Academics
Our comprehensive, accredited programs of study offer learning environments to nurture profesional practitioners and advanced scholars – on-campus or online.
VCU's School of Social Work is among only 53 programs in the country to educate social workers at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. This brings emerging and established professionals at all stages of their development together in one place. We do this because we believe every experience brought to the table strengthens each of us as practitioners and educators.
Bachelor of Social Work
Prepare for beginning-level practice through an innovative curriculum and individualized attention, with traditional on-campus and fully online formats.
Master of Social Work
Advance your practice through intensive coursework, research and field experiences, with multiple program options including our online format.
Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work
Shape the profession and advance its mission through scholarship, research and social work education.
Minor in mental health practice
Develop foundational knowledge and skills through a strong preparatory framework for several career paths in the mental health field. Ideal for majors in biology, business, criminal justice, education, nursing, psychology and social work. Learn more
Minor in social welfare
Develop your social work and social justice perspectives while complementing your bachelor's degree in another discipline. Take two foundational classes and select four of eight electives. Learn more
It’s great to see students get to the end of the journey and see them in a place where they feel confident about what they want to do, or comfortable not knowing but ready to find out after graduation.”
Certificates & certification
M.S.W. students can combine their master's degree with one of five certificates, a state certification in school social work and a state certification in substance abuse counseling.
The School of Social Work administers coursework for the graduate Certificate in Mental Health and the Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) Certification for both undergraduates and graduate students through the Virginia Board of Counseling. Learn more
Dual degrees
M.S.W. students can apply to participate in a dual M.S.W and Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) through the VCU School of Public Health or a Juris Doctor (J.D.) through the University of Richmond. Learn more
Child Welfare Stipend Program
Both B.S.W. and M.S.W. students can apply to participate and receive specialized courses, workshops and field placements. Students earn a $10,000 year stipend that requires a work payback requirement in Virginia with the Department of Social Services or a local agency.
Did you know?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the overall employment of social workers to grow 6% through 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. The projections for specific social work areas include:
- Child, family and school social workers: 3%
- Health care social workers: 8%
- Mental health and substance use social workers: 10%