Two students sitting on a bench outside, smiling at the camera.

School of Social Work

School of Social Work School of Social Work

The School of Social Work at UNC Wilmington serves the region’s social work education needs with CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees. We also offer certificates in substance use disorders and addiction and veterinary social work, as well as a credential in School Social Work and the Child Welfare Collaborative, a traineeship for future child welfare workers.

Through coursework, field placement experiences and extra-curricular activities, our students gain the knowledge, skills and ethical foundation they need to become effective agents of positive change. Students can also study abroad, participate in faculty research and community work, and join student organizations and the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).

Be the Difference

Social Workers apply social work knowledge, values and skills to help individuals, families, groups and communities: access services, cope with social, emotional and health concerns to improve lives and advocate for a just society. Social Workers are employed in a wide range of fields as direct and community supports, participants in legislative processes and advocates for human rights and social, economic and racial justice.

Explore the School of Social Work

Academic Programs We offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work. Our programs include significant field learning experiences that will prepare you for a career helping others. See Our Programs

Field Education Our programs take you beyond the classroom and give you direct experience in the field of social work. You will enter the workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to compete. Learn More About Field Education

Get Involved Some of your best academic and social opportunities will come from working and engaging with other students who share your goals. Join a student or professional organization to enhance your experience. How To Get Involved

SSW News

Amaria Rankins ’25 READ MORE

Social Work Students Explore Forest Therapy READ MORE

From Personal Experiences to a Career Path READ MORE

UNCW School of Social Work

UNCW’s School of Social Work provides a strong foundation for students who want to help make a difference for individuals, families and communities. Hear the stories of some of our students and faculty.

Who Isn’t F*cking Crazy?!

Who Isn’t F*cking Crazy?! is a podcast launched by Doug Engelman, Ph.D., visiting assistant professor of sociology and Stacey Kolomer, Ph.D., School of Social Work director, that focuses on breaking the mental health stigma. Engelman and Kolomer use the experiences and insights of guests across the mental health spectrum to help us all understand that most people are dealing with diagnoses of mental disorders, either their own or that of a loved one. Peers, family members, clinicians, and educators share their stories to help reduce the stigma of mental illness. Listen on Apple, Spotify and Google podcast platforms!

UNCW Honors Excellence in Research and Innovation

The achievements, scholarly productivity and creative works of UNCW’s research leaders were formally applauded at the annual research celebration on Sept. 26. The event recognized those who have participated in extramurally sponsored research in the form of proposals or awards within the preceding fiscal year (July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024) and celebrated significant research accomplishments and impact.