The best 50 accredited schools that offer degrees in Social Work educate students with both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. There are many schools that offer degrees in social work and social work students come from many walks of life.
Some enter the field from a sociology or child psychology background. Others worked in family planning, criminal justice, legal studies, and other areas that specifically brought them to social work. Then there are the thousands of students that want to help and make a difference.
Unfortunately, social work is a job where many professionals are subject to hostility, negative media attention, and stereotyping. It’s also a field that lends itself a witness to child and adult abuse and the sometimes horrific conditions under which some people live. All of this means that social work degree students go through rigorous educational programs and career training programs to be ready for the field.
Finding the Best Accredited Schools That Offer Degrees In Social Work
The selection process can be complex for many students seeking schools that align with their lifestyle, budget, and goals. The best college programs offer research facilities, education libraries, prominent faculty members, and dual degree programs to help make students more successful in the workforce today. There are many applications of a social work major. In fact, some undergraduates believe going for a master’s degree is the best option to advance educational, personal, and professional goals. Either way, students who complete a social work degree are able to enter the job force with more knowledge and experience than those who do not.
The Top 10 CSWE-Accredited Social Work Schools are:
- University of Pennsylvania
- Columbia University
- University of Washington
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
- University of Texas at Austin
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
Read on for full profiles of the Top 50 schools that offer degrees in social work!
Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Social Work Schools
For this comprehensive ranking of the 50 best traditional social work schools, Social Work Degree Center editors focused on CSWE-accredited colleges and universities known for their educational quality, mentorship, networking opportunities, and more. Programs in the schools that offer degrees in social work are ranked by tuition cost, student satisfaction, and alumni salary, using data from IPEDS and Niche.
1. University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania Social Policy & Practice School is among the best schools that offer degrees in social work in the nation. The various programs available from one of the country’s best schools for social work include several Master of Social Work programs and also a Doctor of Social Work or Ph.D. in Social Welfare. In addition, as one of Philadelphia’s best social work schools, the University of Pennsylvania offers certificate and continuing education programs, which include options for global engagement.
Founded by Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania is an ivy league school that opened in 1740. More than 22,250 students attend classes online and on-campus, vying for the degrees offers by the university’s twelve undergraduate and graduate schools/colleges. The University of Pennsylvania is one of the recognized colonial colleges having been established prior to the American Revolution.
Programs: MSW, PhD, DSW
2. Columbia University
Columbia University’s Social Work School ranks as one of the country’s best schools of social work. In addition, Columbia was the first social work school founded in the nation. As one of the best social work schools, Columbia University’s curriculum for their MSW aligns with the CSWE standards, with degree candidates required to complete 60 graduate semester credits, which is offered in an accelerated format. MSW candidates can select from an advanced clinical social practice, generalist, policy practice, and also social enterprise administration. The Doctor of Philosophy degree program (Ph.D.) offered by one of New York’s country’s best schools for social work offers two academic tracks – social policy analysis and advanced practice.
Columbia University is a private higher learning institution that serves more than 33,350 students. Established in the mid-1750s, Columbia is both an ivy league school and a colonial college.
Programs: MSW, PhD
3. University of Washington
The University of Washington’s social work programs are ranked as one of the west coast’s best schools of social work, offering program options at the baccalaureate (in social welfare), master’s, and also doctoral level. In fact Center for World Rankings has previously ranked UDub as the globe’s best school for social work in 2017. The University of Washington’s best social work schools bachelor’s and master’s degree programs offer students more than 600 field placement sites. The school’s Ph.D. program in Social Welfare is available only on a full-time basis.
The University of Washington (UW) is a space and sea-grant school that is among the oldest of all universities on the west coast. Founded in 1861, the University of Washington now serves nearly 47,700 students online and its multiple campuses. The University of Washington is ranked among the public ivies and a member of the AAU.
Programs: BASW, MSW, PhD
4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The Social Work School at the UNC at Chapel Hill is among North Carolina’s best social work schools. In addition, the University of North Carolina’s social work school recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary. AS one of the southern United States’ best schools for social work, UNC offers a variety of MSW programs, dual degree programs, and doctoral programs in a variety of social work specialties. Field placement options are available in more than 50 counties in the state of North Carolina.
The University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill) is the flagship campus of the University of North Carolina system and opened in 1789. As a recognized public ivy school, UNC-Chapel Hill serves more than 29,950 students each year. In addition, UNC-Chapel Hill boasts of being the only public school to have graduated students in the 18th century.
Programs: MSW, PhD
5. University of California, Los Angeles
The Luskin Public Affairs School within the University of California, Los Angeles is considered among Golden State’s best schools for social work. Among the west coast’s CSWE-accredited, best schools of social work, UCLA offers social work degree programs at the bachelor’s level (BA in Public Affairs), a full and part-time MSW program, plus a Ph.D. program in Social Welfare that is recognized among the leading programs from one of the nation’s Carolina’s best social work schools. UCLA’s BA in Public Affairs also offers a minor in gerontology.
The University of California (UCLA)was established as a branch of the University of California in 1919 but is now a land grant and space-grant school that serves more than 45,650 undergraduate and graduate students. The Los Angeles campus at the University of California is recognized as one of the nation’s public ivies and also ranks among the top schools in the world.
Programs: BA, MSW, PhD
6. University of California, Berkeley
The University of California, Berkeley is one of California’s best schools for social work, having been developed in the early 1940s. Berkley’s School of Social Welfare is among Northern California’s best schools of social work. The school offers both a Bachelor of Arts degree (BA) in Social Welfare, a two-year CSWE-accredited MSW program (with three academic concentrations), and also dual degree options that include MPP, MPH, or JD degrees. In addition, Berkeley, as one of the best social work schools, offers a Ph.D. program in Social Welfare that can be combined with Berkeley’s MSW degree as well.
The University of California (Cal) was established as the first land-grant school in 1868. Berkeley is home to more than 43,150 students vying for degrees offered by its fourteen schools/colleges. The University of California, Berkeley is home to various national research institutes in the fields of math, space science, and chemistry.
Programs: BASW, MSW, PhD
7. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois’s Social Work School is recognized to be one of the Midwest’s best schools of social work. World University Rankings has ranked UI’s social work program as one of the six best schools for social work, with a job placement rate of MSW grads of 90%. The BSW program is campus-based, while the Master of Social Work programs is available online, as hybrid programs, or on the school’s campus. The doctoral social work programs from one of Illinois’s best social work schools are typically completed in 3 – 5 years, depending on the student’s time commitment.
The University of Illinois (U of I) was established in 1867 under the Morrill Act of 1862. In addition, U of I is a sea and space-grant school and the flagship campus of the state. U of I is considered as a public ivy school.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
8. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is one of the state’s oldest and best schools for social work, offering social work academic degrees at the baccalaureate, graduate, and doctorate levels. The programs offered by one of the Midwest’s best social work schools include a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, a Master of Social Work, and a Joint Doctor of Philosophy degree in Social Work. As one of Michigan’s best schools of social work, degree candidates can select from eight concentrations in the Master of Social Work degree program.
The University of Michigan opened in 1917, two decades prior to Michigan reaching statehood. With several campuses that serve more than 45,000 undergraduate and graduate students, Michigan is one of the largest school in the state. In addition, the University of Michigan has been recognized as a public ivy league school.
Programs: BA, MSW, PhD
9. University of Texas at Austin
The Hicks Social Work School, at the University of Texas at Austin, has been ranked as one of the nation’s ten best schools of social work. The programs offered by one of Texas’s best schools for social work include a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), A Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW), and a Ph.D. in Social Work, plus post-doctoral training options. The McCombs Business School, along with one of Austin’s best social work schools, offers a dual degree program option with the MSSW program.
The University of Texas (UT) is the state’s flagship campus, with more than 51,050 students attending classes online and on-campus. UT is also a space-grant school that was founded in 1881. The University of Texas athletes have garnered nearly 150 Olympic medals.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
10. University of Wisconsin-Madison
The University of Wisconsin’s Rosenbaum Social Work School is recognized to be among the best schools of social work in Wisconsin. The programs available from one of the Midwest’s best schools for social work include an undergraduate BSW degree, a full and part-time Master of Social Work, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Welfare, plus post-MSW options. The MSW programs from one of the best social work schools include aging, mental health, child/youth/family welfare, and health.
The University of Wisconsin (UW) is Wisconsin’s flagship campus that is situated on Lake Mendota. More than 45,500 students vying for the more than 400 academic degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The University of Wisconsin also maintains a large arboretum and is home to four National Historic landmarks.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
11. University of Maryland-Baltimore
The School of Social Work at the University of Maryland Baltimore is recognized to be one of the best social work schools in the mid-Atlantic region. Among Maryland’s best schools of social work, The University of Maryland offers a Bachelor of Social Work, a Master of Social Work (at the Baltimore or Shady Grove campus), and a Ph.D. in Social Work program, plus opportunities for post-doctoral fellows. Additionally, UM’s best schools for social work offer an array of international learning opportunities to its social work students.
The University of Maryland (UM) is a research higher learning institution that was established in 1966. This space-grant school serves more than 13,450 students each year – the fourth largest student enrollment in the UM system. The University of Maryland, Baltimore County is organized into seven colleges/schools offering degrees in public policy, social work, humanities, engineering, and math/natural sciences, to name a few.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
12. Boston College
As one of New England’s best social work schools, Boston College’s Social Work School offers a Master of Social Work degree program and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work. The MSW program offered by one of Massachusetts’ best schools of social work can be completed as full or part-time students and with available dual degree options. Boston College, as one of Boston’s best schools for social work, includes six practice specialties in health, Latinx communities, older adults, children/youth, health, mental health, and global practice.
Boston College is a Jesuit institution of higher education that was founded in the early 1860s. Nearly 15,000 students attend classes on the school’s Boston campus and online, vying for the degrees offered by the college’s eight colleges/schools. The Boston College men’s ice hockey team has won multiple championships.
Programs: MSW, PhD
13. University of Georgia
The University of Georgia’s Social Work School is ranked among the best schools of social work in the southern United States. In addition, the University of Georgia’s best schools for social work offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree program, a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program, and a Ph.D. in Social Work, plus a Master of Arts Degree (MA) in Nonprofit Management & Leadership. AS one of Georgia’s best social work schools, UGA also offers several dual degree options with the MSW degree – a Juris Doctor and a Master of Public Health degree, simultaneously.
The University of Georgia is recognized to be a public ivy and the flagship campus of Georgia’s university system with a student enrollment that nears 39,000 students. Established in the mid-1780s, the University of Georgia is one of only four schools that are a four-designation school – sun, land, space, and sea-grant.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
14. Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis’s Brown School has been ranked as one of Missouri’s best schools for social work. The school offers a Master of Social Work and a Ph.D. degree in Social Work (or public health Sciences) from one of the Midwest’s best social work schools. Alumni from one of St. Louis’s best schools of social work hale from nearly 70 international locations. Additionally, students may opt to explore the many global opportunities offered by the university.
WU in St. Louis is a multi-campus institution of higher learning that was established in 1853. This private school serves more than 12,550 students from all states and more than 100 international locations. Additionally, it is among the top ten universities in the world for the most cited researchers.
Programs: MSW, PhD
15. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
The University of Minnesota’s Education and Human Development houses one of Minnesota’s oldest and best schools of social work. Among the programs provided by one of the Twin Cities’ best schools for social work are a Master of Social Work degree (MSW) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work – from the school’s campus. The available MSW concentrations from one of the best social work schools include aging & disability, community practice, health, and children/families.
The University of Minnesota (UM Twin Cities) maintains dual campuses in Minneapolis and Saint Paul that serve more than 51,050 undergraduate and graduate students. UM was established in the early 1850s as a college prep school but became a land grant school about fifteen years later. In addition, Minnesota’s student enrollment numbers are among the largest in the nation.
Programs: MSW, PhD
16. University of Utah
The University of Utah’s Social Work College is ranked among Utah’s best schools for social work. The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from one of Salt Lake City’s best schools of social work is available online and on the school’s campus. Utah’s MSW program offers seven tracks in health, global, substance use, aging, child welfare, mental health, health, and forensic. Utah’s best social work schools also offer a Ph.D. in Social Work that is available online for the Fall of 2022 – for the first time.
The University of Utah (U of U) is a research university that was established in 1850. More than 32,650 students attend cases offered by Utah’s flagship and space-grant institution of higher education, which makes U of U the 2nd largest school in Utah. The University of Utah was established decades before Utah enter the union as a state.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
17. Rutgers University
Rutgers University is the Garden State’s best school for social work, offering a number of social work programs on its Camden and Newark campuses. As one of New Jersey’s best schools of social work, Rutgers University offers academic, social work degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Rutgers University’s Social Work School was established in the mid-1950s and is now among the best social work schools in the eastern United States. The doctoral programs include a Ph.D. and a Doctor of Social Work options.
Rutgers University’s motto is the State University of New Jersey. The school maintains three campuses in central and northern New Jersey that serve about 68,450 students. In addition, Rutgers is a land, sea, and space-grant school that was founded in 1866, making it one of the oldest in the postsecondary schools in the United States.
Programs: BASW, MSW, PhD, DSW
18. University of Southern California
The Peck Social Work School within the University of Southern California (USC) is recognized to be among the west coast’s best social work schools. In addition, USC is one of the best schools for social work that has received accreditation by the CSWE, with a commitment to abide by the NASW Code of Ethics. The MSW degree programs from one of California’s best schools of social work include an online version, a program for working adults, an advanced standing program, and a traditional program. Students may also choose a dual degree or a combo program that allows earning a baccalaureate and master’s degree in five years
The University of Southern California (USC) is a sea & space-grant school that was established in the early 1880s with more than 48,250 students. SC holds the distinction of being the oldest school in the state.
Programs: BSW, MSW, DSW
19. Michigan State University
Michigan State University’s College of Social Science offers a variety of social programs from one of Michigan’s best schools of social work. The university offers a Bachelor of Social Work degree (BSW) and certificate programs at the undergraduate level. Michigan’s best social work schools in East Lansing and Flint (and other locations) offer a regular 57-credit program, plus several options for advanced standing students. MSW candidates enrolled in one of the Midwest’s best schools for social work can opt for two dual degree programs, plus a Ph.D. in Social Work degree.
Michigan State University (MSU) is a public land-grant school established in 1855 under the Morrill Act. The school’s East Lansing campus is home to nearly 50,000 students. Michigan State University’s athletes play as Spartans and have won six national championships in football.
Programs: BASW, MSW, PhD
20. Ohio State University
Ohio State University’s Social Work College is one of Ohio’s best schools for social work, offering social degrees and certificate programs from the undergraduate to doctoral levels. US News ranks Ohio State University’s Graduate College of Social among the six best schools of social work in the nation, among more than 250 graduate programs. Among the best social work schools in Columbus, Ohio State University offers a bachelor’s, a master’s, a combo BSW/MSW, and a Doctor of Philosophy program, plus a variety of international study opportunities, among others.
Ohio State University (Ohio State) is a space, land, and sea-grant university that was established in 1870. In addition, Ohio State University maintains multiple campuses and is Ohio’s flagship school with more than 61,150 undergraduate and graduate students. The football program at Ohio State University is valued at $1.5 billion, the largest valuation of any program.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
21. Indiana University
Indiana University is home to one of Indiana’s best social work schools which offers students various social programs that include academic degrees (from baccalaureate to doctoral) and certificate programs, with more than 8,000 alumni working in the social work field. As one of the Hoosier state’s best schools for social work, Indiana University offers a BSW from its six Indiana locations. IU’s MSW programs are available in seven locations and entirely online. IU’s Ph.D. in Social Work program is the only program of its kind and offered from one of the state’s best schools of social work.
Indiana University was founded in 1820 and operates two comprehensive campuses, seven regional campuses, and an online platform that serve more than 110,150 students each year. Indiana University’s flagship campus is situated in Bloomington.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
22. University of Chicago
The University of Chicago’s Crown School of Social Work is recognized among the Windy City’s best schools of social work. Among the best social work schools in Illinois, the University of Chicago offers an MSW and a dual degree for MSW, and a master’s degree in Social Sector leadership. The Doctor of Philosophy degree program in Social Work – from one of Chicago’s best schools for social work, requires the completion of a minimum of fifteen courses, including statistics and research methods.
The University of Chicago (Chicago) was established in 1890 and now operates as a private space-grant institution of higher education. U of C is recognized among the most selective in the nation and among the finest in the world, serves more than 16,250 students. The faculty of the University of Chicago includes more than 100 Nobel Laureates.
Programs: MSW, PhD
23. University of Connecticut
The University of Connecticut’s School of Social Work offers a variety of social work programs from one of New England’s best schools for social work. The University of Connecticut’s Social Work programs at the baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral levels are recognized to be among the nation’s twenty-five best schools of social work, according to US News. In addition, The University of Connecticut’s Ph.D. is not only from one of the best social work schools but the only program in the overall region.
The University of Connecticut (UConn) was established in 1881 as a land grant school under the 1862 Morrill Act. More than 27,120 students attend classes online and on-campus. The Storrs campus is home to the school-run Repertory Theater. The University of Connecticut is recognized to be the top public university at the national level in New England.
Programs: BS, MSW, PhD
24. Arizona State University
Arizona State University’s Social Work School celebrates its sixtieth anniversary this year as one of Arizona’s best schools for social work. The BSW program from one of the western US’s best schools of social work prepares students for generalist work. Arizona State’s MSW degree offers concentrations in policy administration or advanced direct practice and is offered online or on-campus. The social work doctoral program from one of Tempe’s best social work schools trains students to become the next generation of social work educators, researchers, and scholars.
Arizona State University (ASU) is a public institution of higher education with multiple campuses in Arizona. The school serves 145,000 undergraduate and graduate students from its campuses and online platform. ASU was founded as a teacher’s school in the mid 1880s.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
25. Case Western Reserve University
Case Western Reserve University’s Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences is considered as one of Cleveland’s best schools for social work, offering graduate-level degrees that are available online and on-campus. As one of Ohio’s best schools of social work, Case Western offers eight MSW emphases that include, in part, again, children, health, substance use, or community path, among others. Case Western Reserve University’s Ph.D. in Social work is not only one of Cleveland’s best social work schools but the first social welfare program at the doctoral level in the nation.
Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a research school that was formed by a merger of two other schools in 1967. In addition, Case Western Reserve University is a space-grant school with a student enrollment that nears 12,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Case Western Reserve University’s Cleveland campus is located a few miles from downtown Cleveland.
Programs: MSW, PhD
26. University at Buffalo-SUNY
The University at Buffalo’s School of Social Work is one of the Great Lake Region’s best social work schools, offering academic degrees and certificate programs at the graduate level. As one of New York’s best schools for social work, the University of Buffalo is a public institution that offers world-class social work education at affordable tuition prices. UB’s MSW programs are available on-campus or online and are offered as a dual program with a Ph.D. degree. In addition, Western New York’s best schools of social work offer both a Doctor of Social Work and a Ph.D. program.
The University at Buffalo (UB) is a member school of the SUNY system that was established in 1827 by Milliard Fillmore. This space-grant university’s dual campuses and distance-learning platform serve about 32,140 students each year. The University at Buffalo operates the only NY-funded state law school.
Programs: MSW, DSW, PhD
27. Boston University
Boston University’s School of Social Work is ranked among Boston’s best social work schools offering both online and on-campus degree options at the graduate and doctoral levels. BU’s MSW program is available on Cape Cod, Boston, and Worcester. The MSW specializations from one of the best schools of social work include a traditional academic track, an advanced standing academic track, and a human service experience track. Boston University’s Ph.D. in Social Work is a fully funded program offered by one of New England’s best schools for social work.
Boston University was founded in 1830 in Vermont but moved to Boston about three decades later. About 35,000 undergraduate and graduate students attend classes online and, on the school’s, various campuses in the greater Boston area. Boston University’s men’s ice hockey team has won five national championship tournaments.
Programs: MSW, PhD
28. University of Illinois at Chicago
The Addams Social Work College at the University of Illinois at Chicago is ranked among the 10% best social work schools at the graduate level across the country. AS one of Chicago’s best schools of social work is CSWE accredited and offers four academic tracks – child/family, social work, mental health, and community practice. The Social Work Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D.) program from one of the Midwest’s best schools for social work offers two research tracks -social work practice or social planning, policy, and administration.
The University of Illinois at Chicago is a dual campus school that was established in 1982. In addition, the University of Illinois at Chicago is a public Hispanic and Asian-serving institution of higher learning with a student enrollment that nears 33,450 students each year. The University of Illinois at Chicago is recognized to be the largest postsecondary school in the greater metro area of Chicago.
Programs: MSW, PhD
29. Stony Brook University (SUNY)
Stony Brook University’s Social Welfare School is recognized to be one of the Empire State’s best schools for social work, offering social programs from the bachelor’s level to a doctoral level. As one of New York’s best social work schools focuses on social justice throughout its social work coursework. Field placements for Stony Brook’s social programs are available from the Hamptons through NYC. Stony Brook’s Ph.D. program is offered by one of the mid-Atlantic’s best schools of social work.
Stony Brook University (SBU) was founded in Oyster Bay in the later 1950s but now operates a space and sea-grant school further east on Long Island in Stony Brook. More than 26,550 students attend classes offered by the school. Stony Brook is a partner that manages the nearby Brookhaven Lab.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
30. Florida State University
Florida State University’s Social Work College offers, as one of the Sunshine State’s best schools for social work, various social work degree programs from the baccalaureate to doctorate level. US News ranks FSU’s undergraduate and graduate programs among the best social work schools in the southern United States. Florida State University’s BSW program offers focus areas in gerontology, children, and social justice, among others. The MSW programs available from one of Florida’s best schools of social work include online, part-time, full-time, and advanced standing options.
Florida State University (FSU) is a public postsecondary school that is also a member of the state’s university system. Florida State University is home to 51,050 students, studying on its 1,400+ acre campus and online. US News ranks FSU among the top 20 public higher learning institutions among all national schools.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
31. University of Kansas
The University of Kansas’s School of Social Work offers various academic degree and certificate programs at the baccalaureate, graduate, and doctoral levels. As one of middle-America’s best schools for social work boasts that more than 89% of the social work students perform above-established competency levels. Among the best social work schools in Kansas, KU’s offers an advanced standing MSW program that requires only 38 semester credits, with the traditional program requiring 64 credits. The Ph.D. program from one of Kansas’s best schools of social work offers guaranteed funding options.
The University of Kansas is the state’s flagship campus that was established in the mid 1860s. In addition, KU is a space-grant school with more than 27,250 students studying on its rural campus and online. The University of Kansas was founded in 1865, only a few years after Kansas reached statehood.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
32. Tulane University
The Social Work School at Tulane University is among the southern U.S.’s best schools of social work. Among New Orleans’s best social work schools, Tulane offers MSW and DSW programs from its campus and online. TU’s MSW degrees include concentrations in mental health, collective trauma, addiction, or family. The DSW academic degrees from one of the nation’s America’s best schools for social work offers students an on-campus and distance learning option, one of the few in the nation.
Tulane University is a postsecondary research school that was founded in 1834 as a medical college. More than 14,000 students attend classes offered by this space-grant institution of higher education’s ten schools/colleges – online and on the university’s 100+ urban acres. Tulane’s law school is ranked among the twelve oldest in the nation, with its medical school the fifteenth oldest.
Programs: MSW, DSW
33. New York University
New York University’s Silver Social Work School is one of the best schools of social work in the Big Apple, offering social work education and degrees from the baccalaureate to doctoral levels. At the bachelor’s level, one of New York’s best social work schools offers a Bachelor of Science in Social Work. As one of the mid-Atlantic’s best schools for social work, NYU offers several MSW programs that offer accelerated or international study options. Finally, NYU offers both a Doctor of Social Work and a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work.
New York University (NYU) is a postsecondary, private school that was established in the early 1830s. NYU’s iconic campus in Greenwich Village (plus online and other campuses) are home to more than 51,400 students. New York University’s commencement ceremonies are held in Yankee Stadium, several miles uptown.
Programs: BSW, MSW, DSW, PhD
34. Bryn Mawr College
Bryn Mawr College’s Graduate Social Work & Social Research School is ranked among the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s best schools of social work. Among the programs offered by one of eastern Pennsylvania’s best social work schools are a Master of Social Service (MSS) (advanced standing or traditional track) and a Ph.D. in Social Work, plus a dual degree program that offers an MSS with a Master of Public Health degree option. Additionally, one of Pennsylvania’s best schools for social work is accredited by the CSWE.
Bryn Mawr College was founded by the Quakers as a women’s college in 1885 and is recognized as a member of the Seven Sister Colleges. The college’s suburban campus is home to approximately 1,640 students. In addition, Bryn Mawr College holds the distinction of being the first school for women to offer graduate degrees through the doctoral level.
Programs: MSS, PhD
35. San Diego State University
San Diego State University’s Social Work School is recognized as one of the Golden State’s best schools of social work, offering academic degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. At the bachelor’s level, one of California’s best social work schools offers a BA in Social Work or Gerontology. San Diego State University’s MSW is offered as a joint program, traditional track, or an advanced standing track. Additionally, SD State, as one of western United States’ best schools for social work, offers a Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Research regarding substance use.
San Diego State University (SDSU) was established as the San Diego Normal School in the late 1890s. The school is a member of the state’s university system and has more than 35,450 students attending classes each year. SDSU is recognized to have one of the most diverse student enrollments in the country.
Programs: BASW, MSW, PhD
36. University of Houston
The University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work is one of the best schools of social work, offering both several MSW degree options and a Ph.D. program. At the master’s level, Houston’s best social work schools offer an on-campus, hybrid, and online option for MSW students. These MSW degree options are available from one of the Lone Star State’s best schools for social work – a clinical practice and a macro practice track.
The University of Houston was established in 1927 as a junior college and has grown to be the 3rd largest school in the Lone Star State. The University of Houston is home to more than 46,050 students vying for the nearly 300-degree programs offered by UH’s fourteen schools/colleges. The original classes for UH were taught in a local high school to train teachers.
Programs: MSW, PhD
37. Smith College
Smith College’s Social Work School offers several graduate social work programs from one of western Massachusetts’s best schools of social work. These social work programs offered by one of Massachusetts’s best social work schools include a nationally recognized MSW degree and a Ph.D. degree program. In addition, one of New England’s best schools for social work has received CSWE accreditation.
Smith College (SC) is an all-women’s college in western Massachusetts that was founded in 1871. Smith College is a member of the Seven Sisters Consortium and the Five College Consortium for schools in the Pioneer Valley. Nearly 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students attend classes online and on the school’s Northampton campus. Notable alumni of Smith College include Barbara Bush, Nancy Reagan, Margaret Mitchell, and Gloria Steinem, among others.
Programs: MSW, PhD
38. University of Pittsburgh
The School of Social Work at the University of Pittsburgh offers a variety of social work programs and is ranked among Pittsburgh’s best schools of social work. In addition, as one of Pennsylvania’s best social work schools, the University of Pittsburgh maintains the second largest training program for child welfare. The programs offered by one of Pittsburgh’s best schools for social work include a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, a Master of Social Work, and a Ph.D. in Social Work.
The University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) was established as an academy in the late 1780s. More than 28,150 undergraduate and graduate students attend classes vying for degrees offered by the university’s seventeen colleges/schools. The University of Pittsburgh is recognized to be the second largest employer (nongovernmental) in the greater Pittsburgh metro area.
Programs: BASW, MSW, PhD
39. University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina’s Social Work College, established in 1969, is recognized to be one of South Carolina’s best schools of social work. As one of the state’s best social work schools, the University of South Carolina offers a BSW, an MSW, and a Ph.D. in Social Work, led by a team of dynamic scholars/researchers. The programs offered by one of South Carolina’s best schools for social work have received unconditional CSWE accreditation after each assessment/review.
The University of South Carolina (SC) was founded in 1801 and is a multiple campus, sea-grant school. In addition, U of SC is the state’s flagship campus with a student enrollment of more than 52,550 graduate and undergraduate students system wide. The University of South Carolina, in terms of enrollment, is recognized to be the biggest higher learning institution in the state of South Carolina.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
40. Colorado State University
Colorado State University’s Health & Human Sciences College is considered among Colorado’s best social work schools. As one of the state’s best schools for social work, Colorado State University is CSWE accredited and offers students a variety of research and field experience opportunities. The programs offered by one of Colorado’s best schools of social work include a Bachelor’s and master’s degree in Social Work, plus a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work (Ph.D.).
Colorado State University is a land-grant and flagship school that was established in 1879. Colorado State University’s urban campus in Fort Collins is home to more than 30,050 students each year. Many astronauts are alumni from Colorado State University, as well as Keith Carradine, Dominque Dunne, John Amos, and Leslie Jones, to name a few.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
41. University of Texas at Arlington
The University of Texas at Arlington offers a variety of social work degree and certificate programs from the Lone Star State’s best schools for social work, according to College Factual. In addition, UTA’s social work MSW programs have been ranked among the best schools of social work for online degrees by BestMSWPrograms.com. UTA, as one of Texas’s best social work schools, offers a BSW, an MSW, and a Doctor of Social Work program.
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) was originally founded in 1895 and a member of the state’s A&M university system. In 1965, UT Arlington became a member of the UT system and now serves nearly 44,000 students vying for the nearly 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. The University of Texas’s Arlington campus is recognized to be among the four largest student enrollments in the Lone Star State.
Programs: BSW, MSW, DSW
42. University of Louisville
The University of Louisville’s Kent School of Social Work is ranked among the Southern United States’ best schools for social work. As one of Louisville’s best schools of social work, U of L offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) and a Master of Science of Social Work (with seven concentrations) – both accredited by the Council of Social Work Education. At the graduate level, one of Kentucky’s best social work schools offers a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work (Ph.D.).
The University of Louisville was founded in the late 1790s and a member of the state’s university system. The university’s student enrollment exceeds 21,350 students from nearly all Kentucky counties and more than 110 international locations. the University of Louisville is also a space-grant school that maintains several campuses in Louisville, Shelby, and Belknap, plus the Health Sciences campus.
Programs: BSW, MSSW, PhD, DSW
43. University at Albany (SUNY)
The University at Albany’s Social Welfare School is among the best schools for social work in the Empire State. SUNY Albany is also ranked as one of the best schools of social work in the SUNY system, offering students more than 400 field education opportunities. Among the programs offered by one of New York’s best social work schools are a Bachelor of Science, and a Master of Science, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work. Additionally, there are dual degree options for master’s degree candidates.
The University at Albany (SUNY) is a member of the SUNY system that was established in the mid 1840s as a state-funded normal school. SUNY Albany offers nearly 180 undergraduate and graduate degree options to its nearly 18,000 students. The University at Albany is home to the New York State Writer’s Institute.
Programs: BS, MSW, PhD
44. Saint Louis University
The Public Health and Social Justice College within Saint Louis University is considered among the most innovative and best schools for social work in the greater metro area of Saint Louis.
Among the programs offered by one of Missouri’s best schools of social work are a BSW, an MSW, and a variety of dual-degree option programs. Students enrolled in one of the state’s best social work schools are prepared to navigate the modern, complex health system.
Saint Louis University (SLU) was founded in 1818 and now maintains two campuses – one in Saint Louis and another in Spain. Additionally, this space-grant institution of higher education is home to about 12,550 undergraduate and graduate students. Saint Louis University’s social work school is ranked among the top 20% programs according to US News and accredited by the CEPH – the only Catholic University in the country to have this designation.
Programs: BSW, MSW, Dual Degrees
45. University of Denver
The University of Denver’s Graduate Social Work School offers several graduate social work programs and is considered among the best schools of social work in the greater Denver metro area.
Among the programs offered by one of Colorado’s best social work schools is an MSW, a Ph.D., plus dual degree options. The MSW program options from one of Denver’s best schools for social work include an online option, programs in Western Colorado and the Four Corners, as well as international and global programs and internships.
The University of Denver (Denver) is a private school that was established as a seminary in the mid-1860s. The University of Denver’s urban campus covers more than 100 acres and serves nearly 13,100 students each year. The campus of the University of Denver is a few miles from downtown Denver and is home to an arboretum.
Programs: MSW, PhD
46. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
The Health & Human Services College at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is ranked among the best schools of social work in and around the greater Charlotte vicinity. In addition, as one of the state’s best social work schools, UNC Charlotte’s Social Work School is CSWE accredited. In addition to the BSW program, North Carolina’s best schools for social work offer three MSW academic options, a tradition, a one-year advanced standing, or a three-year program that can be completed entirely online.
The University of North Carolina (North Carolina @ Charlotte) was founded in the mid-1940s as a research postsecondary school with a student enrollment that exceeds 30,050 undergraduate and graduate students. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is a multiple-campus school and is recognized as the largest in the greater Charlotte area.
Programs: BSW, MSW
47. University of Tennessee-Knoxville
The University of Tennessee’s Social Work College offers a variety of social degree programs and is among Tennessee’s best schools of social work. In addition, the University of Tennessee’s social work college is ranked among the best social work schools in the southern United States, offering a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Social Work., plus two doctoral degrees (Ph.D. or a Doctor of Social Work). Both the graduate and doctoral social work programs from one of Tennessee’s best schools for social work are available entirely online.
The University of Tennessee (UT) was established as the Blount College in the mid-1790s. In addition, the University of Tennessee is the flagship school that serves more than 30,450 undergraduate & graduate students each year. The University of Tennessee was established several years before Tennessee reached statehood when the area was known as the Southwest Territory.
Programs: BSSW, MSSW, PhD, DSW
48. Wayne State University
The Social Work School at Wayne State University is ranked among Michigan’s best social work schools offering social work programs from the bachelor’s level to that of a doctorate degree. In addition, as Detroit’s best school for social work, Wayne State is also the most diverse public school in the entire state. The MSW programs from one of the best schools of social work offer two academic paths – the community, policy & leadership track, or the interpersonal practice track.
Wayne State University (WSU) is ranked among the state’s largest institutions of higher education that was founded in the late 1860s. WSU maintains several academic campuses in the area in Wayne, Jackson, Macomb, and Oakland Counties that are home to more than 26,100 students. Wayne State University is organized into thirteen colleges/schools, offering programs in business education, engineering, fine arts, medicine, pharmacy, law, and nursing, among others.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
49. CUNY Hunter College
Hunter College (CUNY) has a long-established social work school that has been ranked among NYC’s best schools for social work for decades.
As one of the best social work schools within the CUNY system, Hunter is also a senior member school whose main building was once owned and dedicated by FDR and Eleanor Roosevelt. CUNY Hunter offers several social work degrees – a BSW, an MSW, and a Ph.D. in Social Work. Hunter’s MSW program, from one of Manhattan’s best schools of social work, includes an advanced standing program and several accelerated paths.
Hunter College is a constituent member school of the CUNY system that was established in 1870. The school is home to approximately 16,450 undergraduate and graduate students. In addition, Hunter College was named to honor the first president of the school, Thomas Hunter.
Programs: BSW, MSW, PhD
50. Howard University
Howard University’s Social Work School is ranked as one of the nation’s capital best schools of social work by being the first HBCU higher learning institution to offer a doctoral program in social work.
Among Washington DC’s best social work schools, Howard University also offers a Master of Social Work degree that offers concentrations in community administrations, direct practice, family/child welfare, mental health, criminal justice, and gerontology, among others. In addition, Howard University, as one of the best schools for social work, also offers an international service-learning path.
Howard University (Howard) is a recognized HBCU that was established in 1867, shortly after the Civil War. This research university offers more than 100 academic degree and certificate programs to its nearly 9,500 students each year. Notable alumni of Howard University include Kamala Harris and Thurgood Marshall.
Programs: MSW, PhD
What Should I Look For at Traditional Schools That Offer Degrees In Social Work?
For students looking for schools that offer degrees in social work and the best social work schools, there are several factors to consider, including the following:
- The best schools of social work prepare students for entry-level positions or graduate studies in social work.
- Students should only consider accredited social work schools since employers and graduate schools may not recognize degrees from unaccredited universities.
- Also, the best schools that offer degrees in social work have internship and mentorship programs that help students with career development both before and after graduation.
Prospective students looking for traditional, on-campus programs want to feel part of a community that includes faculty members willing to mentor them. Networking opportunities at the best social work schools include things like job fairs, career development programs, and internships at reputable public and private organizations.
Schools with your Career Path
Choose a program from the many schools that offer degrees in social work that addresses major theories and practices as well as the history of social work. For example, clinical social workers should attend a program that covers case management, professional identity, psychology. Degree focus areas and specializations to help students develop their career goals. Students also need a program that builds their soft skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and patience.
How Can Students Choose the Right Program from Schools that Offer Degrees in Social Work?
The best schools that offer degrees in social work and for social work should offer financial aid, have affordable tuition rates, diverse academic courses and specializations, flexible class schedules, and also opportunities to network and pursue internships. For students who are unable to attend an on-campus program, there are many MSW online programs. For example, students interested in clinical social work can attend an online LCSW program.
Accredited social work schools give students the peace of mind that they’re learning material approved by the appropriate regional or national accrediting agencies. This makes their degree more valuable and helps them obtain employment with reputable organizations.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW)
With a bachelor’s degree in social work, students can gain the knowledge they need to handle crisis intervention, treatment planning, and also case management. Some of the best curricula in social work programs include human behavior, social work research, diversity and multiculturalism, and other courses that will help students become effective counselors and social workers.
Specializations at schools that offer degrees in social work
Many schools that offer degrees in social work also have concentrations. While specializations give students majoring in social work more options for their career path, some bachelor’s degree programs focus on providing a general background in social work. However, students who choose to attend on-campus master’s degree programs should ensure that the school they choose has the right specialization for their career goals.
Why are Internships Important?
Many students rely on internships to give them workplace experience. Pursuing internships early in their undergraduate careers can help students decide if they would like a career in social work. Internships in social work are often challenging and provide an opportunity for students to make a real impact on the lives of individuals and communities.
Colleges with internship mentoring programs provide support for students who feel overwhelmed. Internships give students exposure to working professionals. By observing and relating to practicing social workers, interns can determine whether social work is the right career for them. Also, some students leverage unpaid internships into full-time jobs.
What is CSWE Accreditation?
The Council on Social Work Education or CSWE is the accrediting agency for social work degrees in the United States. This nonprofit organization has been approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), and students should ensure that the school or university they attend meets the criteria for CSWE accreditation.
Why is CSWE Accreditation Important? The CSWE accreditation standards are designed to ensure that colleges and universities meet the strict educational requirements needed to produce competent future social workers. Students who graduate from a CSWE-accredited institution are qualified to sit for their licensing exams in social work. In order to obtain job roles at the master’s level, students need to meet the criteria for licensing in their state.
Social Work Licensing
The most lucrative positions in social work require a master’s degree. Therefore, graduates need to obtain their licenses to advance their careers. Choosing a program that includes fieldwork and internships helps students get real-world experience and gives them valuable insight for the licensing exam and obtain jobs as social workers.
It’s a good idea to review the CSWE standards for colleges and universities offering social work degrees. CSWE accredited schools provide ample opportunities for students to conduct research, find internships and learn the fundamentals of helping others through social work.
Schools That Offer Degrees In Social Work for You
An online social work program prepares students for a successful career in many community organizations. With a bachelor’s in social work, graduates can find employment as school social workers, family social workers, and government agencies. They can also work in social service agencies and help to prevent child abuse and substance abuse.
Choosing a school is a personal choice but making sure that a university has the basic criteria such as accreditation can help prevent students from wasting their time and money. Choosing an on-campus school also gives students direct access to professors and other valuable resources.
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