The VCU Way:
Training Unstoppable Practitioners for Lifelong Success and Growth
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work
Founded in 1917, the School of Social Work is the first of its kind in the South and the only program in Virginia — and one of just 53 nationwide — to offer bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in this discipline. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), we represent one of the largest comprehensive social work programs in the U.S.
For over 100 years, our students and faculty have engaged the city of Richmond, Virginia, and surrounding communities in an effort to inspire change and advocate for justice and understanding. They have forged lasting connections with more than 500 human and social service organizations, allowing students to engage in field experiences that match their passions and ambitions.
Ranked No. 28 nationally among graduate schools for social work by U.S. News & World Report in 2024, the School of Social Work is renowned for its commitment to excellence. Our program upholds the highest standards of quality and rigor, providing students with a strong foundation in essential knowledge, practical skills and critical thinking to ensure their success as practitioners.
Alumni Spotlight:
Brittany Watson
Since earning her Master of Social Work degree online in 2022, Brittany Watson has wholeheartedly embraced her life’s calling. Discover how preparing for the Three Minute Thesis competition helped shape her vision for the future.
Read Brittany’s Story
Social Work Education Without Boundaries
The VCU School of Social Work is dedicated to making social work education accessible to all through high-quality, affordable degree programs. Our faculty have extensive experience as local and national practitioners and guide M.S.W. students through a curriculum shaped by a deep, multi-faceted understanding of social work in a variety of settings. Programs integrate evidence-based training and hands-on application through local field placements to equip students with tools and techniques to adapt to evolving community needs with confidence.
VCU’s School of Social Work is ranked 28 among the nation’s best graduate schools of social work by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
We have over 100 years of experience in educating social work students.
In 2023–2024, our School of Social Work activities included 39 active research projects receiving around $6 million in internal and external funding.
Employment of social workers is forecast to grow by 7 percent through 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024).
Meet Several of Your Faculty
Qasarah Bey Spencer
Kimberly Compton
Lynn Anderson
How We Prepare You for Success
Students in VCU’s program receive rigorous training for real-world application, learning to apply ethical principles, challenge prejudice, evaluate practices and advocate for social justice. Graduates are proficient in the nine core competencies of social work education as defined by the CSWE:
- Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior
- Engage diversity and difference in practice
- Advance human rights and social and economic justice
- Engage in practice-informed research and research-informed practice
- Engage in policy practice
- Engage with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
- Assess individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
- Intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
- Evaluate individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities
Gain the Skills to Create Meaningful Change
A bachelor’s degree is required.