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

Newark skyline

Report: Newark guaranteed income pilot shows positive financial, health, family, and housing impacts 

New research from the Center for Guaranteed Income Research (CGIR) at Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) offers insight into the efficacy of different forms of unconditional cash transfers and reveals the positive impact of guaranteed income on low-income families in Newark, NJ. 

News

DSW class photo

SP2 celebrates 2025 Doctorate in Clinical Social Work graduates

At the 2025 Commencement ceremony for Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2), eighteen students were awarded their Doctorate in Clinical Social Work (DSW). As part of the ceremony on Saturday, May […]

News

PhD class photo

Largest-ever PhD class graduates from Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice

At the 2025 Commencement ceremony of Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2), eight students earned their Doctor of Philosophy in Social Welfare (PhD) degrees — the largest graduating cohort in the program’s history.