like cultural competence, human behavior, research methods, data analysis, and organizational practice. Students can shape their education by choosing electives that match their career interests.

Program highlights

In JCSU’s social work programs, BSW students intern with a variety of populations—from young children to survivors of domestic abuse—which prepares them for service-oriented careers.

The Department of Social Work’s dedicated resource library houses books, films, graduate school materials, and journals. Students use this space as a skills lab to record case presentations, simulations, and staffing assignments.

MSW students gain ground experience through field placements at approved social work agencies. The MSW program has managed to keep impressive results since its first cohort in Fall 2014, achieving an 88% overall graduation rate.

Tuition and affordability

Yearly tuition and fees cost $18,236. Part-time students pay $923 per credit hour. Students taking more than 18 credit hours need permission from advisors or department chairs and pay an extra $838 per credit hour.

The university helps make education affordable through various financial aid options. Students need a 3.0 overall GPA to take additional hours. Financial aid requires enrollment in at least 6 credit hours.

JCSU’s institutional endowment of $68.20 million helps the university continue its mission of providing quality education while helping students overcome financial barriers in their pursuit of social work careers.

UNC Greensboro / NC A&T Joint Program

UNC Greensboro and NC A&T State University created the first joint Master of Social Work program between a predominantly white institution and a Historically Black College/University in the United States. The Council on Social Work Education has continuously accredited this groundbreaking partnership since 1999.

Program structure

Students can choose paths that fit their needs best. The program offers a full-time two-year option with 60 credit hours or an advanced standing option that takes one calendar year with 42 credit hours. Students with advanced standing start their summer term with 12 credits of bridging coursework. This coursework connects their BSW education to the specialized curriculum.

The first year consists of 30 credits in generalist coursework. Students learn about social welfare policy, human diversity, and receive field instruction. The second year adds 30 more credits that focus on advanced clinical practice, research, and organizational viewpoints. Field education remains the core teaching method throughout the program. Students gain hands-on experience in real-life settings.

Joint program highlights

U.S. News & World Report ranks the program #77 nationally and #3 in North Carolina for social work education. Students learn multicultural clinical practice with an understanding of various cultural contexts. The department has secured over $5 million in external funding to support students and meet community needs.

Graduates can pursue several career paths:

• Clinical Mental Health Social Worker
• Child Welfare Caseworker
• Medical Social Worker
• School Social Worker
• Substance Abuse Counselor

Students can study abroad after completing their first year to gain global viewpoints. The program also conducts research that helps improve social work practice in communities.

Tuition and affordability

The program costs about $5,219 per year for in-state students. This makes it a cost-effective choice among social work programs. External funding helps reduce student debt. Students get quality education at a reasonable price.

Students can use financial aid for study abroad experiences. UNCG’s International Programs Center offers additional travel grants. Money shouldn’t stop anyone from getting the education they want.

Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State University stands out with its student-centered approach to social work education, earning national recognition for excellence. The Department of Social Work earned accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education in 2008. Students receive personal attention from faculty members who work with them one-on-one during their junior year to set goals and prepare them for success.

Social work degrees

WSSU’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree gives graduates the tools to help individuals and communities tackle challenges like abuse, addiction, homelessness, and illness. Students develop essential competencies through courses such as:

• Social Welfare Policy
• Human Behavior and the Social Environment
• Race and Culture
• Cultural Diversity

Most WSSU social work majors who apply to MSW programs receive “advanced standing” status. This allows them to complete their master’s degree in just one year instead of two, giving them a significant edge in higher education.

Program highlights

The program connects theory with real-life applications through fieldwork placements. The Social Work Advisory Committee brings together community practitioners and student representatives to create vital connections between the program and professional community.

Student organizations drive professional development. The Social Work Club and Phi Alpha Social Work Honor Society presidents serve on the advisory committee, which gives students a voice in program decisions.

Faculty members bring years of experience in crisis intervention, foster care, and mental health services. Their tailored approach has shown remarkable results—93.75% of participating students landed jobs or entered graduate school by graduation.

Tuition and affordability

In-state students pay $3,402 annually for undergraduate tuition, making it much more affordable than other options. Out-of-state tuition costs $14,056 per year, which remains reasonable compared to national averages.

Students pay an average annual net cost of $12,415 after financial aid, though amounts vary based on family income:

• $10,304 for families earning under $30,000
• $11,479 for families earning $30,001-$48,000
• $15,119 for families earning $48,001-$75,000

About 85% of WSSU students receive financial aid, and 75% get federal Pell Grants that don’t need repayment. This commitment to affordability helps prepare graduates for careers expected to grow 12% from 2020-2030.

Meredith College

Meredith College’s Department of Psychology and Social Work takes a unique approach to social work education. Students learn about diversity, inclusion, and ethical practice in this women’s college. The supportive environment helps students build practical skills and theoretical knowledge they need to deliver effective services.

Social work degrees

The Bachelor of Social Work program at Meredith prepares students for entry-level generalist practice. The curriculum has these fundamental courses:

• Introduction to Social Work
• Human Diversity & Social Justice
• Social Welfare Policy
• Social Work Research Methods
• Social Work Practicum

Students must complete 430 hours of supervised experience at a social agency during their final practicum. This experience strengthens professional values and combines empirical and practice-based knowledge. Students need to finish all required social work courses and get approval from the Program Director and Director of Field Education before starting their practicum.

Program highlights

Meredith stands out by giving students placement opportunities that most undergraduate programs don’t offer. Faculty members note, “Students are placed in clinics, in mental health settings, these settings are not typically open for undergraduate students but our students get to be placed there”.

Students get early professional exposure through 20 hours of service learning at local agencies. Meredith keeps class sizes small, which sets it apart from other programs. Students receive personal attention from instructors who help them develop skills in policy advocacy and clinical practice.

Tuition and affordability

Full-time tuition costs $47,278 per year ($23,639 each semester) for 2025-26. The total reaches $47,448 with mandatory activity fees. Students living on campus pay an extra $13,810 for housing and food.

The college makes education more affordable through financial assistance. First-year students receive an average need-based scholarship of $36,732. Yes, it is worth noting that 81% of first-year students get need-based aid. Family income affects the average net price, which ranges from $15,404 for families earning under $30,000 to $27,659 for those earning over $110,000.

Bennett College

Bennett College stands out as one of the nation’s few women-only historically Black institutions. Their social work program blends hands-on experience with professional development. Students learn to become leaders who serve and tackle social challenges in their communities.

Social work degrees

The Division of Professional Studies at Bennett College awards a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. The Council on Social Work Education’s Council on Accreditation reaffirmed the program in October 2019, which secured accreditation until June 2027. Students build their theoretical and practical knowledge to launch successful careers in the field.

The college doesn’t offer an online version of its social work bachelor’s degree program. The program awarded five bachelor’s degrees in 2021-2022, showing a 25% increase from the previous academic year.

Program highlights

Bennett’s social work program creates a learning environment where students master both theory and practice. Students work in field practicums that let them apply classroom concepts to real-life settings.

Students become career-ready through internships and hands-on training. Bennett shapes its students into enterprising women who show an affinity for leadership and community service.

The program’s diversity speaks volumes—80% of social work graduates in 2022 were Black or African American women.

Tuition and affordability

Bennett College’s tuition was $16,640 for the 2022-2023 academic year, with an extra $2,500 in fees for all students. Part-time students paid $700 per credit hour, whatever their residence status.

Students should budget for these additional costs:

• Books and supplies: $422
• On-campus room and board: $9,804
• Other expenses: $12,598

Family income determines the average cost after financial aid. Families earning $48,001-$75,000 pay around $17,499, while those earning $75,001-$110,000 pay about $27,270. Students can access various financial support options through institutional scholarships, federal grants, and loan programs.

Choose from One of North Carolina’s Social Work Schools

The right social work program can launch a rewarding career path in North Carolina. This piece highlights 17 exceptional institutions that offer social work education in a variety of ways. Each school brings unique strengths to match different student needs. North Carolina provides options for every aspiring social worker – from affordable programs to flexible schedules, specialized concentrations, and prestigious faculty.

The job market looks bright with a projected 7% growth through 2032. About 2,000 positions remain available across the state at any time. On top of that, social work careers provide financial stability. North Carolina professionals earn between $34,000 and $65,000 yearly based on their experience.

Money matters play a big role in program selection. Schools like Western Carolina University and UNC Pembroke’s NC Promise Tuition Plan make education more affordable. UNC Chapel Hill and NC State offer prestigious programs with extensive resources and networking opportunities at higher costs.

Field education is a necessity of quality social work programs. Students apply their classroom knowledge in real-life settings. Many featured programs have built mutually beneficial alliances with hundreds of community organizations, hospitals, schools, and social service agencies. These connections help students gain valuable practical experience before graduation.

Program format should match your personal situation. Many universities now offer fully online or hybrid options alongside campus-based education. BSW graduates can complete their MSW in just one year through advanced standing tracks instead of two – saving both time and money.

Note that finding the right fit depends on your specific goals, schedule, and career dreams. The ideal program balances academic excellence, hands-on experience, affordability, and accessibility. Most importantly, it prepares you to make meaningful differences in countless lives throughout North Carolina communities.

Additional Schools

Barton College
Elizabeth City State University
Campbell University
Livingstone College
Mars Hill University
Methodist University
Shaw University
Warren Wilson
Wingate University