The Hunter College School of Social Work, established in 1958, offers several pathways leading to the master of social work degree. The M.S.W. program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The primary goal of the program is to prepare students for responsible, advanced, and creative practice in social work. As a public graduate school of social work in New York City, the School recognizes a special responsibility toward serving the urban community under social agency auspices.

The School of Social Work adheres to the principle that education for social work proceeds from a common core of values and knowledge incorporated into social work practice. The School aims to bring into the profession graduates who are able to make responsible decisions and value choices in a rapidly changing society. The M.S.W. curriculum at the Hunter College School of Social Work reflects a commitment to social change, diversity, and practice in the urban environment. The School of Social Work has strong ties to many social agencies which provide students with rich field placements in a variety of practice areas. Qualified agency staff serve as student field instructors. Social work students are encouraged to participate actively with faculty and administration in policy formulation, curriculum development, and review of student performance.