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.

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.
Center for the Advancement of Health Equity

New research center to focus on health equity

A new research center in the KU School of Social Welfare will elevate health-related research, training and collaboration. The Center for the Advancement of Health Equity is committed to improving health, behavioral health and long-term care systems.
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.

Latest News

Why pursue a DSW at KU? Hear from current students

Student Spotlights: Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program

Gaining leadership experience, applying research to their day-to-day work, and building advocacy skills are some of the reasons KU DSW students give for joining the program. Watch video interviews with students about why they chose the online DSW at KU.
Vanessa Sanburn (left) and Annie Handshy (right)

2024 Dean’s Recognition of Staff Excellence awarded to Vanessa Sanburn, Annie Handshy

Sanburn and Handshy’s commitment to the school’s well-being was evident as they provided guidance and responsiveness to help navigate challenges during the school year.
School of Social Welfare alumni Latrese Kabuya

Alumni Spotlight: Latrese Kabuya

Making hard topics digestible is at the core of Kabuya’s social work journey. Her leap of faith took her from a place where mental health was taboo to a career where she helps families in need.
Community Care Days at the KU School of Social Welfare

Finding Community and Compassion: A look at Community Care Days at the School of Social Welfare

Each semester, a series of events aims to counter the strains of academic and personal duties. Laura Ramirez, an associate professor and coordinator of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council, collaborated this year with Hazel Rogers, the new student support coordinator, to bring these events to life.

Research Impact

$8M+
KU social welfare projects received $8 million in new funding in 2022.
72
Faculty and research staff completed 72 scholarly research presentations in 2022.
50
50 students worked on research projects in 2022.
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

$1.5M+
monetary value of social service volunteer hours in Kansas (2022-23)
159,000+
practicum hours completed by KU social work students in 2022-23
$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.

Upcoming Events