Best Graduate School Rankings

U.S. News & World Report has once again ranked the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work (GSSW) among the nation’s Top 15 graduate schools of social work. GSSW is ranked at No. 12 for 2024, tied with Boston University, Case Western Reserve University, Howard University, New York University, Ohio State University, Rutgers University–New Brunswick, and the University of Pittsburgh.

Social work graduate schools are included in the 2024 U.S. News Best Health Schools rankings, which are based solely on the results of peer assessment surveys sent to deans, other administrators, and faculty at accredited degree programs or schools. Notably, GSSW is the only Colorado school included in the nation’s Top 50 programs and is one of only nine schools in the West counted among the Top 50.

“This achievement is in large part due to our exceptional staff and faculty, whose passion, creativity and commitment to social work education are an inspiration,” says Associate Professor and Interim Dean Lisa Reyes Mason. "I’m particularly proud of their efforts given the transitions we’ve experienced over the past two years, including a search for a new dean.”

GSSW enrolls 1,200 MSW students in its Denver Campus, Western Colorado, Four Corners, and online MSW@Denver programs. The school also offers a social work doctoral program, several dual-degree master’s programs, and a variety of continuing education options. Across all programs, GSSW focuses on preparing students to lead social change as social workers.

A focus on community engagement, social and racial justice and “science for action” is at the heart of the school’s research enterprise as well. Last year, GSSW researchers had 65 grants totaling $12.8 million in research expenditures — the most of any division at the University.

“It’s gratifying to know that our work to center equity and advance justice, our emphasis on action, our commitment to community, and our responsive education are recognized by our peers nationwide,” Reyes Mason says. Still, she adds, “What matters most is our positive impact on individuals, communities and the social work profession, and that’s what we’re most proud of.”