Saginaw Valley State University

With 72 social work graduates in the latest year, Saginaw Valley State University runs one of the country's higher-volume BSW programs, ranking #58 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.

44.8% of students complete their degree, below the 50.4% median across BSW-awarding colleges — worth asking the department about directly. Students who finish take a median of 5 years to do it.

The average student pays $11,546 a year after grants and scholarships — $6,002 below the $17,548 median across the 22 BSW colleges in Michigan. 42.0% 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.