School of Social Work

Across the street from the majestic Cathedral of St. John the Divine stands the Columbia University School of Social Work. It’s a place where compassion and scholarship intertwine. The School of Social Work’s story begins in 1898. The New York Charity Organization Society established the Summer School in Philanthropic Work. This six-week program, held at 105 East 22nd Street, marked the humble beginnings of what would become a leading institution. Twenty-five students, both men and women, attended those first classes, eager to learn how to address the social ills of their time. The School of Social Work quickly evolved. By 1904, it expanded into a full-year graduate program, the New York School of Philanthropy. The name changed again in 1919 to the New York School of Social Work. This reflected the growing professionalization of the field. In 1940, a pivotal moment arrived. The School affiliated with Columbia University, becoming one of its esteemed graduate schools. It moved locations several times, eventually finding a home in the Andrew Carnegie Mansion at 2 East 91st Street. Later, it relocated to 622 West 113th Street. The School of Social Work awarded its first doctoral degree in 1952. Its commitment to social justice extended beyond the classroom. In 1961, the school rallied behind President John F. Kennedy’s vision for the Peace Corps. The School of Social Work played a critical role in shaping national policy. Its 1966 longitudinal study of foster children and their families significantly influenced child welfare practices. The school continued to grow, both in size and reputation. By 2018, it had over 1,000 students, making it one of the largest social work schools in the US. In 2004, the School of Social Work moved into its current state-of-the-art building. This marked a new chapter in its history. From its humble beginnings as a summer program to its current status as a leading institution, the Columbia University School of Social Work has consistently championed the values of service, social justice, and human well-being.