Virginia State becomes first HBCU to offer this program

Virginia State University has become the first HBCU in the country to offer a CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work program. The program specializes in trauma-informed care.

The Master of Social Work program at Virginia State started with a cohort of 10 students in 2022. Today, there are 68 active students in the program, with 100 students expected to graduate in the summer and spring of 2025. According to the university, the program will last until 2032, with the possibility of further extension.

“This accreditation from the CSWE is a tremendous honor and a ground-breaking achievement for Virginia State University. It affirms that our students are earning an education that meets the highest standards. Upon graduating, they will emerge as innovative, connected, global leaders, fully prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work.”

According to the institution, the degree focuses on teaching students how to approach the well-being of trauma survivors in a methodical and strategic manner. The degree program is also committed to promoting social justice and human rights through community involvement. The Master of Social Work degree has the potential to earn $78,213, which is the average salary for MSW graduates in the state of Virginia, according to Virginia State.

Although there is not much data available for the exact number of HBCU students who go into social work, recent data shows that roughly 20% of Master of Social Work students identify as Black. Institutions such as Howard University and Florida A&M University can be recognized as some of the leading institutions for social work education among Black students.

Social work programs at HBCUs often attract students looking to work in their communities due to their primary focus on understanding the cultural experiences of Black people and other people of color. Even with the lack of specific data on the number of HBCU graduates working as social workers, current research shows an increase in the trend of Black students pursuing social work degrees.