Rutgers logo
Rutgers logo
Rutgers logo
Rutgers logo
Academic building in the background with Rutgers spelled out in the lawn in the foregrown

Info for Alumni

Facts and figures

12
th
by U.S. News & World Report
19,000
proud alumni
1,600
passionate students
200+
dynamic faculty

Alumni Resources

Rutgers School of Social Work has graduated more than 19,000 professionals from our programs since our beginning in 1954. Our graduates serve society in policy, academic, clinical, and corporate settings, spanning all 50 states and over 20 countries — we are a strong network of partners for change all over the world.

We're here to support your journey as a Rutgers School of Social Work alum. What resources are you looking for? 

stock_russw-graduation-family

Update Your Contact Information

Get a print edition of RUSSW's alumni magazine, share personal or professional news, and stay connected to the alumni network by updating your contact information with the Rutgers University Alumni Association. Connect with Rutgers SSW across social media channels @RutgersSSW.

Continuing Education

RUSSW's Office of Continuing Education is one of the largest University-based programs of its kind in the nation and serves professionals in New Jersey, New York and beyond. CE offers over 400 programs annually, as well as 12 certificate programs all led by expert instructors. 

Alumni FAQs

Whether you're a recent alumnus/a looking for some direction, or someone who is looking to get involved with Rutgers, check out our Frequently Asked Questions listed below. If you have additional questions that are not answered below, or if you would like more specific answers, please email alumni@ssw.rutgers.edu.

  • Visit the Association of Social Work Board's website for background on social work licensing exams, including registration, fees, and other requirements.

  • As stated by the NASW, "No. You cannot start counting the required 1,920 hours of face-to-face client contact until you have earned a master's degree in social work and have an LSW or proof that you are engaged in social work practice in an exempt setting for which licensure is not required." (NASW Licensing FAQs)

  • Visit the Office of Continuing Education webpage. Rutgers SSW Office of Continuing Education is the largest University-based program of its kind in the nation. This office offers over 400 programs each year, as well as 12 certificate programs all lead by expert instructors.

  • Yes. According to the NASW, "The New Jersey Board of Social Work Examiners (BSWE) issues licenses and certifications for a two-year period." (NASW Licensing FAQs). Answers may vary state-by-state.

  • Follow this link to our alumni employment webpage. This page is updated weekly with new job opportunities as they are sent to the school. 

    For expanded employment resources, including workshops and resume clinics, see Rutgers Career Knight.

  • For assistance in completing coursework or education verifying documents for licensure applications, contact studentaffairs@ssw.rutgers.edu. 

  • As alumni or former students, visit transcripts.rutgers.edu to obtain an official copy of your transcript.

  • Yes, Rutgers has support services available to veterans on all three campuses. Visit the Office of Veteran and Military Programs and Service for more information. 

  • Yes, you must present your personalized Rutgers Alumni Card to borrow any materials. Follow this link for more information about alumni cards.

  • Yes, the Rutgers University Alumni Association has a number of regional alumni clubs throughout the United States and Internationally. View a listing of regional alumni clubs here. 

  • Visit the Rutgers University Alumni Association website for a full listing of alumni benefits. Some include discounted apparel, international trips, and a perks card, which offers discounts at a number of retailers.

  • If you would like to replace or receive a duplicate copy of your diploma, please fill out this request form. This request form is valid for degrees conferred on all three campuses: Camden, Newark, and New Brunswick. 

Alumni News

New Alumni Council Members
Alumni

Meet the Newest School of Social Work Alumni Council Members

For the past twelve years, members of the School of Social Work’s Alumni Council have served as ambassadors that interface between the School, the thousands of alumni who earned a social work degree from Rutgers, and the broader social work community. The Alumni Council, which is comprised of alumni who serve in a volunteer capacity, supports future generations of social workers, enhances the professional portfolios of alumni, and keeps graduates connected with their classmates. Council members work collaboratively and actively engage with fellow alumni to promote the School’s reputation and standard of excellence among internal and external stakeholders. The Council also provides recommendations based on trends in the field to School leadership.

Patricia Kastner
Alumni

Honoring Alumna Patricia Kastner: A Life of Service, A New Fund for Hope

Patricia Kastner, SSW’02 is a dedicated alumna, a beloved mother and grandmother, and a lifelong advocate for children and families. Patricia’s journey to a career in social work has been defined by empathy, strength, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Now, as she faces advanced ovarian cancer and receives care through hospice, her family and medical team are carrying forward her legacy through the newly-established Ovarian Cancer Innovation Fund—a visionary effort to fuel research and bring hope to others facing this disease.

Kathy Ehrich Dowd
Alumni

From Headlines to Healing: An Alumna’s Journey to Social Work

In 2000, when Kathy Ehrich Dowd graduated with a degree in journalism, she had her sights set on becoming the next Barbara Walters. For nearly two decades, she thrived as a reporter and editor, including an impressive 17-year run contributing to People magazine followed by a three-year stint at Time magazine. But what began as a passion for telling people’s stories, such as the families and victims of 9/11 and the Newtown school shooting, eventually led to burnout. Then came the pandemic, and with it, a turning point.

Quick Links