Discover Low-Cost Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Programs Near San Antonio, Texas
The demand for social workers continues to climb across the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, social work positions are expected to grow faster than the national average through 2032, reflecting a widespread need for professionals who can serve diverse populations and address complex social challenges. This growth is evident in Texas, where rapid population increases and shifting demographics have intensified the demand for trained practitioners.
In San Antonio, the city's rich cultural history, large Hispanic community, and significant military presence make social work especially vital. Local challenges such as affordable housing shortages, healthcare access, and family support highlight the importance of community solutions. For students interested in beginning careers in human services, affordable Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree programs provide a crucial opportunity to enter the field while minimizing financial barriers.
2026 Low-Cost Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Programs San Antonio, Texas
University of Houston-Downtown
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uhd.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Houston-Downtown's Bachelor of Social Work program is an on-campus offering in Houston, TX, designed to train students as generalist social workers committed to inclusion, equity, and justice. It prepares graduates for diverse settings like schools and hospitals, with a curriculum emphasizing anti-oppressive practice, leadership, and lifelong learning. Features include flexible scheduling, smaller class sizes, and faculty mentoring. As a bachelor's program, it may require ACT or SAT for admission unless waived. Affordability is enhanced by its public university status and competitive tuition rates, making it a cost-effective choice for aspiring social workers.
- On-campus program
- Generalist social work focus
- Flexible scheduling available
- Smaller class sizes
- Faculty mentoring
- Spanish-Track option
- Prepares for diverse settings
- Emphasizes anti-oppressive practice
- Leadership in diverse communities
- Lifelong learning focus
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Social Work
Concentration: Spanish Track Option - Campus Based - Visit Website
This Bachelor of Social Work program at the University of Houston-Downtown includes a Spanish Track Option, focusing on serving Spanish-speaking communities through generalist social work practice. It integrates innovative classroom learning with practical experiences in case management, advocacy, and counseling, promoting inclusion and equity. Admission may require ACT or SAT exams, aligning with UHD standards. The program is affordable due to its public institution pricing and competitive costs, offering specialized skills that boost employability and service impact in diverse settings.
- Campus-based program
- Spanish Track Option available
- Focus on inclusion and equity
- Generalist social work preparation
- Innovative classroom learning
- Practical experience opportunities
- Competitive program cost
- Admissions aligned with UHD standards
- Prepares for diverse settings
- Skills in case management
Texas Southern University
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - tsu.edu
Bachelor's - Social Work, Bachelor of Arts
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Southern University's Bachelor of Arts in Social Work is a CSWE-accredited, campus-based program in Houston, requiring 56 credits with grades of C or better. Admission involves university acceptance, TSI compliance, and specific coursework, but no ACT or SAT exam is mentioned as required. The program includes a senior-year field placement and prepares graduates for the Texas licensing exam, emphasizing social justice and community service. As an HBCU, it offers extensive advisement and may be affordable due to lower tuition rates and financial aid options typical of public institutions.
- CSWE accredited program.
- 56 credits required.
- Campus-based learning.
- Grades of 'C' or better.
- Senior year field placement.
- Texas licensing exam required.
- No academic credit for life experiences.
- Extensive advisement provided.
- Located in Houston, TX.
The University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX - Public 4-Year - utsa.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas at San Antonio's Bachelor of Social Work program emphasizes culturally competent and transformative social work, preparing students for professional practice with a focus on equity and social justice. Admission requires a 2.5 GPA, prerequisite courses, references, and an essay, but no SAT or ACT is specified as mandatory. The curriculum includes core courses, electives in cultural competence and global perspectives, and a hands-on field practicum, supporting eligibility for state licensure and graduate studies. As a public university, UTSA offers lower tuition rates for in-state students, making it an affordable option in San Antonio.
- Prepares for professional social work practice
- Focus on equity and social justice
- Eligibility for state licensure
- Preparation for graduate studies
- Requires 2.5 GPA for admission
- Includes field practicum experience
- Culturally competent curriculum
- Diversity and social justice focus
- Supports local-global context understanding
- Offers transformative thinking electives
West Texas A & M University
Canyon, TX - Public 4-Year - wtamu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
West Texas A&M University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, preparing students for entry-level practice or graduate studies. The program includes a 450-hour internship and emphasizes experiential learning through study abroad and community projects. Admission requires a 2.50 GPA and completion of core courses, with no ACT or SAT exam needed. Affordability is enhanced by its public university status, offering lower tuition rates and financial aid options for in-state students.
- Accredited by CSWE.
- BA or BS options.
- 450-hour internship.
- 2.50 GPA requirement.
- Study abroad opportunities.
- Prepares for LBSW licensure.
- Experiential learning focus.
- Community engagement projects.
- Semi-annual Field Fair.
- Faculty committed to student success.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
West Texas A&M University's Bachelor of Science in Social Work program is CSWE-accredited and focuses on generalist practice, leading to eligibility for Texas LBSW licensure. It features a 450-hour internship and opportunities for study abroad and community engagement. Admission is based on a 2.50 GPA without an ACT or SAT requirement. As a public institution, it provides cost-effective education through state funding and scholarships, making it accessible for students seeking an affordable BSW degree.
- Accredited by CSWE.
- 450-hour internship required.
- Leads to LBSW licensure.
- BA and BS options available.
- Study abroad opportunities.
- 2.50 GPA admission requirement.
- Prepares for graduate education.
- Community engagement activities.
- On-campus program only.
- Unique learning approaches.
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX - Public 4-Year - txst.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Social Work
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas State University offers an affordable online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. It prepares students for generalist practice, emphasizing social justice and diverse career paths in fields like child welfare and mental health. As a public university with lower tuition rates for in-state students, it provides cost-effective education without requiring ACT or SAT exams for admission, making it accessible for many aspiring social workers in San Antonio and beyond.
- Accredited by CSWE.
- Prepares for licensure.
- Focuses on social justice.
- Diverse career opportunities.
- High academic standards.
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uhcl.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Houston-Clear Lake offers a Bachelor of Social Work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, focusing on ethical practice and preparing students for licensure. It emphasizes hands-on experience through required internships and faculty research opportunities, particularly in working with diverse and vulnerable populations. Admission requires a 2.5 GPA, specific coursework, and a personal statement, but no ACT or SAT exam is needed. This on-campus program is affordable due to its public university status, potentially offering lower tuition rates and financial aid options for Texas residents.
- Accredited by CSWE.
- Focus on diverse populations.
- Hands-on internship opportunities.
- Faculty research participation.
- 2.5 GPA requirement.
- Specific coursework prerequisites.
- Personal statement required.
- On-campus program.
- Prepares for social work licensure.
- Emphasis on ethical practice.
Our Lady of the Lake University
San Antonio, TX - Private 4-year - ollusa.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Social Work
Campus Based - Visit Website
Our Lady of the Lake University offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program that is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, preparing students for generalist practice and graduate studies. The curriculum emphasizes culturally competent social work, with a focus on Hispanic/Latin@ families, and includes field education for hands-on experience. Admission requires a 2.0 overall GPA and 2.5 in social work courses, along with a personal statement and recommendation; no ACT or SAT is specified as required. This program may be affordable due to its Roman Catholic affiliation, potential for financial aid, and options like online study and a 4+1 MSW pathway that can reduce overall costs.
- Accredited by CSWE.
- Prepares for Texas licensure.
- Focus on Hispanic/Latin@ families.
- Offers online and campus options.
- 4+1 MSW pathway available.
- Requires 2.0 overall GPA.
- 2.5 GPA in social work courses.
- Field education integral.
- Cultural competence emphasized.
- Eligible for NASW membership.
Why Affordability Matters in Social Work Education
Affordability is central to ensuring access to the social work profession. Since entry level salaries in social work are often modest compared to other careers requiring a bachelor's degree, low-cost programs make it possible for graduates to pursue meaningful work without overwhelming debt.
San Antonio is home to many first generation college students, working adults, and nontraditional learners. By offering affordable programs, the city supports a pathway for students from all backgrounds to pursue social work. This not only broadens access to the profession but also strengthens the community by ensuring the workforce reflects the populations served.
Career Outlook for BSW Graduates in San Antonio
Graduates with a BSW degree often transition directly into entry level positions across nonprofit, healthcare, and government agencies. The city’s growing population and evolving social needs driven by San Antonio’s status as the seventh-largest city in the U.S. and major military hub provide steady demand. Some of the most common career roles include:
Major local opportunities for BSW graduates include:
- Case management for families and children in crisis – Working with Bexar County Human Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, and local nonprofits like Family Service Association
- Advocacy positions supporting immigrant, refugee, and minority populations – Serving San Antonio’s 64% Hispanic population and recent immigrants through organizations like Catholic Charities and the Refugee Services of Texas
- Outreach coordinators in community health and wellness programs – Supporting initiatives through University Health System, Methodist Healthcare, and Federally Qualified Health Centers on the city’s East and West sides
- School support staff addressing behavioral and social needs of students – Working within San Antonio ISD, Northside ISD, North East ISD, and other area districts serving diverse student populations
- Program assistants in substance use and mental health treatment centers – Supporting recovery programs through the Center for Health Care Services, Haven for Hope, and other facilities addressing San Antonio’s behavioral health needs
- Military and veteran services – Providing support at Joint Base San Antonio (Lackland, Fort Sam Houston, Randolph), the South Texas Veterans Health Care System, and veteran service organizations
With additional study and experience, many BSW graduates move into advanced positions in policy, clinical practice, or leadership within community organizations while serving San Antonio’s unique blend of military families, Hispanic communities, and rapidly growing suburban populations throughout Bexar County and the greater South Texas region.
Skills Gained in a BSW Program
Social work education is designed to blend theory with practical application. BSW students graduate with versatile skills that allow them to navigate diverse human service environments effectively.
- Cultural Competence: Serving San Antonio's bilingual and multicultural communities.
- Advocacy and Policy Knowledge: Learning to influence change through nonprofit, civic, or government initiatives.
- Client Assessment and Planning: Developing strategies for evaluating needs and connecting clients with resources.
- Professional Ethics: Applying standards of practice to complex client situations.
Field placements are essential to this training. In San Antonio, placements frequently occur in healthcare systems, military family support programs, and community development organizations, giving students the opportunity to apply classroom learning in real settings.
Common field placement sites for BSW students in San Antonio include:
- Healthcare systems – University Health System (including Robert B. Green Campus and the downtown University Hospital), Methodist Healthcare System, Baptist Health System, and Christus Santa Rosa Health System, where students gain experience in medical social work and discharge planning
- Military and veteran services – Joint Base San Antonio facilities (Lackland Air Force Base, Fort Sam Houston, Randolph Air Force Base), South Texas Veterans Health Care System, Operation Homefront, and Armed Services YMCA, providing support to active duty families and veterans
- Child and family services – Bexar County Human Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Boys and Girls Clubs of San Antonio, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and SAMMinistries, focusing on child welfare and family preservation
- Community development organizations – Eastside Promise Neighborhood, West Side Development Corporation, Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, and neighborhood centers throughout districts like the East Side, West Side, and South Side, addressing housing, education, and economic development
- Substance abuse and mental health – Center for Health Care Services, Haven for Hope (the city’s transformational campus for homeless services), Clarity Child Guidance Center, and various community mental health clinics serving San Antonio’s diverse populations
- Immigration and refugee services – Catholic Charities of San Antonio, Refugee Services of Texas, American Gateways, and RAICES (Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services), supporting the city’s significant immigrant and asylum-seeking populations
These placements allow students to work with San Antonio’s predominantly Hispanic community, military families, and other diverse populations while gaining hands-on experience in both urban and suburban settings.
Meeting Community Needs in San Antonio
The city's unique profile creates a wide variety of social work needs. San Antonio is home to one of the largest concentrations of military families in the country, as well as a large Hispanic population and significant rural communities within commuting distance. These factors create opportunities for social workers trained locally to respond directly to challenges faced by their neighbors.
For example, a BSW graduate may work in a family service agency supporting military spouses during deployment, or in a healthcare outreach program addressing chronic illness in underserved neighborhoods. These experiences allow graduates to engage with the pressing social concerns that define San Antonio's communities.
Choosing the Right Affordable Program
Selecting the right BSW program requires balancing cost with professional preparation. Key considerations include:
- Tuition and Fees: Compare overall costs and explore local scholarships, state funding, and grant opportunities.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, which is required for licensure and graduate study.
- Field Placement Opportunities: Evaluate whether programs partner with San Antonio's nonprofit, healthcare, and school systems.
- Program Flexibility: Consider evening, weekend, or hybrid options that support working students or caregivers.
Employment and Salary Considerations
Employment opportunities for BSW graduates in Texas remain strong. Entry level salaries typically range from $40,000 to $50,000, with variation based on specialization and setting. In San Antonio, the cost of living is lower compared to other major Texas cities, making these salaries more sustainable for graduates.
A snapshot of entry level roles in Texas illustrates the career potential for social work graduates:
| Role | Typical Entry Level Salary | Growth Outlook |
| Child and Family Social Worker | $43,000 | Faster than average |
| Healthcare Social Worker | $48,000 | Faster than average |
| School Social Worker | $45,000 | Faster than average |
Affordable social work degree programs help reduce the financial burden of education, allowing graduates to focus on professional growth rather than student loan repayment.
Emerging Trends in Social Work
Social work practice in San Antonio is evolving alongside broader national trends. The increased use of digital tools for case management and telehealth services has expanded the reach of care. Bilingual practitioners are especially sought after, as nearly two thirds of San Antonio residents identify as Hispanic or Latino.
Social workers in the region are also deeply involved in addressing social determinants of health, such as housing, food security, and access to transportation. These factors shape outcomes as much as direct medical care, making social workers key contributors to public health initiatives.
Building a Future in Social Work
Enrolling in a low-cost BSW program near San Antonio is an investment not only in an individual's social work career but also in the broader wellbeing of the community. Graduates play vital roles in helping families, supporting schools, and strengthening social systems that benefit all residents.
For those choosing this path, the rewards go beyond professional development. Through internships, field placements, and direct service, students engage with San Antonio's diverse communities and gain experiences that shape both their personal and professional lives. Affordable programs provide the chance to pursue these opportunities without overwhelming financial strain, ensuring that future social workers can dedicate their focus to meaningful service and long-term career advancement.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Council on Social Work Education
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Telehealth
- Texas Workforce Commission
