About
We’ve been leading social work education for more than a century.
Founded in 1917, the School of Social Work stands as the first school of its kind in the South, as well as one of two programs in Virginia (and only 56 nationwide) to offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in the discipline. Ours is one of the largest accredited, comprehensive social work programs in the U.S.
Through an innovative curriculum, diverse field experiences, and ambitious and proactive research priorities, the School of Social Work informs the leaders of today and prepares the leaders of tomorrow. Learn more about what makes VCU a great choice for the more than 1,100 students enrolled in the School of Social Work.
1917
Founded in 1917 as the Richmond School of Social Economy, the first social work program in the South
Our mission
The mission of the VCU School of Social Work is to prepare professional social workers as practitioners, scholars and leaders; to generate research and scholarship for advancing knowledge and practice; and to contribute to the local, state, national, international and professional communities to improve quality of life.
Guided by the principle of promoting social and economic justice in a diverse and multicultural society, our programs focus on service to and empowerment of people who experience oppression or vulnerability due to inadequate or inequitable distribution of personal, social or institutional resources.
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As dean, I am so pleased to welcome you to the Ramily and the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work.”
Dean Gary S. Cuddeback (he/him), Ph.D.
