University of Michigan School of Social Work
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at the School of Social Work reflects the values of community, mutual support, and social justice that define the profession. The school maintains dedicated space in the Social Work Building, where students gather in common areas, study rooms, and the student lounge that serves as an informal hub for connection. Student organizations including the Social Work Student Union, Organization of Latino Social Workers, and Black Social Work Student Alliance create affinity spaces and advocate for student interests, while organizing events ranging from professional development workshops to social gatherings. The broader University of Michigan campus offers extraordinary resources and opportunities. Graduate students have access to the extensive university recreational facilities, including multiple gyms, swimming pools, and intramural sports leagues. Ann Arbor's vibrant cultural scene includes numerous restaurants, cafes, bookstores, and music venues within walking distance of campus. The school's location near central campus places students within easy reach of university libraries, museums, and athletic events, including the famous Michigan football games at the Big House. Housing for social work students typically involves off-campus apartments in Ann Arbor's diverse neighborhoods, with options ranging from downtown living to quieter residential areas. The cost of living in Ann Arbor is moderate for a major university town, though housing demand keeps rental prices competitive. Graduate students often form roommate groups and housing cooperatives. One common challenge students report is balancing demanding academic and field placement schedules with personal life and self-care, making the school's wellness resources and peer support networks particularly valuable.
Location & Surroundings
Ann Arbor, Michigan, offers an ideal setting for graduate study in social work, combining the resources of a major research university with the character of a livable, engaged community. The city of approximately 120,000 residents (swelling significantly during the academic year) consistently ranks among America's most educated cities and best places to live. The downtown area, immediately adjacent to campus, features an eclectic mix of independent shops, restaurants representing cuisines from around the world, and cultural venues including historic theaters and art galleries. The climate presents distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters that last from November through March, followed by pleasant springs and warm summers. Many students adapt to winter by taking advantage of nearby skiing opportunities and embracing campus traditions. Transportation within Ann Arbor is manageable without a car, as the university and city operate extensive bus systems, and the compact nature of the city makes cycling popular except during winter months. Detroit Metro Airport, located about 25 miles east, provides convenient connections for travel. Ann Arbor's location within the broader Detroit metropolitan region provides unique opportunities for social work students. Detroit, just 45 minutes away, offers unparalleled field placement and research opportunities addressing urban poverty, community development, and social innovation. The school maintains strong partnerships with Detroit-based organizations, and many students engage with the city through coursework, field placement, or research. This proximity to both an affluent college town and a major urban center experiencing significant challenges creates a rich learning environment for future social workers.
Costs & Career Outcomes
The cost of attendance for Michigan's MSW program reflects the investment required for a top-tier graduate education. Annual tuition for Michigan residents is approximately $24,000, while non-residents pay roughly $49,000 per year. When combined with living expenses in Ann Arbor (estimated at $18,000-22,000 annually for housing, food, and other costs), the total two-year investment ranges from $85,000 for residents to over $140,000 for out-of-state students. However, the school provides substantial financial aid that significantly reduces these costs for many students. Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) positions offer tuition waivers plus stipends for qualifying students, typically requiring 10-20 hours weekly of teaching or research assistance. The school also distributes numerous scholarships and fellowships based on merit, need, and specific criteria such as interest in particular practice areas or identity factors. Approximately 60% of students receive some form of financial aid. Federal loans including Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS loans are available for remaining costs, though the school encourages careful borrowing given typical social work salaries. Career outcomes for Michigan social work graduates demonstrate strong return on investment despite the profession's generally modest salary expectations. Within six months of graduation, over 90% of MSW graduates secure employment in social work or related positions. Starting salaries typically range from $45,000-65,000 depending on setting and geographic location, with clinical positions in healthcare settings and private practice generally commanding higher compensation. The school's career services office provides extensive support including career fairs, interview preparation, and job board access. The Michigan alumni network, particularly strong in the Midwest, opens doors for graduates throughout their careers, with many assuming leadership positions in major social service agencies, hospitals, schools, government offices, and advocacy organizations.
Campus Location
Explore More
See your match score for University of Michigan School of Social Work
Find out how you compare to admitted students with a personalized admission assessment.
See your match score — Sign up free