Introduction
Our goal is to offer a well-rounded certificate training program for social workers at all career levels.
The program will prepare students to advance health equity as part of interprofessional teams within diverse health settings.
Our approach
The department was established to provide an academic home for social workers at Rush and advance Rush’s efforts to promote health equity.
Social workers at Rush have earned a national reputation for innovation in the field through the Center for Health and Social Care Integration at Rush.
Social workers at Rush have served as faculty in various courses and roles at the University.
In the future, we will offer specialized certificates, courses and fellowships for already licensed social workers. We hope to further incorporate social work expertise across disciplines.
So much of what social workers do helps to address disparities and mitigate areas of social risk that can influence overall health and well-being.
– Robyn Golden, LCSW, Chair, Department of Social Work
Vision
Our vision is that social workers are fully integrated into health practice and education in order to provide high-quality, whole-person care; improve health; conduct meaningful research; and advance health equity.
Mission
Our mission is to prepare and empower social workers to effectively leverage their expertise and skill set within health practice and education.
Our innovative educational initiatives integrate evidence-based best practices, research and clinical expertise to provide a well-rounded experience for learners and maximize our impact on practice change.

“We’re committed to improving access to resources to reduce disparities in mental health outcomes across different groups, and at Rush, our social workers are leading the charge on pathways toward that goal.”
– Rebecca Lahey, MSW, LCSW
Director of integrated mental health and wellness, Department of Social Work and Community Health
Social work career opportunities
Social workers help address disparities in health care and mitigate areas of social risk that can affect health and well-being.