8 Best Arkansas BSW Programs: CSWE-Approved Options for 2025

Want to kickstart your social work career with an Arkansas BSW program? Good news awaits you. Arkansas has 10 CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work programs that serve about 1,500 undergraduate students each year.

These programs deliver exceptional results. Social work programs in Arkansas help graduates achieve remarkable success with job placement rates of 85-95% within six months after graduation. On top of that, Arkansas State University’s social work degree plan, like most BSW programs in the state, needs 120 credit hours and includes more than 400 hours of hands-on field experience.

Your timing to pursue social work education couldn’t be better. The latest BLS data shows Arkansas employs over 37,000 social workers, and this number should grow by 12% through 2032. An aging population, expanding healthcare systems, and better recognition of mental health needs propel this growth. A BSW from an Arkansas program provides both purpose and stability, with earnings ranging from $38,680 to $62,040 based on your specialization.

Your journey to become a social worker in Arkansas begins with selecting the right program. The state offers 500+ field placement partnerships and flexible online options to help you succeed. Let’s look at your best options for 2025.

University of Arkansas 

The University of Arkansas provides much of the social work education in the state. This 150-year-old institution prepares compassionate professionals through its BSW program. Students learn both theory and practical skills to serve communities of all types.

Program overview

The BSW program at the University of Arkansas has a complete curriculum that builds competency in core social work areas. Students learn human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and direct practice with individuals, families, groups, and communities. The program teaches critical thinking and evidence-based approaches. Content about diversity, ethics, and social justice runs throughout the curriculum.

Special features

The sort of thing we love about the University of Arkansas BSW program is its reliable focus on hands-on learning. The program partners with social service agencies in Northwest Arkansas and beyond. These partnerships give students field placement opportunities. The School of Social Work has specialized learning tracks in child welfare, healthcare, and mental health services. Students can also join faculty research projects that tackle pressing social issues in Arkansas communities.

Admission requirements

Students must first get into the university before they can join the BSW program. The professional social work program needs students to finish prerequisite courses with a minimum GPA. Applicants must submit a personal statement about their career goals and reasons to pursue social work. They also need professional references and might need to interview with program faculty. The program looks for students who show dedication to service and social justice principles.

Tuition and financial aid

The University of Arkansas offers many ways to fund your education. Social work students can apply for merit-based and need-based scholarships. Students can also get federal financial aid, work-study positions, and graduate assistantships. Field placement stipends help many students, especially in high-need areas like rural social work and child welfare.

Best fit for

The University of Arkansas BSW program works best if you love research and hands-on learning. It’s perfect to develop specialized skills while building broad foundational knowledge. The program’s mix of classroom learning and community work lines up well with students who value both. The university’s location lets students tackle social issues in both urban and rural Arkansas settings effectively.

Arkansas State University 

Arkansas State University provides social work education that serves rural and underserved communities. The university’s Jonesboro campus prepares students through practical experiences and teaches culturally responsive practices.

Social work degree plan overview

The Bachelor of Social Work program at A State requires 120 credit hours. Students complete general education courses alongside specialized social work training. A well-laid-out curriculum includes foundation courses in human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and direct practice skills. The coursework builds professional skills at micro, mezzo, and macro practice levels. Senior year students must complete field practicum experiences that require over 400 hours of supervised practice.

Special features

The program stands out because of its steadfast dedication to rural social issues. Strong partnerships with community organizations create field placements throughout Northeast Arkansas and the Mississippi Delta region. Students can take advantage of:

• Annual Social Work Advocacy Day at the state capitol
• Student Social Work Organization membership
• Research projects led by faculty that tackle regional social challenges
• Specialized electives in substance abuse, gerontology, and child welfare

ASU creates a supportive learning environment with small class sizes and individual faculty mentoring, unlike larger universities.

Admission requirements

Students must first secure admission to Arkansas State University. The professional phase of the program requires:

A minimum 2.75 GPA in prerequisite courses Personal statement and professional references Program faculty interview Values that match social work ethics

Students can join the program in fall or spring semesters. Application deadlines usually fall in March and October.

Tuition and financial aid

ASU’s tuition stays competitive among Arkansas BSW programs. In-state students pay approximately $218 per credit hour, with higher rates for out-of-state students. The university provides several financial support options:

Federal and state grants Program-specific scholarships Work-study positions Child welfare stipends for students pursuing this field

Students should submit their FAFSA early to get the most financial aid.

Best fit for

Students who want to serve rural communities will find their place in ASU’s program. The experience works best for those who value close relationships with faculty and enjoy learning in a close community. Mental health, healthcare, and child welfare social work students will find excellent opportunities here. The location serves students who want to help Delta region communities while developing skills that work in many settings.

University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR)

UALR stands out as Arkansas’s only metropolitan university offering an undergraduate social work program in the state capital. This unique setting creates an exceptional learning environment for future social workers.

Program overview

Students need 120 credit hours to complete the BSW program at UALR, which has full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. The program gives students flexibility with both in-person and online options. Students learn generalist social work skills to work with people from different backgrounds. The coursework builds strong foundations in human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and practice skills. Social justice and self-determination values are woven throughout the curriculum.

Special features

The metropolitan location sets UALR apart from other Arkansas programs. Students learn to think critically about social problems affecting vulnerable populations, with strong emphasis on diversity, human rights, and social justice. The program has a 2+2 agreement with several community colleges. This lets students with two-year degrees finish their BSW in just two more years. Senior students spend 16 hours each week (240 hours per semester) in field placements. They develop hands-on skills under professional supervision.

Admission requirements

BSW program applicants must meet these requirements:

• Complete approximately 50 credit hours (35 in core curriculum)
• Maintain an overall cumulative GPA of 2.5
• Achieve a 2.5 GPA in prerequisite courses
• Submit a personal statement and three references
• Provide copies of all transcripts

The application deadline is March 15, 2025, and decisions come out by mid-May. Social work classes beyond introduction level start only in fall semesters because of the program’s structure.

Tuition and financial aid

UALR makes education accessible through various financial aid options, though rates may vary. Students can get federal aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. About 87% of UALR students receive some type of financial help each year. The university ranks among the most affordable online social work degree programs in the country, according to recent recognition.

Best fit for

Students who thrive in urban social work settings and care deeply about diversity and social justice will find their place at UALR. Working professionals appreciate the flexibility of online options. The program works well for students who want to tackle complex social problems in metropolitan areas[172].

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB)

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff started its Social Work Program in 1974. The program teaches students how to help underserved communities through practical skills and hands-on training.

Program overview

Students need 120 semester hours to earn their Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work at UAPB, with no minor options available. The program teaches a generalist approach that helps students provide direct services, understand social policies, and make meaningful changes in society. Students must keep their GPA at 2.50 or higher in social work courses and score at least a “C” in all classes. Graduates learn nine essential skills that range from ethical practices to evaluating their work with different client groups.

Special features

UAPB stands out because it brings students and community together. The department runs a yearly Thanksgiving Food Drive and helps CASA Women’s Shelter with essential supplies. Students can grow professionally by joining:

• Social Work Club that runs campus activities and community service
• National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW)
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW) in their junior year

Senior students pick internships that match their interests. They can work in juvenile services, child welfare, schools, or mental health facilities.

Admission requirements

Students should submit their applications by March 15 to start in fall semester. They need to finish all freshman and sophomore courses with a 2.5 GPA or better. The program also requires a minimum ‘C’ grade in prerequisite courses. Faculty members interview each applicant to check their communication skills, values, and social work potential. UAPB looks for students who will uphold professional standards, ethics, and respect human diversity.

Tuition and financial aid

The 2023-2024 in-state undergraduate tuition and fees cost about $9,019. Out-of-state students pay around $17,029. Nine out of ten UAPB students get some type of financial help. The school offers federal aid like Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Work-Study, and several loan options.

Best fit for

UAPB welcomes students who want to help economically disadvantaged and socially oppressed communities. The program teaches skills that work in many settings, making it perfect for anyone interested in helping individuals, families, groups, and communities. Students who like personal attention from faculty members will do well here, as UAPB offers “quality education with a personal touch”.

Southern Arkansas University – Magnolia

Southern Arkansas University (SAU)’s BSW program shines with its unique focus on rural social work through a multidisciplinary lens. The CSWE-accredited program in Magnolia prepares future professionals while highlighting service to rural and diverse communities.

Program overview

SAU’s bachelor of social work degree builds on the generalist practice model. Graduates with this entry-level professional degree can work in hospitals, schools, mental health centers, and other human service agencies. Students need 120 total credit hours to graduate. The degree opens doors to immediate employment and creates a strong foundation for graduate studies in social work, psychology, counseling, or similar fields.

Special features

SAU’s program meets the needs of people in rural areas while connecting their work to global social justice issues. Students learn through a mix of critical thinking, scientific research, and hands-on experience that builds core professional values. The program develops strong community bonds through:

• Strategic collaborations with practicing social workers in the region
• Research-driven curriculum
• Strong focus on multiculturalism and ethical standards

Admission requirements

Students must complete 30 hours of general education and keep an overall GPA of 2.5 with a social work major GPA of 3.0. They need a grade of C or better in introductory courses. Transfer students can bring up to twelve hours from another CSWE-accredited program, but practice and field practicum courses stay put.

Tuition and financial aid

The 2025-2026 undergraduate in-state tuition costs $253 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $449 per hour. Full-time in-state students taking 15 hours pay $3,795 each semester. Out-of-state students might qualify for tuition waivers, especially those from nearby states or with family alumni connections.

Best fit for

SAU’s program matches perfectly with students passionate about rural social work. It works great for those who want to help underserved areas while understanding bigger justice issues. Students who love learning across different fields will excel here, as the program blends various disciplines with social work education. The program’s hands-on experience and community partnerships make it ideal for students who thrive in rural settings.

Harding University – Searcy

Harding University in Searcy combines Christian principles with its CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work program. Students become ethical professionals who help improve others’ lives through academic excellence and compassionate service.

Program overview

The BSW degree equips students to become generalist social work practitioners through a detailed curriculum focused on problem-solving processes. Students need to complete at least 57 credit hours in social work courses that cover human behavior, social policy, research methods, and practice skills. The program develops competency at multiple levels—from individuals to entire communities. Liberal arts requirements complement the major coursework. This four-year program follows a step-by-step structure where coursework becomes more complex over time.

Special features

The program’s standout feature lies in how it blends faith with professional practice. Students can join the Partnerships in Public Child Welfare program, which gives selected participants a $4,000 stipend and specialized field placement at the Division of Children and Family Services. Field education adds another unique dimension. Students spend their final semester gaining hands-on experience in various settings:

• Hospitals and mental health centers
• Residential facilities for children and adolescents
• Teen pregnancy programs
• Department of Human Services

Admission requirements

Students can apply after completing SWK 2750: Introduction to Social Work, usually in their sophomore year. The program looks for candidates who show good progress in Liberal Arts curriculum and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA. Application materials include a standard form, an information form, and recommendation letters from two faculty members outside the Social Work Program. Students must also interview with a social work advisor. The program values students who show dedication to service and share social work values.

Tuition and financial aid

Undergraduate tuition costs $24,240 with extra fees of $648 for 2024-2025. Students pay around $9,940 for on-campus room and board. Many financial aid options help make education affordable. First-year students receive an average need-based scholarship of $16,425. The Child Welfare Traineeship Program offers a $4,000 stipend to students who complete specific courses and agree to work with DCFS after graduation.

Best fit for

This program suits students who want their faith to be part of their social work education. You’ll thrive here if you value both rigorous academics and real-world experience. The program works well for students interested in child welfare specialization. Small class sizes let you build strong relationships with faculty members, and each student gets a social work program advisor. Students who want to grow both professionally and spiritually find their home at Harding.

Henderson University 

Henderson State University is another Arkansas BSW program with its 15-year-old social work education in Arkadelphia. The program encourages professional growth in a student-focused setting without compromising academic standards.

Program overview

The BSW program at Henderson State focuses on the generalist practice model to prepare students for careers in multiple settings. Students learn both theory and practical skills about human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and direct practice. You’ll build critical thinking skills that help you tackle complex social problems affecting individuals, families, groups, and communities.

Special features

Henderson State stands out because of its close-knit learning environment. The smaller class sizes compared to other Arkansas BSW programs mean you get more one-on-one attention and guidance from faculty. The program’s strong ties with regional agencies help students network before they graduate. Students also get real hands-on experience through field placements in social service organizations of all types.

Admission requirements

You need to get into Henderson State University first. The social work major needs you to finish prerequisite courses and keep up a minimum GPA. You’ll submit a personal statement and professional references. The faculty might ask you to come in for an interview too.

Tuition and financial aid

The university’s tuition rates compete well with other Arkansas schools. Students can access traditional financial aid like scholarships, grants, and loans. The university also gives social work students program-specific funding options including merit-based awards and need-based help.

Best fit for

This program works great for students who like smaller educational communities. You’ll enjoy it here if you want lots of faculty interaction, team-based learning, and chances to work on social issues in small towns and rural areas.

Philander Smith College – Little Rock

Philander Smith College in Little Rock stands out with its unique social justice mission in the BSW program. Students learn to promote positive change in the world.

Program overview

The Social Work Program at Philander Smith shapes generalist baccalaureate social workers. Students gain knowledge through scientific research and learn to improve life quality for everyone. The program teaches students to support marginalized populations who face poverty, oppression, and discrimination. The curriculum builds competency in core areas and maintains full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education.

Special features

The college’s United Methodist connection shapes its curriculum distinctively. The Social Justice Institute serves as a hub for community activities and brings leading social justice activists to campus through speaker programs. With just 866 students enrolled annually, the college offers tailored education and a close 12:1 student-faculty ratio.

Admission requirements

The college welcomes students who show potential for college-level achievement. You need a high school diploma, GED test completion, or a state-approved home school program. The application process requires official transcripts, ACT/SAT scores, and proof of two MMR vaccinations.

Tuition and financial aid

The 2024-2025 undergraduate tuition and fees amount to $13,014, plus $1,200 for books and supplies. Students pay around $10,000 yearly for on-campus housing. Financial support comes through federal aid like Pell Grants and Direct Loans, along with university scholarships and grants.

Best fit for

This program suits students passionate about social justice and those aiming for careers as adolescent specialists, child welfare workers, or healthcare social workers. The college’s status as a historically Black institution creates an environment where students thrive in a close-knit, diverse learning community.

Online BSW options

Students who need flexibility in their education can get a BSW in Arkansas through virtual learning options. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock currently stands out as the only institution offering a fully online CSWE-accredited BSW program in the state.

The program delivers the same high academic standards as its campus-based version without geographical limitations. Students can complete 100% of their coursework online and participate in local field placements to get hands-on experience in their communities. UALR’s accelerated 8-week courses come with six annual start dates to maximize scheduling flexibility.

The online format works well especially when you have family responsibilities, full-time work commitments, or military service with frequent moves. Rural residents without nearby social work programs also benefit greatly. Most students finish the program in 2-4 years, based on their transfer credits.

Students learn through UALR’s easy-to-use Blackboard platform with support from dedicated online advisors and technical staff. The university charges the same fees for online and on-campus programs to keep education affordable.

Arkansas has limited fully online undergraduate social work programs. However, UALR’s 2+2 agreement enables students with associate degrees from partner community colleges to get their BSW quickly within two years. This setup creates a clear path for transfer students who want professional social work credentials without moving.

BSW Curriculum

BSW programs with CSWE accreditation in Arkansas follow a well-laid-out curriculum that prepares students to become generalist social workers. Students need to complete 120-128 credit hours split into three key areas.

Liberal Arts Foundation (60 credits) covers general education courses such as English composition, mathematics, natural sciences, and humanities. These courses build a strong knowledge foundation that helps students understand human behavior in social environments.

Social Work Core (45-50 credits) features professional courses that teach human behavior, social welfare policy, research methods, and practice skills at different levels. Students take courses like Introduction to Social Work, Human Diversity, Social Work Research, Human Behavior in the Social Environment I and II, Social Welfare Policy, and three practice courses.

Field Education (12-15 credits) needs minimum of 400 supervised field placement hours. Students complete these hours during their senior year to gain ground experience in social work settings.

Arkansas institutions help students improve their job prospects through specialization options. The University of Arkansas Fayetteville’s program offers concentrations in Child Welfare and Aging Studies. Arkansas State focuses on Healthcare and Mental Health areas.

The curriculum aligns with CSWE’s competency standards. This ensures graduates can show their professional skills in different practice settings. Students must maintain at least a C grade in all social work courses. Many programs also require a minimum 2.5 GPA in pre-professional courses.

Field Education Requirements in Arkansas

Field education is the core of Arkansas BSW programs and educators consider it the “signature pedagogy” of social work education. This significant component connects theoretical classroom knowledge with hands-on experience under professional supervision.

CSWE-accredited programs in Arkansas have substantial field placement requirements. BSW students complete 400-450 supervised hours in their senior year, with requirements differing among institutions. Arkansas State University students must complete 416 total hours. The University of Arkansas requires 440 hours. UALR students need 480 hours spread across two semesters.

Students attend weekly seminars with their field placement. These sessions help them connect classroom theories with real-life practice experiences. Field placements happen in various settings throughout Arkansas:

• Healthcare facilities (Arkansas Children’s Hospital, UAMS)
• Mental health centers and psychiatric hospitals
• Child welfare agencies (Division of Children and Family Services)
• School districts and educational programs
• Criminal justice settings and nonprofits

Field instructors need a BSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program. Students get weekly guidance from licensed social workers who shape their professional growth. These well-laid-out experiences help students build essential practice skills and professional networks that often create job opportunities after graduation.

Career Outlook for BSW Social Workers in Arkansas

BSW graduates in Arkansas enjoy a strong job market that spans cities and rural areas alike. The state has about 680 social workers right now, and this number should grow to 900 by 2030. The outlook looks even better with roughly 80 new jobs expected each year through 2030.

Social workers in Arkansas make around $53,500 yearly. Pay varies quite a bit based on specialty areas. Healthcare social workers pull in about $62,000, while mental health specialists earn close to $64,250. Child and family practitioners make around $38,680, and other social work roles typically pay $46,210 per year.

Location plays a big role in how much you can earn. Pine Bluff leads the pack with average salaries of $59,316, while Little Rock follows at $56,642. Some specialized positions pay even better – Child Welfare Specialists earn about $56,680 yearly, and Community Organizers can take home up to $79,310.

Arkansas’s BSW graduates have plenty of job options. The Arkansas Department of Human Services stands out as the biggest employer. Other major players include Veterans Administration Medical Centers, big hospital networks like CHI St. Vincent and Baptist Health, mental health centers, school districts, and numerous nonprofit organizations. These options help graduates find careers that match their professional interests.

Arkansas Social Work Licensure Pathway

After you complete your degree from a CSWE-accredited BSW program in Arkansas, you’ll need to get licensed through the Arkansas Social Work Licensing Board. This 42-year old board oversees social work practice across the state.

Arkansas provides three main licensing paths:

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

• You need a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
• You must pass a background check and the ASWB Bachelor’s exam ($230 fee)
• You can practice general social work with supervision

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

• You need an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program
• The cost includes a $100 application fee plus $230 for the exam
• You can provide advanced services including clinical work with supervision

Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)

• You need an MSW and 4,000 hours of supervised work over at least two years
• You must pass the ASWB Clinical exam ($260 fee)
• You can practice independently and open a private practice

Whatever license level you choose, you’ll need 30 hours of continuing education every two years, with 3 hours focused on ethics. Your license renewal happens every two years by your birth month’s last day. Arkansas social work graduates should plan their licensing path early since you can practice with a provisional license while waiting for exam results.

Start Today

Your future social work career starts with picking the right BSW program. Nine CSWE-accredited programs make Arkansas a great place to start your journey. Each program offers something special while meeting strict professional standards. These schools train about 1,500 undergraduate students each year. Their graduates find jobs quickly – 85-95% are working within six months.

The job market looks promising right now. Social work careers in Arkansas show strong growth potential, with a 12% increase expected through 2032. You’ll find opportunities in many areas that let you follow your passion and build a stable career. Arkansas BSW programs give you the foundation to succeed, whether you want to help children, support mental health programs, or stand up for communities that need help.

These programs give you plenty of choices. You can study on campus or enroll in UALR’s fully online CSWE-accredited program. This flexibility helps students with different learning styles and life situations. Many programs also offer special focus areas that match local community needs.

Every Arkansas BSW program makes sure you get plenty of supervised practice hours. You’ll put your classroom learning to work and build real professional skills. These hands-on experiences often lead straight to jobs after graduation.

Getting licensed after graduation follows a clear path. Your BSW from any CSWE-accredited Arkansas program lets you apply for Licensed Social Worker (LSW) status once you pass the exam. This license opens up many job opportunities and establishes your professional standing.

Look beyond just academics to find your ideal program. Location, specialty areas, costs, and student support all matter. The University of Arkansas puts emphasis on research. UAPB focuses on helping economically disadvantaged populations. Harding brings faith into their approach. UALR offers big-city learning experiences.

A social work degree from any Arkansas BSW program gives you great value through quality education, real-world experience, and strong job prospects. Your investment prepares you to make real changes in communities of all types across Arkansas and beyond.