College of Education and Human Development

School of Social Work

Prepare to Build a Better World

At the School of Social Work, we practice what we teach: leadership, scholarship, social justice, and community engagement.

Part of a world-class research university, our academic programs prepare all students to be research-minded professionals and scholars.

Academic programs: graduate and undergraduate

Our Social Work PhD and Master of Social Work programs promote the knowledge, skills and values of the social work profession. Our Youth Development Leadership M.Ed. program supports an expanded understanding of young people, in the United States and internationally. Our undergraduate programs — youth studies, family violence prevention, and social justice — support and promote ways of valuing, living, and working in the world that further social change and the common good.

PhD in Social Work

Leverage your curiosity to address complex social challenges through community-based research.  

See program details

Masters in Social Work

Advance your career as a social worker, and prepare to take a leadership role in the profession. Dual degree programs available.

Read about our MSW

MEd in Youth Development

This masters degree combines practice, experiential learning, and leading edge scholarship about youth work and youth development.

Learn more

Undergraduate Major in Youth Studies

Youth Studies is an interdisciplinary program that prepares graduates to work in a wide range of professional spaces.

Get more information

$1.2 Million in scholarships and fellowships awarded to students across various programs
Asset reference
School of Social Work 2023 Graduation Ceremony at Ted Mann Concert Hall

Our Faculty

Small class sizes. 

Renowned faculty. 

A commitment to social equity & justice. 

Make your mark as an advanced scholar & practitioner at the School of Social Work. 

The future starts now.

Upcoming events

SSW PhD Candidates Present Policy Papers SSW PhD Candidates Present Policy Papers

Want to know what it's like to be a PhD Student at the UMN SSW? See candidates present their policy papers in a conference-like Zoom setting.

Institute of Child Development classroom learning

SSW Class of 2025 Celebration SSW Class of 2025 Celebration

Join us for a celebration of the Class of 2025 at the School of Social Work on Saturday, May 17, from 10 am to 2 pm.

School of Social Work 2023 Graduation Ceremony at Ted Mann Concert Hall

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