About Wurzweiler School of Social Work

Where Passion Meets Purpose

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EST. 1957

Wurzweiler Mission

At the Wurzweiler School of Social Work, our mission is reflected by our history. We opened our doors at Yeshiva University in 1957 as America’s first graduate social work school under Jewish auspices in a university setting.

The Mission Statement

The mission of the Wurzweiler School of Social Work is to educate professionals to address the challenges faced by individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Guided by the values of social work and their Torah parallels—and recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual—our programs emphasize evidence-based practice, cultural humility, current knowledge, and a commitment to social justice, ethical leadership, and service to diverse communities.

Our Early Years

Throughout our history and with the full support of the University, we have reached out to an ever-widening constituency. Though we began as a school of social work for group workers, reflecting the need of Jewish communal agencies for staff well-prepared in this discipline, we moved rapidly to offer the full casework sequence.

About Gustav Wurzweiler

The school was established through a generous contribution from Gustav Wurzweiler, for whom the School is named.

Gustav Wurzweiler (1896–1954) was a banker and philanthropist. Wurzweiler was born in Mannheim, Germany. After serving in the German forces during World War I, he established his own banking firm. He later became known for his philanthropic contributions and commitment to supporting education and community development. His generosity helped establish the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University, leaving a lasting legacy in social work education.

Expanding Social Work Education

In 1974, with the help of a demonstration grant from the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies of New York, we launched the community social work sequence. This became an integral part of Wurzweiler’s regular offerings, with courses in administration and research specifically designed for our students.

Doctoral Studies

We initiated doctoral studies in social welfare in 1966, granting the degree DSW, Doctor of Social Welfare. In April 2000, after an intensive self-study and external review, the New York State Department of Education approved changing the degree designation to PhD, Doctor of Philosophy in Social Welfare.