Welcome to the Pitt Social Work Blog, your inside look at the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work and what it’s like to study social work at a leading research university. Here you’ll find stories from students, alumni, faculty, and community partners across our Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW), Master of Social Work (MSW), and PhD in Social Work programs. Read about hands-on placements and practicum experiences across the country, explore research on issues like gun violence prevention and domestic violence, and see how our graduates are building careers in school social work, child welfare, clinical social work, and community engagement. Whether you’re exploring social work degree programs, comparing online and in-person MSW options, or ready to take the next step toward becoming a licensed social worker or social work researcher, these stories offer a real look at our people, our culture, and our mission. Ready to get started? Learn more about admissions, request more information, or apply today.
When Francesca Grignon walked into Women Against Abusive Relationships (WAAR) for her practicum placement, founder and executive director Roxanne Epperson wasn’t sure what to expect.
Just like that, a mother and daughter were enrolled together in the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work’s Master of Social Work program.
Nearly a century later, Pitt remains a leader in preparing social workers to serve students in K-12 schools, and its Home & School Visitor and School Social Work (HSV/SSW) program continues to set the standard other institutions have followed.
Assistant Professor and Director of Community Engagement Dr. Aliya Durham’s Grant Writing class hosted a philanthropy panel to offer students an opportunity to discuss funder decision-making; ethical dilemmas; navigating power dynamics; program implementation; metrics; and career pathways
Nearly 200 people came for the stand-up-style solo show by the UCLA professor and left with tools for handling the stress, anger, and conflict that fuel youth gun violence.
After she was named dean of the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, Dr. Kyaien Conner reflected on how her journey through Pitt has shaped her role as a researcher and an academic. “Pitt is the place that built me—from my very first psychology class as an undergraduate all the way through my MSW, MPH and PhD,” Dr. Conner said.