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Academic Programs

Overview

The University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work is an exciting place to learn and grow. It ranks 14th in the country among schools of social work and is recognized as a leader in the field. Although the School is known nationally for its Center on Race and Social Problems and its model training and research programs in child welfare, it is equally regarded as a leader in overall education of leaders in the field. Graduates of this school have abundant opportunities to work in a wide variety of jobs.

The BASW program offers opportunities for students to develop the basic training to work in a wide variety of settings, while the MSW degree provides the background and skills necessary to become leaders in direct practice with individuals, families, and groups, as well as options to specialize in community organizing or administration of agencies. The doctoral program is one of the oldest and most highly regarded in the United States, and its graduates constitute the ranks of deans, professors, and leading researchers and scholars. Whatever program one chooses within this school, our graduates can be assured that they are receiving the finest education available from the nation’s leading scholars, practitioners, and researchers.

Bachelor's Degree Program

The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) was initially accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) in 1973. It has been continuously reaffirmed since that time and has been ranked among the top undergraduate social work programs in the country. The BASW Program now offers both a Major in Social Work (BASW) and a Social Work minor.

Master's Degree Programs

The University of Pittsburgh's School of Social Work, successor to the Division of Social Work in the Department of Sociology, was founded in September 1938 and accepted its first class of MSW students that year. We take pride in our history, while developing professional practice to meet future challenges. The MSW Program offers social work education for the 21st century and is ranked among the top graduate social work programs in the nation.

PhD Program

Social work doctoral education prepares students for leadership roles in social work research, social work education, social policy, planning, and administration. The goal of the doctoral program of the School of Social Work is to provide students with advanced academic training that will allow them to contribute to the knowledge base of the professional.

Dual/Joint/Cooperative Degrees

MSW Dual, Joint, and Cooperative Degree Programs

Some students seek to complement their social work education and training by earning a degree in another discipline or profession. Others wish to further their education within the field of social work. The dual, joint, and cooperative degree programs offered by the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work afford students a unique way to complete their MSW studies while also pursuing another graduate degree. However, no student will be permitted to enroll or engage in more than one dual, joint, or cooperative degree program within the School of Social Work or between the School of Social Work and any other school or program during the course of earning that dual or joint degree.

Master of Social Work/Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work

Each year, a small number of applicants express interest in pursuing both an MSW and a PhD in social work. These individuals often already possess a graduate degree in a related academic field, but find that their personal and professional interests lie more fully in the field of social work. Such applicants typically are interested in grounding themselves in the practice base of the social work profession, while also seeking to develop their advanced research and intellectual skills.

Those interested in obtaining information regarding the requirements and processes for this dual degree program are encouraged to contact the Director of the Doctoral Program.

Master of Public Health/Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work

Special mention should be given to this program since it provides a unique opportunity to combine the attainment of a master’s in public health and a PhD in social work. Since 12 credits can be applied to both degrees simultaneously, and since advising is arranged for all joint students, it is usually feasible for joint students to complete both degrees within the general timetable outlined for the doctoral program, although the number of electives necessarily becomes very restricted.