Ferris State University

With 42 social work graduates in the latest year, Ferris State University runs one of the country's higher-volume BSW programs, ranking #153 among 587 colleges awarding the degree. Program size matters more than it first appears: larger cohorts usually mean more field placement partnerships and a deeper alumni network in local agencies.

55.5% of students complete their degree, close to the 50.4% median across BSW colleges nationally. Students who finish take a median of 5 years to do it. Unusually, part-time students complete at a higher rate here (59.8%) than full-time students (50.6%) — often a sign of a program built around people already working in the field. Transfer students actually outperform first-time entrants here (65.8% vs 53.7%), which is a good signal if you are coming from a community college.

The average student pays $10,825 a year after grants and scholarships — $6,723 below the $17,548 median across the 22 BSW colleges in Michigan. 47.0% of first-time students receive Pell Grants, a high share that usually reflects a student body with substantial financial need — and a financial aid office practiced at handling it. Net price is the number that matters when comparing programs, not sticker tuition — and because most social work roles are with government or nonprofit employers, graduates are typically eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.