New Students

Congratulations on your acceptance to the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. Your dedication to the profession, personal qualifications, and experience distinguished you from this year's pool of applicants. We are delighted to welcome you to the Trojan Family.

Get Started at the USC Dworak-Peck School of Social Work

As an admitted Master of Social Work student, you may have questions before confirming your enrollment. This page is here to serve as a starting point for information about the program, paying for your education, and next steps. Our admissions team is available for personalized guidance – please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Explore Campus

Los Angeles is the place for people who want to bring creative solutions to our society's challenges. Located next to Exposition Park, the University Park Campus (UPC) is just minutes from downtown and easily accessible by the new Metro Expo line.

New Student Checklists

We have created detailed checklists to help you prepare for graduate school success. Learn how to pay your commitment deposit, setup your USC email account, apply for financial aid, and register for classes. Select your program below to get started.

Advanced Standing MSW

For students admitted to the 3-semester Advanced Standing MSW program beginning in summer 2021.

Traditional MSW

For students admitted to the 4- or 6-semester Traditional MSW programs beginning in fall 2021.

Working Professionals MSW

For students admitted to the 7-semester Working Professionals MSW program beginning in summer 2021.

International Students

For international students admitted to any MSW program starting in fall 2021.

Social Work Student Organization Leaders

Get Involved: Caucuses

Home to over twenty identity- and interest-based social work student groups, hear from student leaders about opportunities to get involved with USC's student life.

Meet with a Student Ambassador

Jasmine Quintana '22

Wonder what it is like to be an MSW student at USC? Meet with a student ambassador, a current MSW student available to answer questions about their experiences, field placement, and classes.

Schedule an Appointment

Resources

As a student in the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, you can access a wide range of university-wide resources.

Transportation

Visit USC Transportation to learn about parking permits, tram schedules, and public transportation.

Scholarships

Many students pay for their education with a combination of scholarships, stipends, and loans.

Health and Wellness

Visit USC Student Health to learn about immunization requirements, student health insurance, and mental health programs.

Campus Safety

Download our mobile safety app, sign up for emergency text alerts, and register your bike.

In the event of an emergency, call the Department of Public Safety at 213-740-4321. For non-emergencies, call 213-740-6000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can I change my department of study?

Answer: Contact the Office of Admissions at applymsw@usc.edu to change your department of study.

Question: When will I be notified about my field placement?

Answer: Students in the 4-semester program will start field placement during the third week of their first semester. They will receive their placement notification through email in August 2021. Field placement will take place on Mondays and Wednesdays for 16 hours per week.

Question: How do I update my address?

Answer: Go to MyUSC, click OASIS, then click Other Services. If you are a 4-semester student who has already completed their Field Placement Form, notify the Field Education Office at sswfield@usc.edu.

Question: How do I become eligible for registration (D-clearance)

Answer: You must pay your commitment deposit, confirm your Statement of Intent through the YouSC portal, and complete your Field Placement Form (4-semester students only) to be eligible for D-clearance.

Question: When do I register for courses, and which classes should I choose?

Answer: The Social Work Registrar will email you detailed registration instructions in June or July 2021.

Question: When is the MSW orientation?

Answer: MSW orientation will take place the week before the start of the fall semester. Students will be notified of specific dates when they are published.

Question: Is the commitment deposit refundable?

Answer: The $280 commitment deposit is non-refundable.