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.
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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 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.
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.”
“Each of us – students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, and others – is truly committed to advancing the pursuit of social innovation, justice, policy, and practice, and fostering a better future for all.”
–Sara S. Bachman, PhD, Dean
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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
Faculty & Research
09/05
Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) among partner schools for Penn Center on Media, Technology, and Democracy
The University of Pennsylvania today announced $10 million in funding dedicated to its new Center for Media, Technology, and Democracy. The Center will be housed in the Penn School of Engineering and Applied Science (Penn Engineering) and will operate in partnership with five other schools at Penn, including SP2.
News
Faculty & Research
08/30
Jacqueline Corcoran publishes “Your Child’s Mental Health Diagnosis”
The new book by SP2’s Doctorate in Clinical Social Work Program director is described as a “go-to guide for those raising children with mental disorders” that provides valuable information, support, and strategies.
News
Faculty & Research
08/05
Alice Xu awarded 2024 Harold D. Lasswell Award for best dissertation in the field of public policy
The American Political Science Association (APSA) has announced that SP2 Assistant Professor Alice Xu is the recipient of the 2024 Harold D. Lasswell Award, presented annually by the APSA to honor the best doctoral dissertation in the field of public policy. The APSA is the leading professional organization for the study of political science.
Contact Us
Mai Le, JD, MSW
Administrative Director, MSW Program
215 746 4031
Jeff Johnson-Curry
Administrative Coordinator, DSW Program
215 573 7133