Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for Social Work

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$63,120

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

63%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$8,449

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

Finding an affordable college for a degree in social work can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Many students are looking for programs that not only fit their budgets but also lead to solid job prospects after graduation. In fact, the average earnings for graduates in this field stand at $65,657, making it a worthwhile pursuit for those considering their options.

The schools on this list stand out for their combination of affordability and strong outcomes in social work. Key metrics like earnings, graduation rates, and debt load help illuminate the best choices. While affordability is essential, it's crucial to also consider how these factors play into long-term career success and financial stability.

Take Princeton University and CUNY Hunter College, for example. Princeton's graduates earn an impressive $110,066 on average, significantly higher than Hunter's $63,163. However, Hunter has a much lower net price of $2,984 compared to Princeton's $6,128. This contrast illustrates a critical tradeoff: while one school may offer higher earnings, the other might present a more budget-friendly option, particularly for those concerned about debt after graduation.

Key Findings

Princeton University graduates earn an average of $110,066, significantly higher than the $63,163 earned by CUNY Hunter College graduates.

CUNY Hunter College has the lowest net price on the list at $2,984, making it a top choice for affordability.

The average graduation rate across these schools is 65%, indicating a solid completion rate for social work programs.

CUNY John Jay College graduates carry an average debt of $11,000, similar to Hunter's $11,000, highlighting the importance of financial planning.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $63,120

Avg. graduation rate 63%

Avg. net price $8,449

Avg. median debt $15,593

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability with program concentration in Social Sciences

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY

Graduation59%

Earnings$63,163

Net Price$2,984

View full profile →

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY

Graduation72%

Earnings$75,971

Net Price$3,033

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a 97% graduation rate and median earnings of $110,066 a decade after graduation, Princeton University presents a compelling case for students seeking a strong return on their education. The intimate campus environment, housing around 5,700 students, fosters personal connections with faculty and peers, creating a vibrant academic community.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY Hunter College serves a diverse student body of over 16,000, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity. Despite a graduation rate of 59%, many students find value in the dynamic environment that the city offers, connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College, with a graduation rate of 72%, offers a unique blend of academic rigor and urban opportunity in New York City. With median earnings of $75,971 at ten years post-graduation, Baruch equips students with the skills necessary to succeed in competitive job markets. The college community of over 16,000 students fosters meaningful interactions and networking among future leaders.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College, home to around 12,550 students, offers rich academic programs in a supportive environment. The graduation rate is 56%, and while it may be lower than some of its peers, the college is known for its focus on helping students develop strong foundations for their future careers. With median earnings of $62,763 at ten years, graduates often find rewarding paths after leaving school.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice is a great choice for students interested in public service and criminal justice careers. With a vibrant student body of nearly 11,600, the college emphasizes a commitment to social justice and has strong connections to New York City’s law enforcement and legal communities.

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College is a hub for students seeking a supportive and community-oriented environment in the Bronx. With nearly 10,700 students, Lehman emphasizes academic excellence and offers a range of programs that cater to the diverse needs of its student body, especially those who benefit from strong mentorship and support systems.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

For students interested in a liberal arts education with a diverse array of programs, CUNY Brooklyn College presents a compelling option. With a student population of over 10,500, the college fosters an inclusive environment that encourages exploration and academic success across various disciplines.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 91%, the University of Florida illustrates a strong commitment to student success. This public university, located in Gainesville, is home to over 35,000 students who benefit from a vibrant campus life and a wide range of academic programs. The median earnings of graduates ten years after enrollment reach $71,588, reflecting the value of a degree from this institution.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

CUNY York College, located in Jamaica, NY, is a public institution that prioritizes accessibility for its diverse student body of around 4,345. However, the graduation rate is notably low at 31%, which highlights the challenges some students face in completing their degrees. Despite this, graduates can expect median earnings of $56,945 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the potential return on their investment.

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

CUNY City College

New York, NY · 12,505 students · Public

CUNY City College is known for its diverse student population and strong academic programs, particularly in engineering, liberal arts, and sciences. The college's location in Manhattan offers students unique opportunities for internships and cultural experiences that enrich their education and personal growth.

60% accepted 56% graduate $66,039 earnings

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

The University of Florida-Online presents an accessible pathway to higher education, catering to over 4,600 students seeking flexibility. With an 81% graduation rate, this online program allows students to maintain their careers while pursuing their degrees. Graduates also enjoy a median earning of $71,588 after ten years, which indicates that the online option maintains the same value as its in-person counterpart.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#12

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

The University of Virginia's College at Wise offers a unique opportunity in the beautiful mountains of Virginia, with a smaller student body of 1,101 that fosters a close community. However, the school's graduation rate is only 48%, which suggests that it might be a better fit for students who seek a supportive environment and are prepared to overcome challenges.

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, attracts students with its exceptional academic reputation and robust alumni network. With a graduation rate of 92%, it’s clear that students are well-supported, and the environment fosters both intellectual growth and innovation in a stunning campus setting.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

#14

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago attracts students seeking rigorous academics and a prestigious environment. With a graduation rate of 95%, it prepares its 7,569 students for successful careers, boasting median earnings of $91,885 a decade after graduation.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

#15

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

Located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a vibrant public university known for its strong academic programs and spirited campus life. With 20,752 students, it offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities and support systems that cater to a variety of interests and backgrounds.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

Berea College stands out for its commitment to providing a tuition-free education to its students, making it an attractive option for those from low-income backgrounds. Located in Kentucky, this private nonprofit institution has a smaller student body of around 1,500, fostering a tight-knit community. However, the graduation rate is 60%, which may present a challenge for some students in navigating their academic journey.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Chickasha, OK · 941 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of just 941 students, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha offers a unique educational experience that emphasizes personalized learning. The school’s commitment to liberal arts education fosters critical thinking and creativity, which can be particularly appealing to students eager to explore diverse fields of study.

66% accepted 41% graduate $41,913 earnings

University's full profile

#18

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

With a robust student body of over 37,000, the University of South Florida offers a vibrant campus life and a diverse range of academic programs. The school's strong graduation rate of 76% suggests that students find the support they need to succeed and complete their degrees.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#19

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, is known for its commitment to student success. This small, private college has a tight-knit community that encourages collaboration and intellectual exploration, making it an ideal environment for students who thrive in personalized settings.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#20

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University serves over 39,500 students in the heart of Miami, offering a unique blend of cultural diversity and academic opportunities. With a graduation rate of 74%, the university supports students through their educational journeys, helping them to achieve their goals despite challenges.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#21

Texas A & M International University

Laredo, TX · 6,667 students · Public

With a focus on serving the local community, Texas A & M International University in Laredo has a diverse student body, with 65% of its students receiving Pell Grants. This school combines a welcoming environment with a commitment to helping students succeed, which is reflected in its 48% graduation rate and an emphasis on accessible education.

44% accepted 48% graduate $48,386 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University in Nashville is a private nonprofit institution known for its academic rigor and vibrant campus culture. With a 93% graduation rate, students here benefit from an environment that fosters success and strong community connections, but the competitive acceptance rate of just 6% means that admission is a notable achievement in itself.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#23

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

With over 23,000 students, Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton is a vibrant hub for those looking to pursue a diverse range of academic programs in a sunny coastal setting. The school boasts a graduation rate of 63%, suggesting that many students find the support they need to succeed in their studies and transition to careers.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#24

Portland State University

Portland, OR · 13,182 students · Public

Portland State University draws in over 13,000 students who thrive in an urban environment known for its culture and innovation. The campus is a hub for diversity and creativity, attracting individuals who want to make an impact in their communities.

91% accepted 53% graduate $57,906 earnings

Portland's full profile

#25

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University in Tallahassee is home to more than 32,000 students and boasts a strong sense of community and school spirit. With an 84% graduation rate, FSU is committed to helping students complete their degrees and prepare for successful careers.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#26

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 19,562 students · Public

California State University-Los Angeles embodies the vibrant spirit of Los Angeles, welcoming a large student population of nearly 20,000. Its commitment to inclusivity is evident in a high acceptance rate of 91%, making it an appealing choice for many students seeking to further their education in a bustling urban environment.

91% accepted 53% graduate $59,211 earnings

California's full profile

#27

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA · 15,023 students · Public

With a 94% acceptance rate, California State University-San Bernardino is a welcoming option for many students. The campus serves over 15,000 students, fostering a diverse community where nearly 58% receive Pell Grants, indicating strong support for low-income families.

94% accepted 55% graduate $59,977 earnings

California's full profile

#28

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

In the heart of Orlando, the University of Central Florida is one of the largest public universities in the country, with a bustling campus of over 59,000 students. This dynamic environment is rich with opportunities for involvement and growth, appealing to those who thrive in a diverse, large-scale educational setting that offers a wide array of programs and extracurriculars.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#29

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University, located in Houston, Texas, is a small private nonprofit college that attracts driven students eager to engage in rigorous academic pursuits. With an impressive graduation rate of 95%, it's clear that the university fosters an environment where students can thrive and achieve their goals.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

Located in Jacksonville, the University of North Florida serves over 13,000 students and emphasizes a supportive educational environment. This school encourages collaboration and engagement, fostering a sense of belonging for many students as they prepare for their futures.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#31

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX · 28,666 students · Public

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley serves a large and diverse population with a vibrant campus life, drawing in over 28,000 students. The school’s ethos is rooted in accessibility, underscored by an acceptance rate of 94% and a substantial percentage of students (65%) receiving Pell Grants, making it a strong choice for those who value community and support.

94% accepted 50% graduate $49,620 earnings

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

While the College of Staten Island CUNY has a lower graduation rate of 33%, it remains a viable option for many students looking for affordable education. With an acceptance rate of 92%, it welcomes a diverse student body, and half of its students receive Pell Grants, underscoring its commitment to accessibility.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

#33

California State University-Stanislaus

Turlock, CA · 8,385 students · Public

California State University-Stanislaus is an excellent choice for students seeking a supportive environment with a strong sense of community. With a high acceptance rate of 98% and a graduation rate of 56%, the university caters to a diverse student population, with 55% of its students receiving Pell Grants, indicating a focus on helping low-income families.

98% accepted 56% graduate $63,188 earnings

California's full profile

#34

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville, NC · 5,762 students · Public

82% accepted 37% graduate $40,144 earnings

Fayetteville's full profile

#35

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

California State University-Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA · 8,577 students · Public

California State University-Bakersfield is an inviting public university that emphasizes access and diversity, with an acceptance rate of 94%. With 8,577 students, this campus is known for its supportive environment, which can be particularly appealing to those looking for a community-oriented college experience.

94% accepted 50% graduate $59,009 earnings

California's full profile

#37

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA · 38,546 students · Public

With nearly 39,000 students, California State University-Fullerton has a diverse and vibrant campus life that appeals to many. The university's 70% graduation rate suggests that a significant number of students successfully complete their degrees, opening doors to various career paths and opportunities.

91% accepted 70% graduate $62,951 earnings

California's full profile

#38

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, GA · 16,146 students · Public

68% accepted 37% graduate $50,135 earnings

University's full profile

#40

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#41

Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus

Portales, NM · 3,357 students · Public

At Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, you'll find a close-knit community of around 3,357 students. The university's acceptance rate of 92% reflects its commitment to welcoming a diverse range of learners, though the 42% graduation rate shows that persistence is important for those who enroll.

92% accepted 42% graduate $38,550 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#42

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA · 32,691 students · Public

California State University-Northridge welcomes a large student population of around 32,700, fostering a sense of community and engagement. However, the graduation rate is lower at 57%, which may indicate that some students need additional support to complete their degrees.

93% accepted 57% graduate $59,115 earnings

California's full profile

#43

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Pembroke, NC · 5,330 students · Public

93% accepted 44% graduate $43,407 earnings

University's full profile

#44

Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY · 1,309 students · Public

96% accepted 30% graduate $36,382 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

#45

California State University-Fresno

Fresno, CA · 21,605 students · Public

California State University-Fresno is home to over 21,000 students and offers a vibrant campus atmosphere. The university has a 56% graduation rate, suggesting that while many succeed, some may face challenges along the way, making it essential for students to engage with campus resources and support networks.

95% accepted 56% graduate $61,244 earnings

California's full profile

#46

Concord University

Athens, WV · 1,504 students · Public

93% accepted 41% graduate $42,703 earnings

Concord's full profile

#47

The University of Texas at San Antonio

San Antonio, TX · 30,580 students · Public

87% accepted 52% graduate $57,131 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#49

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, NC · 14,062 students · Public

89% accepted 57% graduate $48,160 earnings

University's full profile

#50

SUNY Old Westbury

Old Westbury, NY · 4,162 students · Public

84% accepted 46% graduate $58,526 earnings

When we look closely at the data, a notable trend emerges: schools with lower net prices often have lower earnings outcomes. For instance, CUNY Hunter College may have a manageable net price of $2,984, but its average earnings of $63,163 fall short compared to Princeton's $110,066. This disparity raises important questions about what you want from your education.

As you consider your options among these 50 schools, weigh the data against your own priorities. Think about where you want to live, the specific social work programs that resonate with you, and your financial situation. A school with a low net price might seem appealing, but ensure it aligns with your career goals and lifestyle choices.

The path from college to a stable career is often shaped by the choices we make now. For many families, selecting a school is a pivotal decision that can affect future earnings and financial health. It's crucial to find a balance between affordability and potential outcomes, as this can set the foundation for a successful career in social work.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility