Value and Benefits of CSWE Accreditation
CSWE accreditation speaks to public trust and accountability across
the social work continuum. Programs that achieve and maintain CSWE
accreditation have completed a multistep accreditation process that
involves program self-studies, site visits, and review by the CSWE
Board of Accreditation to ensure compliance with educational policies
and accreditation standards. CSWE accreditation standards apply to
all social work programs, whether online or on-campus.
Visit the Directory of Accredited Programs for a complete list of accredited social work
programs.
Students
Attending a CSWE-accredited social work program provides assurance
that the program in which a student enrolls is committed to quality
and educating students on social work competencies necessary to enter
practice. Attending a CSWE-accredited program may help graduates
qualify for employment or licensure that require completion of a
CSWE-accredited degree.
Social Work Programs
CSWE-accredited social work programs ensure the program mission is
aligned with social work competencies to prepare students for
professional practice, and are committed to ongoing program assessment
and renewal based on data-informed decision-making. Beyond review for
reaffirmation of accreditation every eight years, CSWE-accredited
programs engage in continuous quality improvement ensuring that
students are prepared to practice safely, competently, and ethically
with all clients, constituents, and the public.
Licensing Boards
Through social work competencies, graduates of CSWE-accredited
programs are prepared for holistic professional practice based on
scientific inquiry and best practices, consistent with social work
values. The CSWE Board of Accreditation (BOA) reviews baccalaureate
level programs for generalist practice competencies, master’s level
programs for generalist and specialized practice competencies based on
one or more areas of specialized practice, and since February 2025,
the CSWE-BOA also reviews practice doctorate programs for core
expertise and skills within one or more areas of focus from a
practitioner-scholar perspective.
Social Workers in Practice
Graduating from a CSWE-accredited social work program does not
guarantee an individual job placement or licensure, but it may
facilitate this process. Most state and U.S. territory requirements
stipulate that a social worker pursuing licensure or sitting for a
licensing exam be a graduate of a CSWE-accredited program.
The Public
A pillar of accreditation is public accountability and
transparency. This means the public can trust that CSWE-accredited
programs have the resources, administrative structure, and curriculum
to ensure graduates are prepared to provide competent and ethical
social work services.
Learn More About CSWE Accreditation
To learn more, download the CSWE Accreditation FAQs
(PDF, opens in new tab). If your question is still unanswered,
email accreditation@cswe.org.