Take advantage of life beyond the classroom in the bustling cultural hub of Boston.
Whether you’re looking for ways to get involved with a student club or to take advantage of Boston’s culture and history, our close-knit community on the Charles River Campus in Boston can help. Outside the classroom, you will find a deeply engaged student body. Tap into the numerous opportunities to do hands-on research projects, join a student org, or be a voice on school-wide committees focused on curriculum, racial justice, or admissions and financial aid.
BU School of Social Work is home to the always active Student Union and a growing number of student-led groups, giving you the opportunity to connect with your peers on issues you care about. BUSSW students are also a part of the Greater Boston community, and many volunteer their time at local organizations, leading drives, marches and more.
As a graduate student at BUSSW, you can also connect with graduate students at other BU schools across the campus through University-wide organizations such as the Community Service Center and the Howard Thurman Center.
A Day in the Life
Explore Our Boston Experience
Living in Boston
Boston is an intellectual hub and a nexus for cutting-edge innovation in health and education — making it a dynamic place to call home as a graduate social work student. Our Charles River Campus is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Boston and a short walk to renowned Boston area attractions, including the famous Freedom Trail and Harvard Square. Looking to explore or live in the Greater Boston area? Boston and its surrounding areas are home to many vibrant, unique neighborhoods, all easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation.
Not too busy cramming for mid-terms or completing your field placement? Boston University students receive free and discounted opportunities to visit numerous cultural attractions throughout Boston. Plus, each year Boston University hosts countless academic and cultural events, all accessible through the BU Calendar. School of Social Work-specific events are always posted on our calendar.
Academic and Student Support
Boston University is home to twelve libraries, including the Mugar Library—just steps from our home at 264 Bay State Road.
The Yawkey Center for Student Services houses the Educational Resource Center (ERC) and the Center for Career Development—great resources for academic or career services, including help with résumé building, cover letter writing, career search and interview preparation, and more. Disability & Access Services is also located in Kenmore Square next to the Yawkey Center, and is a good resource if you require assistance with accommodations, or additional support.
Transportation
Commuting to and from different parts of the campus is easy through the BU Shuttle (“The Bus”). The MBTA “T” B Line also runs through the heart of the Charles River Campus, with dedicated stops conveniently located by major campus locations. Visit the MBTA website for more information.
Health and Wellness
Make time for some self-care right on the Charles River Campus at the Fitness and Recreation Center, home to a state-of-the-art, 18,000-square-foot weight and cardio room as well as hundreds of classes—most free to students. Our students can visit BU Student Health Services, located at 881 Commonwealth Avenue, for physical or mental health assistance. Additional resources for mental and physical well-being are also available.
International Student Resources
As an international student at BU, you will receive support through the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO). ISSO assists with international student check-in, filing paperwork for post-completion Optional Practical Training, and provides resources and workshops for filing taxes and life after BU.
Enrichment and Travel Opportunities
We are proud of our rich history of international and cross-cultural travel/study opportunities for students and alumni. In prior years, we have offered travel/study visits to China, Costa Rica, Cuba, Denmark, and Israel, with a focus on social work practice and policies in these countries. In addition, we often host visiting international scholars-in-residence in our program, most recently from Australia, Israel, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia.
Currently, we offer a three-week summer public health social work program in Puerto Rico (with elective course credit) led by Professor Luz Lopez, in conjunction with the Inter American University of Puerto Rico. “The Puerto Rican Experience” focuses on social, economic, and cultural issues in Puerto Rico. Participants take Spanish-language classes, visit local agencies and community groups, and attend lectures taught by Puerto Rican social work professors and practitioners.
Current students may also attend free classes through the school’s Professional Education Programs—an ongoing array of timely and relevant workshops and seminars to advance knowledge in specific topics. Students may also enroll in electives courses at other Boston University schools and colleges.
