phd social work california

Please visit our commencement page to watch the 2024 ceremony and view the Class of 2024 Name Book

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

Welcome Prospective PhD Students

We appreciate your interest in the PhD program at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. We invite applications from diverse, bright and passionate individuals who are committed to a high level of achievement in their academic, personal and professional lives.

Our program is considered one of the best in the United States in preparing scholars for advanced research careers in social work. As such, the PhD candidate selection process is rigorous, reflecting our emphasis on academic achievement, initiative and motivation. Our goal is to make students competitive for the best available positions here and abroad.

What are the basic requirements for admission to the doctoral program? Candidates must have a master’s degree in social work or related field, excellent undergraduate and graduate academic records, and participation in independent research. International applicants must also have a satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

What materials are required for the PhD application? All applicants must submit a Graduate Admission Application , statement of purpose, resume, transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended, four letters of recommendation, TOEFL scores (international students only), evidence of financial support (international students only), PhD information form, PhD career plans and goals form, and scholarly writing sample. Further admissions information and downloadable admissions materials may be found in our Application Process section.

Is a Master of Social Work (MSW) required for admission to the doctoral program? A Master of Social Work (MSW) is strongly encouraged for potential applicants because it shows a thorough understanding of the field of social work. However, we will also consider a master’s degree from a related field (sociology, psychology, etc.). Applicants without a master’s degree can apply to the school’s MSW program.

Do you offer the PhD program online? No, the PhD program is not offered online. You must be a full-time student at the University Park Campus.

Does the doctoral program accept transfer students? On the rare occasion that we accept transfer students from another doctoral program, their applications are reviewed by the doctoral committee on a case-by-case basis. All transfer students must apply through regular admission to the PhD program. Each transfer student application is then individually reviewed to evaluate courses already taken and determine a possible course of action. The transfer of post-master’s degree doctoral course work from another institution will only be considered if a grade of B or higher (A=4.0) has been obtained, and the course has been completed within the last five years. Transfer of credits must be petitioned and approved by both the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and the graduate school. For complete transfer credit information, please refer to the USC Catalogue .

What if I previously applied to the PhD program? If you previously applied to the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work PhD program, you must submit a new Graduate Admission Application and PhD Information form. If you applied within the last two years and are satisfied with the materials you previously submitted, you have the option to use the previously submitted letters of recommendation, TOEFL scores, and transcripts for your current application. TOEFL test scores (for international applicants only) must be taken within two years of the application deadline.

Do you accept part-time students? Due to the rigorous and demanding requirements of the doctoral program, we do not accept part-time students. Students are required to be full-time on the University Park Campus.

Who is required to take the TOEFL? All international applicants must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), with the exception of applicants who earned both their bachelor’s and master's degrees in the United States.

Is the GRE required?  The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is no longer required for admission to our doctoral program.

What is the profile of the incoming doctoral class? The USC Graduate School is committed to providing detailed information on the inputs, outcomes, and overall characteristics of its PhD programs, for the purposes of full transparency and to support informed decision-making. It can be viewed at their website:  https://graduateschool.usc.edu/about-us/phd-program-characteristics/

When should I apply? All application materials must be received by the university by December 1 to be considered priority applications. Completed application materials will be accepted until January 1 , but they will be considered late and may not be reviewed for admission for the next fall. Visit the Application Process .

Is it possible to send my application materials in several installments? No.  Application materials for admission are ONLY available online in Graduate Admission Application . Please visit the Application Process for the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work in the PhD Program.

How long does it take to process my application? It is crucial to have part one and part two application materials received at the university by December 1. It takes about 30 days for part one application materials to be processed by the USC Office of Graduate Admission and uploaded to the system for review. It will take another four to six weeks for the school to review all application materials.

How can I be sure that all my application materials have been received? The PhD program will send you an email confirmation after January 1 about the status of your application materials. Please make sure you have an updated email address on file. You may also receive a notification from the USC Office of Graduate Admission about outstanding application materials. Please respond promptly to requests for information and materials from both offices.

When should I expect to hear about my admission decision? The doctoral committee will review applications for fall admission in late January. Those applicants we are interested in admitting will be invited to an all-day campus visit in late March. Official admission letter notifications will be sent by early April.

What can I do to improve my chances for acceptance? Strong applicants typically show great academic promise, as evidenced by above average achievement in undergraduate and professional education, participation in research and publications, professional competence as demonstrated through substantial experience and contributions to the social work field, above average TOEFL scores, and above average grade point average.

What if I previously applied to the PhD program? If you previously applied to the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work PhD program, you must submit a new Graduate Admission Application and PhD Information form. If you applied within the last two years and are satisfied with the materials you previously submitted, you have the option to use the previously submitted letters of recommendation, TOEFL scores and transcripts for your current application. TOEFL test scores (for international applicants only) must be taken within two years of the application deadline.

Is the GRE required?  The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is no longer required for admission to our doctoral program.  

How can I be sure that all my application materials have been received? The PhD program will send you an email confirmation after January 1 about the status of your application materials. Please make sure you have an updated email address on file. You may also receive a notification from the USC Office of Graduate Admission about outstanding applications materials. Please respond promptly to requests for information and materials from both offices.

Learn about admission process to the PhD program at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and criteria requirements. All application materials must be received by the university by December 1 to be considered priority applications.  Learn More .

Learn about the additional admissions criteria and documentation required as part of the PhD application process as an international applicants (those who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States). Learn More

All incoming students All accepted and admitted students in the program and who remain in good academic standing receive financial assistance for the first four years, amounting to $200,000. Learn More .

PhD Admissions

Malinda sampson, phd program manager.

Contact Us Office of PhD Admission USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work 669 W. 34th Street Los Angeles, CA 90089-0411 [email protected]

Malinda Sampson PhD Program Manager 213.821.7657 [email protected]

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

     Programs

     Courses of Instruction    

The USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work is a leader in social work and nursing education, training and research. These MSW graduates celebrate in front of Tommy Trojan. Photos by Wallis Photo LLC.

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

The USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work offers a Social Work and Juvenile Justice Undergraduate Minor , a Progressive MSW Program  and other programs of study leading to the Master of Social Work (MSW), Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work as well as the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). These programs equip students with a broad background of knowledge about health and social welfare problems, programs, services and policies designed to prevent and address those problems and existing and emergent trends and issues.

Across all programs, students are professionalized and encouraged to develop professional philosophies and approaches that are in harmony with the basic tenets of their chosen professions. At the same time, students share the desire and calling to prevent and mitigate severe social and health problems that challenge the viability of culturally diverse and complex urban settings; to build on the strengths of individuals, families, and communities; and to lead the scholarly search for innovative, efficacious, and just solutions.

Montgomery Ross Fisher Building 214 Main: (213) 740-2711 Admissions: (213) 740-2013 FAX: (213) 740-0789 Email: [email protected] Website:  dworakpeck.usc.edu

Administration

Sarah Gehlert, PhD, Dean

John Clapp, PhD,  Executive Vice Dean

Devon Brooks, PhD, Associate Dean 

Michael Hurlburt, PhD, Director, Doctoral Programs

Suzanne Wenzel, PhD,  Associate Dean for Research - Administration

John Clapp, PhD,  Associate Dean for Research - Faculty Development

Joshua Watson, EdD, Assistant Dean, Student Services

June Wiley, PhD,  Chair, MSW Program

Ruth Supranovich, EdD,  Director, Field Education

Sharon O’Neill, JD, DNP,  Director, MSN-FNP Program

Dean and Ernest P. Larson Professor of Health, Ethnicity, and Poverty:  Sarah Gehlert, PhD

Chinese-American Golden Age Association/Dr. Frances Wu Endowed Chair: Iris Chi, DSW

Dean’s Professor of Social Work and Business: Michàlle E. Mor Barak, PhD

Frances L. and Albert G. Feldman Endowed Professorship in Social Policy and Health: Lawrence Palinkas, PhD

John Milner Professor of Child Welfare: Jacquelyn McCroskey, DSW

Richard M. and Ann L. Thor Professor in Urban Social Development: Suzanne Wenzel, PhD

Carl Castro, PhD; Iris Chi, DSW; John Clapp, PhD; Yuri Jang, PhD; Jacquelyn McCroskey, DSW; Michàlle E. Mor Barak, PhD; Lawrence Palinkas, PhD; Avelardo Valdez, PhD; Suzanne Wenzel, PhD

Associate Professors

Cleopatra Abdou, PhD; Maria Aranda, PhD; Concepcion Barrio, PhD; Devon Brooks, PhD; Julie Cederbaum, PhD; Alice Cepeda, PhD; Jeremy Goldbach, PhD; Benjamin Henwood, PhD; Michael Hurlburt, PhD; Karen Lincoln, PhD; Ferol Mennen, DSW; Eric Rice, PhD; Dorian Traube, PhD; Shinyi Wu, PhD; Ann Marie Yamada, PhD

Assistant Professors

John Blosnich, PhD; Robynn Cox, PhD; Jordan Davis, PhD; Daniel Hackman, PhD; Elizabeth Kim, PhD; Jungeun Olivia Lee, PhD; Hans Oh, PhD; Monica Perez Jolles, PhD; Rebecca Rebbe, PhD

Clinical and Field Education Professors

Rafael Angulo, MSW; Margarita Artavia, MSW; Judith Axonovitz, MSW; Annalisa Enrile, PhD; Stephen Hydon, EdD; Tyan Parker Dominguez, PhD; Renee Smith-Maddox, PhD

Clinical and Field Education Associate Professors

Rosamaria Alamo, PhD; Estela Andujo, MSW; Juan Araque, PhD; Karra Bikson, PhD; David Bringhurst, PhD; Ruth Cislowski, MSW; Terence Fitzgerald, PhD; Pamela Franzwa, MSW; Kim Goodman, MSW; Suh Chen Hsiao, DPPD; Maria Hu, DSW; Dawn Joosten-Hagye, PhD; Terri Lee, MSW; Jennifer Lewis, PhD; Omar Lopez, MSW; Renee Michelsen, MSS; Sam Mistrano, JD; Sharon O’Neill, JD, DNP; Christina Paddock, MSW; Elizabeth Phillips, PhD; Erik Schott, EdD; Michal Sela-Amit, PhD; Melissa Singh, EdD; Ruth Supranovich, EdD; Vivien Villaverde, MSW; Benita Walton-Moss, PhD; Deborah Waters-Roman, EdD; June Wiley, PhD; Leslie Wind, PhD; Lisa Wobbe-Veit, MSW; Kathleen Woodruff, DNP; Michelle Zappas, DNP

Clinical and Field Education Assistant Professors 

Danielle Brown, MSW; Laura Cardinal, MSW; Kerry Doyle, MSW; Umeka Franklin, EdD; Susan Hess, MSW; Janett Hildebrand, PhD; Harry Hunter Jr., PhD; Jane James, JD; Tracie Kirkland, DNP; Stacy Kratz, PhD; Brittani Morris, MSW; Jennifer Parga, MSW; Holly Priebe Sotelo, MSW; Cynthia Sanchez, DNP; Sara Schwartz, PhD

Senior Lecturers 

Marco Formigoni, MSW; Laura Gale, EdD; Iris Gonzalez-Thrash, MSW; Robert Hernandez, DSW; Sara McSweyn, MSW; Richard Newmyer, MSW; Aimee Odette, DSW; Cynthia Rollo-Carlson, MSW; Lily Ross, MSW; Shane’a Thomas, MSW

Cassandra Fatouros, MSW/MBA; Lisa Kabot, MSW; Dorothy Nieto Manzer, MSW

Research Assistant Professors

Hazel Atuel, PhD; Sara Kintzle, PhD; Sonya Negriff, PhD; John Prindle, PhD; Harmony Rhoades, PhD

Emeritus Professors

John Brekke, PhD; Anne Katz, PhD; Helen Land, PhD; Martha Lyon-Levine, PhD; Paul Maiden, PhD; Howard J. Parad, DSW; Rino Patti, DSW; Janet Schneiderman, PhD; Barbara Solomon, DSW; Doni Whitsett, PhD; Marleen Wong, PhD

Emeritus Field Education Faculty

Rhoda G. Sarnat, MA

Degree Programs

The Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work offers the Master of Social Work (MSW), the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) , the Doctorate of Social Work (DSW), the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and the dual Master of Social Work/Doctor of Philosophy, Social Work (MSW/PhD) degrees. In addition, the school offers dual degrees with the schools of business, gerontology, law, medicine, public policy and the Hebrew Union College.

Dual Degree Programs

The Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work currently offers dual degree programs with several other USC professional schools. In addition, the school maintains a dual degree program at Hebrew Union College located adjacent to the USC campus.

The goal of these programs is to encourage graduate students to gain a recognized competence in another discipline that has direct relevance to the roles filled by social workers in society. Dual degree programs are based on the premise that some topics covered in the school are also addressed in the curricula of other departments, so that some credit toward an MSW degree may be given for specific courses in the cooperating department. Similarly, these departments have recognized that some credit toward their corresponding degree may be awarded for work completed in the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. For this reason, students enrolled in dual degree programs can obtain both degrees with a reduced number of total units. Students wishing to enroll in dual degree programs must apply for and be admitted to both schools.

Master of Social Work/Master of Science, Gerontology

The world’s oldest and largest school of gerontology, the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has a long tradition of forging new paths in the field of aging. The Master of Science in Gerontology prepares graduates to assume leadership positions in the delivery of services to older people and their families, planning and evaluation of services, and administration of programs.

Course work is usually completed over two years (four semesters). Students must choose either the Department of Social Change and Innovation or the Department of Adult Mental Health and Wellness. Students take courses in both schools concurrently.

See the  Master of Social Work/Master of Science, Gerontology (MSW/MS)    and the  USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology    for course requirements.

Master of Social Work/Master of Public Administration

The USC Price School of Public Policy trains leaders who can create multidisciplinary approaches to the complex issues of governing, managing and building contemporary urban communities. Available to students in any department of study, the MSW/MPA is suited to those interested in careers as public-sector administrators.

Students take course work in both degree programs concurrently. Both program requirements are completed over 24 months.

See the  Master of Social Work/Master of Public Administration (MSW/MPA)    and the USC Price School of Public Policy    for course requirements.

Master of Social Work/Master of Urban Planning

Available to students in any of the school’s departments of study, the MSW/Master of Urban Planning program caters to students who desire careers in societal and community welfare policy, social planning or social services delivery.

In the first year, the focus is on direct service, allowing planning coursework to be supplemented by knowledge of consumers and service delivery. Two years of field practice in social work provide in-depth exposure to social service issues from both planning and direct service perspectives. The dual degree is normally completed over 28 months. 

See the  Master of Social Work/ Master of Urban Planning (MSW/MUP)    and the Urban Planning (MUP)    for the concentration descriptions and course lists.

Master of Social Work/Juris Doctor, Law

Students interested in advocating for social work causes may want to consider the four-year (eight semesters) dual MSW/JD option, offered in partnership with the USC Gould School of Law.

During the first year, candidates must complete the JD curriculum. In the second year they will primarily complete the first year of the MSW or a combination of JD and first year MSW courses. In the third year, they focus on the second-year JD program. By the fourth year, students complete the MSW and JD requirements. Students may choose any department of study at the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. 

See the  Master of Social Work and Juris Doctor (MSW/JD)   . 

Master of Social Work/Master of Business Administration, Business

Available only to students in the Department of Social Change and Innovation, the MSW/MBA offers preparation for careers focusing on human resources, philanthropic and corporate social responsibility, organizational development, and information management. The program is typically completed in three years (six semesters). Students must enroll in three required courses and a field practicum. Course requirements in the USC Marshall School of Business include all courses required for the MBA core program and graduate-level electives.

See the  Master of Social Work/Master of Business Administration (MSW/MBA)   .

Master of Social Work/Master of Arts, Jewish Nonprofit Management 

The Master of Arts degree offered at the Zelikow School of Jewish Nonprofit Management at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion adjacent to USC’s University Park campus provides a solid academic and experiential foundation in Jewish studies, Jewish communal dynamics and nonprofit management.

Students may enroll in any USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work department of study as part of this dual degree program. Students begin coursework at the Zelikow School of Jewish Nonprofit Management during the summer and continue coursework at both institutions in the fall and spring semesters. Two summer sessions are completed at the Zelikow School of Jewish Nonprofit Management. The program is completed over 24 months.

See the  Master of Social Work/Master of Arts, Jewish Nonprofit Management (MSW/MA)   .

Master of Social Work/Master of Public Health

A collaborative effort with the Department of Preventive Medicine in the Keck School of Medicine of USC, this dual degree program offers interdisciplinary preparation in public health and social work for a career in promoting health, preventing disease, and enhancing the delivery of health and social services in the community.

Students must complete a minimum of 81 units; 20 of these units fulfill requirements for both degrees. Depending on specific social work concentration and public health track requirements, there may be additional courses and an increase in the total number of units. Most full-time students complete the dual degree in three years; however, it may be possible to accelerate the time to completion if the student elects to enroll in MPH course work during summer sessions. Students begin with social work courses before finishing with public health course work. Students may select any one of the social work departments and any one of the public health tracks.

See the  Master of Social Work/Master of Public Health (MSW/MPH)   .

Master of Social Work/PhD in Social Work

The dual MSW/PhD degree program is offered to exemplary students seeking advanced research-based study in social work. Typically, the program attracts applicants without a master’s degree in social work or with a master’s degree in another field and prepares them for academic research and teaching careers. 

Prospective students must meet both the MSW and PhD admission requirements to be considered for admission to the dual-degree program, must apply separately, and be admitted to both the MSW and PhD programs.

See the  Master of Social Work/Doctor of Philosophy (MSW/PhD)   . 

Research Administration Center (RAC)

The Research Administration Center serves as the administrative umbrella for research conducted by the faculty of the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and by the school’s centers of interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research. The RAC is instrumental and essential in providing support to the faculty, post-doctoral fellows, and PhD students submitting research proposals to federal, state, county, university, and private sponsors and in managing the grants and contracts for compliance in spending and reporting.

• •  Social Work and Juvenile Justice Minor

Master’s Degree

• •  Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP)
• •  Social Work (MSW)

Dual Degree

• •  Master of Social Work/Doctor of Philosophy (MSW/PhD)
• •  Master of Social Work/Juris Doctor, Law (MSW/JD)
• •  Master of Social Work/Master of Arts, Jewish Nonprofit Management (MSW/MA)
• •  Master of Social Work/Master of Business Administration (MSW/MBA)
• •  Master of Social Work/Master of Public Administration (MSW/MPA)
• •  Master of Social Work/Master of Public Health (MSW/MPH)
• •  Master of Social Work/Master of Science, Gerontology (MSW/MS)
• •  Master of Social Work/Master of Urban Planning (MSW/MUP)

Doctoral Degree

• •  Social Work (DSW)
• •  Social Work (PhD)
• •  NURS 500 Bridge Course
• •  NURS 501 Pathophysiology for Advanced Nursing Practice
• •  NURS 502 Advanced Health Assessment Across the Life Span
• •  NURS 503 Theory: Clinical Management of Adult Patients
• •  NURS 504 Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nursing
• •  NURS 505 Clinical Practicum: Management of Adult Patients
• •  NURS 507 Theory: Clinical Management of the Childbearing/Childrearing Family
• •  NURS 600 Theory: Clinical Management of Adult Patients with Complex Medical Issues
• •  NURS 601 Clinical Practicum: Management of the Childbearing/Childrearing Family
• •  NURS 602 Research/Analytical Methods
• •  NURS 603 Transforming Research Evidence into Practice
• •  NURS 604 Clinical Practicum: Management of Adult Patients with Complex Medical Issues
• •  NURS 605 Professional Issues in Advanced Practice Nursing
• •  NURS 606 Health Policy Principles in Changing Health Care Contexts
• •  NURS 607 Theory: Family Primary Care
• •  NURS 608 Clinical Practicum: Family Primary Care

Social Work

• •  SOWK 200xm Institutional Inequality in American Political and Social Policy
• •  SOWK 324 Juvenile Justice in America
• •  SOWK 350 Adolescent Gang Intervention
• •  SOWK 390 Special Problems
• •  SOWK 417 Introduction to Substance Use Disorders and Recovery
• •  SOWK 424 Community Experience in Juvenile Justice Environments
• •  SOWK 499 Special Topics
• •  SOWK 506 Human Behavior and the Social Environment
• •  SOWK 535 Social Welfare
• •  SOWK 536 Policy and Advocacy in Professional Social Work
• •  SOWK 544 Social Work Practice With Individuals, Families, and Groups
• •  SOWK 546 Science of Social Work
• •  SOWK 588 Integrative Learning for Social Work Practice
• •  SOWK 589a Applied Learning in Field Education
• •  SOWK 589b Applied Learning in Field Education
• •  SOWK 590 Directed Research
• •  SOWK 599 Special Topics
• •  SOWK 601 Advanced Theories and Interventions with Children and Adolescents
• •  SOWK 602 Advanced Theories and Clinical Interventions with Families
• •  SOWK 605 Human Development and Mental Health
• •  SOWK 607 Feminist Theory, Social Action, and Social Work: Philippines
• •  SOWK 608 Research and Critical Analysis for Social Work with Children and Families
• •  SOWK 609 Introduction to Social Work Practice with Children, Youth and Families
• •  SOWK 610 Social Work Practice with Children and Families Across Settings
• •  SOWK 611 Leadership and Management in Social Work
• •  SOWK 612 Assessment and Diagnosis of Mental Disorder
• •  SOWK 613 Social Work Practice with Children and Families in Early and Middle Childhood
• •  SOWK 614 Social Work Practice in School Settings
• •  SOWK 615 Brief Therapy and Crisis Intervention
• •  SOWK 616 Clinical Practice with Older Adults
• •  SOWK 617 Substance Related and Behavioral Addictive Disorders and Recovery
• •  SOWK 618 Systems of Recovery from Mental Illness in Adults
• •  SOWK 619 Social Work in Public Child Welfare Settings
• •  SOWK 620 Social Work Practice With Transitional Youth
• •  SOWK 621 Social Work Practice with Adolescents, Young Adults and their Families
• •  SOWK 622 Threat Assessment and Management
• •  SOWK 623 Social Work in Early Care and Education Settings
• •  SOWK 624 Social Work in Juvenile Justice Settings
• •  SOWK 625 Evaluation of Research: Mental Health
• •  SOWK 626 Social Conflict, Empowerment and Creative Practice in Israel
• •  SOWK 627 Policy and Macro Practice in Child, Youth and Family Services
• •  SOWK 629 Research and Evaluation for Community, Organization and Business Environments
• •  SOWK 630 Diversity, Social Justice, and Culturally Competent Social Work Practice
• •  SOWK 631 Advanced Theories and Clinical Interventions in Health Care
• •  SOWK 633 Life in the US Military: Foundations of Practice in Military Social Work
• •  SOWK 634 Violence Against Women: A Transnational Perspective
• •  SOWK 635 Research and Evaluation for Social Work with Adults and Older Adults
• •  SOWK 637 Assessing Wellness to Improve Recovery in Integrated Care
• •  SOWK 638 Policy in Integrated Care
• •  SOWK 639 Policy Advocacy and Social Change
• •  SOWK 640 Clinical Practice with the Military Family
• •  SOWK 641 Clinical Practice with Service Members and Veterans
• •  SOWK 643 Social Work Practice in Integrated Care Settings
• •  SOWK 644 Explanatory Theories of Health and Mental Health
• •  SOWK 645 Clinical Interventions: Evidence Based Practice in Health and Mental Health Settings
• •  SOWK 647 Advanced Practice with Complex Social Work Cases
• •  SOWK 648 Management and Organizational Development for Social Workers
• •  SOWK 650 Military and Veteran Policy and Program Management
• •  SOWK 651 Clinical Psychopharmacology for Social Workers
• •  SOWK 652 Social Work Practice in Workplace Settings
• •  SOWK 653 Social Work with Older Adults
• •  SOWK 654 National Immersion in Washington, DC: Child Development and Social Policy
• •  SOWK 655 Global Immersion in Military Culture: U.S. Forces Abroad
• •  SOWK 656 National Military Immersion in Washington, DC: Military and Veterans Policy and Practice
• •  SOWK 657 Social Work Practice with Native American Children, Families and Communities: National Immersion
• •  SOWK 658 Organizational Practice and Development in Business Environments
• •  SOWK 659 Pathways to Immigration: Global Immersion to Mexico
• •  SOWK 660 Health Care Delivery Systems: Planning for Health and Social Services
• •  SOWK 663 Clinical Practice with Couples
• •  SOWK 664 Consultation, Coaching and Social Entrepreneurship
• •  SOWK 665 Grant Writing and Program Development for Social Workers
• •  SOWK 666 Domestic and Intimate Partner Abuse
• •  SOWK 668 Social Work and Law
• •  SOWK 669 Managing Change and Organization Development
• •  SOWK 670 Global Dimensions in Social Policy and Social Work Practice
• •  SOWK 672 Social Work and Business Settings
• •  SOWK 674 Human Sexuality in Clinical Social Work Practice
• •  SOWK 675 Play Therapy in Social Work with Children and Adolescents
• •  SOWK 676 Psychopharmacology for Therapists and Counselors
• •  SOWK 677 Mental Health Practice with Children and Adolescents
• •  SOWK 678 Child Abuse and Neglect: Intervention and Treatment
• •  SOWK 679 Organizational Group Behaviors and Interventions
• •  SOWK 680 Social Work Spanish for Culturally Competent Services
• •  SOWK 681 Managing Diversity in a Global Context

PhD Admissions Application Instructions

All applicants to doctoral study at Berkeley apply for graduate admission online, through the UC Berkeley Graduate and Professional Application for Admission. A separate application to the School of Social Welfare is not required.

The online application becomes available in early September each year. Berkeley Social Welfare only admits for the fall semester each academic year; no spring or summer admissions are offered.

Fall 2024 Admission 

The admission cycle for entry in Fall 2024 closed on Monday, December 4, 2023.

2025-2026 Academic Year PhD Admission

Thank you for your interest in applying for the doctoral program at Berkeley Social Welfare. We are pausing doctoral admissions, including our Combined MSW/PhD program, for entry to the 2025-2026 academic year. 

Over the next several months, our faculty are re-envisioning our doctoral program to reflect changes to the academic landscape, funding opportunities, and feedback from our current doctoral students. We are confident our updated curriculum will equip our doctoral students to shape the future of social work research, and will reflect Berkeley Social Welfare’s multilevel, community-engaged, anti-oppressive, and evidence-informed approach to social work.

We look forward to receiving your application for admission to our Fall 2026 cohort!

Please contact Alexia Pimentel, Director of Student Services, PhD Advisor, and Combined MSW/PhD Advisor at  [email protected]

Graduate Application Requirements for PhD Admission

To be considered complete, applications for admission to the PhD Program and Combined MSW/PhD Program must include all of the following items :

• A completed UC Berkeley Graduate and Professional Application for Admission, including payment of application fee and selection of faculty adviser.
• Transcripts from ALL college-level course work undertaken.
• Three Letters of Recommendation.
• A written Statement of Purpose.
• A written Personal History Statement.
• A sample of scholarly written work.
• A current résumé/CV.
• For international applicants, a TOEFL electronic score report sent directly to Berkeley.

Expand the tabs below for instructions and tips for completing each of these application components.

UC Berkeley Online Graduate Admissions Application

Applicants to all Berkeley Social Welfare graduate programs apply for admission by submitting a single online UC Berkeley Graduate and Professional Application for Admission .

All application supporting materials, including transcripts, written statements and writing samples, letters of recommendation, and résumé/CV, must be uploaded as PDF files directly into the online application by the application deadline. No late or paper copies are accepted , without exception.

Accessing the Online Application

When you log onto the graduate admissions application system for the first time, you will be instructed to create an account in order to begin your online application for graduate admission. The online application system will send you an automated e-mail with instructions for updating your log-in credentials (password) and accessing your individual application.

Technical Difficulties?

If you experience technical difficulty when applying online, please send an email describing the problem to [email protected].

Application Updates and Status Checks

After you begin an application, you may save it and continue working on it later, but once you submit your application, you may no longer change your record online. You will still be able to login to check your application, monitor its status, and communicate with your recommenders. For other changes or questions, please email the Social Welfare Admissions Office directly at [email protected] .

Application Fee

You must submit an application fee when you apply. For U.S. citizens or current permanent residents, the application fee is $135. For all others, the fee is $155.

The application fee is paid directly to Berkeley Graduate Admissions, and payment must be submitted online with a major credit card at the time you submit your completed application. The application fee is nonrefundable.

Requesting an Application Fee Waiver.

Faculty Advisor Choice

In your online application you will be required to enter the name(s) of the faculty member(s) you wish to work with and whose research best reflects your interests. You will also be asked to briefly state why you chose these faculty members and why you chose them in your particular rank order. We highly recommend that applicants research and reach out to faculty before submitting an application

For Fall 2024 applications to the Social Welfare PhD or Combined MSW/ PHD Programs, the following doctoral faculty advisors are available to serve as primary mentors:

• Adrian Aguilera
• Jill Duerr Berrick
• Yu-Ling Chang
• Julian Chow
• Emmeline Chuang  
• Joyce Dorado
• Neil Gilbert
• Anu Manchikanti Gómez
• Kristina Lovato
• Kurt Organista
• Angie Perone
• Laurent Reyes
• Valerie Shapiro
• Jennifer L. Skeem
• Paul Sterzing
• Susan Stone

Transcripts

Transcripts for ALL college-level coursework undertaken must be uploaded as PDF files directly into the "Academic History" section of the online application. Unofficial copies are acceptable for the graduate admissions application, but all submitted transcripts MUST include:

• the legible, full name of the applicant;
• the legible, full name of the issuing academic institution; and
• name of official degree conferred and date of conferral.

All uploaded transcripts should also display in the correct page orientation (i.e. landscape or portrait), and include the transcript legend (the back page in most cases).

Official copies of transcripts will be requested by the Graduate Division for all applicants who are admitted to and matriculate at Berkeley.

Letters of Recommendation

Three (3) Letters of Recommendation are required. For applicants to doctoral study, recommendations from individuals who have supervised your research and scholarly work (e.g., research project supervisors, thesis advisors, professors) tend to be the most useful to our selection process and should comprise the majority, if not all, letters.

Recommendations are submitted directly to your online application by your recommenders, and must be received by the application deadline. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact potential recommenders as early in the application process as possible to ensure letters are received by the deadline.

Your recommenders will receive an email at the email address you provide when you apply and will be asked to follow a link to submit their recommendation. Please use your recommender's institutional or corporate email address. Submissions from anonymous email addresses (Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo, etc.) may be subject to additional review.

You may waive the right to inspect your letters of recommendation on a voluntary basis. To waive access to your letters, complete the waiver section for each Letter of Recommendation.

Tips for Recommendations

• Choose your recommenders carefully. If any of your potential recommenders are ambivalent about providing a recommendation for you, consider choosing someone else.
• Contact your potential recommenders and confirm their contact information early in the process of preparing your application. Let them know that they will be receiving an automated invitation from the application system to complete their recommendation and submit a letter online directly to your application file.  Be sure to inform them of the application deadline .
• After submitting your application, check your Application Status page frequently to monitor when your recommendations are received, and communicate with your recommenders as necessary.

Technical Difficulties with Submitting Recommendations?

If a recommender is having trouble submitting their recommendation, please ask them to contact Berkeley Social Welfare Admissions directly by email to [email protected].

Statement of Purpose

The Statement of Purpose is required from all applicants. You must upload your statement as a single PDF file to the corresponding page in your online application.

Statement of Purpose Prompts

For your Statement of Purpose, please respond to EACH of the following prompts under separate headings:

• Motivations and Goals: What are your motivations for doctoral study? What would be your goals as a doctoral student at Berkeley Social Welfare?
• Preparation: Describe the research experiences that contribute to your motivations and readiness for the Berkeley Social Welfare doctoral program.
• Research Interests and Intellectual Fit: Which specific social problems or research questions might you be interested in studying? Please speak to how you might study them by describing your key unit of analysis (e.g., individuals, organizations) and your intended methodological approaches. Please specify why Berkeley Social Welfare would be a good intellectual fit for your research interests, describing potential faculty mentors in Social Welfare and other departments, as well as campus supports and resources you would leverage.
• Future Career Goals: What career do you intend to pursue after the doctoral program? How will the doctoral degree contribute to your career goals?

Statement of Purpose Tips

• Statements should follow general APA Style Guidelines. They should be typed, double-spaced on standard-sized paper (8.5" x 11") with 1" margins on all sides. Please use a clear font that is highly readable. APA recommends using 12 pt. Times New Roman font.
• Do not exceed the page limit guideline: 3-5 typed, double-spaced pages.
• Review the Graduate Division’s essential tips for “Writing the Statement of Purpose.”
• Proofread your statement for spelling, grammar and punctuation errors before uploading them to your online application.

Double-check that you are uploading the correct file to your online application.

Personal History Statement

The Personal History Statement is required from all applicants. You must upload your statement as a single PDF file to the corresponding page in your online application.

Personal History Statement Prompts

Your Personal History Statement should describe how your personal background and experiences have informed your decision to pursue a graduate degree in social welfare:

• Present a compelling image of you as a person, and your potential for success as a member of the Berkeley Social Welfare graduate academic community.
• Highlight your understanding of or experiences with a non-traditional educational background, or groups historically under-represented in higher education.
• Direct readers’ attention to the evidence of your promise for higher education, and address any potential deficiencies in your academic record.

Personal History Statement Tips

• Your Personal History Statement should not duplicate the Statement of Purpose.
• Do not exceed the page limit guideline: 1-2 typed, double-spaced pages.
• Review the Graduate Division's essential tips for "Writing the Personal Statement."

Sample of Scholarly Written Work

Your sample of scholarly written work must be uploaded as a PDF file to your online application for admission.

For your scholarly writing sample, you may submit published articles, a master’s thesis or portion thereof, papers written for graduate courses, or material written in a professional capacity. The writing sample should give evidence of your ability to think critically and analytically; it should not be purely descriptive.

Résumé/Curriculum Vita

You are required to upload a current CV/résumé to your online application. You may format your CV/résumé however you wish. Please include contact information; educational background; relevant work/volunteer experience; teaching experience; and research experience, publications, and presentations. Previous successful admits typically have had 1-2 years of formal research experience.

Graduate Record Exam (GRE) Scores

For applications for Fall 2024 admission to the PhD Program or Combined MSW/ PhD Program, the Graduate Record Exam is NOT required.

Evidence of English Language Proficiency (for International Applicants)

International applicants from countries in which the official language is not English, and who do not meet the TOEFL exemption qualifications , must submit official evidence of English language proficiency. This requirement is most commonly satisfied by submitting an official score report for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

For purposes of admission, your most recent TOEFL score must be at least 90 for the Internet-based test (IBT), and 570 for the paper-based format (PBT). Acceptable TOEFL scores are from tests taken between June 1, 2022 and November 15, 2023. TOEFL tests taken after November 15, 2023, will not be accepted for admission into the 2024-25 academic year.

All test scores should be sent electronically, directly to UC Berkeley Graduate Division (Institution Code 4833); they do not need to be sent to the School of Social Welfare.  All official test score reports must be received by the application deadline.

Re-applicants to All Programs

Re-applicants to all graduate degree programs are required to re-submit all elements of the application, including a current résumé/CV and new letters of recommendation.

Admissions Decisions and Notification

All applicants to the PhD Program and Combined MSW/PhD Program will be notified of decisions and offers of funding support in early February.

The University of California, Berkeley is a participating institution in the Council of Graduate Schools'(CGS) Resolution Regarding Graduate Scholars, Fellows, Trainees and Assistantships, also known as the “April 15 Resolution.” Students are under no obligation to respond to offers of financial support prior to April 15. For more information please see the CGS April 15 Resolution website .

• Social Welfare

Academic Programs

Cswe accreditation.

75 years of community partnerships

The study of social work got its start at UCLA in 1947. Seventy-five years later, the Department of Social Welfare remains committed to enhancing human well-being and promoting social and economic justice for disadvantaged populations.

Throughout the 2022-23 academic year, we invite you to join UCLA Luskin Social Welfare at a series of events marking three-quarters-of-a-century of making a difference in Los Angeles and cities around the world.

The UCLA Department of Social Welfare offers the Master of Social Welfare (MSW) and a Ph.D. in Social Welfare . Joint degrees offer an even broader range of skill and expertise development.  An undergraduate B.A. in Public Affairs , Minor in Public Affairs , and Minor in Gerontology are also available.

The UCLA Department of Social Welfare’s research and teaching guide policy makers, shape practice and programs in such areas as welfare, aging, health care, mental health, children and families, and long-term support. UCLA Social Welfare faculty members are committed to placing their knowledge at the service of communities and empowering the disadvantaged and the vulnerable.

MSW Plan of Study Ph.D. Curriculum

The Master of Social Welfare is a two-year period of full-time study program (6 quarters) merging theory, leadership, and research with generalist and specialized fields of practice. Our curriculum is comprised of coursework and two separate year-long field placement components with social work agencies that allows our students to actualize what they are learning in the classroom, providing holistic, integrated experiences.

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.

The B.A. in Public Affairs offers an in-depth and engaged educational experience with a clear public service ethos. Drawing from UCLA Luskin’s expansive resources in Public Policy, Social Welfare, and Urban Planning, the major combines critical thinking, social science methodology, and experiential learning, connecting the dots between theory and action. The  Minor in Public Affairs  teaches students the skills of policy analysis and exposes them to the many issues facing today’s policymakers and opinion leaders. The  Minor in Gerontology  is an interdisciplinary program which utilizes UCLA’s professional schools and College resources to create an enhanced academic experience in aging.

Part-Time: As of fall 2021, a three-year period part-time program (8 quarters or 9 quarters with Pupil Personnel Services Credential) is available as an option for students interested in the Child and Family Well-Being area of concentration.  Students in this program 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 an internship will be scheduled during regular business hours.

Concurrent Degree Programs  include four joint graduate degrees: Social Welfare MSW / Asian American Studies MA; Social Welfare MSW / Law JD; Social Welfare MSW/Public Health MPH, and Social Welfare MSW / Public Policy MPP.

International Study Opportunities include summer programs, internships, international/comparative planning workshops and international exchange agreements.

Visitor Programs   attract and highlight visiting scholars, post-doctoral and graduate researchers, international professionals and trend-setting work by students at other institutions.

International related courses are also available to our students.

Certificates, Licensure and Training Programs

Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) Licensure, Global Public Affairs Certificate, Human Services Management Certificate, Mental Health Training Programs, Public Child Welfare Training Programs, Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC)

As a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, our MSW program measures and reports student learning outcomes.  Click the link below for the most recent data, which is updated every two years.

Form AS M5.0.1(d): Student Achievement Assessment Summary

Poco Kernsmith Appointed New Chair of Social Welfare Alumna will return to her doctoral alma mater this summer as a professor

UCLA Luskin alumna will return to her doctoral alma mater this summer as chair and professor.

L.A. Mayor Focuses on the Need for Housing Solutions During UCLA Luskin Summit Karen Bass visits campus to join discussions on the value of research about issues like homelessness, climate resilience, governance and equity in transportation

Karen Bass visits campus to join discussions on the value of research about issues like homelessness, climate resilience, governance and equity in transportation.

L.A. County Residents’ Satisfaction With Quality of Life Matches Lowest in Year 9 of Survey High cost of housing is the most important factor impacting the annual Quality of Life Index, particularly among renters

High cost of housing is the most important factor impacting the annual Quality of Life Index, particularly among renters.

Why Study Social Welfare at UCLA?

Top faculty.

The full-time faculty members in the Social Welfare program are extraordinary scholars in their fields of study. 

Outstanding Curriculum

Choose between three advanced areas of concentration: Child and Family Well-Being, Health and Mental Health across the Life Span, or Social and Economic Justice.

Top Students

Bright, accomplished, diverse and passionate, our students are consistently honored for their work.

A History of Excellence

Established in 1947, UCLA’s Department of Social Welfare is committed to enhancing human well-being and promoting social and economic justice for disadvantaged populations. Among UCLA Luskin’s departments, Social Welfare is the oldest and largest in terms of both student enrollment and number of faculty. As professionals and scholars at a great public research university, the faculty has a responsibility to train the next generation of practitioners and leaders for the social work profession and to advance the knowledge base for social work policy and practice in California and around the world. Graduates assume leadership roles in social work practice and scholarship, and they address the social, health, and mental health needs of diverse populations.

UCLA is committed to increasing diversity in graduate education. We embrace the principles of diversity and inclusion to understand, appreciate, and respect differences in cultures and customs, religious beliefs, gender identity, sexual preferences, immigration status, and political points of view.

Our graduate population reflects broad intellectual interests and includes students from many cultures and backgrounds. We feel it crucial to continue to increase the diversity of our graduate student population so the university community more accurately reflects the demographics of California and the nation.

UCLA offers action-oriented study in arguably the most dynamic region in the world.

Financial Support

UCLA Graduate Division awards numerous fellowships supporting diversity. Luskin School-wide fellowships support our commitment to social justice. The department offers merit-based fellowships to top applicants regardless of citizenship status. All eligible Social Welfare students receive a need-based fellowship award. Ph.D. students typically receive tuition and fees.

Students in our programs come from a wide variety of backgrounds and are attracted to the diversity and vitality of Los Angeles from across the country and around the world. They represent a broad range of undergraduate degrees including psychology, sociology, social work, business administration, political science, literature, and world arts.

The programs attract individuals with a strong interest in public service who share a passion for assisting those in need.  Our program reflects the commitment to making a difference that is common among social workers nationwide and reflected in recent public service announcements from the National Association of Social Workers.

LGBTQ Youth PSA

Single parents psa, older adults psa.

Typically, students who are accepted into UCLA’s program have a minimum of 1-2 years of work and/or volunteer experience.

Most students live off campus and spend a significant percentage of their time in field placements. The Department of Social Welfare and the students themselves have compiled a list of department and university resources to aid them in their studies here at UCLA.

Department of Social Welfare Luskin School of Public Affairs 3250 Public Affairs Building Box 951656 Los Angeles, CA 90095-1656 phone: (310) 825-2892 fax: (310) 206-7564

Laura Abrams Chair [email protected] (310) 825-5932

Shelly Brooks Manager (310) 825-1429 [email protected]

T anya Youssephzadeh Director of Student Services [email protected]

Oliver Ike Admissions Officer (310) 825-7737 [email protected]

Ervin Huang Student Affairs Officer [email protected] (310) 825-5581

Amy Tinoco Student Affairs Officer (HCAI) [email protected] (424) 442-6532

Pauline Paulino Academic Program Coordinator [email protected] (310) 825-2892

Carmen Mancha Administrative Analyst, Field Education Office (310) 825-2257 [email protected]

Tera Sillett CalSWEC Administrative Analyst (310) 206-6048 [email protected]

Lorraine Rosales PPSC Coordinator (424)259-5051 [email protected]

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UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs

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

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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.

Touro University - Worldwide

Graduate School •

LOS ALAMITOS, CA

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   107

University of Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, PA

• • Rating 4.43 out of 5   74

San Francisco Bay University

FREMONT, CA

• • Rating 3 out of 5   2

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... .

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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. .

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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   149 reviews

Doctoral Student: This online program is challenging compared to traditional colleges. I have attended traditional schools, did not participate, and just did my homework. University of Arizona Global Campus ensures that you are participating in discussions with the class, reading the literature, and has an intense amount of academic writing, which is excellent for enhancing your skills. I did not write as much with traditional colleges and did not have the technology and resources available that the University of Arizona Global Campus offers. If you are looking for a rigorous academic program that challenges you to contribute to your field, process your thoughts and ideas, argue your points, and support with literature, this program will be great for you. I have graduated previously from the University of Arizona Global Campus and felt proud of the amount of work I accomplished. It was not easy. I think the amount of writing and participation made it ten times harder than traditional college. ... Read 149 reviews

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

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says This online program is challenging compared to traditional colleges. I have attended traditional schools, did not participate, and just did my homework. University of Arizona Global Campus ensures... .

Read 149 reviews.

College of Health and Social Sciences - San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University •

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1

College of Law and Public Service - University of La Verne

University of La Verne •

ONTARIO, CA

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   6

Lam Family College of Business

• • Rating 3.67 out of 5   3

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 .

• Search SF State Search SF State Button SF State This Site

The San Francisco State University School of Social Work cultivates ethical leadership for social justice and promotes professional advocacy, versatility, activism, and cultural humility. We educate diverse learners to achieve progressive development and change throughout the Bay Area and beyond.

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge that we are located on the territories of the Ohlone people, the traditional custodians of this land on which SF State University School of Social Work is built. We show our respect for and acknowledge the Ohlone people and thank them for making space in their territories for us to share our knowledge, teaching, learning, and research practices. We pay respects to the elders past and present of the Ohlone nation and extend that respect to other Indigenous people present.

"I am a Social Worker" by School of Social Work faculty and students.

Get Started

Announcements.

• BASW Senior Rashaad Bess Presents to San Francisco Board of Supervisors BASW Senior Rashaad Bess was selected by the San Francisco Human Rights Commission to pr…
• May 27 Spring '24 Memorial Day; Offices Closed Mon, May 27, 12:00 am
• Jun 19 Summer '24 Juneteenth Observed - University Closed Wed, June 19, 12:00 am

Social Work Workforce Fact Sheet

Projected Growth

Why study social work at sf state.

At SF State, you’ll learn to know and understand multiple forms of power, and their forms, uses, and implications. You will become skilled at giving, engaging and sharing power and instilling shared, delegated, and/or “other person” responsibilities in decision-making and problem-solving.

At the School of Social Work, we respect, value and honor one another’s personal and professional experiences, knowledge, skills, and values.  We seek, receive, and utilize inputs from diverse persons, groups, and communities and make diversity-sensitive and appropriate decisions.

Social Work students at SF State learn multiple forms and purposes of advocacy and engage in change plans and efforts to achieve progressive change at micro, mezzo and macro levels.

• Email: [email protected]
• Telephone: (415) 338-1003

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Social work

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Social Work

Mission statement and program goals.

The mission of the California State University, Department of Social Work is to prepare professional social workers to be anti-oppressive, socially just agents of change by promoting well-being in urban settings. As an advanced generalist program with a focus on urban communities, the Department will teach and create collaborative learning experiences with students.

Read more about the Master of Social Work Program's focus and goals.

Language Shift: CSUN Practicum Education Program

Dear CSUN Students, Staff, and Faculty,

As we continue our anti-racist work combatting anti-Blackness, CSUN's Social Work Department Field Education Program has decided to no longer use the term "field" to refer to internships. "Field" and "fieldwork" connote the antebellum south, where slaves and indigenous people were sent to work for free on behalf of their owners. We recognize and honor the contributions made by Black and indigenous people in building our society and we refuse to be complicit in perpetuating white supremacy. Standing in solidarity with activist Joyce McMillan, we want to be mindful and considerate on how we send social workers into the field to police rather than liberate. We want to stand in conviction by implementing this language shift which will demonstrate our refusal to be complicit in perpetuating colonialism.

In taking action to do our part in moving the social work profession past these white supremist ideologies, we are adopting the name of the CSUN Practicum Education Program and our Practicum Education Faculty/liaisons will be addressed as Practicum Education Liaisons.

Dear Social Work Colleagues, Students, Agencies, and Allies,

The CSUN Department of Social Work expresses our sadness and outrage at the killing of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and Tony McDade due to racist police actions and institutionalized white supremacist violence. We strongly believe that BLACK LIVES MATTER.   We wish the lives of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Tony McDade, and countless others weren’t violently cut short.  We recognize that racist policing policies and white supremacist violence have been legally used as tools of terror against Black people for over 400 years. Our Department understands and is outraged by this shameful, long-standing state-sanctioned violence. We recognize that state-sanctioned violence extends its reach of harmful policies and practices toward Indigenous people, People of Color, LGBTQ communities, homeless and economically vulnerable people, Immigrants and Refugees, Deaf people, and people with disabilities and lived experiences with mental health. 

Read the full statement from the CSUN Department of Social Work.

Statement of Solidarity with Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Community

We write this statement from a place of outrage, anger, and sadness in response to the  rise in violence toward Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) family members, students, colleagues, and communities .  We are outraged by the blatant public attacks on AAPI elders while bystanders stand by and look away; we are appalled with the racist and dehumanizing language used by political leaders, law enforcement, and media outlets that continues to fuel anti-Asian violence; and we are deeply saddened by the death, harm, and trauma inflicted onto AAPI communities. While anti-AAPI violence and racism has been consistent throughout US settler colonial history, according to the Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism,  “Anti-Asian hate crime in 16 of America’s largest cities increased 149% in 2020.”   As a Department, we denounce this violence, which we believe is rooted in the ideology of white supremacy and settler colonialism. 

Our shared outrage, anger and sadness is balanced by an unending optimism and hope. We recognize the generations of past and present AAPI activists, social workers, teachers, and community members who have tirelessly fought for justice and healing. We take strength and inspiration from their actions, and their belief that a more just world is possible. In the context of so much violence, we practice optimism and hope, as tools to continuously search for ways to support and uplift AAPI communities.

A Call to Action

Reports of harassment during the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) 2022 Annual Program Meeting (APM) appeared on Twitter and were met with outrage, disgust, and in some cases, indignation or resignation. The field of social work is not immune, and the CSUN Department of Social Work applauds and supports the individuals who came forward demanding justice. CSUN MSW took this call to action  to continue our anti-racist work combatting anti-Blackness by having conversations about how reactions to reports of harassment differ depending on the intersectionalities of the individuals involved. We are committed to ensuring that all spaces of the Social Work profession are harassment free. The work continues.

Department of Social Work Sierra Hall 208 CSU Northridge 18111 Nordhoff Street Northridge, CA 91330-8226

Fall Office/Phone Hours: Monday through Friday: 8 AM to 5 PM Closed weekends and observed holidays.

Phone: (818) 677-7630  Fax: (818) 677-7662 Email:  [email protected]

Dr. Wendy Ashley, Dept. Chair

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Cribbs and Venuti forest resilience projects funded by CalFire

• by Trina Kleist and Grace Fruto
• May 28, 2024

Restoration and resilience of California forests will benefit from the research of two graduate students whose projects have received state funding. Jennifer Cribbs and Nina Venuti are graduate students studying with Andrew Latimer, a professor in the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences.

The students share a love of evergreen forests and dedication to improving the management of California ecosystems. Their projects have been funded with competitive  grants of nearly $100,000  each through the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s Forest Health Research Program.

Cribbs studies how fire and drought influence trees’ ability to resist bark beetles and other mortality risks. Her CalFire grant will fund fieldwork in remote regions of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, where she will collect tree cores and analyze tree rings to identify factors affecting tree health and resilience. Bark beetles and drought have killed an estimated 102 million trees in California since 2010, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Cribbs worked in national forests and parks in the same region for a decade before starting graduate school. “I’ve been backpacking in the Sierra Nevada since the late 1990s, so I’ve seen a lot of change over the last few decades,” Cribbs said. “But, that’s a blink of an eye compared to what the trees have witnessed over hundreds or even thousands of years. With climate change, trees have to contend with hotter droughts, bigger fires   and more bark beetle attacks.”

Venuti’s work will support post-fire restoration efforts in California conifer forests. She will digitize and analyze thousands of historical cone collection records to build predictive models pinpointing when seed cones reach peak ripeness. Those models will help seed collectors plan and implement seed collections across the state, and bolster capacity for reforestation in burned areas.

“ I’m especially excited and grateful for the chance to work directly with reforestation practitioners and nursery professionals,” Venuti said. “My goal is that my research will be directly beneficial to land managers who are working hard to reforest California’s burned landscapes. ”

Nature and people in intertwined systems

Latimer serves as major professor for both students. “Together, these two projects are perfect examples of what we aim to do at UC Davis,” Latimer said. “Nina and Jennifer will produce new knowledge and tools that support the resilience of both human and natural systems - which are intertwined - to environmental changes that we are all experiencing right now. With this research, they aim to support land managers and other practitioners in their ongoing efforts to make the best use of limited resources as they grapple with the scale of the need for restoration and reforestation.”

Venuti is co-advised by Derek Young, an assistant professional researcher in the department. Cribbs is co-advised by Troy Magney, an associate professor in the department.

Through its Forest Health Research Program, CalFire provides grants to researchers whose work can make a tangible difference in the management of state ecosystems. Cribbs and Venuti are among only five graduate students funded this year.

Related links

Cribbs and Venuti created videos to show their earlier research. Venuti's video is "Every Cone Counts."

Media Resources

• Trina Kleist, UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences, [email protected], (530) 754-6148 or (530) 601-6846

Primary Category

University of California Grad Student Strike Sparks Legal Fight

By Parker Purifoy and Maxwell Adler (Bloomberg)

A simmering legal battle between the University of California system and its unionized graduate student workers is poised to heat up as thousands of students walk off the job and both sides dig in their heels on claims the other is breaking the law.

Around 2,000 student workers at UC Santa Cruz stopped work May 20 in the first of a series of compounding strikes, according to United Auto Workers Local 4811, which represents some 48,000 graduate students across the university system.

The move follows a vote last week in which 79% of participating members voted to authorize union leadership to call the strike over UC’s response to pro-Palestinian protests on campus. Those actions amount to unfair labor practices in violation of state labor law, the union says.

But the university’s response indicates a readiness to litigate the legality of the strike itself: the school has filed its own unfair practice charges with the California Public Employment Relations Board, accusing the union of violating the no-strike clause of its contract with the UC system.

UC also asked PERB for an injunction blocking the strike.

According to labor observers, the legitimacy of the strike will come down to whether UC broke state labor law by calling in police to break up pro-Palestinian encampments on several campuses and whether the university made material changes to workplace rules without bargaining. Unions are legally permitted to go on strike in response to employers’ unfair labor practices even if the parties have a no-strike clause in an existing collective bargaining agreement.

The fight comes amid a wider push by unions representing academic workers to pressure universities across the country to unwind investments in companies with ties to the Israeli government and hold their institutions accountable for how they’ve handled protests over the Israel-Hamas war at more than 100 campuses.

Unions at Brown University, the University of Southern California, and Harvard University have filed unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board, which oversees labor issues in the private sector.

The cases test the boundaries of California and federal labor laws, which both prohibit retaliation against employees for taking collective action connected to their working conditions and protect strikes that are in response to an employer’s unlawful actions.

Workplace Connection

In its unfair practice charge , Local 4811 said it was standing in solidarity with the encampments and “demanding numerous workplace-related changes.”

UC unlawfully cracked down on these concerted activities and unilaterally changed workplace policies, such as effectively prohibiting pro-Palestinian speech on campus, canceling classes, and delaying midterm exams, the union said.

“We are hoping as 4811 that the UC will engage meaningfully with the demands of this broader movement as opposed to continuing to violently and orally repress our youth and workers,” said Jess Fournier, a representative for UAW 4811 at UC Santa Cruz.

Joseph Paller, an attorney with Gilbert & Sackman in California who represents unions, said there appears to be “real linkage” between the university’s response to the protests and the workers’ job terms.

“I think the union is onto something here,” he said. “The universities are under an obligation to bargain either before the changes in policy or directly after and it seems like they failed that duty. These changes reached beyond the protests and impacted every worker.”

In its filing , UC said UAW’s strike justification “lacks support in the applicable facts and law.”

“In today’s climate, if UAW (and other unions) can disregard no-strike clauses, the university—and every other public agency in California—would face constant strikes advancing political and/or social viewpoints,” the university said.

Mark Lerner, a partner at Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP in New York and co-chair of the firm’s Employment Practices and Litigation group, called the strike illegal.

“This is not a permitted basis for a strike,” he said. “It’s purely political and violates the CBA. The university’s reliance on police assistance to remove an encampment does not strike me as discriminatory.”

William Gould, former chairman of the National Labor Relations Board and professor emeritus at Stanford University, said the outcome may boil down to the facts.

The US Supreme Court’s decision in Mastro Plastics v. National Labor Relations Board says the National Labor Relations Act protects strikes when an employer commits certain ULPs.

It will be up to PERB to decide if UC’s changes to campus policies were severe enough to warrant the strike, Gould said.

“A refusal to bargain charge frequently gives rise to unfair labor practice strikes,” he said. “The university is going to argue these are minimal changes but I think that’s difficult to evaluate.”

Legal Risks

In a statement released after the graduate students authorized the union to call a strike, UC said it would pursue “corrective action” against workers participating in the walkout.

The university’s contract with Local 4811 states that any worker who withholds labor in violation of the no-strike clause could face discipline “up to and including termination of employment.”

But Paller said the university could find itself in further legal trouble by firing the strikers.

“If this is a ULP strike, they cannot permanently replace the workers, period,” he said. “If they’re replaced for the duration of the strike, they must be offered their jobs back.”

The union in turn could be held liable for damages that occurred during the strike if their ULPs don’t hold up before PERB, Lerner said.

“When a strike is illegal, the unions can lose their protections, and litigation damages can reach as far as the assets of the union,” he said.

LISTEN: Can Title VI Protect Jewish Students? Lawsuits Challenge Campus Antisemitism

Lerner, whose firm has filed several lawsuits against US universities alleging the schools are violating the civil rights of Jewish students, called the protests “outrageous.”

“They are laced with invidious antisemitic inferences and strong action by the university and universities across the country is not only advisable, but will reduce the amount of disruption to the campuses,” he said.

Added Pressure

Rebecca Givan, an associate professor at Rutgers University’s School of Management and Labor Relations, said the strike gives more leverage to students who are demanding that UC disclose and end its investments in Israeli institutions in response to the Israel-Hamas war.

Other unions in California already are lending their support to the striking graduate students, according to Rebecca Gross, a doctoral candidate in literature who is the unit chair for UAW 4811 at UC Santa Cruz.

UPS delivery workers, who are unionized with the Teamsters, are rerouting parcels that were sent to UC Santa Cruz in a move that will force faculty to travel to affiliated UPS stores to pick up their mail.

Unionized Santa Cruz bus service workers aren’t stopping inside the school and are instead making passengers disembark at the picket lines just outside campus.

“People are organizing right now inside and outside of the workplace, and they want to use all paths that are available to them,” said Givan, who serves as general vice president of her faculty union. “Things like grievances and unfair labor practice charges can be effective, but are also very slow. Strikes can work and sometimes work more quickly.”

To contact the reporters on this story: Parker Purifoy in Washington at [email protected] ; Maxwell Adler in Los Angeles at [email protected]

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Laura D. Francis at [email protected] ; Genevieve Douglas at [email protected]

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