The Steve Hicks School of Social Work has been ranked No. 8 in the US World and News Report Rankings for social work schools, confirming once again its perennial status as a school of the first order.

In the newest rankings, SHS is tied for fifth nationally among public universities, is the highest-ranked social work school in the State of Texas, and serves as the only social work school from Texas ranked in the Top 40 nationally.

“It’s an honor for our School to be recognized for excellence. We are in an enviable position among our peers, and we are well-positioned to lead both here in Texas and nationally as we advance our mission,” said Allan Cole, Dean of SHS. “With upgraded facilities on the way, the continued efforts of world-class researchers and teachers, national leadership across our professional organizations, and markedly increased financial support for students, faculty, staff and programs, our future is brighter than ever.”

The methodology for the USWNR reflects peer assessments from other schools for academic quality, but other considerations involving location, environment, strength of different fields, cost after tuition and financial aid, and job placement are also heavily considered.

In the rankings, 319 social work programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Board of Accreditation were considered. The National Association of Deans and Directors of Schools of Social Work (NADD) supplied U.S. News with lists of accredited social work schools and programs and all the respondents’ names.