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Where Innovation

DRIVES CHANGE

At the UW School of Social Work, we are in the business of turning powerful new ideas into lasting social change. We have been developing and testing the science needed to transform communities and improve lives for decades. Today, our unwavering commitment to social justice informs, drives and strengthens everything we do.

Our Mission

As members of the University of Washington School of Social Work, we commit ourselves to promoting social and economic justice for poor and oppressed populations and enhancing the quality of life for all. We strive to maximize human welfare through:

  • Education of effective social work leaders, practitioners and educators who will challenge injustice and promote a more humane society, and whose actions will be guided by vision, compassion, knowledge and disciplined discovery, and deep respect for cultural diversity and human strengths.
  • Research that engenders understanding of complex social problems, illuminates human capacities for problem-solving, and promotes effective and timely social intervention.
  • Public service that enhances the health, well-being, and empowerment of disadvantaged communities and populations at local, national, and international levels.

We embrace our position of leadership in the field of social work and join in partnership with others in society committed to solving human problems in the twenty-first century.

$56.8

million

in funding for research & training

$5.8

million

in student support awarded annually

600+

field sites for experiential student learning

Dean’s Welcome

At the UW School of Social Work, we are dedicated to teaching excellence, cutting-edge research, and deepening our commitment to the communities we serve. We champion the role of science in accelerating social good and the importance of trust in sustaining partnerships that create real and lasting change.

Today, we are redefining student engagement, elevating public service, demonstrating socially responsible research, and building authentic relationships with our community partners. Our foundational tenets of economic, social and racial justice drive everything we do and advance our greater goal of equity for all.

Headshot of Michael Spencer, Ballmer Endowed Dean in Social Work

Tel: 206-543-5640 | Fax: 206-543-1228

Shipping and Mailing (via USPS):

University of Washington

School of Social Work

Box 354900

Seattle, WA 98195-4900

 

Location & Map

University of Washington

School of Social Work

4101 15th Avenue NE

Seattle, WA 98105-6250

600+ Practicum Sites

Two students looking at one another in a classroom.
Field education is the cornerstone of a successful social work practice. Our students receive opportunities to work closely with local agencies and organizations, gaining experience in addition to academic theory and research.

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Innovation & excellence

Large W statue outdoor on the University of Washington campus
Find out the latest news about our outstanding faculty, students and alumni, as well as groundbreaking insights from our research & innovation centers by staying up-to-date with our news & events page.

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