BSW Programs in Kentucky
14 colleges · 503 BSW graduates per year · in-state tuition $8,088–$33,072
Every college below awards a Bachelor of Social Work degree in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky ranking.
| College | City | BSW Grads/Yr | In-State Tuition | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green | 89 | $11,436 | 58% |
| University of Kentucky | Lexington | 64 | $11,849 | 71% |
| Eastern Kentucky University | Richmond | 58 | $9,830 | 55% |
| Campbellsville University | Campbellsville | 56 | $26,490 | 43% |
| University of Louisville | Louisville | 52 | $12,632 | 61% |
| Morehead State University | Morehead | 46 | $9,518 | 54% |
| Northern Kentucky University | Highland Heights | 40 | $10,512 | 54% |
| Murray State University | Murray | 27 | $8,436 | 65% |
| Kentucky State University | Frankfort | 17 | $8,088 | 35% |
| Brescia University | Owensboro | 16 | $29,500 | 54% |
| Asbury University | Wilmore | 12 | $33,072 | 65% |
| Spalding University | Louisville | 11 | $27,450 | 52% |
| University of Pikeville | Pikeville | 11 | $24,000 | 42% |
| Kentucky Christian University | Grayson | 4 | $24,400 | 37% |
Social Work Licensure in Kentucky
Licensure requirements change — verify with the Kentucky social work board before applying. Learn more in our licensure guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many colleges offer BSW programs in Kentucky?
14 colleges in Kentucky awarded bachelor's degrees in social work, graduating 503 BSW students per year according to the latest federal IPEDS data.
What is the most affordable BSW program in Kentucky?
Kentucky State University in Frankfort has the lowest published in-state tuition among Kentucky BSW colleges at $8,088 per year. Your actual cost may be lower after grants and scholarships — check each college's average net price.
Which Kentucky college has the largest BSW program?
Western Kentucky University graduates the most BSW students in Kentucky, with 89 bachelor's degrees in social work awarded per year.
Can you get licensed with a BSW in Kentucky?
Yes. Kentucky offers the LSW 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.