7 Accredited BSW Programs in Iowa: Complete Guide 2026

Social workers in Iowa can earn between $50,710 and $70,480 per year. The state’s 13 CSWE-accredited BSW programs will help you reach these rewarding career goals.

The state’s prestigious institutions like University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa, and Briar Cliff University offer bachelor’s degrees in social work. Students can choose between traditional on-campus learning and fully online education. Iowa’s job market remains reliable with over 3,450 professionals working as child, family, and school social workers. Healthcare social workers earn the highest salaries because of their specialized expertise, according to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

This detailed guide gets into 7 accredited programs. You’ll find specific information about tuition costs, admission requirements, field placements, and career outcomes. This information will help you make the right choice about your social work education in Iowa.

1. University of Iowa

The University of Iowa runs Iowa’s highest-ranked social work program. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) has accredited the program since 1974. This premier BSW program helps students get professional licenses in 41 states.

Program highlights

The BA in Social Work program equips students to become culturally aware generalist practitioners who line up with social work values and ethics. Students learn to champion social justice and social change while building skills to help individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. The program offers specialized certificates in Critical Cultural Competence, Resilience and Trauma-Informed Perspectives, and Aging and Longevity Studies. Students also gain a deep understanding of how people connect with their environments through systemic views.

Tuition and fees

Iowa residents should expect to pay $11,622 in tuition and fees for the 2025-2026 academic year. Non-residents will need to budget around $33,710. Students need extra funds for housing and food ($13,680), books and supplies ($950), personal expenses ($3,458), and transportation ($1,140). New students pay a one-time University Records and Document Fee of $250. The university provides several financial aid options to help with these costs.

Learning format

Students need 120 semester hours to earn their Bachelor of Arts in social work. The major itself takes up 56 credits. A minimum 2.00 GPA must be maintained in all major courses. Nine core courses cover practice fundamentals, human behavior, research methods, and social welfare policy. Students also take 12 credits of electives (at least 6 in social work) and 9 in other areas. The program starts in fall of junior year and takes either two years or three semesters in an accelerated format.

Field placement opportunities

Field education is the cornerstone of social work education. Students spend at least 400 clock hours (8 credits) in one semester doing field work. They work with experienced social workers at partner agencies throughout Iowa and nearby states. These placements happen in settings of all types – mental health clinics, hospitals, government agencies, schools, nonprofit organizations, correctional facilities, and substance use disorder treatment centers. Students get to apply classroom learning to ground applications through social work interventions and ethical decision-making with different populations.

Career outcomes

BSW graduates work in mental health clinics, schools, child welfare agencies, hospitals, community centers, and correctional facilities. They take roles as case managers, direct care providers, substance disorder counselors, crisis counselors, and family reunification specialists. The degree opens doors to advanced standing in graduate studies, which can speed up earning an MSW. State government departments, healthcare networks, educational systems, and nonprofit organizations often seek out BSW graduates.

Admission requirements

Students must pass three prerequisite courses with C grades or better to start professional core social work courses: SSW:1022 (Social Justice and Social Welfare in the U.S.), PSY:1001 (Elementary Psychology), and SOC:1010 (Introduction to Sociology). They also need a 2.0 overall GPA minimum, 45+ semester hours completed, and must submit a signed Professional Social Work Agreement form. Students transferring from other accredited BSW programs might get approval for previous social work courses after individual review.

2. University of Northern Iowa

The University of Northern Iowa, 147 years old, has Iowa’s second-ranked social work program. Its fully accredited curriculum equips students with professional practice skills.

Program highlights

UNI’s Bachelor of Social Work program helps students become skilled at generalist social work practice. Students learn to work with individuals, families, small groups, organizations, and communities. The program teaches research-informed practice to support social and economic justice. Critical thinking is a vital component that helps students explore challenging concepts and personal values against professional standards. The department ranks among the top 200 graduate programs nationwide according to U.S. News & World Report. CSWE accreditation means graduates can practice anywhere in the country and qualify for advanced standing in graduate programs.

Tuition and fees

Iowa residents pay $10,201 yearly for the 2025-2026 academic year – $8,792 in tuition and $1,409 in mandatory fees. Out-of-state students pay $22,359 total with $20,950 in tuition plus mandatory fees. Living on campus with a meal plan costs about $10,288 more. Students should also plan for these expenses:

• Books and supplies: $800
• Personal expenses: $1,870
• Transportation: $794
• Average loan fee: $64

Iowa residents can expect to pay $20,489 annually, making UNI the most budget-friendly public university in Iowa.

Learning format

Students need 120 credit hours to graduate from the BSW program. The Social Work major requires 45 credit hours, including 11-15 credits of senior-year field placement. Students must earn at least a C (2.00) grade in all major courses. A minimum UNI GPA of 2.50 is required to graduate as a Social Work major. The program meets educational standards set by the Council on Social Work Education.

Field placement opportunities

Field education is the BSW program’s final milestone. Students complete 440-600 hours of field instruction based on their chosen credits (11-15). Summer term students take 11-12 credits and work 38-40 hours weekly for 12 weeks. Fall or spring placements need 27-38 hours weekly for 16 weeks. Experienced practitioners supervise students as they apply classroom knowledge in ground settings. Students get to use their knowledge, skills, and values in agency settings. This hands-on experience builds essential interpersonal and communication skills while testing their dedication to social work values.

Career outcomes

UNI social work graduates started with an average salary of $52,812 in 2022. Most seniors land their first job three months before graduation. More than 1,000 unique employers hire UNI graduates yearly, including Iowa’s 25 largest employers. Seven out of ten graduates stay in Iowa after finishing school. Most graduates start new jobs, continue their education, or meet their career goals within six months. They work in various fields like aging services, child welfare, healthcare, mental health, and substance abuse treatment.

Admission requirements

Students need a 2.50 cumulative GPA in all college work to join the social work major. Field instruction (SW 4200) needs senior standing (90+ credits) and these prerequisites: SW 1001, SW 2091 (C or better), SW 3192 (C or better), SW 3185, SW 4164, and a statistics course. Students must attend field orientation, complete career workshops, prepare professional documents, meet the field director, and secure an approved site before placement. The application needs a resume, autobiographical sketch, and curriculum declaration.

3. Briar Cliff University

Briar Cliff University celebrates 50 years of social work accreditation with a BSW program that embodies Franciscan values of service, caring, and openness to all.

Program highlights

The BSW program at Briar Cliff prepares social workers for entry-level positions in settings of all types. The Council on Social Work Education has accredited the program since 1974, which focuses on nine educational competencies. Students can choose from concentration options in Behavioral Health and Addictions, Children, Youth, and Families, or Faith-based Ministry. The curriculum smoothly combines gerontology throughout to provide specialized knowledge about working with aging populations. Students can join mission trips to Honduras and Tanzania or complete their practicum in Chicago to gain hands-on experience.

Tuition and fees

The 2025-2026 academic year costs tuition of $37,322 plus $1,742 in general fees for on-campus students. Students pay about $11,766 annually for room and board. Notwithstanding that, Briar Cliff has a substantially more affordable online option at $375 per credit hour plus $44 per credit in student fees. Military personnel pay reduced rates at $250 per credit hour. Briar Cliff social work graduates with a bachelor’s degree earn a median salary of $42,935, which exceeds the national average of $37,334.

Learning format

Briar Cliff leads Iowa with its flexible BSW program through a fully online option that needs no campus visits. Students benefit from asynchronous coursework, local field placements in their community, and part-time enrollment options. The online program meets similar CSWE accreditation standards as the campus program and provides detailed technology support.

Field placement opportunities

Field education remains the cornerstone of both program formats. Students complete 400 agency-based hours and 25 seminar hours, which total 425 hours in their final semester. Students work with clients face-to-face under qualified practicum instructor supervision. This placement strengthens integrated learning and helps students develop their ePortfolio for evaluation.

Career outcomes

Graduates work in a variety of settings including hospitals, child welfare agencies, mental health clinics, and substance abuse treatment centers. They take roles as case managers, behavioral management aides, juvenile court liaisons, rehabilitation case workers, and counselors. The Career Development Office helps with resume development, internship connections, and interview skills. Alumni receive ongoing support throughout their careers.

Admission requirements

Students need graduation from an accredited high school with minimum 2.0 GPA and ACT composite score of 18 or SAT composite of 960. The social work major application process includes an essay about their interest in social work, core values, discrimination understanding, anti-racism, strengths, challenges, and career goals. They must submit two letters of recommendation from non-family members.

4. Buena Vista University

Buena Vista University’s Bachelor of Social Work program stands out among Iowa’s CSWE-accredited programs. The program shapes students into skilled generalist social workers through professional training.

Program highlights

Buena Vista University’s Social Work Program helps students master nine core competencies set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Students learn professional knowledge, skills, values, and thinking processes they need to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Graduates can start entry-level social work jobs, get state licenses, and qualify for advanced standing in CSWE-accredited graduate schools. Keep in mind that you’ll need an accredited social work degree for many positions in social welfare.

Tuition and fees

Buena Vista University’s standard tuition for 2024-2025 is $41,798. Room and board costs $11,330 ($5,476 for room, $5,854 for board), bringing the total to $53,128. Students who commute pay only tuition ($41,798). Students taking fewer than 12 credits or more than 18 pay $1,406 per credit hour. Summer classes are more affordable at $475 per credit hour. The university ranks as a Best Value School and every student who applies for financial aid receives it.

Learning format

Students experience a mix of classroom theory and hands-on field work. The program covers foundational courses in theory, practice, policy, and research. Social work majors must complete SCWK 200, 211, and 235 before they can join the program. Students need to maintain a 2.0 GPA in all university courses and their major. They must also earn at least a ‘C-‘ or Pass in all required social work courses.

Field placement opportunities

Field education is the cornerstone of BVU’s social work education. The program includes two field experiences:

• 120-hour field observation
• 480-hour field practicum in social work agencies

The field practicum (SCWK 441) lets students provide social work services under a social work supervisor’s guidance. A learning contract ensures students master the nine CSWE core competencies, practice behaviors, and dimensions.

Career outcomes

Graduates build careers in many areas including:

• Child welfare
• Community and residential care for children, adolescents, and older adults
• Services for people with developmental disabilities, mental health disorders, and substance use disorders
• In-home family services
• Juvenile and adult probation
• Hospital social work and hospice
• Case management
• Policy development and advocacy
• Community organization and administration

The Career & Personal Development office works one-on-one with students to find internships and jobs that match their degree.

Admission requirements

Students can declare a social work major anytime but need to apply for formal admission in their junior year’s fall semester. The application package must include:

• Social work Program application form
• Unofficial transcript
• Two letters of reference
• Application essay
• Social work student self-assessment scale
• Signed statement agreeing to follow the NASW Code of Ethics

Students interview with social work faculty who base their acceptance on academic performance, understanding of ethics, and professional competence.

5. Clarke University

Clarke University offers a Bachelor of Social Work program that creates competent, ethical professionals through its CSWE-accredited curriculum. The program supports social justice and human dignity.

Program highlights

Clarke University’s BSW program helps students master nine core competencies set by the Council on Social Work Education. Students learn ethical practices and become aware of diversity while supporting human rights. The program promotes social, economic, and environmental justice. Students develop critical thinking skills and learn to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities effectively. The social work program aligns with the university’s mission to help marginalized populations and give communities the ability to thrive.

Tuition and fees

Full-time undergraduate students at Clarke University will need to pay $41,000 in tuition for the 2025-2026 academic year. Additional fees total $1,420 ($770 student services fee and $650 technology fee). Students living on campus pay $6,054 for a standard double room and $6,200 for the meal plan. Clarke University provides 55% of students’ financial aid needs. First-year students receive an average need-based scholarship or grant of $26,077.

Learning format

The BSW program blends classroom learning with field experience. The curriculum covers social policy, research, diversity, privilege, and human behavior in social environments. Students must earn minimum grades in required courses and maintain specific GPAs to stay in good academic standing. A small 9:1 faculty-to-student ratio means students get personal attention throughout their education.

Field placement opportunities

The BSW program culminates in an eight-credit field practicum. Students work in human service agencies under professional social worker supervision. More than 100 local agencies partner with the program. Students complete their practicum during their final one or two semesters. This hands-on experience lets students apply their knowledge in real-life settings.

Career outcomes

BSW graduates work in various fields:

• Adoption and foster care
• Child protection services
• Case management
• Domestic violence advocacy
• Mental health assistance
• Youth services

Social workers in Iowa earned a median salary of $50,710 in 2022. Job growth projections show 13% overall increase through 2029. Healthcare, mental health, and substance abuse social workers should see even higher growth rates.

Admission requirements

Students need a minimum 2.5 high school GPA on a 4.0 scale to join Clarke University. The university lets applicants choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. The Spark program helps promising students who face academic challenges. Learning specialists create personalized plans to help these students succeed.

6. Dordt University

Dordt University offers a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work program with a unique advantage – students can earn their degree in just three years and start their careers sooner.

Program highlights

The BSW program at Dordt University gives you the tools for professional practice through Christ-centered education. Students become skilled at assessment, intervention, and evaluation while learning about communities of all types and social justice issues. The program teaches you to apply ethical principles, advance human rights, and blend Christian faith into daily work. Dordt’s accelerated social work program lets students complete their bachelor’s degree in three years and earn a master’s degree in the fourth year.

Tuition and fees

Full-time undergraduate students (12-18.5 credit hours per semester) will pay $18,700 per semester in tuition for the 2025-2026 academic year. A residence hall room with a full 21-meal plan costs $6,005 per semester. Students choosing apartment-style residences with a 5-meal plan pay $4,895 per semester. Students should also budget for:

• Activity fee: $325 per semester
• Books: $600-$1,140 per semester

Total direct costs reach $50,060 annually. This is manageable as Dordt meets 98% of students’ financial needs, with freshman aid packages averaging $33,800.

Learning format

Students can choose between traditional on-campus education and a 100% online Master of Social Work option. Students must complete prerequisite courses and maintain a 2.20 GPA to declare the social work major. Most students apply to the program during spring semester of their sophomore year. Students learn theory and put it into practice throughout their coursework.

Field placement opportunities

Field education is the key to social work education at Dordt. Students complete meaningful internships at agencies of all types. Each student must complete 440 hours of work in professional settings under qualified supervision. These experiences help students apply classroom knowledge through hands-on assignments and community volunteer opportunities.

Career outcomes

Dordt’s employment statistics are impressive. 99.3% of the class of 2024 found employment or continued their education within six months after graduation. This is a big deal as it means that the national average of 92% for private colleges and universities. About 93% of graduates work in fields closely aligned with their undergraduate majors. Field supervisors often praise Dordt’s social work students for their professionalism, critical thinking abilities, and self-awareness.

Admission requirements

Students typically need a minimum high school GPA of 2.25 and minimum ACT scores of English + Reading (37), Math (18), and Composite (19) for regular admission. Students with a high school GPA of 3.2 or higher can apply without test scores under the test-optional policy. However, homeschooled and international students must submit test results. The social work major requires students to maintain a minimum 2.20 GPA and finish required foundational coursework.

7. Loras College

Niche 2024 ranks Loras College among America’s top Catholic colleges. The college offers a CSWE-accredited BSW program that produces value-driven practitioners who help improve human and community well-being.

Program highlights

The BSW program at Loras teaches students everything they need to become effective generalist practitioners, from values and ethics to practical strategies. Students learn from a curriculum that’s built on liberal arts, enabling approaches, and person-in-environment frameworks. The program develops nine core competencies that range from ethical behavior to practice evaluation. Students get to apply their classroom learning directly in hands-on settings throughout their four years. They can work in child welfare, mental health, medical social work, substance abuse, and many more fields.

Tuition and fees

Full-time students will pay $39,430 in tuition for 2025-26 ($19,715 per semester for 12-18 credits) plus $1,988 in student and program fees. May term credits are part of spring tuition. Extra charges apply only when students take more than 36 credit hours across fall, May term, and spring combined. Students who take fewer than 12 or more than 18 credits pay $850 per credit hour.

Learning format

Students typically complete the program in six semesters. They must earn at least a 2.3 (C+) grade in all major courses before moving to the next course. The program maintains a strong 9:1 faculty-to-student ratio, offering students tailored attention throughout their academic trip. Students learn both theory and practice through various hands-on experiences.

Field placement opportunities

Senior social work students gain real-world experience through 420 hours of practice at a social service agency. They can choose between part-time placement over two semesters (4.5 credits each) or complete all 9 credits in their final semester. Partner organizations include the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services, Juvenile Court Services, Unity Point Hospital, Multicultural Family Center, and many others.

Career outcomes

The college’s employment statistics speak for themselves – 99% of 2023 graduates found jobs or pursued advanced degrees. Graduates can qualify for advanced standing in numerous MSW programs and complete their master’s degree in about 9 months. The Center for Experiential Learning guides students as they recognize their career path and vocational awareness.

Admission requirements

Students who want to major in social work must first complete introductory courses in social welfare and human behavior. They also need to submit a formal application with recommendation letters. Loras follows a rolling admission policy and automatically accepts students with a 2.75 or higher GPA. The admission team places significant importance on a student’s GPA.

BSW Curriculum

The major’s core courses include Introduction to Social Welfare, Human Behavior & Social Environment, Career Options and Professional Practice, Social Work with Groups and Families, Social Work with Individuals, Social Policy, and Social Work with Organizations and Communities. Students learn essential theories, principles, and skills through active learning methods.

Field Education Requirements in Iowa

Field education is part of all accredited BSW programs in Iowa. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) recognizes it as the “signature pedagogy” for professional social work training. BSW students must complete a minimum of 400 clock hours of supervised field placement experience. Students typically undertake this training during their final year to blend classroom theories with ground practice.

BSW programs across Iowa share remarkably similar field education requirements. Students learn under experienced social workers’ supervision. These supervisors must have a bachelor’s degree and two years of post-degree experience. Programs offer students different options to complete their hours – either in one semester or across multiple terms.

The University of Northern Iowa exemplifies this flexibility. Their students can select between 440-600 hours based on credit choices (11-15 credits). The field education encompasses everything in social welfare policy, research methods, and human behavior analysis.

These standardized requirements help Iowa BSW graduates showcase their competence in professional settings. They gain significant experience in assessment, intervention, and evaluation with clients of all backgrounds – skills that employers value in entry-level social workers.

Career Outlook for BSW Social Workers in Iowa

BSW graduates in Iowa enjoy a reliable job market with opportunities across many sectors. Iowa currently has about 400 social workers, and this number should reach 450 by 2032. This 13% growth rate is much higher than the national average of 4%.

BSW graduates can expect around 40 job openings each year through 2032. Career paths depend on your specialty area. Healthcare social workers earn the highest pay, with experienced professionals making up to $95,000 per year. Mental health and substance abuse positions show an 18% growth rate because these specialized services are in high demand.

Iowa’s top employers looking for BSW graduates include:

• State government agencies (Iowa Department of Human Services, Department of Corrections)
• Healthcare networks (Genesis Health System, UnityPoint Health)
• Educational institutions and area education agencies
• Nonprofit organizations (Four Oaks, Children and Families of Iowa, Lutheran Services)

BSW graduates start in direct practice roles like case management and youth counseling. They can move into supervisory positions with experience. Students who want to practice clinical work will find that all CSWE-accredited programs in Iowa prepare them for professional licensure. This license works in 41 states, which creates clear career advancement opportunities.

Iowa Social Work Licensure Pathway

Your path to professional practice starts right after you graduate from a BSW program in Iowa. The Iowa Board of Social Work manages three license levels that allow different service capabilities.

You need one of these credentials to practice professionally:

• Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW): A CSWE-accredited BSW degree and passing the ASWB Bachelor’s level examination are required. This level needs no supervised experience
• Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW): A CSWE-accredited MSW degree and passing the ASWB Master’s level examination are required
• Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW): Requirements include a CSWE-accredited graduate degree, 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and passing the ASWB Clinical examination

You can start your application through the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing portal. The application fee is $123.00. The ASWB examination costs $230.00 for both bachelor’s and master’s levels.

Several resources can help you prepare for the exam. These include university study groups, practice exams, and NASW-sponsored workshops. Licensed social workers must complete continuing education before their license renewal.

The LBSW credential helps BSW graduates start their career and creates opportunities in Iowa’s growing social services sector.

Find the Right Iowa BSW Program Today

Picking the right BSW program is a vital step toward a successful social work career in Iowa. This piece shows seven CSWE-accredited programs that offer different educational experiences with their own strengths and opportunities. These schools give you the essential foundation to enter a field where job openings keep growing steadily in healthcare, mental health, child welfare, and many other sectors.

BSW graduates from Iowa’s accredited programs see great job prospects with yearly salaries between $50,710 and $70,480, substantially above national averages. On top of that, the expected 13% job growth through 2032 beats the 4% national average and creates about 40 new positions each year. These strong numbers show how vital social work services are in Iowa’s communities.

Field education is without doubt the main focus of your social work training. Each program needs at least 400 supervised hours where you apply classroom theories to real-life situations before you graduate. This practical experience becomes priceless during job hunting since employers value candidates who have shown their skills through quality field placements.

Your career path becomes clearer once you complete an accredited program. You can start with the LBSW credential – you just need your degree and to pass the ASWB examination. Better yet, all these programs prepare you for advanced standing in MSW programs, which could save you lots of time and money if you choose graduate school.

Briar Cliff’s online program offers flexibility. UNI’s public institution rates provide affordability. University of Iowa’s specialized certificates give unique options. Your perfect BSW program is waiting in Iowa. Whatever institution you pick, CSWE accreditation will give your degree national recognition from employers and licensing boards across 41 states.

Social work education goes beyond career prep – it shows your steadfast dedication to making positive change. Iowa’s social work programs give you the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation to tackle complex human challenges while fighting for social justice. Your trip to becoming a professional social worker begins by choosing a program that matches your personal goals, priorities, and budget.