North Dakota Social Work Degree Programs

AKA: ASW, BSW, MSW, DSW, Clinical MSW

North Dakota Social Work Degree Programs Ranked and Sorted
Social Worker License

by Social Worker License Staff

Updated: June 18th, 2026

Department of Education Seal

Data Source:

Dept. of Education - 2026

Social Worker License has analyzed data from 7 schools who offer degree programs in the field of social work and human services. Jump to schools.

Social Work Degree Programs in North Dakota

Undergraduate students have more choices than graduate applicants in North Dakota. Students can compare four schools with social work bachelor’s degrees, while CSWE-accredited MSW study is concentrated at University of Mary and University of North Dakota.

North Dakota does not have a doctoral-level social work option among these schools. Students seeking a doctorate may need to consider out-of-state universities, while those interested in shorter credentials can investigate social work or related certificates carefully.

  • BSW options: Four schools across Bismarck, Minot, Grand Forks, and Fort Yates.
  • MSW options: University of Mary and University of North Dakota.
  • Doctoral social work options: None identified in North Dakota.
  • Related human services and mental health programs are alternatives, not equivalent to social work degrees.

CSWE-Accredited Social Work Programs in North Dakota

Students seeking a CSWE-accredited path have four schools to compare at the baccalaureate level, but only two universities with accredited MSW options. This gives BSW students more geographic choice, while MSW applicants can focus their comparison on program format, specialization, schedule, and advanced-standing eligibility.

CSWE programmatic accreditation applies specifically to social work programs and is separate from a college or university’s institutional accreditation. Students should confirm the current status of their intended BSW or MSW directly with the school and CSWE.

  • CSWE-accredited BSW options: Four schools.
  • CSWE-accredited MSW options: University of Mary and University of North Dakota.
  • Advanced-standing MSW plans are offered at both MSW universities.
  • MSW focus areas include clinical or direct practice, macro social work, and advanced generalist study.

Online Social Work Programs in North Dakota

Students looking for flexibility have three schools with CSWE-accredited social work programs to investigate: University of Mary, Minot State University, and University of North Dakota. Flexible plans may include part-time study, evening or weekend scheduling, multiple cohorts, or advanced standing, depending on the school and degree.

An online indicator does not necessarily mean every BSW or MSW course, campus requirement, or field placement can be completed remotely. Ask each school whether the specific degree pathway is fully online, hybrid, or campus-based and how local field placements are arranged.

  • University of Mary reports online availability for a school with BSW and MSW options.
  • Minot State University reports online availability for its BSW-level program.
  • University of North Dakota reports online availability for BSW and MSW study.
  • Verify residency rules, synchronous sessions, campus visits, and field placement requirements.

Affordable Social Work Degree Options in North Dakota

Cost-conscious students may want to begin with the lower-price schools below, then request a program-specific financial estimate. Tuition and average net price are school-level figures, not social work program-specific costs, and they do not account for every student’s aid, fees, housing, or field placement expenses.

These figures are useful starting points for comparison, not rankings of program quality. Students should also confirm whether the listed school offers the exact degree type they need, since certificates and related credentials may not substitute for a BSW or MSW.

  • In-state tuition: Sitting Bull College — $4,010.
  • In-state tuition: Minot State University — $8,702.
  • In-state tuition: University of North Dakota — $10,951.
  • Average net price: Sitting Bull College — $4,605.
  • Average net price: Minot State University — $12,703.
  • Average net price: North Dakota State University — $15,543; its social work offerings are certificates rather than a BSW or MSW.

How to Choose a Social Work Program in North Dakota

Students should first separate social work degrees from adjacent programs. Human services or mental and social health study may support related career goals, but these programs should not be treated as BSW or MSW degrees. Rasmussen University–North Dakota and Valley City State University, for example, offer human services programs rather than social work degrees.

After confirming the degree type, compare accreditation, delivery format, field education, schedule, specialization, total cost, and fit with your intended license. Requirements can change, so verify details with the school and the appropriate licensing authority before enrolling.

  • Confirm that the exact BSW or MSW holds current CSWE programmatic accreditation.
  • Ask whether online study includes in-person courses, campus visits, or local field placements.
  • Compare full-time, part-time, evening, weekend, and advanced-standing plans.
  • Request a complete cost estimate covering tuition, fees, books, travel, and field education.
  • Check whether the curriculum meets the requirements for your intended state and license level.
  • Distinguish social work degrees from certificates, human services programs, and mental health alternatives.

North Dakota Social Work Degree FAQ

How many BSW programs can students compare in North Dakota?

Students can compare four schools with social work bachelor’s pathways. The full school list below provides school-by-school details.

Where can I earn a CSWE-accredited MSW in North Dakota?

University of Mary and University of North Dakota have CSWE-accredited MSW options. Compare their specializations, advanced-standing eligibility, schedules, field placement arrangements, and delivery formats.

Can I earn a North Dakota social work degree online?

Online availability is reported at University of Mary, Minot State University, and University of North Dakota. Confirm whether your exact BSW or MSW pathway is fully online or hybrid and whether field placements or campus visits are required.

Which North Dakota social work schools appear most affordable?

Based on reported school-level figures, Sitting Bull College, Minot State University, and University of North Dakota have the lowest listed in-state tuition among North Dakota social work schools. Sitting Bull College and Minot State University have the lowest listed average net prices among degree-granting social work schools shown here; North Dakota State University also appears in the average net price list, but its social work offerings are certificates rather than a BSW or MSW.

Does North Dakota have a doctoral social work program?

No doctoral-level social work option is identified among the state’s schools. Students pursuing doctoral study may need to compare programs outside North Dakota.

Does completing a North Dakota social work program guarantee licensure?

Completing a listed program does not automatically guarantee licensure. Verify degree, accreditation, supervised-experience, examination, and other requirements with the licensing authority for the state where you plan to practice.

Whether you live in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks or elsewhere in North Dakota, you can find the right social work or human services degree program for you. Filter schools in North Dakota by degree level and field type. Rank schools by features that matter to you. Explore all the social work programs offered in North Dakota below.

Schools Listed

Social Work Schools in North Dakota

Sitting Bull CollegeFort Yates, ND 1st for In-State Tuition $4,010 IN-STATE TUITION $4,010 OUT-OF-STATE TUITION
Human Services, General.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Associate's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Associate's Degree
Not enough data

Program description:

A program that focuses on the general study and provision of human and social services to individuals and communities and prepares individuals to work in public and private human services agencies and organizations. Includes instruction in the social sciences, psychology, principles of social service, human services policy, planning and evaluation, social services law and administration, and applications to particular issues, services, localities, and populations.

Social Work.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Bachelor's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Bachelor's Degree
Not enough data

Program fields may include:

  • Social Work.
  • Youth Services/Administration.
  • Forensic Social Work.
  • Social Work, Other.
Institution Specifics/Quality

Type of Institution

Public

Total Enrollment

257

Accredited By:

Higher Learning Commission

Graduation Rate:

Not enough data

Costs

In-State Tuition:

$4,010

Out-of-State Tuition:

$4,010

Average Cost (tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses - minus grant/scholarship aid):

$4,605

Admissions

Applicants Accepted:

Not enough data

Average SAT Score:

N/A

Average SAT Reading Score:

N/A

Average SAT Math Score:

N/A

Valley City State UniversityValley City, ND 2nd for In-State Tuition $8,514 IN-STATE TUITION $13,544 OUT-OF-STATE TUITION
Human Services, General.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Bachelor's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Bachelor's Degree
Not enough data

Program description:

A program that focuses on the general study and provision of human and social services to individuals and communities and prepares individuals to work in public and private human services agencies and organizations. Includes instruction in the social sciences, psychology, principles of social service, human services policy, planning and evaluation, social services law and administration, and applications to particular issues, services, localities, and populations.

Institution Specifics/Quality

Type of Institution

Public

Total Enrollment

958

Accredited By:

Higher Learning Commission

Graduation Rate:

48.73%

Costs

In-State Tuition:

$8,514

Out-of-State Tuition:

$13,544

Average Cost (tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses - minus grant/scholarship aid):

$11,890

Admissions

Applicants Accepted:

99.07%

Average SAT Score:

N/A

Average SAT Reading Score:

540

Average SAT Math Score:

523

Minot State UniversityMinot, ND 3rd for In-State Tuition $8,702 IN-STATE TUITION $8,702 OUT-OF-STATE TUITION
Social Work.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Bachelor's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Bachelor's Degree
$41,171

Program fields may include:

  • Social Work.
  • Youth Services/Administration.
  • Forensic Social Work.
  • Social Work, Other.
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Bachelor's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Bachelor's Degree
Not enough data

Program fields may include:

  • Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Services Technician.
  • Clinical/Medical Social Work.
  • Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling.
  • Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling.
  • Clinical Pastoral Counseling/Patient Counseling.
  • Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy.
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.
  • Genetic Counseling/Counselor.
  • Infant/Toddler Mental Health Services.
  • Medical Family Therapy/Therapist.
  • Hospice and Palliative Care.
  • Trauma Counseling.
  • Reserved.
  • Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other.
Institution Specifics/Quality

Type of Institution

Public

Total Enrollment

2,062

Accredited By:

Higher Learning Commission

Graduation Rate:

47.76%

Costs

In-State Tuition:

$8,702

Out-of-State Tuition:

$8,702

Average Cost (tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses - minus grant/scholarship aid):

$12,703

Admissions

Applicants Accepted:

64.62%

Average SAT Score:

N/A

Average SAT Reading Score:

540

Average SAT Math Score:

555

University of North DakotaGrand Forks, ND 4th for In-State Tuition $10,951 IN-STATE TUITION $15,570 OUT-OF-STATE TUITION
Social Work.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Bachelor's Degree
$38,598
Master's Degree
$50,792

Program fields may include:

  • Social Work.
  • Youth Services/Administration.
  • Forensic Social Work.
  • Social Work, Other.
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • First Professional Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Not enough data
Bachelor's Degree
Not enough data
First Professional Degree
Not enough data

Program fields may include:

  • Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Services Technician.
  • Clinical/Medical Social Work.
  • Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling.
  • Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling.
  • Clinical Pastoral Counseling/Patient Counseling.
  • Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy.
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.
  • Genetic Counseling/Counselor.
  • Infant/Toddler Mental Health Services.
  • Medical Family Therapy/Therapist.
  • Hospice and Palliative Care.
  • Trauma Counseling.
  • Reserved.
  • Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other.
Institution Specifics/Quality

Type of Institution

Public

Total Enrollment

9,981

Accredited By:

Higher Learning Commission

Graduation Rate:

64.74%

Costs

In-State Tuition:

$10,951

Out-of-State Tuition:

$15,570

Average Cost (tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses - minus grant/scholarship aid):

$18,551

Admissions

Applicants Accepted:

76.9%

Average SAT Score:

N/A

Average SAT Reading Score:

590

Average SAT Math Score:

610

North Dakota State University-Main CampusFargo, ND 5th for In-State Tuition $11,110 IN-STATE TUITION $15,764 OUT-OF-STATE TUITION
Social Work.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Post-baccalaureate Certificate
  • Graduate/Professional Certificate

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Post-baccalaureate Certificate
Not enough data
Graduate/Professional Certificate
Not enough data

Program fields may include:

  • Social Work.
  • Youth Services/Administration.
  • Forensic Social Work.
  • Social Work, Other.
Institution Specifics/Quality

Type of Institution

Public

Total Enrollment

9,471

Accredited By:

Higher Learning Commission

Graduation Rate:

64.55%

Costs

In-State Tuition:

$11,110

Out-of-State Tuition:

$15,764

Average Cost (tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses - minus grant/scholarship aid):

$15,543

Admissions

Applicants Accepted:

94.96%

Average SAT Score:

N/A

Average SAT Reading Score:

589

Average SAT Math Score:

616

Rasmussen University-North DakotaFargo, ND 6th for In-State Tuition $13,957 IN-STATE TUITION $13,957 OUT-OF-STATE TUITION
Human Services, General.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Not enough data
Associate's Degree
$23,880
Bachelor's Degree
Not enough data

Program description:

A program that focuses on the general study and provision of human and social services to individuals and communities and prepares individuals to work in public and private human services agencies and organizations. Includes instruction in the social sciences, psychology, principles of social service, human services policy, planning and evaluation, social services law and administration, and applications to particular issues, services, localities, and populations.

Institution Specifics/Quality

Type of Institution

Private for-profit

Total Enrollment

52

Accredited By:

Higher Learning Commission

Graduation Rate:

Not enough data

Costs

In-State Tuition:

$13,957

Out-of-State Tuition:

$13,957

Average Cost (tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses - minus grant/scholarship aid):

Not enough data

Admissions

Applicants Accepted:

Not enough data

Average SAT Score:

N/A

Average SAT Reading Score:

N/A

Average SAT Math Score:

N/A

University of MaryBismarck, ND 7th for In-State Tuition $22,356 IN-STATE TUITION $22,356 OUT-OF-STATE TUITION
Human Services, General.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Bachelor's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Bachelor's Degree
Not enough data

Program description:

A program that focuses on the general study and provision of human and social services to individuals and communities and prepares individuals to work in public and private human services agencies and organizations. Includes instruction in the social sciences, psychology, principles of social service, human services policy, planning and evaluation, social services law and administration, and applications to particular issues, services, localities, and populations.

Social Work.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Bachelor's Degree

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Bachelor's Degree
Not enough data

Program fields may include:

  • Social Work.
  • Youth Services/Administration.
  • Forensic Social Work.
  • Social Work, Other.
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
  • Master's Degree
  • Graduate/Professional Certificate

Salary 1 Year After Graduation

Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Not enough data
Master's Degree
Not enough data
Graduate/Professional Certificate
Not enough data

Program fields may include:

  • Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.
  • Psychiatric/Mental Health Services Technician.
  • Clinical/Medical Social Work.
  • Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling.
  • Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling.
  • Clinical Pastoral Counseling/Patient Counseling.
  • Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy.
  • Mental Health Counseling/Counselor.
  • Genetic Counseling/Counselor.
  • Infant/Toddler Mental Health Services.
  • Medical Family Therapy/Therapist.
  • Hospice and Palliative Care.
  • Trauma Counseling.
  • Reserved.
  • Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions, Other.
Institution Specifics/Quality

Type of Institution

Private nonprofit

Total Enrollment

2,416

Accredited By:

Higher Learning Commission

Graduation Rate:

64.2%

Costs

In-State Tuition:

$22,356

Out-of-State Tuition:

$22,356

Average Cost (tuition, fees, books, supplies and living expenses - minus grant/scholarship aid):

$17,770

Admissions

Applicants Accepted:

75.3%

Average SAT Score:

N/A

Average SAT Reading Score:

N/A

Average SAT Math Score:

N/A

Rank By:
Schools

Type of Institution

Program Fields (and degrees offered)