Enrollment Advisement
Status Changes
To request Status Changes, you are encouraged to first schedule a meeting with an ACE Navigator to inquire about options and implications of a status change that may include a leave of absence from the program, program length change, or withdrawal from the program.
Please visit the SDPSSW Policies and Procedures website for more information about policies and guidelines.
Leave of Absence (LOA) Guidelines
Students who are in good standing with a minimum 3.0 GPA and making satisfactory progress toward the MSW degree, and have a compelling reason to do so, may request a leave of absence for a stated period, usually not to exceed one year at a time. (The university will permit a maximum of four semesters for leaves of absence.) The request for a leave of absence must be made no later than the last day to add or drop courses. The request must indicate the reason for the leave and the proposed semester to return. An academic plan will be developed to prepare for your re-entry into the program. Students gone longer than two years will need to reapply for admission through the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work.
If a student is not in good standing and takes a leave of absence, the student will need an academic review meeting prior to applying for readmission through the Graduate School.
Site Change
Students may request a site change (transfer to another academic center). The request must be reviewed and approved by the school administration and Program Director. A revised academic plan will be provided to a student who is approved to transfer to ensure a smooth transition.
Petition Services
For assistance with a petition request, students should first consult with an ACE Navigator. The ACE Navigator will work with the appropriate department to assist with processing and reviewing the petition request.
For registration-related petition services, please view Petition Services or send questions to sdp.enroll@usc.edu.
Readmission Process
If you were granted an official leave of absence as a student in good standing and making satisfactory progress toward the MSW, DSW or MSN degree, you must contact the Suzanne Dworak-Peck Enrollment Services office at least 8 to 12 weeks prior to your approved re-entry semester. The re-entry plan will be discussed, along with readjustment to program expectations.
A student who leaves the program without notifying the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and wishes to return must apply for readmission.
Find more details on the Readmission Policy in the MSW Policies & Procedures.
Requesting Verification Letters & Degree Forms
Please send an email requesting degree verification letters and attach forms to be completed to sdp.enroll@usc.edu for processing. Include the following information in the email:
- Student full name
- Student USC 10-digit ID
- Degree completion date