PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia State University became the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the nation to offer a CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work program, which emphasizes trauma-informed care. Virginia State University has a made a history-making achievement, for its accreditation for its Masters of Social Work (MSW) Program -- becoming the first HBCU to do so, according to the university. The university confirmed the accreditation will last until 2032 and can be extended further. VSU's MSW program began in 2022 by welcoming a cohort of 10 students -- the program has now grown to a total of 68 active students, resulting in the anticipation of 100 students expected to graduate in Summer and Spring of 2025. According to VSU, the MSW degree is considered valuable with the potential to earn $78,213 -- the average salary for MSW graduates in the state of Virginia. The university said the degree specializes in helping to prepare students how to systematically and strategically address the well-being of people who have experienced trauma. Additionally, the degree program is dedicated to advocating human rights and social justice with community engagement. "This accreditation from the CSWE is a tremendous honor and a ground-breaking achievement for Virginia State University. It affirms that our students are earning and education that meets the highest standards. Upon graduating, they will emerge as innovative, connected, global leaders, fully prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work." Dr. Jimmie Fedrick, Chair of the Department of Social Work