University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work
- Acceptance Rate
- 29.0%
- SAT Range
- N/A
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.85
- Size
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- Type
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- Student:Faculty
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- Graduation Rate
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- Retention Rate
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- Tuition (In-State)
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- Tuition (Int'l)
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Student Life & Environment
Life at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work combines academic rigor with supportive community and Austin's vibrant culture. The school's building provides dedicated spaces for student organization activities, group study, and informal gathering, fostering connections among students pursuing similar professional goals. Student organizations address diverse interests including advocacy, specialized practice areas, cultural affinity groups, and professional development. These organizations sponsor speakers, workshops, community service projects, and social events that enhance the graduate experience beyond classroom learning. Austin offers exceptional quality of life with live music at numerous venues, diverse food scenes, outdoor recreation along Lady Bird Lake and in the Hill Country, and a youthful, progressive atmosphere. The city's technology industry has created economic dynamism and cultural diversity that enrich graduate student life. Support services include academic advising, career counseling, mental health resources, and financial aid assistance. The school recognizes the demands of graduate study alongside field placement requirements and works to create manageable workloads while maintaining educational quality.
Location & Surroundings
The Steve Hicks School of Social Work occupies facilities on the University of Texas main campus in central Austin, providing easy access to university resources while maintaining connections to the broader Austin community and state government located nearby. Austin's status as the Texas state capital creates unique opportunities for policy-focused learning and practice. Students can engage with legislative processes, state agency operations, and advocacy organizations while developing understanding of how policy shapes social work practice. The city's diverse population and dynamic nonprofit sector provide varied field placement opportunities. Students gain experience working with Latino communities, refugees and immigrants, LGBTQ+ populations, and other groups across clinical, community, and policy settings. Beyond professional considerations, Austin offers exceptional climate with mild winters and abundant sunshine, outdoor recreation opportunities including swimming holes, hiking trails, and cycling routes, and cultural attractions ranging from world-class museums to legendary music venues. The city consistently ranks among the most desirable places to live in the United States.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition for the MSSW program varies by residency status, with Texas residents paying approximately $12,000 annually and non-residents approximately $24,000. Financial aid including scholarships, fellowships, and student loans helps manage costs, with many students qualifying for need-based or merit-based support. Living costs in Austin have increased significantly in recent years, with housing representing the largest expense. Graduate students typically budget $15,000-20,000 annually for living expenses beyond tuition. Part-time employment options exist though field placement demands limit work hours during intensive semesters. Career outcomes for MSSW graduates reflect strong demand for licensed clinical social workers and social work administrators across Texas and nationally. Graduates work in healthcare systems, mental health agencies, schools, child welfare organizations, policy organizations, and private practice. The LCSW license, available after supervised post-graduate practice, opens additional career opportunities. The school maintains strong career services including job boards, employer connections, networking events, and alumni mentorship. The Texas social work job market remains robust, while the school's national reputation facilitates geographic mobility for graduates seeking positions elsewhere.
Campus Location
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