Virginia State University Achieves History-Making Accreditation For Master Of Social Work Program

VSU is the first HBCU in the nation to offer a CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work program specializing in trauma-informed care.

Virginia State University is proud to announce that its Master of Social Work (MSW) program has achieved full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This landmark achievement makes VSU the first Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in the nation to offer a CSWE-accredited MSW program specializing in trauma-informed care.

The accreditation, effective retroactively from Fall 2022, reflects VSU's commitment to providing high-quality education and transformative opportunities for its students. The accreditation will last through 2032 and can be extended.

“This accreditation from the CSWE is a tremendous honor and a ground-breaking achievement for Virginia State University,” said Dr. Jimmie Fedrick, Chair of the Department of Social Work. “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.”

The MSW program at VSU began just over two years ago, welcoming its inaugural cohort of 10 students. Today, the program has grown to include 68 active students, with an anticipated class of 100 students expected in Summer and Spring 2025.

The value of an MSW degree is reflected in its career potential. According to ZipRecruiter, a leading online employment marketplace, the average annual salary for MSW graduates in Virginia is $78,213.

The Master of Social Work program at VSU specializes in preparing graduates to systematically and strategically address the well-being of individuals who have experienced trauma. It is also committed to promoting human rights and social and economic justice through community engagement, advocacy, and collaborative scientific inquiry that impacts professional practice locally, nationally, and globally.

Prospective students and others interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to visit https://www.vsu.edu/sola/departments/social-work/master-of-social-work-program/.