6 Best Bachelor Degree in Social Work Programs in Michigan

Interested in getting a bachelor’s degree in social work in Michigan? You’ve picked a field with excellent growth ahead. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects social worker jobs to grow by 6 percent through 2034, which beats the average for all occupations. On top of that, social workers earn a solid median salary of $61,330 per year.

A bachelor of social work degree gives you hands-on preparation that’s hard to beat. The numbers tell the story – 96% of health and human services graduates took part in experience-driven learning. BSW students typically spend two days each week in their final year completing internships. The results speak volumes – 97% of graduates who work full-time have landed jobs in their field.

Social workers create meaningful change in a variety of settings. They help transform lives in child welfare, mental health, schools, rehabilitation centers, and family services. Let’s take a closer look at the six best social work programs in Michigan. We’ll compare their coursework, field opportunities, accreditation, and career support to help you find the program that fits you best.

1. University of Michigan-Flint

Forbes Advisor ranked the University of Michigan-Flint’s bachelor’s degree in social work program among the nation’s best for 2024. This ranking came after evaluating 17 data points that looked at credibility, affordability, student outcomes, and the application process.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program at UM-Flint gives students amazing flexibility with 100% online coursework through both asynchronous and synchronous formats. Students need to attend live Zoom meetings for synchronous components, while they can complete in-person internships at social service agencies near their homes. The program also comes with a specialized Bachelor of Social Work Honors option that lets students conduct off-campus research and complete their thesis. Students must complete 124 credits, with 77 credits focused on social work and related courses. A Social Work Academic advisor helps tailor the program to each student’s needs.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum prepares students for generalist practice and gives them the credentials they need for state licensure examinations. The program structure combines interdisciplinary theory, research, policy, and social work practice methods. Students can dive into research through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program or Summer Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program. They work with faculty on cutting-edge research projects. These experiences help students develop vital research skills and connect their classroom knowledge to real-world applications.

Fieldwork & Internships

Field education is the heart of UM-Flint’s social work program with two dedicated Field Instruction courses. These hands-on learning experiences are a great way to get practical experience working with individuals, families, and communities in different settings. Students have interned at many organizations including Bendle Community Schools, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Carman Ainsworth Schools, Communities First, Ennis Center for Children, Genesee County Prosecutor’s Office, Genesee Health System, Lapeer Community Mental Health, and Medical Team Hospice.

Accreditation & Licensure

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the program, which ensures high educational standards. This accreditation is vital since all graduate social work programs need a CSWE-accredited bachelor’s degree. The program’s last accreditation review was in 2018, with the next one scheduled for 2026.

Career Opportunities

The job market looks promising for program graduates. UM-Flint’s social work bachelor’s degree recipients earn a median salary of $40,371, which is higher than the national median of $37,334. Graduates can work in advocacy, aging services, child welfare, developmental disabilities, healthcare, justice and corrections, mental health, public welfare, and substance abuse social work. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that social workers make up more than 40% of the behavioral health workforce.

Tuition & Scholarships

In-state undergraduate students paid $536 per credit hour while out-of-state students paid $1,070 per credit hour during the 2022-2023 academic year. Here’s the annual tuition breakdown:

Social work students can apply for several dedicated scholarships:

• Donna D. Badeer Social Work Scholarship
• Lucille Bigelow Social Work Scholarship Fund
• Everett J. Blakely Social Work Scholarship
• Ralph M. and Emmalyn E. Freeman Social Work Scholarship

On top of that, the Go Blue Guarantee offers full tuition coverage if you have a family income of $65,000 or less and assets below $50,000.

2. Western Michigan University

Western Michigan University gets students ready for social work practice through a complete bachelor of social work program. The program builds on systems theory, ecological model, and strengths-based approach. Students learn to tackle various social issues, work in different settings, and make positive changes for people, families, groups, and communities.

Program Overview

WMU’s BSW program values service, justice, integrity, and competence. The program uses scientific research to create a diverse environment that focuses on human rights. Students learn to look at oppressive social structures while standing up for social and economic justice. Graduates gain key knowledge and skills to work with diverse and underserved populations. The program also sets students up for entry-level jobs and builds a strong base for graduate studies in social work and related fields.

Curriculum Highlights

The BSW degree at WMU needs students to finish a 63-65 credit hour program. This includes a 35-hour major, a guided interdisciplinary minor of 22-24 hours, and six hours of research. Students take support courses in biology, communications, economics, and psychology. They also study professional social work topics from basic concepts to advanced methods. The program helps students develop skills in human behavior, social work practice, research, social policy, diversity, ethics, and values. Students get individual attention that helps them think critically and reflect on their work.

Fieldwork & Internships

Field experience is the key to the program. Students complete 400 hours of field work over two back-to-back semesters through courses SWRK 4100 and 4110. Field education has three main parts: a three-day communication lab, campus seminars, and hundreds of hours at a placement agency. WMU works with more than 600 agencies across Michigan, the Midwest, and internationally. Students can pick options that line up with their career goals. This hands-on experience lets students use what they’ve learned while working with a field instructor and faculty liaison.

Accreditation & Licensure

The School of Social Work at Western Michigan University is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation. The BSW program got its first accreditation in 1975 and is now accredited through 2032. This stamp of approval shows the program meets or exceeds quality standards through peer review. It proves the program has enough resources to reach its goals. Graduates can go after their license with confidence, though requirements vary by state.

Career Opportunities

The program boasts exceptional career outcomes. About 96% of social work graduates are either working or continuing their studies. In fact, all full-time workers say their jobs relate to their degree. Graduates work in adoption agencies, child welfare departments, community mental health, corrections, employment services, foster care agencies, human rights organizations, schools, and social service agencies.

Tuition & Scholarships

WMU’s Tuition Calculator helps you figure out your program costs based on where you live, your class level, and housing choices. The cost of attendance budget has:

Social work students can get several scholarships. These include the Robert Barstow Scholarship for BSW students interested in child welfare, the Victoria and Willie H. Pickard Endowed Scholarship for juniors or seniors with financial need and a 3.0 GPA or higher, and the John P. Mellein Endowed Scholarship for BSW students passionate about mental health, social justice, or policy.

3. Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University pioneered social work education with one of Michigan’s first BSW programs. The program started in 1974 and grew into the state’s largest undergraduate social work program. A 2023 reaccreditation shows EMU’s continued commitment to excellence in preparing social work professionals.

Program Overview

EMU’s bachelor degree in social work focuses on enabling vulnerable populations, advancing social welfare policy through strength-based approaches, and solving community problems. Students learn generalist practice skills they can use in different settings. The program helps them develop critical thinking abilities while promoting social justice. The curriculum needs no minor and gives students a complete preparation through 50-60 credit hours. New students start as “social work intent” majors and can apply for full admission after finishing their prerequisites.

Curriculum Highlights

A liberal arts foundation pairs with specialized social work courses to create a strong curriculum. Students must complete seven liberal arts requirements: psychology, sociology, biology, political science, anthropology, human development, and abnormal psychology. These basics create a multi-disciplinary foundation before professional courses begin. Pre-major courses consist of SWRK 120 (Introduction to Social Work), SWRK 200 (Human Diversity and Social Justice), SWRK 222 (Social Welfare Policies), and SWRK 251 (Self-Assessment for Social Work). Major coursework then covers theory, practice methods, policy analysis, research evaluation, and specialized practice with women and people of color.

Fieldwork & Internships

Field education stands at the heart of EMU’s social work program. Students complete 400 total hours of supervised experience split between two consecutive semesters (200 hours each). Senior year students take these placements along with classroom seminars that help relate their field experiences. The School works with more than 400 agencies to provide varied learning opportunities. EMU’s Child Welfare Training Institute offers special field experiences where qualified students can skip parts of CWTI training.

Accreditation & Licensure

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), America’s only social work education accrediting body, fully accredits the program. The 2023 renewal confirms the program meets professional competency standards and qualifies graduates for state licensure. The curriculum lines up with CSWE’s nine core competencies that cover ethical behavior, diversity, human rights, research, policy, and practice effectiveness.

Career Opportunities

EMU’s graduates work in child welfare, mental health, substance abuse treatment, adoption, foster care, senior services, schools, rehabilitation, law enforcement, and community services. The BSW degree also opens doors to advanced standing in graduate social work programs, creating paths for professional growth and specialization.

Tuition & Scholarships

The 2025-2026 undergraduate resident tuition costs $16,478, plus program fees of $2,460 for juniors and seniors. Social work students can apply for these scholarships:

Students must maintain a 2.3 overall GPA and earn at least a C in all social work courses to stay in good academic standing.

4. Saginaw Valley State University

Saginaw Valley State University’s bachelor degree in social work program teaches students both in and outside the classroom. Students gain field experience that prepares them for professional practice and graduate studies. The program started in 1970 with continuous accreditation since 1983. This shows SVSU’s enduring dedication to social work education.

Program Overview

SVSU’s social work program aims to promote social welfare and well-being for residents of the Great Lakes Bay Region and beyond through evidence-based generalist education. The university offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. The Department of Social Work & Youth Services prepares students to serve vulnerable populations and lead health and human services agencies. Students need 51 credits of social work courses within the total 124 credits to graduate.

Curriculum Explains

Students start with liberal arts foundation courses in psychology, biology, sociology, political science, and economics. Faculty members with expertise in substance use, foster care and adoption, gerontology, LGBTQ youth and families, community organizing, research, and law teach core social work courses about various populations and community programs. The program follows the Council on Social Work Education’s Educational Policy Accreditation Standards (EPAS). Students learn nine key areas including ethical behavior, diversity, human rights, research, policy, and practice effectiveness.

Fieldwork & Internships

Students complete their BSW program with 450 hours of supervised agency-based experience. This requirement takes two semesters during senior year – Field Work Placement I (SW483) in fall and Field Work Placement II (SW484) in winter. By senior year, 84% of SVSU students work with community employers and agencies through internships, field placements, or other academic preparation components.

Accreditation & Licensure

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) fully accredits the social work program. Graduates can apply for a Limited Bachelor of Social Work license with the State of Michigan. This accreditation shows the program meets high educational standards and prepares students for professional practice or advanced standing in MSW programs.

Career Opportunities

Social work graduates have excellent job prospects, with above-average job growth projected through 2034. They work in healthcare, mental health, school systems, residential facilities, child welfare, government, and private organizations. The program readies students for entry-level positions and graduate education in social work or other human service disciplines.

Tuition & Scholarships

SVSU uses a block tuition model for the 2025-26 academic year. Students pay one flat rate for 12-18 credits per semester:

SVSU makes education affordable. Last year, scholarships and grants covered full tuition for two-thirds of freshmen. Nearly all freshman students (98%) received some form of aid.

5. Madonna University

Madonna University’s bachelor degree in social work program blends professional training with Catholic and Franciscan values. The program puts great emphasis on human dignity and service to others. Students benefit from evening classes and personal attention, making it ideal for working professionals who need a flexible schedule.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) at Madonna University prepares students to work in courts, hospitals, and community agencies. Students don’t need a minor because the curriculum provides complete preparation on its own. Late afternoon classes with hybrid and online options make it easier for students to balance their lives. Small class sizes create strong bonds between students and professors who bring their rich professional experience to class.

Curriculum Highlights

Students need 120 credit hours to graduate, which includes professional core courses, prerequisites, and general education requirements. Graduates master nine key competencies from ethical behavior to practice evaluation. The program has Catholic roots but teaches students to respect diversity and understand different communities. Social work majors learn to help people solve problems and connect them with resources they need.

Fieldwork & Internships

Senior students spend two semesters completing 400 supervised field work hours. They work at community agencies like courts, hospitals, nursing homes, and shelters. Students put their classroom knowledge to use in real-life situations. They also join a field seminar where they share experiences with classmates.

Accreditation & Licensure

The Council on Social Work Education first accredited the BSW program in 1982. The program earned reaccreditation in 1986, 1995, 2003, and 2011. This recognition means graduates meet professional standards and can apply for licensure (LBSW) in Michigan.

Career Opportunities

Social work jobs should grow by 7% from 2022 to 2032. Graduates work in group homes, program coordination, child protective services, and social service assistance. Social workers earn an average of $55,350 per year, which shows good value for their education.

Tuition & Scholarships

Here’s what students can expect to pay in 2024-2025:

Madonna makes education affordable with financial aid for 85% of its students. Academic scholarships range from $4,000 to $14,000 each year. Students pay half the national average compared to similar private universities in Michigan.

6. Ferris State University

Ferris State University stands out for its advanced curriculum and has produced skilled social workers since launching its Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. The faculty brings rich professional backgrounds that create an excellent learning environment for future social workers.

Program Overview

The BSW program at Ferris State covers all aspects of social work. Students learn about child welfare, gerontology, mental health, and working with people who have disabilities. Students can also complete their first two years at Northwestern Michigan Community College in Traverse City before finishing their degree with Ferris faculty. This setup makes the program available to students throughout northern Michigan while keeping educational standards high.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum focuses on four key areas: Human Behavior in the Social Environment, Social Work Research, Social Work Practice, and Social Welfare Policy. Students get to participate with community agencies through academic service learning opportunities. They can join programs like being a lunch buddy or mentoring middle school students. The program also offers a study away course in El Salvador each spring that gives students an international view.

Fieldwork & Internships

Students complete two field experiences that total 600 hours. The first experience happens during summer between freshman and sophomore years. This 120-hour introduction helps students get started in human services. The senior field experience has 480 hours spread across two semesters or as a summer block placement. Field Director Dana Holcomb helps students find internships in almost every Michigan county.

Accreditation & Licensure

The program has managed to keep continuous accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) since 1989. This accreditation means graduates meet professional standards for entry-level practice. The curriculum matches CSWE’s Educational Policy Accreditation Standards and prepares graduates for Michigan licensure.

Career Opportunities

Social work jobs look promising with about 700,000 positions nationwide and room for significant growth. The Center for Leadership, Activities and Career Services helps students and alumni throughout their careers.

Tuition & Scholarships

For 2025-2026, undergraduate tuition rates are:

Social work students can apply for several scholarships. These include the Karen D. Boochard Social Work Scholarship, Paul Winfred Owens Memorial Scholarship, Rex Dew Memorial Textbook Scholarship, Samuels Family Annual Scholarship, and Smith, Taylor, Malloy Endowed Scholarship.

Online BSW options

Online bachelor’s degree programs in social work across Michigan offer great flexibility. These programs make higher education available whatever your location or schedule demands.

Wayne State University’s Where Online Works (WOW!) Program delivers a fully accredited online BSW through Canvas educational platform. Students in this cohort-based program follow a similar course sequence and content to campus-based programs. The program lets students complete assignments through interactive tools that include simulations, discussion boards, and video lectures in an asynchronous format. This setup eliminates the need for scheduled class times.

Spring Arbor University runs Michigan’s longest-running fully online BSW program, which is now 15 years old, with impressive features:

• 124 total credit hours (36 core credits)
• Completion possible in 20 months
• Six start dates annually
• Small class sizes (20-25 students maximum)
• Field placements arranged in students’ local communities

University of Michigan-Flint’s BSW program features 100% online coursework through both asynchronous and synchronous formats. Students must attend live Zoom meetings for synchronous components.

Success in online learning depends on:

• Reliable technology (computer, webcam, high-speed internet)
• Excellent time management skills
• Self-discipline and independence
• Comfort with digital applications

All the same, these CSWE-accredited online programs maintain the same academic standards as traditional programs. This makes them excellent pathways for working adults, parents, and students from underserved regions who want to pursue a bachelor of social work.

Career Outlook for BSW Social Workers in Michigan

BSW graduates in Michigan have great job prospects right now. Social work jobs will grow 7-9% over the next decade, which is higher than the national job growth average. Baby Boomers are retiring faster than ever, and they need more medical and social health services.

Michigan social workers make about $58,633 per year ($28/hour plus $991 in bonuses), which matches the national average. Your specialty can affect your earnings by a lot:

New social workers usually start as case managers and earn around $47,000. With experience, you can make $75,000-$80,000 if you have the right credentials.

Many social workers work for the Federal Government through the VA, Social Security Administration, and Department of Justice. You’ll also find plenty of jobs in hospitals, schools, and community mental health centers. Social workers in cities like Detroit and Lansing tend to earn more than those in rural areas.

A bachelor’s degree in social work opens doors to many careers. You can work in child welfare, substance abuse treatment, gerontology, or community organizing.

Michigan Social Work Licensure Pathway

_{Image Source: National Association of Social Workers – Michigan Chapter}

The path to becoming a licensed social worker in Michigan starts right after you complete your bachelor’s degree in social work. Michigan provides a well-laid-out pathway that helps graduates build their credentials step by step.

Your first step is applying for a Limited Bachelor’s Social Worker (LLBSW) license through Michigan’s Professional Licensing User System (MiPLUS). This basic credential requires you to complete a criminal background check, human trafficking training, and two hours of implicit bias training.

After getting your LLBSW, you need to gain 4,000 hours of supervised work experience under a licensed master’s social worker. This experience should cover at least two full calendar years. You can work between 16-40 hours each week, with a yearly cap of 2,080 hours. You’ll need regular supervision during this time – at least four hours monthly, with two hours dedicated to individual review.

The good news is that your limited license can be renewed up to six times, which gives you plenty of time to meet all requirements. Once you complete your supervised hours, you’ll take the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) bachelor’s exam.

The final step is getting your full Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) credential through MiPLUS. This license allows you to work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and agencies. You can perform case management, assessment, treatment, and advocacy roles.

Licensed social workers with a BSW usually qualify for advanced standing in MSW programs when they decide to pursue master’s-level education.

Start Your Career Today

Your professional life starts with picking the right bachelor’s degree in social work program. Michigan’s BSW programs are exceptional. They blend challenging academics with practical field experience to prepare you for work in a variety of settings. Each university brings something special to the table – UM-Flint offers flexible online options while Ferris State provides international experiences.

Accreditation is key when you pick your program. The good news is that all these schools have CSWE accreditation. This ensures your degree meets industry standards and lets you get licensed. Your accreditation becomes especially important when you apply to graduate schools or look for jobs.

Field experience is the core of BSW education. Programs need 400-600 supervised hours. These hours help you apply classroom theories in ground applications. You’ll build professional connections that often lead to jobs after graduation. These experiences shape how you understand ethical practice and client-centered approaches.

Social workers in Michigan can look forward to strong job prospects with 7-9% growth expected over the next decade. A BSW qualification opens doors to work in child welfare, healthcare, mental health, schools, and community organizations. The median salary is around $58,633 per year. On top of that, specialized roles offer chances to advance with salaries potentially hitting $75,000-$80,000 with experience.

Michigan’s licensure system lets you advance from a Limited Bachelor’s Social Worker (LLBSW) to full licensure (LBSW) through supervised practice and examination. This credential confirms your professional skills and expands your career options.

Traditional campus programs and online alternatives both offer valuable BSW degrees. Your investment leads to both personal fulfillment and career growth. Based on your location priorities, learning style, and career goals, any of these six programs will give you the knowledge, skills, and experiences you need. You’ll be ready to thrive as a social work professional who serves vulnerable populations and fights for social justice.