2023 Commencement

May 12, 2023 - Ceremony for Class of 2023 PhD, DSW, MSW and MSN

Apply Now - Master of Social Work

Fall 2023 Deadline: Full-Time - April 3

Social Change and Innovation

Social Change and Innovation

Social Change and Innovation Specialization
What to expect when pursuing a Master of Social Work with a
Social Change and Innovation specialization.


Social Change and Innovation focuses on designing social change and leading innovation. The curriculum prepares students to improve living conditions and work environments for individuals, groups, families, organizations and communities on a larger scale.

Students will acquire the knowledge and cultivate skills to lead and implement sustainable social change for good. Practicing with this specialization includes  influencing laws, legislation and institutional practices and policies that impact them. It provides cross-disciplinary training that will inspire new ways of understanding and tackling society's most pressing issues, including homelessness, human trafficking,  substance use and poverty, often through the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Social Change and Innovation offers students flexibility in designing their career paths, which may include nonprofit management, public affairs, community organizing, corporate social responsibility or human resources. It may also include becoming a  licensed clinical social worker and leading employee assistance programs.

Work Settings

The social work profession has a 19% growth rate that is faster than the average for all occupations. Learn more

USC MSW graduate
Drive Meaningful Change With Your MSW

Ready to chart a new path forward? View steps to apply or start your application to our world class MSW today.

How to Apply Apply Now