Leslie Daniels, SP2's Director of Field Education, speaks to a group of students

SOCIAL Work

Social workers committed to impact and the pursuit of justice.

The current context of the world makes it clear that the need to pursue social change and social justice has never been greater—and effective social change requires exceptionally well-trained social workers. The University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) offers both a Master of Social Work with full-time, part-time, and Advanced Standing options and a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work.

Request Info

Learn more about the social work programs and the SP2 experience.

Apply Now

Ready to experience SP2? Learn more about the application process.

Visit SP2

Join us for an upcoming in-person or virtual event.

Master of Social Work

Fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program empowers you to become the type of committed and compassionate social work leader that today’s complex world needs more than ever. Learn more about our renowned faculty, curriculum, diverse practicum placements, and commitment to social justice and meaningful change.

Doctorate in Clinical Social Work

The Doctorate in Clinical Social Work (DSW) Program allows ambitious, MSW-prepared social workers to advance their education in just three years—without putting their careers on hold. Become a clinical expert, inspired educator, and real-world scholar through a convenient blend of online evening classes and on-campus immersion experiences.

Daniel Jacobson Lopez

FEATURED ALUMNI

Daniel Jacobson López, MSW ’15

“I chose Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) because of its educational reputation, faculty, and clinical focus combined with an emphasis on racial and social justice, as I had wanted to receive the best clinical education to effectively engage with individuals who had experienced racism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination. My time at SP2 and the larger Penn campus was unmatched in terms of community and providing a sense of purpose. I became actively involved in Latine and Black student organizations, often in leadership roles that allowed me to advocate for Black and Brown students, and made a lot of friends in the process.”

Adult students sit in rows at tables with colorful nametags, listening to a speaker

“Our world is confronted with mounting social problems, highlighting the increasingly vital role of social workers. Our MSW and DSW programs are thoughtfully designed to equip students with the skills to lead positive change and advocate for social justice. Whether making a difference in the lives of individuals, transforming communities, or tackling global issues, our students are empowered to effect meaningful and lasting change.”


– Mary Mazzola, Ed.D., MSW

Associate Dean, Enrollment Management and Global Outreach

Mery Diaz

FEATURED ALUMNI

Mery Diaz, DSW ’11

“When I consider the reasons for attending SP2, I think back to the School’s mission — a long-standing commitment to social justice and educating students committed to taking an active role in fighting oppression. The School’s mission resonated with me then and continues to do so now. In our national, and global context, it is a mission constantly being put to the test. I do not take lightly that graduating from SP2 was instrumental in opening doors, but also in shaping the critical scholar, teacher, and mentor I am and strive to be every day with this mission in mind.”

News

Desmond Patton stands beside Locust Walk, arms folded

SP2’s Dr. Desmond Patton to deliver keynote at SSWR conference with 40+ SP2-led sessions

Collaboration as innovation will be the theme of an address by Keynote Speaker Dr. Desmond Upton Patton of Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) at the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) 2025 Annual Conference in Seattle, Washington.

News

At a classroom table, Desmond Patton speaks to a student

Journey to Joy

In a joint class within SP2 and the Annenberg School for Communication, Penn Integrates Knowledge University Professor Desmond Upton Patton invites students to seek fulfillment in less tangible forms and dream big in Journey to Joy: Designing a Happier Life.

News

Headshots of Dr. H. Daniel Heist, Professor Ram Cnaan, and Dr. Megan M. Farwell appear against a dark blue background

Paper on philanthropic strategies wins editors’ prize for three SP2-affiliated authors

The first author of the paper is Dr. H. Daniel Heist, a graduate of SP2’s PhD in Social Welfare Program. He is joined by SP2 Professor Ram Cnaan and fellow SP2 PhD graduate Dr. Megan M. Farwell.