University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work

In 1922, the university withdrew from the AASPSW, and the formal social work program was disbanded, though courses continued.

In 1932, the university began the process of having its accreditation reinstated by the AASPSW, a request made formally in January 1933.

Within each of these, students also selected a specialization from among Interpersonal Skills; Organization and Planning; Administration and Policy; and Research.

In 2001, a major investment was made in the development of a university Center on Race and Social Problems in the school.

The BASW Program includes a liberal arts base and prepares students for entry-level generalist social work and for graduate education.

The program aims to provide students with the skills needed to engage in culturally competent practice with diverse populations; promotes critical analysis of environmental factors affecting individuals, families, and communities; and promote advocacy for those who confront institutional barriers in order to prepare students for service and leadership.

The program's foundation curriculum provides the knowledge, skill development, and values that embody the generalist social work perspective.

Hundreds of the school's alumni have attained major leadership careers as public officials; deans, directors, chancellors and presidents in higher education and social work education; researchers and faculty; and executives of social service agencies, foundations and professional organizations; and a wide range of administrative and leadership positions in industry, commerce, the military, and government.

[citation needed] Previous deans of school were Sheldon Gelman[10] and Carmen Ortiz Hendricks.

[11] As of 2024, it is ranked tied for 12th out of 319 schools for social work in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.