Rutgers offers the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree with a social work major through the School of Social Work and the Camden College of Arts and Sciences and the New Brunswick School of Arts and Sciences.
Rutgers School of Social Work
Our mission is to develop and disseminate knowledge through social work research, education, and training that promotes social and economic justice and strengthens individual, family, and community well-being in this diverse and increasingly global environment of New Jersey and beyond.
Our Programs
Rutgers School of Social Work's MSW program is offered in a variety of formats including traditional on-campus, 100% online, blended online, and intensive weekend. Additional program features include dual degree, certificate, and designated emphasis programs.
Our DSW program fosters social work leaders poised to address complex practice issues using critical perspectives.
Offered in conjunction with Rutgers Graduate School-New Brunswick, the Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work (Ph.D.) prepares students for careers as faculty, research scientists, policy analysts, and leaders in the field of social welfare.
Rutgers School of Social Work's Continuing Education provides dynamic webinars, certificate programs, and customized training for professionals in New Jersey, New York and beyond.
Professional Credit Courses are non-degree, graduate-level courses offered through Rutgers School of Social Work.
By the Numbers
Top Ranked
#1
In New Jersey
and #12 Ranked Best MSW Program (U.S. News & World Report)
Faculty
250+
Working in critical areas of social work research and professional practice
Students
2,000+
Enrolled in our four core academic programs
Alumni
19,000+
Effecting change in the field of social work and beyond
Practicum Learning
1,000+
Giving students first-hand experience
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The School of Social Work’s initiative for Inclusion, Intersectionality, Diversity, Equity and Advancement (IIDEA), along with the IIDEA Committee, was established in fall 2020 as part of the School’s strategic plan, Toward a More Just Future.
Upcoming Events
Rutgers School of Social Work hosts a variety of events throughout the year for students and members of our greater community. From lectures and workshops to ceremonies and conferences, browse our full calendar to see what's happening at the SSW and beyond.
Toward a More Just Future
Toward a More Just Future: A Five-Year Strategic Plan envisions a future for our country and our world that is grounded in justice. We commit to leading for justice, through a focus on innovation, excellence, collaboration and community. Deeply grounded in inclusion, intersectionality, diversity, equity and advancement, our plan focuses on core elements of our mission as a leading school of social work.
Latest News
The 2025 International Symposium on Children and Youth Health and Well-being convened in Guangzhou, China on December 13-14, 2025, drawing more than 100 scholars and students from around the world. Hosted by the School of Public Administration at Guangdong University of Foreign Studies and co-hosted by the University of Saint Joseph and Rutgers School of Social Work, the event featured 75 research presentations exploring critical issues affecting children and youth.
The Social Work Policy Network remains committed to sharing key news updates, policy changes, action opportunities, events & more - with content particularly focused on social justice, equity, and systemic change.
After serving Rutgers School of Social Work for more than a decade, Cathryn C. Potter, Ph.D. is retiring. Since her appointment as Dean and Distinguished Professor in 2013, Dr. Potter has provided exemplary leadership that has strengthened the School’s academic reputation, expanded its research enterprise, and significantly enhanced its national standing.
Careers at Rutgers School of Social Work
Browse our job opportunities page to learn about faculty, staff, and lecturer employment opportunities within the Rutgers School of Social Work.