Scope and Objectives

The primary objectives of the Department of Social Welfare graduate program are to prepare
leaders for the profession of social work and to develop the empirical base for all facets of
practice. In response to changing demographic trends and the emergence of new social
problems, the department provides leadership in the areas of policy, practice, and research and in
the development of an innovative curriculum for training students and professionals to meet the
service needs of a multicultural clientele.
The educational program is based on the premise that all students need to acquire a common
body of knowledge and basic skills, and a common understanding of the philosophy and values of
the profession. These then form a sound foundation for the development of more specialized
knowledge and skills along the lines of each students interests and the needs of the field.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of the resources within the University by selecting
elective courses in related disciplines. In addition, as a department within the Luskin School of
Public Affairs, the program affords students instructional opportunities in the other affiliated
departments--Public Policy and Urban Planning.
Beyond national opportunities in the profession of social work, there is increasing demand for
qualified and experienced social workers to serve in the international field, where many social
service programs are conducted under the auspices of the United Nations, the U.S. government,
and national sectarian organizations. Graduates of the doctoral program generally secure
appointments at major universities or research centers.
The challenge to the department, the profession, and those who join us as students is to prepare
to forge the paths, build the bridges, and shape the future to ensure that all individuals, families,
and communities enjoy better education, better healthcare, better job training, and better
economic futures.