Established in 1921 the Socialhögskolan in Stockholm has a rich history. It began as the Institute for Social Policy and Municipal Education and Research. People called it the Social Institute. This institute was created to address a need for professional higher education in social work. The Central Federation for Social Work helped. It used donated funds. The Social Institute had a connection to Stockholm University. A professorship in national economy and social policy was established. The first professor was Gösta Bagge. The Social Institute’s teaching staff included academics and people with practical experience.
In 1964 the name changed to Socialhögskolan. In 1977 it became part of Stockholm University. For many years the Socialhögskolan was located in a beautiful functionalist building near Sveaplan. Two young architects Nils Ahrbom and Helge Zimdal designed the building. Their design was called Emancipation. The building was completed in 1936. It’s considered one of Stockholm’s most stylish functionalist buildings. The building featured an impressive auditorium. It had high windows and a large visible pipe organ. The simple geometric forms and light facades were distinctive. A large wall painting by Bo Beskow from 1939 adorned the entrance hall. The building underwent renovations in 1996. Nils Ahrbom who was then 90 years old was involved. The building housed the school until 2021. The Socialhögskolan is now located on Campus Albano.
The Socialhögskolan is more than just a building. It’s a place where countless students have learned the skills and knowledge necessary to improve society. The Department of Social Work employs about 100 people. It has approximately 1300 students and four professors in social work. The department offers various specializations. These include general social work. There are also specializations in working with alcohol and drug abusers children and youth and the elderly and disabled. Three more professors have advanced positions. Two focus on children and youth and one focuses on the elderly and the disabled. The Socialhögskolan continues its mission of training social workers and conducting research. It remains a vital part of Stockholm University and the city itself. The legacy of the Socialhögskolan is one of dedication and service. It’s a place that’s shaped the lives of many. It has helped improve the lives of countless individuals and communities.