Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Social Work

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

Schools Analyzed

$85,665

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

89%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,196

Avg. Net Price

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Finding the right college for social work can feel overwhelming. Each of these schools stands out for their commitment to enhancing social mobility, helping students from various backgrounds achieve their professional goals. With average earnings of $88,052 for graduates, the potential for positive financial outcomes is evident.

What sets these colleges apart is their robust graduation rates, manageable debt loads, and strong post-graduation earnings. For instance, the average graduation rate among the top schools is 90%, indicating strong student support and program efficacy. As you review the list below, consider how each institution's financial and educational outcomes align with what you’re looking for in a social work program.

Take Princeton University and Vanderbilt University as examples. Princeton boasts an impressive $110,066 in average earnings and a 97% graduation rate, while Vanderbilt's earnings are slightly lower at $91,565, with a 93% graduation rate. This contrast highlights the trade-offs you might face — higher earnings at a school with potentially higher costs and debt versus a slightly lower earning potential with more manageable expenses.

Key Findings

Princeton graduates earn an average of $110,066, the highest among the top five schools.

The average graduation rate across these institutions is 90%, indicating strong student support.

Stanford has a net price of $13,807, which is significantly higher than Princeton's $6,128.

Vanderbilt graduates carry an average debt of $14,000, similar to Harvard, despite lower earnings.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $85,665

Avg. graduation rate 89%

Avg. net price $22,196

Avg. median debt $15,213

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in 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

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Graduation95%

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a remarkable 97% graduation rate, Princeton University has a track record of helping students succeed. The small campus community of 5,709 students fosters close relationships between faculty and peers, creating an environment where academic and personal growth can thrive. The significant earning potential of graduates, averaging $110,066 within a decade of finishing their degree, is a testament to the quality of education and opportunity available here.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is home to a vibrant community of 7,554 students, where innovation and entrepreneurship are at the core of its educational philosophy. The institution's strong emphasis on research and real-world applications prepares students to excel in their careers. Graduates can expect to earn an impressive median salary of $124,080 ten years after graduation, highlighting the value of a Stanford degree in the job market.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Chicago, the University of Chicago has built a reputation for rigorous academics and critical thinking. With a graduation rate of 95% and a diverse student body of 7,569, students here engage deeply with ideas and concepts that shape the world. Graduates enjoy a median earning of $91,885 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the institution's strong academic foundation and its emphasis on intellectual exploration.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is synonymous with academic excellence and leadership. With a 97% graduation rate among its 7,601 students, the school cultivates an environment that encourages personal and intellectual growth. Graduates enjoy a substantial median earning of $101,817 within ten years of graduation, underscoring the robust career opportunities that stem from a Harvard education.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Vanderbilt University in Nashville showcases a strong commitment to student success. The university's vibrant campus life, combined with its remarkable location in a city known for its music and culture, creates an engaging environment for students to thrive academically and socially.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University stands out with a notable graduation rate of 96%, reflecting its supportive academic environment. Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown fosters a culture of creativity and intellectual exploration, making it an attractive option for students seeking a unique college experience that encourages independent thinking and diverse perspectives.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Wellesley College has a strong track record of helping students succeed. This prestigious all-women's college is known for its rigorous academics and a close-knit community that supports women's leadership and empowerment. The median earnings for graduates ten years out sit at an impressive $84,803, reflecting the value of a Wellesley education in today's job market.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME, is celebrated for its commitment to liberal arts education and a tight-knit community. With a graduation rate of 95%, students here find themselves in a nurturing environment that encourages exploration and critical thinking across disciplines.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

With a 96% graduation rate, Dartmouth College creates a supportive environment that fosters academic success. Located in scenic Hanover, NH, this private nonprofit institution places a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, ensuring students receive a personalized learning experience from dedicated faculty.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#10

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, with its intimate setting of just over 2,000 students, boasts a graduation rate of 95%. Nestled in the scenic town of Williamstown, Massachusetts, Williams emphasizes a close-knit community and personalized education, ideal for students who thrive in collaborative environments where faculty engagement is prioritized.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#11

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore attracts students eager to explore beyond the classroom. With a graduation rate of 94%, students benefit from a rigorous curriculum and access to world-class resources that prepare them for impactful careers.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania has a graduation rate that impresses at 97%, a testament to its robust academic support systems. Located in Philadelphia, this university combines an Ivy League education with a vibrant urban setting, attracting students who are eager to engage in both rigorous academics and rich cultural experiences.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on leadership and economics, Claremont McKenna College is a close-knit institution in California that encourages students to excel in their fields. The college boasts a solid graduation rate of 93% and graduates earn a median income of $104,736 ten years after completing their degree, highlighting the effectiveness of its programs in preparing students for the workforce.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#14

Yale University

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

With a graduation rate of 96%, Yale University in New Haven, CT, cultivates an environment where students thrive academically and socially. The median earnings for graduates at ten years post-degree reach $100,533, indicating a strong return on investment for those who choose to attend this prestigious institution.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University, located in the heart of New York City, boasts a 96% graduation rate, reflecting its ability to support students in reaching their academic goals. The university's vast resources and connections in the city provide students with unparalleled opportunities for internships and networking. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $102,491 ten years after graduation, showcasing the strong financial prospects associated with a Columbia degree.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#16

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, set in Waterville, ME, provides a liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 89% and median earnings of $80,490 ten years post-graduation, Colby prepares students for a variety of career paths while fostering a close community atmosphere.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Washington, DC, Georgetown University is known for its strong emphasis on social justice and global awareness. Students here benefit from a rich network of opportunities, with median earnings of $103,494 at ten years after graduation, reinforcing the value of a Georgetown degree in today’s job market.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#18

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University in Hamilton, NY, presents a tight-knit community with a striking 91% graduation rate that speaks to the support students receive. With a median earning of $85,139 ten years post-graduation, the numbers suggest that Colgate graduates are well-prepared for the workforce and find rewarding careers in various fields.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#19

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University stands out with a remarkable 95% graduation rate and a strong commitment to undergraduate teaching. Located in Houston, Texas, it offers a collaborative atmosphere where students can engage deeply in their studies and explore research opportunities. Graduates see median earnings of $89,718 ten years after starting their journey, a strong indicator of the financial return on investment from a Rice degree.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, located in Massachusetts, might catch your eye with its impressive 94% graduation rate and a commitment to a liberal arts education. Graduates see a median earning of $77,644 a decade later, indicative of the college's ability to prepare students for successful careers across diverse industries.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#21

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, nestled in Claremont, California, has a reputation for academic excellence with a graduation rate of 93%. This small liberal arts college fosters a close-knit community where students can explore their interests deeply, with median earnings soaring to $77,779 ten years after graduation.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#22

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, located in the scenic town of Ithaca, has a graduation rate of 95% and a reputation for its diverse academic programs. Known for fostering a spirit of inquiry and innovation, Cornell students benefit from a rich campus culture that encourages collaboration and interdisciplinary learning. Graduates see median earnings of $104,043 ten years after graduation, reflecting the high demand for Cornell alumni in the workforce.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#23

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University, located in Durham, NC, is renowned for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs. With a graduation rate of 96%, the university fosters a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive academically and socially, benefiting from a diverse range of extracurricular activities and resources.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Davidson College in North Carolina cultivates an environment where students thrive academically and personally. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging students to think critically and engage with their communities, which is reflected in the impressive median earnings of $81,400 a decade after graduation.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#25

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 92%, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a strong choice for students looking for a solid educational foundation. The campus culture emphasizes a blend of academic excellence and vibrant social life, making it a great environment for personal growth and networking.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

#26

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY Hunter College presents an enticing opportunity for students seeking a vibrant urban campus. With a diverse student body of 16,289 and a significant percentage of Pell Grant recipients, Hunter fosters an inclusive environment where students from various backgrounds can thrive together.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, draws students with its impressive 96% graduation rate and a strong academic reputation. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $89,363 ten years after graduation, suggesting that Northwestern's rigorous programs lead to lucrative career opportunities in various fields.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#28

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

Located in the heart of New York City, CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College serves over 16,000 students in a vibrant urban setting. The college has a graduation rate of 72%, and its diverse offerings prepare students for a variety of careers with a median earnings of $75,971 ten years post-graduation.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College offers a unique educational experience with a focus on social responsibility and academic rigor, welcomed by a select group of 1,430 students. The school’s 90% graduation rate reflects its supportive environment, while median earnings of $79,966 after ten years showcase the value of a Haverford education in the job market.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#30

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College offers an exceptional liberal arts education with a commitment to academic excellence, reflected in its impressive 93% graduation rate. This small, private nonprofit institution emphasizes close-knit relationships between students and faculty, fostering an environment where intellectual curiosity can flourish and diverse ideas thrive.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#31

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College in Queens, New York, serves a large student population of over 12,500, making it a vibrant hub of cultural diversity and academic opportunity. With a 64% acceptance rate, the college welcomes many students eager to pursue various fields of study, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and affordability in higher education.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 90%, Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, cultivates a supportive academic environment where students are likely to finish their degrees. The school's commitment to a diverse and inclusive student body is evident, with 12% of students receiving Pell Grants, ensuring that education is accessible for many backgrounds.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Washington University in St Louis

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

Washington University in St. Louis is known for its commitment to academic excellence, reflected in its 94% graduation rate. With a student body of nearly 8,000, the university fosters a collaborative atmosphere that encourages intellectual and personal growth among its students.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#34

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College, nestled in Easton, Pennsylvania, offers an intimate learning environment for its 2,757 students, with a graduation rate of 88%. At the same time, graduates can expect median earnings of $91,410 ten years after leaving, highlighting the college’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#35

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 90%, it's clear that students at William & Mary are not just enrolling, but successfully completing their degrees. Located in the historic town of Williamsburg, Virginia, this public university combines a rich tradition of academic excellence with a vibrant campus life. Students here are known for their strong sense of community and engagement, making it an ideal environment for those who thrive on collaboration and intellectual discussion.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#36

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida, located in Gainesville, is a bustling hub with over 35,000 students and a graduation rate of 91%. Known for its strong programs and spirited campus life, it offers a range of opportunities for both academic and extracurricular involvement.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#38

Barnard College

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

With a graduation rate of 93%, Barnard College is a beacon of academic success in the heart of New York City. This private institution not only fosters a rigorous educational environment but also empowers its students to excel, as evidenced by a median earning of $80,516 a decade after graduation. The vibrant campus life and strong community support make it an inviting choice for students seeking a dedicated space for women's education and leadership development.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#39

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#40

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#41

Boston College

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

Nestled in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Boston College caters to around 10,000 students and achieves a high graduation rate of 91%. The institution is recognized for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to forming well-rounded individuals, drawing students who value both academic excellence and community engagement.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#42

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#43

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

At Washington and Lee University, a tight-knit community of 1,881 students thrives in a setting that emphasizes both tradition and innovation. With a 94% graduation rate, this school is dedicated to helping students succeed academically while offering a unique blend of liberal arts and professional education.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#44

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

#46

Colorado College

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

18% accepted 87% graduate $65,222 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#47

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is known for its rigorous academic programs and a strong focus on innovation and technology. With a 93% graduation rate, the university cultivates a culture of excellence that encourages students to push boundaries and explore their passions. The campus is home to a vibrant community of thinkers and creators, making it an exciting place to study and collaborate on groundbreaking projects.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

Looking closer, we see a notable difference between Stanford and the University of Chicago. Stanford's graduates earn an average of $124,080, but they face a higher net price of $13,807 and a debt load of $12,000. In comparison, University of Chicago graduates earn $91,885 with a net price of $14,860, but their debt is higher at $15,000. This contrast raises important questions about the balance between cost and potential earnings.

With 50 schools to consider, it’s essential to prioritize what matters most to you. Think about geographic location, the specific social work programs available, and financial implications. A school that might seem more expensive on paper may have a more supportive environment or better job placement opportunities, which could ultimately offset initial costs.

This data underscores the crucial link between education and long-term stability. The journey from college to a successful career in social work can pave the way for a fulfilling life, not just for the individual, but for the communities they will serve. A single decision about which college to attend shapes future opportunities and impacts lives for years to come.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

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

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.

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