Take advantage of life beyond the classroom in the cultural hub of Boston.
We are located in the heart of the BU campus, overlooking the Charles River. From events and lectures to restaurants and the arts, experience the rich cultural life of the city through venues including the Esplanade, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Fenway Park.
Outside the classroom, you will find a deeply engaged student body. Our school is home to a growing number of student-led groups, giving you the opportunity to connect with your peers on issues you care about. Our students are also active members of the Greater Boston community where many volunteer their time at local organizations, lead drives, marches and more. You can also connect with graduate students at other BU schools through University-wide organizations such as the Community Service Center and the Howard Thurman Center.
See what a “Day in the Life” is like for recent MSW grad, Vinnie.
Explore the Boston Experience
Living in Boston
Boston is an intellectual hub and a nexus for cutting-edge innovation in health, education, and non-profits, making it a dynamic place to call home as a graduate student.
Our Charles River Campus is 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.
BU students receive free and discounted opportunities to visit numerous cultural attractions throughout Boston.
Each year BU hosts countless academic and cultural events, all accessible through the BU Calendar.
Academic and Student Support
You will have a committed team providing academic support throughout your MSW journey.
BU is home to twelve libraries, including the Mugar Library.
Our BUSSW Career Services office is committed to working with you to develop a plan of action as you prepare to launch your social work career. Connect with Dana Benton directly and learn about the types of appointments and supports available as you prepare to graduate.
The Yawkey Center for Student Services houses the Educational Resource Center 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.
If you require accommodations or related support, connect with the BUSSW student services team or BU’s Disability & Access Services, located in Kenmore Square next to the Yawkey Center.
Transportation
Commuting to and from different parts of the campus is easy through the BU Shuttle (“The BUS”).
The MBTA (known as the “T”) B Line runs through campus with dedicated stops located at major BU locations. Visit the MBTA website for more information.
All BU students receive free membership to the wellness app Headspace, as well as BUSSW group advising opportunities focused on self-care. Contact your student services team for more info.
For physical or mental health assistance, visit BU Student Health Services. Additional resources for mental and physical well-being are also available at BUSSW– check with your Student Services team.
ISSO assists with international student check-in, filing paperwork for post-completion Optional Practical Training, and provides resources for everything from for filing taxes to life after BU.
Enrichment and Travel Opportunities
We are proud of our history of cross-cultural travel and study opportunities for students and alumni.
Over the years, we have offered travel and 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 host visiting international scholars-in-residence, most recently from Australia, Israel, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia.
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 select free courses through the school’s Network for Professional Education which offers workshops and seminars on specific social work topics.
Student Services
Our Student Services teams are here for you. Providing personalized attention and the guidance you need to succeed academically, personally, and professionally.