An Innovative, Integrative Approach to Social Work Education
USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work has been a leader and innovator in social work education and research since its founding in 1939.
The USC Master of Social Work (MSW) program is designed for those who aspire to work directly with individuals, families, and groups, as well as those who aim to be innovators and leaders in the social work field.
The holistic curriculum is built on a foundation of integrative practice, blending traditional social work principles with emerging trends such as digital mental health, data-driven decision-making, and global social welfare strategies. It was the first to combine elements of casework, group work and community organization into an integrated model of social work practice, and the school continues to provide students with opportunities to engage in research, service and community activism through the integrative social work specialization that fosters creative solutions to society’s most pressing issues.
But what exactly is a specialization in integrative social work?
“In today’s rapidly changing social landscape…the complexity of issues—ranging from chronic health conditions and mental illness to homelessness and racial inequality—requires a shift from traditional siloed approaches,” Dr. Jennifer Lewis, Director of the Master of Social Work program, said. “Social workers must develop interdisciplinary expertise and work fluidly across individual, organizational, and systemic levels.”
Integrative Social Work is the intentional use of a person-in-environment perspective. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of individuals across multiple domains allowing you to implement the most effective intervention for your clients. It brings historical, cultural, and political perspectives and a critical understanding of difference and oppression. “By integrating these perspectives, social workers can address immediate individual needs while also advocating for organizational improvements and systemic reforms,” Dr. Lewis said.
What might you experience in a typical USC social work course?
The Online MSW coursework is designed to be accessible and customizable to meet your needs and interests. “Our curriculum stands out by offering unique courses on professional wellness and critical decision making, alongside advanced methods of practice and evaluation,” Dr. Lewis said. Through immersive learning experiences, you engage in case studies and simulations that mirror the complexities of professional practice. You collaborate with fellow students and faculty across disciplines, drawing upon insights from social work theory, policy analysis, and empirical research to develop comprehensive, actionable solutions.
In addition to rigorous academic study, the MSW program emphasizes professional wellness, ensuring you are prepared not just to succeed but to thrive in your career.
How will this degree help me in the workforce?
Throughout your time in the program, your critical thinking and problem-solving skills as well as your empathy will be honed to effectively address the interconnected needs of individuals, families, and communities. Our MSW program integrates advanced practice with cutting-edge research and best practices, equipping you with the skills to provide effective support, address complex societal challenges, and lead transformative change in communities around the world.
Graduates of the MSW program leave USC ready to make an immediate impact in clinical settings, community organizations, policy arenas, and beyond. Our graduates enter the workforce prepared to immediately engage with the issues that matter most to them and navigate the challenges of an ever-changing society. They see and understand their clients through an integrative, nuanced, and dynamic lens. Whether at the individual, organizational, or policy level, you will be empowered to pursue bold, compassionate solutions to complex social issues and make a genuine impact in their work.
“The call to action for social workers is clear: move beyond traditional boundaries and embrace a broader, more integrated practice,” Dr. Lewis said. “[Our MSW program] will not only prepare [you] to respond effectively to the growing complexity of societal challenges but also empower [you] to create lasting change across populations, settings, and systems of care.”