Social Work Programs at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Want to join a Social Work program at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign that paves the way to your success? Here’s something remarkable – 97% of graduates either land jobs or pursue higher education after getting their degree.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign School of Social Work helps students make meaningful changes in the lives of children, communities, and marginalized populations. This program goes beyond just offering a degree – it creates a clear path to become a licensed social worker. Students get the advantage of smaller classes, tailored guidance, and direct access to award-winning faculty.
The numbers tell a compelling story about the program’s excellence. Students stay committed, with a 93% first-year retention rate. The four-year graduation rate stands at an impressive 86%, and most students complete their degrees in just 3.6 years. Graduates start their careers with an average annual income of $31,875, showing the program’s real-life value.
Where is University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign located
The prestigious University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus sits between the twin cities of Urbana and Champaign. These vibrant communities in east central Illinois have a total population of 128,000. Students who want to check out the social work programs will find the campus about two hours south of Chicago.
The social work program’s research and academic facilities spread evenly between Urbana and Champaign. Students get to experience both cities as they learn and participate in community activities.
You’ll find the university at 901 W Illinois St, Urbana, IL 61801. The University of Illinois System runs its main administrative operations at 506 S Wright St, Urbana, IL. The offices stay open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday.
Transportation Options
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign welcomes visitors from anywhere. Several travel options make getting to campus easy:
By Air: Willard Airport at the University of Illinois sits just five miles south of Champaign, off US 45. The airport links to major U.S. hubs with worldwide connections. Students heading to the university of illinois at urbana champaign school of social work will find this local airport most convenient.
By Rail: Amtrak runs daily trains between Champaign-Urbana and Chicago, going south through Memphis to New Orleans. The station’s convenient location makes train travel an eco-friendly choice.
By Bus: Several companies run national and regional bus services to Champaign-Urbana. This budget-friendly option works well for students and visitors from Illinois and nearby states.
Driving Directions
Here’s how to reach campus by car from major transport hubs:
From Chicago O’Hare Airport: Take I-190 for a couple of miles to Interstate 294 (Tri-state Tollway, exit 1D). Head south toward Indiana for approximately 35 miles to I-80, paying tolls along the way. Take I-80 West (toward Iowa) for three miles, then exit from the left lane onto I-57 heading south. Continue south on I-57 for about two hours until you reach I-74 in Champaign. Take I-74 east for three miles and exit at Lincoln Avenue. Turn right and head south for one mile to reach the campus on your right.
From Central Illinois Regional Airport (Bloomington-Normal): Exit the airport onto Route 9 (west). After approximately one mile, turn left onto US-51/Veterans Parkway and continue for about four miles. Take the US-51/Main Street ramp, keep left at the fork, then turn left onto US-51/Main Street. After about a mile and a half, take the I-74 east ramp toward Champaign. Continue on I-74 east to Champaign-Urbana, then exit south on Lincoln Avenue and head south for one mile to reach the campus on your right.
From Indianapolis International Airport: Drive east from the airport for less than a mile to I-465. Head north on I-465 for about five miles to I-74. Take I-74 west (exit 16B, marked “Peoria”) and continue for 107 miles to Urbana.
From St. Louis Airport: The 180-mile journey starts with a right turn (northeast) on North Lindbergh Blvd./US-67 from the airport. Take the MO-B/Natural Bridge Road ramp and stay straight to merge onto US-67. Continue on US-67 for two miles and take the exit for I-270. Follow I-270 for approximately 25 miles until you reach I-70, then go east on I-70. Take I-70 East to I-57 in Illinois, then I-57 North to I-74 in Champaign. Take I-74 East for three miles and exit at Lincoln Avenue. Turn right and head south for one mile to reach the campus on your right.
Campus Overview
The campus splits almost evenly between Urbana and Champaign. This setup gives students access to two distinct communities. Social work students benefit from varied practicum sites and cultural experiences in both cities.
This 155-year old flagship campus of the University of Illinois system helped found the Big Ten Conference. Today, it ranks among America’s top public research universities.
Important Contact Information
These contacts will help prospective social work students:
- Undergraduate Admissions: Office of Admissions and Records, 901 West Illinois Street, Urbana, IL 61801; (217) 333-0302
- Campus Information: Illini Union Information Desk, 115 Illini Union Building, 1401 West Green Street, Urbana, IL 61801; (217) 333-4666
- Campus Life and Student Welfare: Office of the Dean of Students, 300 Turner Student Services Building, 610 East John Street, Champaign, IL 61820; (217) 333-0050
- Housing Information: Office of Certified Housing/Housing Information, 200 Clark Hall, 1203 South Fourth, Champaign, IL 61820; (217) 333-0610
- Minority Student Affairs: Office of Minority Student Affairs, 130 Turner Student Services Building, 610 East John Street, Champaign, IL 61820; (217) 333-0054
- General Information: Public Affairs, Swanlund Administration Building, 601 East John Street, Champaign, IL 61820; (217) 333-5010
Local Community
Champaign-Urbana creates a perfect environment for social work education. The area’s 128,000 residents provide enough diversity for varied social service experiences while maintaining a close-knit community feel. Students at the university of illinois at urbana champaign school of social work learn hands-on with different populations and build lasting professional relationships.
The university’s location puts it within easy reach of Chicago, Indianapolis, and St. Louis. Social work students can tap into internship and job opportunities across these major cities while enjoying their affordable college town life.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign combines the benefits of a top research institution with a welcoming community atmosphere. Students connect easily to major Midwest urban centers while studying in this dynamic environment.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has a wide range of social work programs that prepare students for various roles in the field. Students can choose from undergraduate degrees to doctoral studies, with each program offering a unique path in their educational trip.
Undergraduate Programs
The Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSW) program forms the foundation of undergraduate social work education at UIUC. This Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program prepares students for entry-level, professional, and generalist social work practice. Students can complete the program through two distinct paths:
- Traditional BSW Program: First-year and transfer students can join this on-campus program that offers a detailed educational experience rooted in liberal arts tradition.
- iBSW Program: Junior-level transfer students with 60 hours of college credit can earn their BSW degree through this innovative two-year program. It combines online courses with real-life field placements in their local communities.
Students need 120 hours minimum to graduate, with 53 course hours focused on social work. This includes 15 credit hours split between agency-based field practicum (internship) and field seminar. The top 10% of BSW graduates earn their degree with distinction.
UIUC also offers an Undergraduate Minor in Social Work. Students can add this option to their main field of study, focusing on social welfare and professional social work. The program helps students learn about social work theories, policies, and practices. They develop skills to tackle complex social issues in various settings.
Graduate Programs
UIUC’s graduate social work programs offer advanced education for career advancement and specialization:
- Master of Social Work (MSW): This flagship graduate program comes in several formats:
- MSW Campus Program: Available to Advanced Standing students (BSW degree holders) and graduates from other fields.
- iMSW Program: Students can earn their MSW part-time through this fully online option while keeping their jobs.
- Joint MSW/PhD Program: This program suits students interested in PhD study who have a Master’s degree in related fields but need an MSW.
- Post-MSW Program: MSW holders can earn an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with School Social Work Endorsement—required to practice in Illinois public schools.
- PhD in Social Work: Doctoral students learn to use scientific methods to create and distribute knowledge, teach future social workers, and serve their communities.
The 2021-2022 academic year saw 76 students earning bachelor’s degrees in social work—12% more than the previous year. During this period, 155 students received their master’s degrees, making UIUC the 58th most popular school for social work master’s degrees nationwide.
Field education at UIUC
Field education is the substance of social work training at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. These internships give students hands-on learning in professional settings. They turn classroom concepts into practical skills.
The Social Work program at UIUC goes beyond theory. You’ll get ground experience through well-planned field placements. These experiences connect your academic knowledge to professional practice and prepare you for your career challenges.
Block Placement Model
UIUC uses a unique block placement model for BSW and MSW programs. Unlike traditional programs where students juggle coursework and internships, you’ll complete all coursework first. Then you can focus entirely on your full-time internship. This lets you fully experience the professional environment without splitting your attention.
Campus BSW students take a 15-credit hour, one-semester course (SOCW 470). This includes placement hours and a hybrid seminar. The seminar meets online and has weekly assignments that help you connect your experiences with theory.
BSW campus students can pick from Fall, Spring, and Summer internship rotations. This helps students work around different graduation dates and personal needs.
IBSW students follow a different path. Their internships run through Fall and Spring semesters along with hybrid coursework. The internship splits into two parts: 7 credit hours in the first semester and 8 in the second. Online seminars happen every other week during both terms.
MSW students follow this same deep-dive approach. They work full-time in organizations that match their study focus. This gives them a wide range of learning activities while they focus only on their internship.
Hours and Requirements
Each program has its own field education requirements:
- Traditional MSW students need at least 900 hours at their placement site
- Advanced Standing MSW students must complete 500 hours
- BSW students need 400 hours minimum
School social work students face an extra challenge. They must meet the Illinois State Board of Education’s (ISBE) requirement of 600 hours.
Internship timing changes based on your focus area. Students in Leadership and Social Change, Children, Youth, and Family Services, Health Care, and Mental Health can start in summer or fall. School Social Work students begin in fall and follow the school calendar.
You’ll need to finish all required coursework, show professional behavior, and keep a B (3.0) GPA to start your field placement.
Support System
The UIUC School of Social Work knows how important these internships are. They provide strong support through their Field Education team of clinical faculty who have ground social work experience.
Your internship brings together three key partners: the Field Education Office, your internship agency, and you. This team approach makes sure your internship fits your needs and interests.
A faculty liaison helps you find the right position before you start. They’ll visit your agency at least once during your internship to check your progress and help with any issues.
You’ll take Professional Seminar I (SOCW 461) to get ready. Campus BSW students take this in their final year’s first semester. IBSW students take it in their Junior year’s last semester. The seminar helps you:
- Find your educational and professional interests
- Learn to use the 9 CSWE Social Work Competencies
- Connect classroom learning with onsite work
- Know what accommodations you need
- Write cover letters and resumes, and get ready for interviews
During your placement, you’ll join a seminar led by field education experts. Here you can think about your experiences, link them to theory, and learn from other students’ challenges.
Impact and Scope
UIUC’s field education program is huge. The university works with more than 500 field partner sites. BSW students provide about 38,400 hours of service, while MSW students contribute 138,000 hours.
MSW students get hands-on training in their chosen field. They work with individuals, groups, families, communities, and organizations. This focused experience helps them become experts in specific areas.
The UIUC Counseling Center shows how these opportunities work. It offers a Social Work Internship for MSW students. This placement follows both the Psychology Practicum Program’s goals and the School of Social Work’s core competencies.
Benefits for Students and Partners
Students get several key benefits from their internships. They work hands-on with individuals, families, and communities at different sites. This experience gives them the skills and knowledge to move forward in their careers.
Partner organizations also gain a lot from UIUC social work interns. They get passionate, skilled people who want to make a difference. Interns bring fresh ideas and current knowledge that help teams work better. These organizations shape future social workers and build stronger communities by teaching these students.
The block placement model lets students dive deep into their field work. You’ll learn practical skills that you can’t get from just sitting in class. This gives you both knowledge and real experience, plus professional connections.
Many students say field education changes them the most. It’s where theory meets practice and professional identity grows. UIUC makes sure this key part of your education gives you exceptional value through careful planning, strong support, and deep experiences.
What sets UI at Urbana-Champaign apart?
National rankings and unique features help students pick the best social work programs. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Social Work programs stand out with their awards, groundbreaking teaching methods, and research excellence.
National Recognition and Rankings
The online Master of Social Work (iMSW) program ranks as the #1 Best Online MSW Program. This recognition comes from the program’s excellence in several areas:
- Nationwide leadership in research activity
- Top three position in graduation rates
- Graduate earnings after 10 years
- Low federal student loan debt
- Low three-year loan default rate
The online Bachelor of Social Work (iBSW) program ranks as the #2 Best for Postgraduate Earnings. Students graduate at high rates and earn impressive salaries after completing the program.
The university of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign school of social work adds to the institution’s academic reputation. U.S. News & World Report ranks the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 9 programs and 6 specialties. Psychology ranks #8, with other social science programs also performing well.
Research Excellence
UIUC’s research strength makes it unique among similar schools. Forbes named it #1 in research activity among all rated online MSW programs nationwide. Students benefit from this research excellence through:
- Latest knowledge and practices
- Faculty research projects
- Evidence-based curriculum
The university leads national rankings for graduate assistants, showing its dedication to research and student support. Students learn in an environment where they can apply new knowledge practically.
Innovative Concentration Options
UIUC’s MSW program offers two main concentrations with specialized paths:
- Leadership and Social Change (LSC) concentration teaches advanced macro practice. Students learn to analyze complex social issues and create new solutions. Graduates work as policy promoters, program directors, political strategists, administrators, and consultants.
- Advanced Clinical concentration offers four focus areas:
- Mental Health – Training for community mental health work
- Schools – Preparing specialists for education settings
- Healthcare – Training for medical environments
- Children, Youth and Family Services – Working with young populations
Students pick one concentration and complete an internship in that field.
Distinctive Educational Model
The block placement internship model shows UIUC’s innovative approach. Students can complete internships at approved sites near their homes, unlike traditional programs. This makes the program available to more students while keeping high professional standards.
UIUC’s programs cost less than similar ranked schools. Graduate tuition and fees cost about $18,800 for in-state students, offering great value.
Research Focus Areas
The university of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign school of social work faculty focus on four main research themes:
- Family & Child Welfare
- Health & Mental Health
- Social Innovation & Technology
- Social Work Research in Schools
These areas shape the curriculum, student learning, and career preparation. Faculty members bring diverse expertise with degrees in social work, law, business, public health, psychology, and public administration.
Global Impact and Innovation
The Global Health Innovation Collaborative shows UIUC’s unique approach. Experts, organizations, and communities work together to create lasting, available health improvements worldwide. Students learn global perspectives that prepare them for today’s connected profession.
Commitment to Community Impact
Research at UIUC creates real changes in communities and advances social justice. Faculty and students work with vulnerable groups to improve their lives. This turns academic work into real benefits for people.
The University of Illinois leads in information and technology research worldwide. The School of Social Work brings new technologies to social work research and practice. Graduates learn modern approaches for their future careers.
UIUC combines research excellence, innovative programs, global outlook, and community impact to create a unique learning environment. Students looking for rigorous academic training with real-world application will find UIUC’s approach compelling and thorough.
Next steps
UIUC’s Social Work programs excel as outstanding educational paths for future social work professionals. The numbers tell the story – 97% of graduates land jobs or continue their education. The program’s unique block placement model lets you dive deep into professional settings without juggling coursework, which sets UIUC apart from other schools.
Your career goals in social work will find a home at UIUC through specialized tracks. The complete range of programs—from BSW to PhD—gives you access to nationally recognized education at various entry points. Forbes Advisor’s #1 ranking of UIUC’s online MSW program proves its value and quality.
The ideal learning environment comes from small classes, one-on-one guidance, and direct access to award-winning faculty. UIUC’s strong research focus covers four key areas—Family & Child Welfare, Health & Mental Health, Social Innovation & Technology, and Social Work Research in Schools. This approach keeps your education relevant with innovative technology.
Choosing the right social work program is a big step. UIUC’s track record speaks for itself with a 93% first-year retention rate and 86% four-year graduation rate. These numbers show both student satisfaction and how well the program works. UIUC’s steadfast dedication to developing skilled, ethical, and research-informed practitioners gives you the tools to create meaningful change for people, communities, and marginalized populations.
UIUC’s social work graduates become positive change makers who support vulnerable populations and advance social justice. Your experience at UIUC will turn theory into practical skills while building lasting professional connections. The path to becoming a licensed social worker who makes a difference starts here—in a program built for your success.