University of Washington School of Social Work

#2 best graduate school of social work in the nation (U.S. News & World Report, 2022)

#1 Social Work program in the world (Center for World University Rankings, 2017)

The University of Washington School of Social Work turns powerful ideas into lasting social change. Our graduates thrive as mental health counselors, nonprofit leaders, policy advocates, research scholars, child welfare specialists, hospital social workers, school social workers, and more. We invite you to join a prospective student information session (online or on-campus in Seattle), explore socialwork.uw.edu, and learn what makes UW special.

Live your passion for social change! UW is home to innovative research centers including the Latino Center for Health, Indigenous Wellness Research Institute, Center for Integrative Oncology and Palliative Care Social Work, Forefront Suicide Prevention Center, and the Center for Women's Welfare.

Students find community in affinity groups including the Native Circle Alliance, Association of Black Social Work Students, Colectiva de Latin American Social Workers, Transracial Adoptee Group, and the Anti-Racism & White Allyship Group. In 2019, 48% of UW School of Social Work students identified as students of color. We have a student retention rate of over 98%, and an average class size of just 25 students. The UW School of Social Work is proud to work with and for undocumented students, and our university is home to many first-generation college scholars -- including our Director of Admission (Jenn) and Recruitment Coordinator (Dave). Prospective graduate students of color are encouraged to explore resources offered by UW's Graduate Student Equity & Excellence (GSEE).

Learning that values diversity, teaching recognized for excellence, and data-driven research that sparks real change: these are the hallmarks of our School and the mainstays of an advanced scientific social work practice that is critical to solving the pressing social issues of our day. We are committed to promoting social and economic justice for poor and oppressed populations and enhancing the quality of life for all. Join us!

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

2023 MSW applications are available now, with a January 4, 2023 deadline. Visit our Apply to MSW page for details. The GRE is not required. All majors are eligible to apply (for MSW Day & Extended Degree Programs); Advanced Standing applicants must hold a CSWE-accredited BASW degree plus satisfy additional requirements.

MSW Day Program | Starts September 2023

- 2 years, full-time

- Weekday, daytime classes + field education (practicum)

Concentration areas:

• Administration & Policy Practice
• Community Centered Integrative Practice
• Clinical Social Work

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*MSW Advanced Standing Program | Starts July 2023

*Requires a BASW degree, and other eligibility requirements.

Full-time, 11 months

Weekday, daytime classes + field education (practicum)

Concentration areas:

• Administration & Policy Practice
• Community Centered Integrative Practice
• Clinical Social Work

Part-time, 17 months

- Evening track: weeknight evening classes + field education (practicum)

- Friday/Saturday track: Fri/Sat classes approximately four times per quarter + field education (practicum)

Concentration areas:

• Clinical Social Work

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MSW Extended Degree Program | Starts September 2023

- 3 years, part-time, 9 to 11 consecutive quarters (including summer)

- Evening track: weeknight evening classes + field education (practicum)

- Friday/Saturday track: Fri/Sat classes approximately four times per quarter + field education (practicum)

Concentration areas:

• Clinical Social Work

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Latinx Fellowship

All MSW students can also participate in an additional Latinx focus. This focus offers seminars and advanced skills for specialization students committed to the health and well-being of Latinx communities. The program equips students to be effective practitioners by deepening their understanding of practice models and interventions that resonate with Latino/a individuals, families and communities. (Note: "concentrations" are now being called "specializations", and the Latinx "specialization" will be called "Latinx Fellowship" in the future; it is not a specialization area, but instead, a supplemental opportunity open to all students in any MSW specialization).

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Concurrent Degree Opportunities

Earning a dual degree may be possible, in approximately 3 years + 1 quarter. At UW, the most common concurrent degrees that align with an MSW are the Master of Public Health or Master of Public Administration degrees.

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PhD in Social Welfare

The UW School of Social Work doctoral program stands out among advanced social welfare programs by offering an array of academic resources available at one of the nation’s premier research universities. Transdisciplinary opportunities and faculty mentorship enrich the learning experience and help to shape a viable career path in social justice teaching, research or public service. It’s one of the key reasons our graduates find work in highly regarded social work programs throughout the country. Is a doctoral education in your future? Find answers to some of your questions: FAQ About the PhD Program