phd social work california

Social Welfare PhD

Berkeley Social Welfare educates students for leadership in the field of social welfare and the profession of social work. Since 1944 we have prepared over 11,000 social work professionals and social work scholars for leadership in a range of research, teaching, advanced practice, and management roles. We offer two graduate degrees: the professional Master of Social Welfare (MSW); and the academic Doctor of Philosophy in Social Welfare (PhD).

Master of Social Welfare (MSW)

Berkeley Social Welfare offers the professional Master of Social Welfare (MSW) degree, which is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education ( CSWE ). S tudents are prepared to practice with specialized skills at specific intervention levels and are thoroughly grounded in social science knowledge, social welfare policies, and social service organizations.

• W e train social workers for a range of leadership and advanced practice roles in the profession.
• We create a spirit of critical inquiry and emphasize the use of tested knowledge and theory in developing and applying intervention methods.
• We prepare students for professional responsibility in the field of social welfare and the institutional systems that comprise it.
• We educate students to advance social justice.

All MSW students complete a foundation curriculum in generalist social work practice; an advanced curriculum that prepares them for practice in a chosen area of specialization; and a field education curriculum including agency-based field placements and integrative field seminars.

Full-time MSW Program

The Berkeley MSW Program is a two-year, full-time degree program. All students follow a prescribed, full-time (minimum 12 units per semester) program of work, preparing them for both generalist and specialized practice.

FlexMSW Advanced Standing Program

The FlexMSW Advanced Standing degree program is available to qualified working professionals in the field of social work who have a professional baccalaureate degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). FlexMSW Advanced Standing students complete a 27-unit program of study over a one year period.

FlexMSW Extended Program

The FlexMSW Extended Program is a three-year MSW degree track option for qualified working professionals in the field of social work and otherwise qualified students who are not able to participate in a traditional full-time MSW professional degree program. FlexMSW Extended Program students enroll on a part-time basis and complete the same 54-unit program of study as traditional full-time MSW students, only over a period of three part-time years (inclusive of two summer sessions), instead of two full-time years.

NOTE: Berkeley Social Welfare will not be accepting applications for Fall 2024 admission to either FlexMSW Program track.

Certificate Programs

Additional special program options include the School Social Work Credential Program ; a Social Work with Latinos Certificate ; and the Graduate Certificate in Aging .

Concurrent Master's Degrees

Berkeley Social Welfare offers a Concurrent MSW/MPH Degree with the School of Public Health; and a Concurrent MSW/MPP Degree with the Goldman School of Public Policy. Applicants must be accepted to both programs to pursue a concurrent degree.

The PhD in Social Welfare

Berkeley Social Welfare's doctoral program develops scholars who challenge conventional wisdom and make significant contributions to the field of social welfare and the profession of social work through excellent research, teaching, policy development, and administration. Berkeley doctoral students become proficient in research methodology and experts in their area of interest, ultimately demonstrating scholarly competence by publishing a dissertation.

Contact Info

[email protected]

120 Haviland Hall

Berkeley, CA 94720-7400

At a Glance

Department(s)

Social Welfare

Admit Term(s)

Application Deadline

December 4, 2023

Degree Type(s)

Doctoral / PhD

Degree Awarded

GRE Requirements

PhD Admissions

Berkeley Social Welfare develops doctoral scholars who challenge conventional wisdom and make significant contributions to the field of social welfare and the profession of social work through excellent research, teaching, and service.

Our doctoral graduates are prepared to tackle the most difficult social problems we face, contributing to new knowledge in areas as wide-ranging as poverty, severe mental health, racial and ethnic inequalities, and health. They form a cadre of researchers who are developing new ideas about service systems that can help children, families, and communities to develop and thrive. With over 300 graduates of our doctoral program, our School produces top-notch professors and researchers for some of the best social work schools and policy centers throughout the country and around the globe.

Application Deadline for Fall 2024 Admission

We are not currently accepting applications for admission to Fall 2024. Information for admission to Fall 2025 will be posted later this year.

PhD Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Social Welfare PhD Program, all applicants must:

• Satisfy the minimum requirements for admission to graduate study at Berkeley.
• Have obtained a master's degree by the time of matriculation into the doctoral program. There is no requirement for the master's degree to be in a specific field.
• Demonstrate evidence of intellectual and other qualifications essential to successful performance in the doctoral program, including examples of scholarly written work.

International Applicants

For international applicants from a country or political entity where English is not the official language, a satisfactory score on the TOEFL exam or other acceptable equivalent  evidence of English language proficiency  to do graduate work is required.

Applicants to the Combined MSW/PhD Program

Applicants to the Combined MSW/PhD Program do not need to hold a graduate degree, but must meet all other requirements for admission to doctoral study,  AND  must also meet all  Admission Eligibility Requirements for the MSW Program .

Berkeley Graduate Admissions

Financing your degree.

Social Work Graduate Programs in California

1-25 of 26 results

Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work

Los Angeles, CA •

University of Southern California •

Graduate School

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   25 reviews

Master's Student: I was disappointed to see that many scholarship programs funded by the school weren't available for my specific department regarding my field hours I would be completing in my 2nd year. I'm worried since I work full time and am the main financial provider for my family, but I am really excited about getting experience in my community! I have loved going to campus and meeting new people, especially since they live near LA, and they also want to make new friends to attend football games etc. I got involved in the Latinx Caucus of Social Work, this has given me the opportunity to start connecting more in my community and other students to feel welcomed and involved as well. I will be planning events on campus and outreaching to local non-university related members to increase education and be a resource. I have to explore more but it's not far from home so I love that :) ... Read 25 reviews

University of Southern California ,

Graduate School ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

25 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I was disappointed to see that many scholarship programs funded by the school weren't available for my specific department regarding my field hours I would be completing in my 2nd year. I'm worried... .

Read 25 reviews.

Luskin School of Public Affairs

University of California - Los Angeles •

• • Rating 3.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: I really love this program. The field education gives students a great glimpse into the field while being heavily supported by faculty and instructors. Faculty here really is amazing, as are the students and their passions. ... Read 3 reviews

Blue checkmark.

University of California - Los Angeles ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 3.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I really love this program. The field education gives students a great glimpse into the field while being heavily supported by faculty and instructors. Faculty here really is amazing, as are the... .

Read 3 reviews.

UC Berkeley School of Social Welfare

Berkeley, CA •

University of California - Berkeley •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: The academics at UC Berkeley's MSW program was excellent. I was sufficiently challenged and educated and I truly believe that I left the program well prepared to succeed in the social work field. I have observed that I have a similar knowledge base to that of my peers in my recent work environments. I find myself well equipped to operationalize my learning and adapt to new situations in my field. If I were to recommend the UC Berkeley MSW program, it would be for the rigorous academic experience incoming students will receive. ... Read 2 reviews

University of California - Berkeley ,

BERKELEY, CA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The academics at UC Berkeley's MSW program was excellent. I was sufficiently challenged and educated and I truly believe that I left the program well prepared to succeed in the social work field. I... .

Read 2 reviews.

College of Business - University of La Verne

University of La Verne •

Graduate School •

LA VERNE, CA

• • Rating 4.54 out of 5   13

University of Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, PA

• • Rating 4.43 out of 5   74

University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley

EDINBURG, TX

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   112

College of Health & Human Services - California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA •

California State University - Long Beach •

• • Rating 4.38 out of 5   8 reviews

Master's Student: Great school. I start in the fall, but already I feel like a part of the family. I have been introduced to my graduate department and peers in my cohort. Shortly after orientation I was given a mentor to help guide me on the way. Long Beach is such a beautiful campus. There are so many nice buildings and it is such a clean campus. I am excited to obtain my Masters in Social work from this campus. Long Beach is a great place to live. It is in close to both the OC and South Bay areas. We have it all - weather, entertainment, plenty of outdoor activities. Unfortunately, houses are smaller, older and more expensive than a lot of other cities. In addition, California is losing business that paid decent salaries and not attracting new ones. So if you have a house and a job, it's a nice place to live. Attending school makes it such an awesome city.The diversity, the staff who have helped me through and so far my Professors! Awesome campus and I can't help but mention the diversity! ... Read 8 reviews

California State University - Long Beach ,

LONG BEACH, CA ,

8 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Great school. I start in the fall, but already I feel like a part of the family. I have been introduced to my graduate department and peers in my cohort. Shortly after orientation I was given a... .

Read 8 reviews.

College of Health and Human Services - San Diego State University

San Diego, CA •

San Diego State University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   6 reviews

Niche User: San Diego State University is an amazing school, I choose this school because it promotes opportunities and balance of work/school/activities on campus. I am interested in the graduate schools just because I enjoy my stay here so much. San Diego states offer state of art fitness facilities and technology. They also offer so many student activities on campus! ... Read 6 reviews

San Diego State University ,

SAN DIEGO, CA ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Niche User says San Diego State University is an amazing school, I choose this school because it promotes opportunities and balance of work/school/activities on campus. I am interested in the graduate schools just... .

Read 6 reviews.

School of Behavioral and Applied Sciences - Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, CA •

Azusa Pacific University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: My Master of Social Work program is well designed. Classes are designed to help professionals to practice in the field. In addition, the internship is designed to help students practice social work in different populations of their comfort zone. There is a lot of reading and homework. Research papers are always due. ... Read 2 reviews

Azusa Pacific University ,

AZUSA, CA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says My Master of Social Work program is well designed. Classes are designed to help professionals to practice in the field. In addition, the internship is designed to help students practice social work... .

• Find college scholarships

College of Health and Human Development - California State University - Fullerton

Fullerton, CA •

California State University - Fullerton •

California State University - Fullerton ,

FULLERTON, CA ,

College of Behavioral and Social Sciences - California Baptist University

Riverside, CA •

California Baptist University •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   3 reviews

Current Master's student: The professors know you are going to make it through the program. They designed the courses to be not only tricky but also thought-provoking. Social work is not an easy career, but with the right tools and like-minded people around you, you will accomplish all the goals intended by this program. ... Read 3 reviews

California Baptist University ,

RIVERSIDE, CA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The professors know you are going to make it through the program. They designed the courses to be not only tricky but also thought-provoking. Social work is not an easy career, but with the right... .

College of Behavioral and Social Sciences - California State University - Chico

Chico, CA •

California State University - Chico •

Master's Student: It had been great so far! Due to covid, I have not experienced the in person experience of the school but the online course have been great. ... Read 2 reviews

California State University - Chico ,

CHICO, CA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says It had been great so far! Due to covid, I have not experienced the in person experience of the school but the online course have been great. .

College of Health and Human Sciences - California State University - Fresno

Fresno, CA •

California State University - Fresno •

Master's Student: The College of Health and Human Services (specifically the public health department) have amazing professors who genuinely care for their students and want them to graduate. They will work the any student at any stage of their life and push them to achieve their goals. ... Read 2 reviews

California State University - Fresno ,

FRESNO, CA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The College of Health and Human Services (specifically the public health department) have amazing professors who genuinely care for their students and want them to graduate. They will work the any... .

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences - California State University - Northridge

Northridge, CA •

California State University - Northridge •

• • Rating 4.48 out of 5   27 reviews

Alum: I went to CSUN for my Undergrad in Psychology and my Masters in Social Work. I am considering going back to CSUN for my Doctorate one day and I just felt that during my time at the school, I've had just great options for professors and people to learn from and I think that makes me love learning even more. I feel like I got such an eclectic group of folks to soak up knowledge from. ... Read 27 reviews

California State University - Northridge ,

NORTHRIDGE, CA ,

27 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I went to CSUN for my Undergrad in Psychology and my Masters in Social Work. I am considering going back to CSUN for my Doctorate one day and I just felt that during my time at the school, I've had... .

Read 27 reviews.

College of Health and Human Services - California State University - Sacramento

Sacramento, CA •

California State University - Sacramento •

Master's Student: I am learning so much! The coursework is engaging and relevant to all my other classes. Getting to know my cohort of helping provide support despite distance learning. ... Read 2 reviews

California State University - Sacramento ,

SACRAMENTO, CA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am learning so much! The coursework is engaging and relevant to all my other classes. Getting to know my cohort of helping provide support despite distance learning. .

• Sponsored Find Student Loan Options
• Social Work Graduate Programs
• Social Sciences and Research Methods Graduate Programs

College of Education, Health and Human Services - California State University - San Marcos

San Marcos, CA •

California State University - San Marcos •

Master's Student: Environmental determinants are the given selections we have to work with to have a prosperous life. With this, health is impacted depending on what our environmental surroundings provide us. If we live by a small family farm, an industrial city, or an isolated suburb then our choices in food are only obtainable by our surroundings. In addition, culture has an influence on our health choices. A belief in religion may make us vegetarian, or the influence of fast food can also affect a culture. We are all different in how we live our lives; however, a change in public policies, behavior, and information may influence our population on health choices. ... Read 2 reviews

California State University - San Marcos ,

SAN MARCOS, CA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says Environmental determinants are the given selections we have to work with to have a prosperous life. With this, health is impacted depending on what our environmental surroundings provide us. If we... .

College of Education, Kinesiology & Social Work - California State University - Stanislaus

Turlock, CA •

California State University - Stanislaus •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Current Master's student: I feel that the MSW program is supportive of student success. I do feel that my professors are rooting for me to go on and be a social worker in the community. my professors know my name and they are encouraging of my goals. The MSW program provides you with an internship and also allows you to choose your workplace if compatible with the MSW learning plan requirements. The program has 2 other options if you do not want to do a thesis. There is a comprehensive exam option, a final project option and the traditional thesis. The campus is in small town and it's easy to get to know many of the other students here. ... Read 3 reviews

California State University - Stanislaus ,

TURLOCK, CA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says I feel that the MSW program is supportive of student success. I do feel that my professors are rooting for me to go on and be a social worker in the community. my professors know my name and they are... .

Rongxiang Xu College of Health and Human Services

California State University - Los Angeles •

California State University - Los Angeles ,

College of Professional and Global Education - California State University - Los Angeles

College of health and human sciences - san jose state university.

San Jose, CA •

San Jose State University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: I am currently an MSW graduate student at San Jose State University. So far, the curriculum for the program is very hands on and stimulating. The professors are passionate about what they teach and are committed to teaching students the ins and outs of the social work practice. Many professors also are willing to help students better understand the material and offer professional career advice for post graduation and how to get licensed in the practice. The student body is very supportive and willing to lend a helping hand when necessary. Overall, I've had a wonderful experience. ... Read 4 reviews

San Jose State University ,

SAN JOSE, CA ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am currently an MSW graduate student at San Jose State University. So far, the curriculum for the program is very hands on and stimulating. The professors are passionate about what they teach and... .

Read 4 reviews.

College of Health Sciences & Human Services - California State University - Monterey Bay

Marina, CA •

California State University - Monterey Bay •

California State University - Monterey Bay ,

MARINA, CA ,

California State University - San Bernardino College of Extended and Global Education

San Bernardino, CA •

California State University - San Bernardino •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   6 reviews

Master's Student: I’ve enjoyed my experience with CSUSB despite the pandemic. The administration was always communicative & engaging. The MSW program has been great with a very supportive staff. ... Read 6 reviews

California State University - San Bernardino ,

SAN BERNARDINO, CA ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I’ve enjoyed my experience with CSUSB despite the pandemic. The administration was always communicative & engaging. The MSW program has been great with a very supportive staff. .

California State University - San Bernardino College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

• • Rating 4.75 out of 5   8 reviews

Master's Student: My experience at CSUSB was vital to career. I learned so much about engaging with differing population with in the communities I serve. My professors were open and honest about the their experiences and the challenges of working in child welfare. ... Read 8 reviews

8 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says My experience at CSUSB was vital to career. I learned so much about engaging with differing population with in the communities I serve. My professors were open and honest about the their experiences... .

College of Health, Human Services and Nursing - California State University - Dominguez Hills

Carson, CA •

California State University - Dominguez Hills •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Current Master's student: I am currently enrolled to obtain my Masters of Public Administration from CSUDH. The academic programs was created for people who work fulltime, this have been the best implementation yet! ... Read 1 review

California State University - Dominguez Hills ,

CARSON, CA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says I am currently enrolled to obtain my Masters of Public Administration from CSUDH. The academic programs was created for people who work fulltime, this have been the best implementation yet! .

Read 1 reviews.

School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering - California State University - Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA •

California State University - Bakersfield •

• • Rating 4.63 out of 5   8 reviews

Master's Student: I am currently enrolled in the Master of Public Administration program at CSUB. I enjoy the diversity within the program. The class size is just perfect, ranging from 10 to 25 students per class. The cost of the program is very affordable! Amazing alumni contributing to the local community is very inspiring. ... Read 8 reviews

California State University - Bakersfield ,

BAKERSFIELD, CA ,

8 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am currently enrolled in the Master of Public Administration program at CSUB. I enjoy the diversity within the program. The class size is just perfect, ranging from 10 to 25 students per class. ... .

California State Polytechnic University - Humboldt

Arcata, CA •

• • Rating 4.42 out of 5   26 reviews

Other: Being able to learn about tribal issues, specifically related to Northern California as well as areas around where I live has given me the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of my own empathy. Throughout my studies, the emphasis on empathy and tribal understanding has been a revelation. It's been a journey of discovering the power of human connection and cultural insight. Learning from diverse communities and their unique struggles has ignited a passion within me for advocating social justice and equity. This experience has been profoundly transformative, guiding me towards a deeper appreciation of the value of empathy and the importance of understanding each community's distinct narrative. This understanding has solidified my commitment to fostering inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and amplify marginalized voices. ... Read 26 reviews

ARCATA, CA ,

26 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Other says Being able to learn about tribal issues, specifically related to Northern California as well as areas around where I live has given me the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of my own... Throughout my studies, the emphasis on empathy and tribal understanding has been a revelation. It's been a journey of discovering the power of human connection and cultural insight. Learning from... This experience has been profoundly transformative, guiding me towards a deeper appreciation of the value of empathy and the importance of understanding each community's distinct narrative. This... .

Read 26 reviews.

College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences - California State University - East Bay

Hayward, CA •

California State University - East Bay •

• • Rating 3.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: My MPA program was specifically for individuals who are working in the public sector. It was a hybrid program, where part of it was in class, and outside of class. More specifically, it was also a cohort model. I really enjoyed, being apart of this type of study as it allowed me to develop great relationships with others in my field. ... Read 2 reviews

California State University - East Bay ,

HAYWARD, CA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says My MPA program was specifically for individuals who are working in the public sector. It was a hybrid program, where part of it was in class, and outside of class. More specifically, it was also a... .

University of Arizona Global Campus

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   146 reviews

Master's Student: It has been fifteen years since I have been in college and my last online experience was nothing like it is today. The University of Arizona Global Campus has so many resources and great communications with advisors you're absolutely set up for success. The site is completely user-friendly, making it VERY easy to navigate. I love everything about my online experience this go-around and couldn't be happier at The University of Arizona Global! ... Read 146 reviews

146 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says It has been fifteen years since I have been in college and my last online experience was nothing like it is today. The University of Arizona Global Campus has so many resources and great... .

Read 146 reviews.

Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey

Middlebury •

MONTEREY, CA

• • Rating 4.16 out of 5   88

Lam Family College of Business

San Francisco State University •

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

• • Rating 3.67 out of 5   3

College of Health and Social Sciences - San Francisco State University

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1

Showing results 1 through 25 of 26

University of California at Los Angeles

Ucla luskin school of public affairs.

The mission of the UCLA Social Welfare Doctoral Program is to train research oriented scholars to advance the field of social welfare and social work practice through research and knowledge development. The purpose of the program is to provide the students with the necessary expertise, both substantive and methodological, that will enable them to assume leadership roles in academic, social welfare policy and social work practice settings.

Our approach to coursework is interdisciplinary and applied. During their time at UCLA, students take advantage of the rich learning resources in the Social Welfare Department and other departments within the Luskin School. A distinct advantage of our program is its connection to the larger UCLA campus – each year students can take courses in allied disciplines, including medicine, nursing, public health, education, psychology and sociology. The purpose of this interdisciplinary approach is to enable our students to develop substantive and methodological knowledge consonant with cutting-edge scholarship in their area of specialization. Funding packages include full tuition plus stipends in the first two years, as well as university fellowships and paid teaching and research assistantships in years three through five.

• Where: Los Angeles, California
• Type: Public
• Degree Offered: PhD in Social Work
• Program Type: In-Person Program Only
• Students: Full-time Enrollment Only
• Average Enrolled Students Yearly: 3-5 Students
• GRE Requirement: No
• TOEFL Requirement: Yes, with a cut-off score
• MSW Requirement: Yes, MSW or other master's degree required
• Two Years Post-MSW Experience Required: No
• Joint MSW/PhD Program: Yes

Substantive Research Areas of Faculty

• Addiction/Substance Use
• Adolescent and Youth Development
• Aging/Gerontology
• Child Welfare
• Children & Families
• Community Practice/Macro Practice
• Corrections/Criminal Justice/Restorative Justice
• Housing/Homelessness
• Immigrants, Refugees & Displaced Persons
• International Social Work & Global Development
• LGBT Issues & Services
• Mental Health
• Poverty/Disadvantaged Populations
• Race and Ethnicity
• School Social Work
• Social/Economic Justice
• Social Welfare Policy

For more information visit University of California at Los Angeles .

To update your program's profile, please complete the Program Directory Update Form .

The mission of California Baptist University’s Doctor of Social Work Program is to develop advanced social work practitioners, leaders and world changers who live their purpose through the integration and application of social work values, knowledge, and skills to engage communities and develop innovative strategies to address our world’s most pressing social problems.        

The Doctor of Social Work program strives to develop doctoral-level social workers who will advance innovative systemic changes to enhance human well-being while displaying executive leadership, content mastery, scholarship, integrity, and ethics that will distinguish them in the workplace and the world. This program is committed to pursuing Christ-centered justice by equipping graduates to live their purpose and glorify God through community-based social action both locally and globally.

Additional Admissions Requirements

Admission standards for graduate studies at California Baptist University can be found in the admissions section of the University Catalog.  In addition, each candidate must meet the following requirements for this program:

• Research methods
• Human behavior theory
• Social work practice, clinical practice, counseling, or equivalent practice course
• Diversity, cultural competence, marginalization, or equivalent social justice course
• Describe your decision to pursue a doctoral degree in social work, including the reasons for this pursuit, important life experiences that have led you to the field, and why you believe you would be a good fit for the CBU DSW Program.
• Identify some of the challenges you anticipate facing in the DSW program, including how you expect to overcome these challenges. The expectation is that students will spend about 28 hours a week engaged in doctoral content/work. How will you adjust your current work, family, and other personal/professional obligations to accommodate doctoral coursework?
• Identify your interest in addressing a social problem that requires additional scholarship, clinical expertise, and/or leadership to meet the needs of one or more marginalized populations. You should also include the reason for your interest in this topic as a potential project and how doctoral education is necessary for you to address this problem.
• Describe your views on faith and how you can integrate Christian ethics and values as a doctoral level social work leader.
• Discuss how you will integrate your doctoral education into your future personal and professional goals.
• Successful interview with the Doctor of Social Work Program Director

Program Requirements (48 Units)

• SWK 701 - Direct Practice with Cultural Humility
• SWK 705 - Community Engagement and Social Innovation
• SWK 710 - Historical and Contemporary Social Action
• SWK 715 - Community-Based Participatory Research Methods
• SWK 720 - Project Development and Implementation
• SWK 725 - Effective Leadership in the 21st Century
• SWK 730 - Research Dissemination and Scholarship
• SWK 735 - Answering the Call to Teach
• SWK 740 - Social Work Entrepreneurship
• SWK 745 - Justice-Focused Engagement around the Globe
• SWK 796 - Comprehensive I
• SWK 797 - Comprehensive II

Our Degrees

• Undergrad Minors
• Gerontology

Joint Degrees

• Certificates & Licensure

MSW in Social Welfare

2-Year Program:

UCLA Luskin’s Master of Social Welfare is a full-time, two-year program. In addition to our core curriculum, you can participate in an advanced research course or research project focused on an issue of interest to you. Two field placements with social work agencies let you put into action what you have learned in the classroom, providing invaluable real-world experience.

As professionals and scholars in a public research university, the faculty of the Department of Social Welfare are committed to the highest level of training to produce the next generation of practitioners and leaders for the social work profession and to advance the knowledge base for social work policy and practice.

For a complete list of Social Welfare graduate courses with descriptions, look here .

3-Year Program: 

A 3-year part-time program is available for students interested in the Child and Family Well-Being Area of Concentration. Students in this program will take classes in the mornings and work with their field agencies to complete their required internship hours over the course of their academic program. Please note that this is not an evening and weekend program, classes and internship will be scheduled during regular business hours. The total cost of the 8 quarter MSW is $69,244.13, while the 3-year program total cost with the PPS credential added is $77,887.15. These costs are based on CA residency and current published tuition information (subject to change).

For domestic non-resident students, the total cost of the 8 quarter MSW is $82,060.10, while the 3-year program total cost with the PPS credential added is $90,703.00. For international students, the total cost of the 8 quarter MSW is $103,444.57, while the 3-year program total cost with the PPS credential added is $116,375.00. These costs are based on non-CA and international residency and current published tuition information (subject to change).

Sample Plan of Study for the 3-Year MSW with Child and Family Well-Being area of concentration.

PH.D. in Social Welfare

The Ph.D. in Social Welfare is a national leader in educating the next generation of social welfare scholars. Whether your interest is in service delivery or scholarly research, you will design your own advanced education aimed at pursuing your own intellectual interests.

With world-class faculty as your partners, you will benefit from a scholarly community of depth with breadth. From the time of your admission , the faculty will work with you to ensure your success. At UCLA the social welfare faculty consider doctoral students as colleagues, and because of the individualized nature of our program , you will work closely with faculty by participating actively in research projects and by co-authoring articles for publication.

The transition from a role as a practitioner to a scholar/researcher is more than a change in job title. It signifies a major change in the nature of the contribution you will make to social work and to society. UCLA doctoral students are tomorrow’s social work scholars, researchers and professors, responsible for advancing knowledge and training the next generation of practitioners.

• Undergraduate Programs

The UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs offers undergraduate minor programs in Public Affairs, Gerontology, and in Urban and Regional Studies. Each program offers an excellent interdisciplinary focus on problem-solving, analysis, and serves as an entry point to further graduate studies in law, policy, planning, and social welfare. Undergraduate students in the minor programs gain insight into current issues such as crime and drugs, the environment, labor policies, national security, and policy issues related to the State of California.

Minor in Gerontology

The UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs’ Department of Social Welfare, in collaboration with the School of Medicine Division of Geriatrics and the School of Public Health, offers the Gerontology Interdisciplinary Minor (GIM).

As of Winter quarter 2012, undergraduate students may enroll to the interdisciplinary GIM, which utilizes UCLA’s professional schools and College resources to create an enhanced academic experience in aging.

The restructured GIM provides UCLA students the following:

• A foundation understanding of the current state of the science related to the biopsychosocial aspects of human aging;
• an ability to assess longevity’s potential contribution and challenge to contemporary society;
• an appreciation of the diversity of aging over the life course and its impact on late life outcomes; and the opportunity to relate knowledge of gerontology to life-long personal and professional contributions to a diverse aging society.

For more information on the Gerontology minor read the Gerontology Announcement.

Find out more about undergraduate programs

Erika Villanueva

Director of Student Services Contact an Undergraduate Advisor (310) 794-9662 Public Affairs Building Suite 3343

The Department of Social Welfare offers joint degrees in Asian American Studies, Law, Public Health, and Public Policy. In each case, a joint degree applicant needs to meet the admissions criteria for each degree program. This means that an applicant must apply to each program separately. When applying to a joint degree, you are essentially applying to two separate programs. You will choose the option to apply to the joint degree option on the application site, but could gain admission into both programs, one program or neither one.

Once admitted to both programs, the applicant becomes a joint degree student. Students enrolled in the Asian American Studies MA, JD, MPH, or MPP program may apply for admission to the joint degree program in their first year of their respective program.

The aim of the MSW-JD program is to prepare its graduates to assume positions of leadership in law and social policy. Individuals interested in promoting constructive social change will find this dual degree to be aligned with their desires. The program graduates are prepared for careers as social service administrators, family court judicial personnel, public policy officials,  juvenile court representatives, mediators,  guardian ad litems,  and child support enforcement administrators.

• A past recording of an online MSW-JD information session can be viewed here
• MSW-JD Program Plan of Study

The combined MSW/MPP program offers students the opportunity to develop advanced policy practice skills with a focus on social justice and social welfare policy. Students will learn advanced policy skills to identify public issues, and policy analysis to determine alternative solutions to those issues and to become strong leaders in government, politics, and private or public organizations. The program is intended to prepare students for superior and versatile career opportunities in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, both nationally and internationally.

For the MPP, students electing to complete the APP as their research capstone (Comprehensive Exam in the MSW) would need to complete a summer block placement because of scheduling. Capstone units (8) would need to be replaced with elective units.

• A past recording of an online MSW-MPP information session can be viewed here
• MSW-MPP Program Plan of Study

The mission of the MSW-Asian American Studies (MA) program is to provide its graduates with the opportunity to address social inequities, encourage self-determination, and service a large and diverse Asian American community. The degree prepares its alumni for both graduate study, and careers in a variety of professional fields such as education, law, business, social work, and more, along with exposure to sub-disciplines, including education, sexuality studies, behavioral science, gender studies, history, law,  and more.

For the MA, students completing the comp exam in Asian American studies are required to complete the MSW Research Project. Students completing a Thesis capstone for their MA may take the MSW Comprehensive Exam in lieu of the research project but are required to replace the 8 units with elective coursework.

• A past recording of an online MSW-MA information session can be viewed here
• MSW-MA Plan of Study

The objective of the MSW-MPH program is to provide its students with the skills and knowledge necessary to advance themselves in preparation for promoting health, preventing disease, and enhancing the delivery of health and social services in the community. Graduates are prepared for work in a variety of interdisciplinary settings, and for some, the concurrent degree could possess a foundation for future doctoral study.

• A past recording of an online MSW-MPH information session can be viewed here
• MSW-MPH Plan of Study

Certificates, Licensure and Training Programs

UCLA Luskin’s Master of Social Welfare offers certificates, licensure, and training programs both during your time as a student and post-MSW.

Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) Licensure

Guide on Registering as an ASW

LCSW Licensing Process – California

Handbook for Future LCSWs

LCSW Exam Results (through March 2022)

UCLA MSW Curriculum and LCSW Pre-Licensure Course Requirements (The Department’s current curriculum does   not meet the new suicide and telehealth requirements.)

*See BBS explanation that all accredited MSW programs in CA have met this requirement:  https://bbs.ca.gov/pdf/forms/lcs/aswapp.pdf

Applying for Licensure with a Conviction or Past Disciplinary Action:  https://bbs.ca.gov/pdf/ab2138_faqs.pdf

Other References:

https://www.bbs.ca.gov/applicants/lcsw.html

Updated:  03/20/2023

Compare License Requirements (ASWB)

Click here to view or compare license requirements for licenses regulated in one or more jurisdictions.

Global Public Affairs Certificate

This program provides intellectual and professional preparation to future experts who plan to work within the realm of global public affairs. GPA offers four different certificate clusters, which can be obtained in addition to any MPP, MURP, or MSW degree from the Luskin School.

Learn more about this certificate

Human Services Management Certificate

The Network for Social​ Work Management (​socialworkmanager.org​) is an international organization whose mission is to strengthen social work leadership in health and human services by advancing social work management. UCLA Luskin Social Welfare department provides a curriculum that is aligned with the NSWM ​Human Services Management Competencies​. ​UCLA MSW students are eligible to receive the Human Services Management Certificate if they meet the minimum eligibility requirements.

Human Services Management Certificate Requirements

Mental Health Training Programs

• California Social Work Education Consortium (CalSWEC)
• Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH)

Public Child Welfare Training Programs

• Los Angeles Department of Children and Family Services (LADCFS)

Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC)

School social workers are the link between home, school, and community.  They give primary emphasis to helping public school pupils to achieve academic success by emphasizing the importance of academic advising.

Learn more about this program

Share this:

UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs

3250 Public Affairs Building - Box 951656 Los Angeles, CA 90095-1656

Campus Resources

• Maps, Directions, Parking
• Academic Calendar
• University of California
• Terms of Use
• Board of Advisors
• Diversity, Disparities and Difference
• UCLA Luskin in the News
• Luskin Forum Online
• Open Positions
• Public Policy
• Social Welfare
• Undergraduate Program
• Urban Planning
• Master of Public Policy
• Master of Social Welfare
• Double Degree With Sciences Po
• PhD in Social Welfare
• PhD in Urban Planning
• Fellowships
• Student Support
• Graduate Resource Library
• Alumni Relations
• Research Centers & Affiliated Research
• CalSWEC Public Child Welfare Program
• Global Public Affairs (GPA)
• Data Analytics Certificate
• Luskin Lecture Series
• Luskin Summit
• Luskin Sacramento Briefing
• Public Policy at 25
• Public Service Weekend
• Academic Personnel
• Financial Services
• Emergency Safety
• Events Calendar
• Reserve a Room
• Human Resources
• For New Staff and Faculty
• Information Technology

U.S. News Releases 2024 Best Graduate Programs Rankings

Find the top-ranked graduate schools in business, education, law, nursing and other fields.

U.S. News Ranks Best Graduate Schools

Photo Library

To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released the 2024 rankings for multiple graduate fields.

Depending on the job or field, earning a graduate degree may lead to higher earnings, career advancement and specialized skill development.

But with several types of degrees and hundreds of graduate schools, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. To help prospective graduate students find a school that fits their needs, U.S. News released its 2024 Best Graduate Schools rankings today. They evaluate business, education, fine arts, health, law, library studies, nursing, public affairs, science, and social sciences and humanities graduate programs. Medical school and engineering rankings are not being released at this time.

A notable methodology change includes a new salary indicator based on profession in the business rankings.

Additionally, for the first time in four years, there are new rankings for a blend of doctoral and master's programs in audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, pharmacy, nurse midwifery and speech-language pathology. Graduate programs in nurse anesthesia and social work are also ranked for the first time since 2016 and 2022, respectively. Those and other specialty rankings are based on reputation ratings from scholars at other surveyed schools.

Read each program's specific methodology for the most detailed explanations of all the changes. The rankings are one source of information among many that prospective college students can use to inform their college decision. Below is a summary of the top-ranked schools in four major graduate program areas:

Best Law Schools

Best business schools, best nursing schools, best education schools.

Among the top 10 law schools . Yale Law School in Connecticut and California-based  Stanford Law School shared the top spot again. The  University of Chicago Law School in Illinois maintained its No. 3 rank, followed by a four-way tie at No. 4: Duke University School of Law in North Carolina, Harvard Law School in Massachusetts, the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and the University of Virginia School of Law .

Columbia Law School in New York ranked No. 8 again, while there was a three-way tie for No. 9: New York University School of Law , Northwestern University's Pritzker School of Law in Illinois and the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor Law School .

Looking beyond the top 10, multiple law schools moved up in the rankings. William & Mary Law School in Virginia, for instance, jumped nine spots from a tie at No. 45 to a five-way tie at No. 36.

U.S. News also ranked 13 law specialties: business/corporate, clinical training, constitutional, contracts/commercial, criminal, dispute resolution, environmental, health care, intellectual property, international, legal writing, tax and trial advocacy. (You can filter by specialty on the  main ranking page .)

Meanwhile, in the  part-time law school rankings – which consists of law schools with at least 20 part-time students enrolled in fall 2022 and fall 2023 – the top three stayed the same. The  Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C., is once again at the top while D.C.-based  George Washington University Law School , now No. 3, switched places with the  Fordham University School of Law in New York City, which claimed second place.

Previously ranked at No. 3 and No. 6 respectively, the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School and Stanford Graduate School of Business took the top spot in this year's full-time MBA program rankings . Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management and the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business moved down from their previous places in the top two to tie at No. 3.

While the top 10 mostly consists of the same schools as last year, both the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley and the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business joined those ranks this year. UC Berkeley rose from a three-way tie at No. 11 to a three-way tie at No. 7, while UVA moved up four spots from No. 14 to a tie at No. 10.

Farther down the full-time MBA rankings, there were some big changes. For example, Pitt's Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business soared 39 spots from a tie at No. 86 to a tie at No. 47.

Meanwhile, the very top of the part-time MBA rankings looks similar to last year, with the same schools in the top 5: UChicago, UC Berkeley, Northwestern, NYU's Leonard N. Stern School of Business and the Anderson School of Management at the University of California—Los Angeles. But UChicago took the No. 1 spot from UC Berkeley this year.

Moving up from No. 2, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing in Maryland tied with Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Georgia to claim the top spot in this year's nursing master's program rankings. Duke University School of Nursing in North Carolina climbed up by one to claim the third spot.

Johns Hopkins ranked No. 1, as it did last year, in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program rankings. George Mason University School of Nursing in Virginia – which reported more graduates and resources per faculty – soared from a four-way tie at No. 39 to take the No. 2 spot. Duke tied with the University of Washington School of Nursing to round out the top three.

Duke also ranked No. 1 in all of the ranked nursing master's nursing practice specialties, including administration, family, both acute and primary care adult gerontology, and mental health.

Once again, Teachers College, Columbia University in New York was No. 1 in the graduate education schools rankings. This year, however, it tied with the University of Wisconsin—Madison School of Education , which climbed two spots.

The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor's School of Education dropped from the top position to tie with the UCLA School of Education and Information Studies at No. 3. UCLA was previously tied at No. 7.

U.S. News also ranks nine education specialties, with the College of Education at Michigan State University claiming the top spot in the following categories: curriculum and instruction, educational administration, elementary teacher education, higher education administration and secondary teacher education.

Searching for a grad school of education? Access our  complete rankings  of Best Graduate Schools.

Grad Degree Jobs With $100K+ Salaries

Tags: students , graduate schools , medical school , business school , law school , education graduate school , engineering graduate school , MBAs , nursing programs

You May Also Like

Questions women mba hopefuls should ask.

Haley Bartel April 12, 2024

Law Schools With the Highest LSATs

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn April 11, 2024

MBA Programs That Lead to Good Jobs

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn April 10, 2024

B-Schools With Racial Diversity

Sarah Wood April 10, 2024

Law Schools That Are Hardest to Get Into

Sarah Wood April 9, 2024

Ask Law School Admissions Officers This

Gabriel Kuris April 9, 2024

Grad School Housing Options

Anayat Durrani April 9, 2024

MBA Scholarships

Sammy Allen April 4, 2024

Special Master's Programs and Med School

Renee Marinelli, M.D. April 2, 2024

15 Famous Fulbright Scholars

Cole Claybourn April 1, 2024

Please visit our commencement page for all information regarding the  ceremony for Class of 2024 PhD, DSW, MSW and MSN graduates. 

Fall 2024 On-Campus MSW Application FINAL Deadline: July 16, 2024

On the Frontline of Change in Los Angeles

An inclusive, tightly-knit campus set directly within the communities we serve.

In the Sweet Spot Between Scholarship and Community

Learn from nationally recognized expert faculty whose research is embedded and tested within Los Angeles communities.

Investing in Bright Ideas

The solutions of the past cannot solve the challenges of the future. Our flexible MSW program gives students the confidence to break from convention when necessary to better support populations in need.

A Family Culture

The Trojan Family is real. The supportive, hands-on academic environment that students experience remains strong throughout their careers.

Your MSW, in San Diego

Our transformative MSW program is now available in San Diego. Earn your degree through our flexible hybrid model.

Addressing Public Safety for Neighborhood Youth

USC has established a first-of-its-kind community partnership , led by USC Social Work, to promote nonviolent intervention and relationship building for at-risk youth in the neighborhoods surrounding the UPC campus. 

2024 Commencement Keynote Speaker

National poverty and child welfare expert, and best-selling author of the vivid memoir "A Place Called Home," will deliver the keynote address to MSW, MSN, DSW and PhD graduates at our 2024 Commencement Ceremony.

Celebrating Arab American Heritage Month

April is Arab American Heritage Month! Learn more about some of the inspiring figures whose significant contributions have shaped our past and present. 

CSWA 45th Anniversary Celebration

Join the California Social Welfare Archives for their 45th Anniversary Celebration and Awards on April 14, 2024 , honoring Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Pastor William D. Smart, Jr. and Dr. Joy DeGruy. 

Workforce Development Programs Provide Path to Careers

Stipend and scholarship programs available to social work students provide financial aid combined with specialized career training and a potential pathway to post-graduation employment. 

Events Spotlight

Join us for ShowCAIS 2024 on April 19, symposium highlighting the work of faculty and students using AI for social good. 

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The school is dedicated to eliminating racial injustice and promoting an ongoing process of healing and reconciliation to dismantle racism.

Who is Suzanne Dworak-Peck?

Learn about the life and career of the woman affectionately known as the “social worker’s social worker.”

How can I learn more about the MSW?

Attend an Info Session

Meet with a Student Ambassador

Register for a Tour

Request more Info

Our Heroes In Social Work

Richard Kluckow, DSW '18, is harnessing data to effect change as a supervisory statistician in the Bureau of Justice Statistics at the U.S. Department of Justice. He is part of a team that collects and analyzes data from current and formerly incarcerated populations which helps frame the agendas of policymakers to make improvements in the system. 

USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work

The Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work champions social justice for the well-being of individuals, families, and communities through innovative teaching of evidence-based practice and practice-based skills, pioneering transformative research, and cultivating leadership for social change.

Drive Meaningful Change With Your MSW

Ready to chart a new path forward? View steps to apply or start your application to our world class MSW today.