CSWE
Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
Founded in 1952, the Council on Social Work Education is the national accrediting body of social work education in the United States. CSWE accredits both graduate and undergraduate social work programs. Creighton University's Social Work Program received initial accreditation in 1990 and was approved for full re-affirmation of accreditation in July 2020; next re-affirmation is scheduled for 2028 . Its members include over 750 accredited baccalaureate and masters degree social work programs, as well as individual social work educators, practitioners, and agencies dedicated to advancing quality social work education.
Through its many initiatives, activities, and centers, CSWE supports quality social work education and provides opportunities for leadership and professional development, so that social workers play a central role in achieving the profession’s goals of social and economic justice. CSWE’s Commission on Accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation as the sole accrediting agency for social work education in the United States and its territories. (CSWE website)
This accreditation is significant for the undergraduate student who graduates with a BSW degree (Bachelor in Social Work). Students graduating with a BSW from an accredited program, like Creighton University, may qualify for “advanced standing” for an MSW degree. This reduces the time for MSW completion from 2 years to 1. Students should consult with prospective MSW programs for their individual requirements and qualifications.
CSWE also provides support and resources to promote exemplary education of social work students in all accredited programs. CSWE has developed a resource page for students, available here: https://www.cswe.org/Students
