Four MSW graduates smile and pose in graduation regalia

University of Kansas School of Social Welfare

Educating, training and supporting qualified, compassionate social workers.

Be a Jayhawk Social Worker

Explore our academic programs and learn get ready to apply for an undergraduate or graduate degree in social work.
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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Our master's program prepares graduates for advanced social work practice in clinical or macro specializations. Students can pursue their degree full-time or part-time, both on campus and online.

A small group of students study at the Edwards Campus

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

Majoring in social work at KU prepares students for entry-level social work practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. KU offers the undergraduate BSW program in Lawrence and the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park.

A group of KU students walks across campus

Doctoral Programs

The online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) is a practice doctorate focused on teaching, leadership and translational science. The Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) is an in-person program focused on research, scholarship and education.

Fraser Hall on the University of Kansas campus

Resources for Current Students

Information and student support
Find student support services within the School.
Current Student Resources

KU Social Welfare Stories

Architect's rendering of the renovated lobby on the third floor of Green Hall

Move to Green Hall

The School of Social Welfare will move to Green Hall at the beginning of the spring 2025 semester, leaving its long-time academic home at Twente Hall. The renovated third floor of Green Hall is designed to serve students.
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Students from the MSW program in Salina celebrate at graduation

MSW partnership with Kansas State Salina

The first group of KU MSW students to graduate from a new partnership program with Kansas State University Salina formed a close-knit cohort. Read about students' experiences in the program, now in its second year.
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Latest News

Kansas River

Global Climate Teach-in to feature Bridging Social Work and Climate/Environmental Justice event

For the fourth year, KU is participating in the Worldwide Climate Education Week, led by Bard College. Five events offer opportunities to come together in different settings around education about the climate crisis.
Social Work Career Spotlight: Carlie Sauntry

Social Work Career Spotlight: Social Work Case Manager

Carlie Sauntry, a BSW and MSW graduate, supports clients at the University of Kansas Health System Addiction Clinic as a case manager.
Social Welfare writing consultant Joe Bush

Social Welfare writing consultant hosts Strengths Perspective workshop at Midwest Writing Centers Association Conference

School of Social Welfare professional writing consultant Joseph Bush hosted a writing workshop at the Midwest Writing Centers Association Conference from March 13-15 at North Hennepin Community College in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.
School of Social Welfare student Julieta Zamora

Practicum Spotlight: Julieta Zamora

Julieta Zamora is a student in the Master of Social Work program at the University of Kansas School of Social Welfare. Her Practicum is at the the Family Conservancy Dame La Mano Program.
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Magnolia trees bloom in front of the KU School of Social Welfare

Discoveries That Transform Lives

Research at the KU School of Social Welfare reaches across the state of Kansas and beyond.

Research & Service

Serving Our Communities

$2.4M+
estimated monetary value of student social service volunteer hours in Kansas (2023-2024)
145,000+
practicum hours contributed by KU social work students to the state of Kansas in 2023-2024
$3.6M+
sponsored research funding going directly to Kansas partners (2023)

Connect with KU Social Welfare

Connect with the School through continuing education, professional development, community engagement programs and alumni events.
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Upcoming Events

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