Why Iowa?

With mental health services in greater demand than ever, social work training has never been more valuable. As the home of the largest and highest-ranked social work programs in the state, the University of Iowa has resources and expertise to prepare you for vital and rewarding careers helping people and communities.

Make an impact

Transform lives

Collaborative and committed

The Iowa difference

Benefit from the expertise, learning, and training opportunities you can only find at a Big 10 university and health sciences campus like the University of Iowa

# 1

Highest-ranked MSW program in Iowa

US News and World Report

Social work: a career and a calling

Social workers are the nation’s largest group of mental health services providers. There are more clinically trained social workers—over 250,000—than psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychiatric nurses combined. And with an expected growth in jobs of 12 percent by 2030, social work is one of the fastest growing professions in the United States.

“I chose to study social work as an undergraduate student and will continue on with attaining my master's here because of the faculty. The department is small enough that everyone will know your name, and they will be the first ones to check in and provide you with support and connection.”

- Olivia Van Fosson-Roelfs

Portrait of Olivia Van Fosson-Roelfs

A format that fits your life

You have a lot going on–Iowa’s online MSW makes it possible to advance professionally without putting the rest of your life on pause.

# 19

Online MSW program in the nation

Source: College Consensus

News and announcements

Honoring the life and legacy of Sharaine Webster

Tuesday, October 28, 2025
The School of Social Work remembers Sharaine Webster, whose compassion, advocacy, and dedication to equity shaped the lives of countless students, colleagues, and clients. Her impact on the field and the community will be felt for years to come.

Building resilience across continents: An Iowa MSW graduate's military mission

Tuesday, October 21, 2025
As Integrated Prevention Chief for the U.S. Air Force in Germany, University of Iowa MSW alumnus Rob Otto leads innovative programs that promote resilience and well-being among service members, families, and civilians.

From the classroom to counseling: How Iowa changed Kerby Hanson’s life

Monday, September 29, 2025
After 16 years in the classroom, Kerby Hanson found his calling in social work through Iowa’s MSW program. Now a private practice owner, he helps children and families navigate life’s challenges while advocating for vulnerable communities.

Upcoming events

Des Moines MSW Info Session

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Virtual
Join the Info Session to learn about the MSW program options and specializations available in Des Moines.

Iowa City MSW Info Session

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Virtual

Please join us via Zoom for an info session to learn more about earning your MSW degree on our main University of Iowa campus in Iowa City.

https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/91760640877

Contact our Admissions Office directly with any questions or requests.

ssw-admissions@uiowa.edu

319-335-1250

Sioux City MSW Info Session

Tuesday, December 9, 2025 5:30pm to 6:30pm
Virtual

Please join us via Zoom for an info session to learn more about the MSW program in Sioux City.

https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/94235054803

Questions? Contact Sarah at sarah-j-stevens@uiowa.edu

Online MSW Info Session

Thursday, December 11, 2025 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Virtual

Please join us via Zoom for an info session to learn more about the online MSW program.

https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/91760640877

Questions? Contact Lauren at ssw-admissions@uiowa.edu

BASW Info Session

Tuesday, January 6, 2026 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Virtual

Please join us via Zoom for an info session to learn more about earning your BASW degree.

https://uiowa.zoom.us/j/96938044127

Contact our Admissions Office directly with any questions or requests.

ssw-admissions@uiowa.edu

319-335-1250

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