9 CSWE-Accredited Online BSW Programs in California: Part-Time Options Available

California’s online BSW programs open doors to one of the state’s most needed professions. The state ranks among the top five employers of social workers nationwide and serves over 38 million residents, creating exceptional opportunities for professionals in this meaningful career path.

Students across California are choosing to pursue their social work degrees. The California State University system alone has about 1,500 BSW students enrolled at any time. The state hosts 17 accredited BSW programs, and four of these programs give students the flexibility to complete their degree entirely online.

BSW program graduates in California have promising career prospects, especially when you have a growing job market. Social workers can look forward to a 9% job growth rate by 2031, while California-based professionals earn $68,935 on average each year. On top of that, it’s a great advantage to be bilingual since more than 44% of Californians speak a language other than English at home. These part-time online programs are a great way to get your start in this rewarding profession, whether you’re managing work or family commitments.

BSW Degrees and Coursework

A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree sets you up for a career in generalist social work practice. You’ll need to complete 120 credit hours spread across four years of full-time study.

BSW programs follow quality standards set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). These standards make sure all accredited programs deliver consistent education quality. The core curriculum covers five key areas: human behavior and social environment, social welfare policy and services, social work practice methods, research methods, and field education.

Students start with general education classes and basic social work courses in their first two years. Professional social work education takes center stage in the final two years through specialized courses and hands-on training. Your GPA must stay at 2.5 or higher to continue the program.

Field practicum stands out as a crucial part of every California BSW program. CSWE requires students to complete at least 400 supervised field hours, though many schools ask for more. Some programs need up to 480 hours of internship work. This hands-on experience lets you put your classroom knowledge to work in real-life settings with professional guidance.

California’s online BSW programs mostly run on a “lock-step” cohort model. Students move through their courses together in a set order. This creates a strong sense of community but might not suit everyone’s schedule. Some schools offer part-time options that work better for professionals.

The coursework builds nine key competencies outlined by CSWE. These include ethical practice, diversity awareness, policy work, and research skills. You’ll learn to help individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities, with special focus on supporting vulnerable populations.

Critical thinking becomes second nature as you study how social, economic, and environmental factors shape human development. Many schools also let you explore specialized topics like child welfare, addiction treatment, and working with older adults.

Your BSW from an accredited program opens doors to entry-level social work positions. Planning to get a Master of Social Work (MSW) later? Many graduate programs offer “advanced standing” options that value your BSW education. This could shorten your master’s degree journey significantly.

BSW Careers and Salaries

A Bachelor of Social Work degree opens up many career paths in California. BSW graduates can work in child welfare, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, healthcare facilities, and community organizations.

Most new social workers in California start as case managers, community outreach coordinators, or social services assistants. These roles help you build core skills and get real-world experience. Many BSW graduates start their careers at government agencies or nonprofits where they work directly with people who need help.

California’s BSW-qualified professionals’ salaries change based on their specialty, location, and experience. Recent data shows California’s social workers earn about $68,935 per year – this is a big deal as it means that the state pays more than the national average. The pay varies by specialty:

Your earnings depend a lot on where you work in California. Social workers in big cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles earn more than those in rural areas. To name just one example, San Francisco Bay Area’s social workers make 15-20% above the state average because living costs are higher there.

Here’s how you can advance your career with a BSW degree:

1. Get specialized certifications in your field
2. Work in high-demand areas like integrated healthcare
3. Learn another language – Spanish and Asian languages are valuable because of California’s diverse population

California doesn’t require BSW graduates to have a license for entry-level jobs. In spite of that, some specialized positions might need extra credentials. Many BSW holders later get their MSW degree to work in clinical roles and earn higher salaries.

Social work jobs in California look promising, with growth rates higher than most other jobs. More people now understand mental health’s importance, the population is aging, and healthcare coverage has expanded. BSW graduates will find steady work opportunities across California in the coming years.

BSW Programs in California

Here’s a list of some of the best BSW programs in California, along with some that are online programs that still meet the California requirements for licensure.

California State University, Chico BSW Program

California State University, Chico ranks among the top schools that offer CSWE-accredited BSW programs. Students looking to become social workers in Northern California will find flexible learning options here.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program at CSU Chico equips students with skills for generalist social work practice through a well-laid-out curriculum. Graduates can work in healthcare, rehabilitation, criminal justice, schools, government agencies, and mental health services. Social justice and service to vulnerable populations form the core focus. Students need 120 total units to graduate, with 52 units focused on the social work major. The program follows a structured course sequence that builds professional practice skills.

Accreditation and credibility

The BSW program holds full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The program earned an eight-year reaffirmation. This 54-year-old program has built a strong reputation for quality social work education. CSWE’s rigorous standards ensure graduates meet national standards for professional practice. CSU Chico holds the #66 spot among 350 schools in online rankings.

Online and part-time format

Students can choose between traditional campus-based classes and a Distributed Learning (DL) hybrid option. The DL format works well for students with other commitments. Most content comes through online channels with occasional campus visits. Students can access pre-professional courses anytime. Professional sequence courses mix three evening online sessions with two weekend campus meetings each semester. This setup lets students keep their jobs while earning their degree.

Fieldwork and practicum

Students learn to apply classroom concepts in real situations. The program requires 480 internship hours spread across two academic semesters. This means 16 hours every week for 30 weeks. Students must complete their placements within the school’s 18-county Northern California service area. Each student creates a learning contract with specific goals and receives guidance from experienced social workers.

Tuition and financial aid

California residents pay about $8,896 per year for full-time study. Non-resident tuition runs around $19,552. Books and supplies cost about $1,122. Total costs range from $27,062 to $40,418, depending on where students live and their residency status. CSU Chico students receive more than $131 million in yearly aid through scholarships, grants, and loans.

Who should choose CSU Chico

This program fits students who want both online flexibility and face-to-face learning. The program works best for people living in Northern California’s 18-county service region since fieldwork happens in this area. Students passionate about helping diverse populations, especially in rural areas, will appreciate the program’s focus on anti-oppressive approaches.

Touro University Worldwide Online Bachelor’s in Social Work

Touro University Worldwide offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program. The program creates culturally competent entry-level professionals who can tackle complex social challenges. This CSWE-accredited program stands out because it’s accessible and offers a complete curriculum.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Touro University Worldwide gives you the skills to help individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations through counseling and practical human services. The curriculum combines social work theory, research, and practice while advocating for social change and justice. Students learn about human behavior in social contexts, welfare policy, and intervention strategies based on the NASW Code of Ethics. The program ends with a complete social work portfolio through a capstone course that shows mastery of all nine core competencies set by the Council on Social Work Education.

Accreditation and credibility

Touro University Worldwide has full accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The BSW program’s Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation confirms that graduates meet national standards for professional practice. These two accreditations confirm both the university’s quality and the social work program’s alignment with industry standards.

Online and part-time format

The BSW program runs entirely online and offers unmatched flexibility for working professionals and people with family commitments. Students engage with coursework through an interactive virtual environment at their own pace. The program offers six start dates each year through 8-week terms. You can start your studies at the most convenient time instead of waiting for traditional semester schedules.

Fieldwork and practicum

Students enhance their learning through fieldwork that applies their knowledge and skills in a variety of settings. Past placements include schools, family counseling centers, senior centers, and social service organizations. Qualified instructors mentor students throughout their practicum experience following strict guidelines. Students create process recordings, maintain learning contracts, and get regular supervision to grow professionally.

Tuition and financial aid

The 2025-2026 academic year costs $890 per credit hour. Additional costs include a $200 administrative fee and a $100 technology fee each semester. Students can access federal loans, work-study opportunities, and scholarship programs. Veterans can use their G.I. bill benefits.

Who should choose Touro

Self-motivated learners who want flexibility without compromising on education quality will thrive in this program. Working professionals can balance their education with career responsibilities through the asynchronous format. Students passionate about cultural competency and social justice will value Touro’s approach. The program works perfectly for those who need a completely online experience without campus visits.

University of Massachusetts Global

UMass Global stands out among California’s flexible learning options with its innovative online education program for busy social work professionals.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program prepares students for generalist practice positions and graduate education. Students learn about social welfare policy, human behavior, and ethics while completing 400 hours of supervised field practice. The program opens doors to entry-level positions in child welfare, mental health, gerontology, probation services, and substance abuse treatment. Following CSWE standards, students learn to help individuals and communities facing life challenges.

Accreditation and credibility

UMass Global has earned regional accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The BSW program also maintains full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). These credentials show the program meets high academic standards that affect credit transfers, financial aid eligibility, and job prospects.

Online and part-time format

Students can choose between two flexible learning formats:

Part-time status requires 6-8.99 credits per trimester, while full-time students take 12+ credits. The program works well for professionals – 90% of UMass Global students successfully balance work and classes.

Fieldwork and practicum

The program requires 400 hours of field education spread across three consecutive semesters. Field placements usually happen during business hours (M-F, 8:00-5:00). The university helps students find suitable sites in their local areas. Students must complete a readiness review and disclose any criminal background issues before starting their practicum.

Tuition and financial aid

Students benefit from competitive pricing and various financial aid options. Standard undergraduate programs cost about $3,300 per billing period (24 weeks). Students can access federal aid like Pell Grants, Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants, and Direct Loans. California residents should submit their FAFSA by March 2nd to qualify for Cal Grants.

Who should choose UMass Global

This program works best for professionals who need flexibility without compromising on quality education. The MyPath option suits independent learners, while the instructor-led format provides more structure. The program excels at helping motivated students juggle their responsibilities with adaptable scheduling.

Brandman University BA in Social Work

Brandman University started as an educational service for military personnel and has grown into an innovative adult education institution throughout California. The university operates as part of the Chapman University System and offers flexible degree options for working professionals at 25 campus locations.

Program overview

Brandman’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program equips students for generalist social work practice in clinical research, community outreach, and nonprofit organizations. Students learn organizational dynamics and technological processes to serve communities of all types. The program requires 120 credits and follows the Council on Social Work Education’s standards.

Accreditation and credibility

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission has granted Brandman University regional accreditation. The social work department received Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation in 2016. The BSW program launched in 2012 and has grown rapidly, building a strong reputation among California’s social work programs.

Online and part-time format

Students can complete the BSW program entirely online without campus visits. The Brandman iDEAL™ model (Instructional Design for Engaged Adult Learning) delivers all coursework. Students can choose full-time or part-time study options, which helps them balance work, family, and social commitments.

Fieldwork and practicum

The program includes 400 supervised on-site field practice hours. Students gain hands-on experience through placements in child and family services, gerontology, mental healthcare, and substance abuse treatment facilities.

Tuition and financial aid

Tuition costs $500 per credit hour, with annual expenses around $12,480. Students can access grants, scholarships, and loans. Military personnel and their spouses qualify for special reduced rates.

Who should choose Brandman

The program suits returning students, parents, and people working in social services without a degree. Students who are self-motivated and need flexibility will excel at Brandman. This program works well for those who want quality education while keeping their current job.

Humboldt State University BSW

Cal Poly Humboldt’s social work program stands out through its dedication to decolonizing mainstream social work practice and building strong relationships with Indigenous and rural communities.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Cal Poly Humboldt prepares students to handle challenges and leverage resources in rural and Indigenous areas. The program focuses on ethics, critical thinking, and peace-centered practice. Students develop skills for careers in schools, medical offices, child protective services, mental health, and international aid. They learn to build non-expert relationship models while growing into the social workers they want to become.

Accreditation and credibility

Cal Poly Humboldt’s undergraduate and graduate Social Work programs hold full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the only accrediting body for social work programs in the United States. This credential opens doors to advanced standing in MSW programs, school social work credentials, licensure eligibility, and stipend programs. The program’s last accreditation renewal was in 2011, valid through October 2019.

Online and part-time format

Cal Poly Humboldt’s Distributed Learning program offers an online BSW option that lets students stay rooted in their communities. Students must reside in California during enrollment. The online curriculum matches the campus-based program. Students attend weekly live webinar sessions, a mandatory orientation at the start, and yearly January intensives before spring courses.

Fieldwork and practicum

Field education, known as the “heart of social work education,” provides hands-on training under expert guidance. Students complete required field practicum hours in community settings with weekly supervision from qualified instructors. Most placements happen in public/non-profit agencies and tribal settings serving children, youth, families, and elders. The program maintains strong connections with county and tribal social services throughout Northern California.

Tuition and financial aid

The 2025-2026 estimated costs reach $28,354 for on-campus students and $29,066 for off-campus students. This covers tuition and fees ($8,652), books and supplies ($890), living expenses ($14,306-$15,018), transportation ($1,908), and personal expenses ($2,598). About 80% of students get financial aid, with low-income students receiving around $10,000 in funding.

Who should choose Humboldt

This program works best if you’re passionate about serving Indigenous populations and rural communities. Students living in the program’s service area (covering 18 Northern California counties) can benefit from established field placement connections. The program suits people already working in local organizations or tribal programs who can’t relocate for their education.

California State University, Los Angeles BA in Social Work

California State University’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program sits right in the heart of Los Angeles. The program prepares students to work in multiethnic environments across California’s urban settings.

Program overview

Cal State LA’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work helps students develop values, knowledge, and generalist skills they need for multiethnic social work practice. Students must complete 120 total units to graduate, with 72 units in the major. This includes 45 units of required upper division social work courses, 6 prerequisite units, 6 elective units, and 15 free elective units. Core courses like SW 3700, SW 3010, and field practicum classes require a grade of C or higher. Graduates can start entry-level positions or head over to graduate schools.

Accreditation and credibility

The Council on Social Work Education fully accredits Cal State LA’s BSW program, which ensures graduates meet national professional practice standards. The WASC Senior College and University Commission accredits the university, with a renewal in 2019 that runs until 2029. Cal State LA ranks first in the United States for student upward mobility, making it a great choice for career growth.

Online and part-time format

Social Work courses run on campus but can be taught online or as hybrid classes. Students can easily balance their education with other commitments. The program takes two years of upper division coursework, and classes run during both day and evening hours.

Fieldwork and practicum

Field education plays a vital role in the program. Senior year students spend 420 hours as interns (SW4951 & SW4952), usually working two full days (14 hours) each week. Students get to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Students need to pass a criminal background check before starting field placement. Failed checks might delay or prevent graduation.

Tuition and financial aid

California residents pay $7,530 yearly for undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees. Total costs range from $27,878 for commuters to $36,186 for students living on campus. About 95% of first-year students get financial aid, averaging $11,317. Students from low-income families earning below $30,000 receive around $13,420 in assistance.

Who should choose CSU LA

This program works best for students passionate about urban social work with diverse communities. Students looking for affordable education with strong career growth opportunities will find great value here. The evening classes and professional development focus benefit working professionals in social services who want to advance their careers.

Fresno Pacific University BSW Program

Fresno Pacific University’s Bachelor of Social Work program stands out by blending Christian values with professional social work practice in California’s Central Valley.

Program overview

The BSW program prepares students for social work careers in a variety of settings. Students learn both theory and practical skills. The program teaches professional ethics, cultural competence, and social justice through a Christian world view. The coursework covers human development, social policy, social work methods, and research. Graduates can work in nonprofit agencies, probation departments, county human services, community development, and programs that serve children, families, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

Accreditation and credibility

The WASC Senior College and University Commission has accredited Fresno Pacific University. The Council on Social Work Education’s Commission on Accreditation has given full accreditation to the social work program. The program earned candidacy in 2015 and full accreditation in 2016. The program received reaffirmation status for eight more years in 2022—the longest review period possible, which suggests excellent quality.

Online and part-time format

Students can choose between two formats. The traditional undergraduate format offers day and evening classes over four years. The Degree Completion format lets adult, nontraditional students finish their social work major in 24 months as part of a cohort. Students can take general education courses in either 6 or 12-week sessions. The Degree Completion program requires 60 undergraduate units before admission.

Fieldwork and practicum

Field instruction caps off the learning experience. Traditional undergraduate students spend 414 hours during a 15-week spring semester, about 26 hours each week. Degree Completion students complete their hours over 24 weeks, working 16 hours weekly. Qualified agency staff supervise students directly, helping them connect their coursework with ground practice.

Tuition and financial aid

Annual full-time undergraduate tuition costs $36,990 with a $770 student body fee. About 95% of students get financial aid, which covers 74% of tuition, room, and board for the average student. Students can earn academic scholarships between $8,000 and $18,000 based on their GPA.

Who should choose Fresno Pacific

Students who want a social work education in a supportive Christian environment will thrive here. The evening accelerated Degree Completion format works well for working professionals. The program is a great fit for students who want to tackle the unique challenges in California’s Central Valley, with its demographic diversity, systemic poverty, and growing ethnic populations.

San Francisco State University Bachelor of Arts in Social Work

San Francisco State University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program where students move through their coursework together as a cohort. Most students complete their degree in two years.

Program overview

The BASW program at San Francisco State University welcomes students who have completed 60+ units at junior level. The curriculum prepares students for entry-level positions in social work settings of all types or graduate studies. Students must finish their general university and lower-division requirements before joining this cohort program. The program only accepts new students in fall semesters. Students need a minimum 2.0 GPA to stay enrolled.

Accreditation and credibility

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits SFSU’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program. This recognition verifies the program’s quality and shows graduates meet national professional practice standards. SFSU has established itself as a respected California institution that produces capable social work professionals. The university awarded 28 bachelor’s degrees in 2021-2022.

Online and part-time format

SFSU’s BASW program follows a traditional full-time structure with few part-time options. Students typically complete the program in four semesters. Some courses blend online and in-person instruction to give students more flexibility with their schedules.

Fieldwork and practicum

At SFSU, students gain experience at more than 300 public and private non-profit agencies throughout the Bay Area. The program requires 450 total hours of field experience during the senior year.

Tuition and financial aid

California residents pay about $7,950 per academic year in tuition and fees. Students living on campus should budget around $36,050 annually. Those living at home can reduce costs to about $26,384. The good news is that 66% of SFSU students receive financial aid, and many scholarship opportunities exist.

Who should choose SFSU

This program fits students who want an urban-focused social work education in the San Francisco Bay Area. Students passionate about helping diverse populations will thrive in SFSU’s program that focuses on disadvantaged communities’ needs. The program works best for students ready to study full-time in a structured group setting.

Azusa Pacific University BSW

Azusa Pacific University’s social work program stands as one of California’s 50-year-old educational pillars that smoothly combines Christian values with professional practice standards.

Program overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program at Azusa Pacific University shapes generalist practitioners who blend professional knowledge with a Christian point of view to serve communities of all types. Students work through a complete curriculum that ends with a 400-hour internship at local social service agencies. The program’s community service work and applied research projects offer publication opportunities. This mix of classroom knowledge and hands-on experience readies graduates to step into professional social work practice.

Accreditation and credibility

APU holds full accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The BSW program’s Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation was confirmed again in 2023 for eight years. These two accreditations confirm the program’s quality and its alignment with professional standards that help with job prospects and graduate school admission.

Online and part-time format

APU leads as the region’s only university with a 4+2 option (4 years undergraduate, 2 years MSW) for part-time study. Working professionals can now manage their education alongside other commitments. The university’s 4+1 Advanced Standing program combines the senior year with the MSW’s first year, so students earn both degrees in five years.

Fieldwork and practicum

Field education sits at the heart of APU’s social work experience and creates structured learning opportunities under professional guidance. Students apply their classroom knowledge in professional settings through a two-semester, 400-hour internship practicum. Strategic collaborations with community-based agencies boost student learning through varied placements.

Cost and financial aid

Full-time students (12-18 units) will pay $44,640 in undergraduate tuition for 2025-26. The total cost reaches $65,690 when you add housing, food, and other expenses. The good news is that 99% of students get financial aid, with average packages hitting $28,992. APU’s Yellow Ribbon University status means extra benefits for military members.

Who should choose Azusa Pacific

Students looking to blend Christian values with professional social work education will find their home here. The program’s unique 4+1 and 4+2 options are perfect for those wanting a faster path to MSW degrees. Military-connected students benefit from APU’s supportive policies and dedicated resources.

Comparing BSW Programs in California

Start Your Social Work Education in California Today

Your future success as a social worker in California starts with picking the right BSW program. Nine CSWE-accredited programs offer online and part-time options to fit your schedule. Each school brings something special – Azusa Pacific and Fresno Pacific integrate Christian values, Humboldt State focuses on Indigenous communities, and UMass Global lets you learn at your own pace.

CSWE accreditation is the key to licensure after social work education. This standard ensures your degree meets national requirements to practice professionally. Your credential becomes extra valuable when you pursue advanced standing in MSW programs or look for entry-level positions.

California’s strong job market for social workers keeps growing at rates higher than national averages. Social workers in the state earn about $68,935 yearly, though pay varies by a lot based on specialty and location. Healthcare social workers top the pay scale at $79,620, while child and family practitioners make around $62,870.

Money matters are the foundations of program selection. State schools like CSU Chico, Humboldt State, and San Francisco State charge resident tuition of about $8,000 per year. Private schools range from Touro’s per-credit pricing to Azusa Pacific’s $44,640 yearly tuition. Most programs are a great way to get financial aid, and many students receive substantial help.

Field education hours run from 400 to 480 across these programs. These hands-on experiences are vital to your professional growth. Students can apply classroom knowledge directly and build essential skills to practice.

Take time to think about your situation, career plans, and how you learn best. Programs like Touro and UMass Global work well for professionals with jobs, while others fit specific regions or practice interests. Your program choice should match both your career dreams and daily reality.

Social work requires steadfast dedication. Notwithstanding that, these nine CSWE-accredited programs open doors to this rewarding career, whatever your current obligations might be. This detailed information helps you pick the BSW program that best launches your social work career in California.