BSW Programs in Iowa
13 colleges · 268 BSW graduates per year · in-state tuition $8,396–$49,650
Every college below awards a Bachelor of Social Work degree in Iowa, based on the latest federal IPEDS completions data. Programs are ordered by size (BSW degrees awarded per year). Click a college for admissions, financial aid, and outcome details. See also the best BSW colleges in Iowa ranking.
| College | City | BSW Grads/Yr | In-State Tuition | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Northern Iowa | Cedar Falls | 81 | $8,396 | 68% |
| University of Iowa | Iowa City | 43 | $9,016 | 75% |
| Saint Ambrose University | Davenport | 23 | $35,318 | 61% |
| Dordt University | Sioux Center | 20 | $35,360 | 74% |
| Loras College | Dubuque | 20 | $36,454 | 68% |
| Grand View University | Des Moines | 15 | $32,800 | 54% |
| Briar Cliff University | Sioux City | 13 | $33,369 | 48% |
| Luther College | Decorah | 12 | $49,650 | 71% |
| Wartburg College | Waverly | 11 | $48,490 | 64% |
| Mount Mercy University | Cedar Rapids | 9 | $38,070 | 58% |
| Northwestern College | Orange City | 8 | $35,000 | 66% |
| Buena Vista University | Storm Lake | 8 | $40,190 | 62% |
| Clarke University | Dubuque | 5 | $38,400 | 56% |
Social Work Licensure in Iowa
Licensure requirements change — verify with the Iowa social work board before applying. Learn more in our licensure guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many colleges offer BSW programs in Iowa?
13 colleges in Iowa awarded bachelor's degrees in social work, graduating 268 BSW students per year according to the latest federal IPEDS data.
What is the most affordable BSW program in Iowa?
University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls has the lowest published in-state tuition among Iowa BSW colleges at $8,396 per year. Your actual cost may be lower after grants and scholarships — check each college's average net price.
Which Iowa college has the largest BSW program?
University of Northern Iowa graduates the most BSW students in Iowa, with 81 bachelor's degrees in social work awarded per year.
Can you get licensed with a BSW in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa offers the LBSW credential at the bachelor's level. Exam required: Yes. License renewal: 2 years. See our licensure guide for full requirements.
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Where a BSW Leads
A Bachelor of Social Work opens into six main practice areas, and pay differs between them by more than most prospective students expect. Each guide below carries the full BLS percentile spread, pay by work setting, and pay by state. Figures are May 2025 medians.
Nonprofits and government — program development, policy, advocacy
K-12 districts — attendance, behavior, family support, IEP teams
Hospitals, clinics, home health — discharge planning and care coordination
Community clinics and hospitals — assessment, counseling, crisis response
Treatment centers and public health — recovery planning and aftercare
County and state agencies — child protection, foster care, family preservation
Not sure which fits? Start with the career and salary overview or the is social work for me self-assessment.