About Us

For over 80 years, the College of Social Work (CoSW) has been a leader in social work education. Our mission is clear: Through rigorous research, excellence in instruction, and steadfast service, the CoSW works to improve the human condition. Always, in all ways.

As the state’s flagship university, our mission is actualized through our deeds. Our faculty are renowned academicians dedicated to fostering the development of high-quality practitioners and researchers.

As a college, we promote community and individual well-being through translational research and scholarship, exemplary teaching, and vital community engagement. We are committed to the people and social institutions throughout Kentucky, the nation, and the world. Our college, like the University, is an organization that cultivates a diverse academic community characterized by interpersonal fairness and social justice. We are fiercely committed to developing outstanding social work professionals — leaders who will serve individuals, families, and communities through innovative and effective practices that are guided by cultural competency, systematic ethical analysis, and a keen and pragmatic understanding of the human condition.

CoSW offers four unique academic programs:

• Bachelors of Arts in Social Work (BASW) – On-campus, Online
• Master of Social Work (MSW) – Hybrid and Online
• Doctor of Social Work (DSW) – Online
• Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD in Social Work)

In addition to the main campus in Lexington, we have satellite campuses at the Center of Excellence in Rural Health in Hazard, Kentucky and Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas.