About the Program

The Penn State World Campus Master of Social Work program provides a foundation in social work during the first year, and emphasizes clinical practice in the second year. The online program provides flexibility in balancing education, personal, and professional lives, while fostering community building and rich relationships between faculty and students.

The program has two specialization areas, both designed to address growing societal needs and employment opportunities:

• Children and Families
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Both clinical specialization areas examine social work across the life span and emphasize cultural competence in effectively working with diverse populations. Students will be prepared to enter the field as professional leaders who are committed to inclusivity, alleviating critical social problems, and enhancing human well-being and social justice.