Rankings / By Major

Best Colleges for Social Work

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

50

Schools Analyzed

$85,751

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

90%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$23,233

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

Choosing the right college for social work is a significant decision for many students and families. With a growing emphasis on social justice and support services, the demand for well-trained professionals in this field is on the rise. This list highlights 50 schools that stand out for their strong social work programs, focusing on both academic rigor and real-world outcomes.

The strong performers in this ranking excel not just in graduation rates and program concentration, but also in post-graduate earnings and manageable debt. The average earnings for graduates from these schools is $88,369, with an impressive graduation rate of 93%. These metrics provide a clearer picture of what students can expect after they earn their degree.

Take Princeton University and Vanderbilt University, for example. Princeton boasts an average earning potential of $110,066, while Vanderbilt's graduates earn $91,565. While both schools have high graduation rates—97% for Princeton and 93% for Vanderbilt—Princeton's lower net price of $6,128 compared to Vanderbilt's $15,846 reflects different financial commitments. This contrast highlights that even among top-performing schools, the financial landscape can vary significantly.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $85,751

Avg. graduation rate 90%

Avg. net price $23,233

Avg. median debt $15,716

How We Ranked

Composite score + program concentration bonus for Social Sciences

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA

Earnings$101,817

Net Price$19,066

View full profile →

Sponsored

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Ad

Full Rankings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Chicago, the Social Work program attracts analytical thinkers who want to address complex social issues head-on. Students engage deeply with interdisciplinary approaches, preparing them to create impactful change through policy and practice in diverse settings.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton's Social Work program is ideal for students dedicated to making a difference in their communities. With a strong emphasis on social justice, students here are prepared to tackle societal challenges and advocate for vulnerable populations, blending rigorous academic training with real-world application.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard’s Social Work program invites students who aspire to lead with empathy and insight. Focused on rigorous academic study and practical field experience, the program equips students to engage effectively with individuals and communities in need, preparing them for impactful careers in social work and related fields.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University’s Social Work program is designed for those passionate about making a difference in their communities. Students here engage in hands-on learning that equips them to address complex social issues, preparing them for impactful careers in various settings, from schools to healthcare facilities.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

For those drawn to social change, Stanford’s Social Work program prepares them to engage critically with contemporary societal issues. Students are encouraged to explore innovative solutions and develop skills that will serve them in various roles, from community organizers to policy advisors, all within a collaborative environment that values diversity and inclusion.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

At Bowdoin College, the Social Work program is tailored for students who want to engage deeply with social justice and community service. The program emphasizes both theory and practice, encouraging students to develop critical thinking skills and empathetic approaches as they learn to support diverse populations facing various challenges.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Students at Claremont McKenna College interested in Social Work are equipped to tackle pressing social issues with a focus on leadership and ethics. This program suits those who aspire to influence policy and implement change within communities, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. The college’s environment encourages dialogue and research, making it a vibrant space for aspiring social workers.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University offers a Social Work program that attracts students eager to blend academic rigor with real-world application. Here, students are encouraged to think critically about societal issues and develop innovative solutions tailored to the needs of the communities they serve, making it a great fit for future leaders in the field.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Brown's full profile

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

At Colby College, students pursuing a Social Work path are encouraged to engage deeply with societal challenges while developing critical thinking and empathy. This program is designed for those interested in advocacy, community service, and addressing systemic issues that affect vulnerable populations. The supportive environment at Colby enhances learning, as students collaborate on projects that have real-world implications for social welfare.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Colby's full profile

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College’s Social Work program is ideal for students who seek to understand and tackle social issues through a compassionate lens. This program blends a strong academic foundation with field experience, giving students the tools they need to enact change in diverse environments—from nonprofit organizations to government agencies.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College’s Social Work program is tailored for students who are committed to social impact and community service. This program attracts individuals who want to understand the dynamics of social change and support marginalized groups. The focus on collaboration and interdisciplinary study prepares students to address complex social issues creatively and effectively within a supportive women’s college environment.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University’s Social Work program is tailored for those eager to make a difference in communities. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences, preparing them to tackle real-world issues through a lens of empathy and social justice. The close-knit environment allows for meaningful interactions and collaborations, fostering deep connections with peers and faculty alike.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

The Social Work program at Williams College attracts students who are passionate about community engagement and social justice. Here, students work toward understanding the complexities of social systems and the needs of diverse populations, all within a close-knit academic environment that fosters collaboration and discussion. It’s an ideal fit for those eager to make a tangible difference in their communities through effective social work practices.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

At Georgetown University, the Social Work program attracts students passionate about advocacy and community service. The program emphasizes social justice, equipping students with the skills to address societal challenges effectively. With Washington, D.C., as a backdrop, students benefit from unique internship opportunities that deepen their understanding of social issues and policy-making.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College’s Social Work program is ideal for students who are dedicated to social change and community engagement. With a focus on developing critical thinking and practical skills, students prepare to address the complex needs of individuals and families. The supportive atmosphere at Davidson encourages collaboration and mentorship, essential elements for anyone entering the social work field.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University’s Social Work program attracts students who are not only academically driven but also deeply committed to social justice and community service. The program encourages students to engage with diverse populations, preparing them for the challenges of social work in a complex world. The rigorous curriculum combined with a vibrant campus culture fosters an environment where students can explore their passions and develop as leaders in the field.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Yale's full profile

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

At Columbia, the Social Work program is designed for those passionate about making a difference in urban communities. Students engage deeply with pressing social issues, preparing to advocate for marginalized populations and address systemic challenges within a vibrant, diverse setting.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College offers a Social Work program that appeals to students who thrive in a liberal arts setting. With an emphasis on experiential learning, students gain real-world skills and insights that prepare them to make meaningful contributions in social services, counseling, and community outreach.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Bates's full profile

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College's Social Work program is designed for students who are eager to make a difference in their communities while gaining a solid academic foundation. This program is a great fit for those who are ready to engage with social issues on a personal and systemic level, preparing them for fulfilling careers in social work. The intimate campus environment fosters close relationships among students and faculty, enhancing the educational experience.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

Middlebury College’s Social Work program attracts students who are passionate about community engagement and social justice. Those who thrive here are often dedicated to understanding the complexities of human behavior and eager to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, students are encouraged to immerse themselves in real-world settings, applying their knowledge in impactful ways.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst's Social Work path is a thoughtful choice for students who value an intimate learning environment and a strong sense of community. Here, students foster critical thinking and empathy as they prepare to engage with individuals and groups facing social challenges, all while benefiting from a close-knit campus culture that encourages collaboration and support.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

At Barnard College, the Social Work program is crafted for students passionate about advocacy and community engagement. Here, students dive into the complexities of social systems, preparing to make meaningful contributions to society. The program encourages a holistic approach, integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, making it an ideal fit for those eager to support and empower diverse populations.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Students pursuing Social Work at Swarthmore College engage deeply with pressing societal issues and learn to navigate the complexities of human behavior. The program is tailored for those who wish to understand and address systemic inequalities. With a strong emphasis on social responsibility, students are encouraged to blend academic rigor with practical experience, making a difference in the communities they serve.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College's Social Work program is perfect for students who value close-knit academic communities and personalized learning experiences. Those who thrive here are often driven by a commitment to social change and are eager to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The program emphasizes critical thinking and hands-on practice, preparing students to tackle the complex challenges facing individuals and communities today.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College provides a nurturing environment for students passionate about Social Work, emphasizing ethical considerations and community impact. The program is designed for those who aspire to advocate for social justice and support vulnerable populations. Students engage in critical discussions and practical experiences that prepare them for a career dedicated to enhancing social well-being.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College's Social Work program appeals to students who are committed to social justice and eager to explore community dynamics. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and hands-on experience, equipping students to tackle social challenges head-on. Those who choose this path are often driven by a desire to create positive change and work closely with marginalized communities.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

The Social Work program at Grinnell College attracts students who are both compassionate and analytical, ready to tackle complex social challenges. Here, learners immerse themselves in a curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and social equity, preparing them for impactful careers where they can advocate for underserved populations.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

At Johns Hopkins University, the Social Work program attracts students passionate about research and community engagement. Ideal for those who want to understand and address the root causes of social problems, this program encourages students to think critically about social policies and their impacts. Students benefit from a collaborative atmosphere that fosters both personal growth and professional preparedness in social work.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Johns's full profile

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

At Duke University, students pursuing Social Work engage in a dynamic program that emphasizes both practical skills and theoretical understanding. This program is ideal for those who are passionate about advocating for social justice and making a tangible difference in communities. Students will work alongside faculty and peers who share their commitment to addressing social issues, preparing them for meaningful careers in various settings.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Duke's full profile

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

At Wesleyan University, the Social Work program is perfect for those who are deeply committed to advocacy and social equity. Students can expect to engage critically with social issues, fostering skills that are essential for effective support and change-making in communities. The program's collaborative environment encourages teamwork, creativity, and the exploration of different approaches to social challenges.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

The Social Work program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is designed for those passionate about making a difference in their communities. Students here dive deep into understanding human behavior, social systems, and the policies that affect the most vulnerable populations. With a strong emphasis on social justice and advocacy, graduates leave well-equipped to address complex social issues head-on.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The Social Work program at the University of Pennsylvania attracts students eager to tackle some of the most complex social issues in today’s society. With a focus on both theory and practice, students are prepared to become leaders who can influence policy and improve lives within their communities.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

The Social Work program at George Washington University is tailored for students passionate about making a real difference in communities. Here, students engage with pressing social issues through a lens of advocacy and social justice, preparing for careers that can range from clinical practice to community organization. The urban setting of Washington, DC, offers unique opportunities for internships and fieldwork, connecting students with experienced professionals and organizations actively working to address societal challenges.

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

Students at William & Mary who choose to study Social Work are guided by a strong commitment to community service and social advocacy. This program is ideal for individuals who want to engage with diverse populations and address social issues through informed practices, preparing them for meaningful careers in various settings.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

Colorado College

Colorado Springs, CO · 2,014 students · Private nonprofit

18% accepted 87% graduate $65,222 earnings

Colorado's full profile

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University’s Social Work program is designed for those who aspire to be change agents in their communities. Students in this program often possess a keen sense of social justice and a desire to influence policy and practice. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and practical skills, preparing students to address societal issues effectively and compassionately.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

At Cornell University, the Social Work program caters to students eager to make a tangible impact on society through both local and global initiatives. Those who thrive here are typically passionate about understanding complex social issues and developing strategies to address them. The program encourages critical analysis and community engagement, fostering a comprehensive understanding of social systems and human behavior.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University’s Social Work program is tailored for students who want to blend academic rigor with practical application in their communities. Those drawn to this path are often compassionate individuals ready to tackle the complexities of social issues head-on. With a focus on research and hands-on experience, students emerge well-prepared to advocate for vulnerable populations and implement meaningful changes.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Rice's full profile

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

At Washington and Lee University, the Social Work program attracts students who are eager to engage with pressing societal issues and support individuals in need. This program encourages critical thinking and hands-on experience, preparing students to be effective advocates within various communities. With small class sizes, students benefit from close interactions with faculty and peers, fostering a strong network for future collaboration.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

The Social Work program at Washington University in St. Louis is designed for those who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. Here, students engage deeply with social justice issues, preparing to tackle the complexities of social systems and support vulnerable populations. This program encourages hands-on experience and critical thinking, paving the way for graduates to advocate for meaningful change in various social settings.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

CUNY's full profile

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Tufts's full profile

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

At Boston College, the Social Work program attracts individuals dedicated to service and community engagement. Students benefit from a strong emphasis on ethics and social policy, preparing them to work effectively in a range of environments, from healthcare to community organizations. This program fosters a collaborative spirit, encouraging students to build professional networks while developing their skills in social work practices.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The Social Work program at the University of Florida is perfect for students who aspire to drive meaningful change in their communities. Here, students learn to work with diverse populations and address complex social challenges through a well-rounded curriculum. The program emphasizes practical experience, equipping students with the skills they need to become effective social workers in a variety of settings.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC · 5,485 students · Private nonprofit

At Wake Forest University, the Social Work program attracts individuals who are dedicated to social equity and community service. Students in this program work diligently to understand the complexities of human behavior, preparing them for impactful careers in various settings, including healthcare, schools, and non-profit organizations. The supportive environment at Wake Forest encourages collaboration and critical thinking, essential skills for future social workers committed to making change at the grassroots level.

22% accepted 90% graduate $78,158 earnings

Wake's full profile

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY's full profile

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility