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USC University of Southern California

Academic Programs

Wherever you are in your academic or professional journey, the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work offers opportunities to learn, grow and lead. From undergraduate and graduate degrees to professional doctorates, research training, and graduate certificates, our academic programs support lifelong learning while preparing students and professionals to create meaningful change throughout their careers. 

Read More About Our Academic Programs: Bachelor | Masters | Doctorate | Certificates

Grounded in academic excellence and real-world application, our interdisciplinary programs prepare graduates to address complex social and organizational challenges through evidence-informed practice, leadership, innovation and research. 

With flexible program options designed to meet the needs of today's learners, students have opportunities to engage with distinguished faculty, learn with and from classmates with varied experiences and perspectives and develop the knowledge and skills to improve lives and strengthen communities — locally, nationally and around the world.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) & Undergraduate Minors

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Bachelor of Social Work

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program prepares students for professional generalist social work practice while also providing a strong foundation for students committed to advancing social justice, community well-being and social change. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum emphasizing evidence-informed practice, professional self-care and wellness, community engagement and experiential learning, students develop the knowledge and practical skills to improve lives — whether they pursue careers in social work or apply their education in related professions.

Bachelor of Social Work

Social Work and Juvenile Justice Minor

This undergraduate minor is designed for students who want to increase their knowledge of the juvenile justice system and service environments for youth populations. Learn More

Health Innovations Minor

The Health Innovation Minor is an interdisciplinary program for undergraduate students interested in collaborative approaches to improving health and well-being. Learn More

Masters Degree Program

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Our Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares advanced generalist social workers through our distinctive Integrative Social Work specialization and offers flexible on-campus, online and hybrid learning options. Grounded in experiential learning, evidence-informed practice, culturally responsive education, professional self-care and wellness, and supervised practicum education, the program equips students to see solutions where others see problems and to improve the well-being of individuals, families, organizations and communities. Students may further personalize their education through optional practice tracks aligned with their interests and career goals. 

Explore our MSW

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) is no longer accepting applications.*

Doctorate Degree Programs

DSW students
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Designed for working professionals and offered entirely online, the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program provides advanced training for experienced MSW-trained professionals, preparing them for leadership roles across all areas of social work practice. The practice-focused curriculum combines applied scholarship with leadership development to prepare graduates to lead organizations, influence systems, mentor future professionals and shape the future of the social work profession.

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Doctor of Social Innovation (DSI)

Designed for working professionals in a variety of fields and offered entirely online, the Doctor of Social Innovation (DSI) program provides advanced training for master's-prepared professionals from any discipline around the world preparing to lead innovation across organizations, industries, communities, and societies. Through innovative thinking, human-centered design, systems and change leadership and the responsible use of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, graduates are prepared to drive organizational transformation and create measurable social impact.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Our PhD program is a leader in its field, helping students develop a portfolio of research and teaching that will prepare them for the challenges they face as the next generation of academics and researchers.

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Graduate Certificates

Graduate Certificates
Graduate Certificates

Graduate-level, short-term programs that enable students and working professionals to strengthen their expertise through flexible, cutting-edge learning opportunities aligned with their career goals. Certificate offerings include interdisciplinary collaborations with the USC Gould School of Law, the USC School of Pharmacy, and the Keck School of Medicine of USC.

Explore Graduate Certificates

Licensure and Certification

Get more information about professional licensure and certification requirements by visiting USC's Licensure and Certification website.

How can I learn more about the MSW?

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nursing students
*Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

We also offer a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for those who want to become family nurse practitioners (FNP). The online program prepares FNPs to address the physical, social and environmental factors that affect patient well-being. The MSN program is no longer accepting applications as of November 20, 2024. Students accepted for the Spring 2025 cohort will be the final cohort of nursing students.

MSN Program