Academic Programs
Why Howard. Why Now.
For more than 90 years, the Howard University School of Social Work has prepared professionals to lead in addressing the most urgent social challenges of our time. Ranked among the top 5% of graduate social work programs nationwide and recognized as the highest-ranked program in the Washington, DC area, our academic offerings are rooted in a legacy of scholarship, service, and social justice.
Established in response to both institutional vision and societal need, the School of Social Work was founded to provide high-quality education for those entering the public and social service sectors. That mission continues to shape every aspect of our curriculum and academic environment.
At Howard, we believe education must serve the public good. Our programs are designed to prepare students to meet critical human needs—locally, nationally, and globally. The School’s mission focuses on two primary goals:
To prepare MSW graduates for advanced practice and leadership in communities.
To prepare doctoral graduates for careers in research, teaching, and policy development.
Our work is guided by the Black Perspective—a theoretical and practice-based framework that centers the lived experiences of African American communities and the global Black Diaspora. This approach informs our curriculum, research, and community partnerships, ensuring that Howard-prepared social workers are not only skilled practitioners but also agents of transformation and equity.
Our graduates are grounded in theory, trained in practice, and empowered to lead. They do more than respond to social challenges—they work to dismantle oppressive systems and build equitable communities.
Degree Programs
Traditional MSW Flagship Program (On-Campus)
Our traditional, campus-based MSW program offers students a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum with specialized pathways that include health, mental health, criminal justice, child and family welfare, displaced populations, and social gerontology.
Learn MoreMSW Starship Program (100% Online)
Designed for working professionals and non-traditional students, the online MSW program provides flexible access to the same high academic standards and faculty expertise as our flagship program.
Learn MoreDual Degree Programs
Our doctoral program in Social Work prepares graduates for leadership roles in the field, equipping them to become influential social work scholars, educators, and senior-level administrators. The program is designed to challenge students to reach their full potential and excel in their careers.
Learn MoreDoctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work
Our doctoral program in Social Work prepares graduates for leadership roles in the field, equipping them to become influential social work scholars, educators, and senior-level administrators. The program is designed to challenge students to reach their full potential and excel in their careers.
Learn MoreFellowships
Project PRESS: Preparing Responsive and Effective School Social Workers
Project PRESS is a federally funded program at Howard University School of Social Work that trains MSW students to deliver culturally responsive, evidence-based mental health services in DC schools, addressing service gaps and building sustainable support systems in underserved communities.
Learn MoreNon-Degree Programs
Human Service Leadership Certificate
This 5-month certificate program equips participants with the tools, knowledge, and strategies to lead organizations with vision, empathy, and cultural intelligence. Designed specifically for current and aspiring leaders in nonprofit, community-based, and government settings, this program fosters innovation while remaining grounded in the lived realities of the people these organizations serve.
Learn MoreMental Health First Aid Certification
This self-paced certification course equips participants with the skills to recognize and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges. It covers key topics such as depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, and substance use disorders, while teaching de-escalation strategies and ways to connect individuals with professional support in both crisis and non-crisis situations.
Learn MoreProfessional Development and Continuing Education
Structured professional development and continuing education opportunities for social workers, human service providers, and related professionals. Programs are led by experienced faculty and practitioners and are designed to support licensure requirements, build practical knowledge, and address workforce needs across diverse practice areas.
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