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 social good.

The current context of the world makes it clear that the need to pursue social change and social good 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.

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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 good 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.

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 good. 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

News

SP2 Hall of Fame awardees with Dean Bachman

SP2 honors five accomplished alumni at 2025 hall of fame ceremony 

Five distinguished alumni of Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) were celebrated at the 2025 SP2 Alumni Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Friday, May 16. The evening event marked the seventh year that the School has honored alumni through the SP2 Hall of Fame. The event began with remarks from SP2 Dean Sara S. Bachman.

News

Graduates in the Palestra at SP2 2025 Commencement

SP2 congratulates 2025 award winners  

Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) is pleased to announce the 2025 SP2 Award Winners. SP2 Award recipients were recognized for their outstanding achievements by Dean Sara S. Bachman at the School’s 2025 Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 17, at the Palestra.

News

headshot of Linda Goler Blount

SP2 announces Linda Goler Blount as 2025 Commencement Speaker

Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) announced last week that Linda Goler Blount, MPH, a public health leader and the new President and CEO of Community Catalyst, will deliver the School’s 2025 Commencement speech on May 17.