Social workers understand policy and pursue social change, particularly with and on behalf of vulnerable and oppressed individuals and groups of people, focused on issues like voting rights, criminal justice reform, juvenile justice, immigration reform, and economic justice and equity. In many leadership roles, social workers strive to ensure equitable policies and access to needed information, services, and resources; equality of opportunity; and meaningful participation in decision making for all people.

Administrative practice

MSW students may focus their Social Work studies on administrative practice, also known as nonprofit management. We offer courses in human services administration, organizational effectiveness, and grant writing for students who want to pursue leadership (or founding) roles in nonprofit, government, and social-services organizations.

Interdisciplinary options

Students interested in leadership practice in an interdisciplinary field may pursue a credential in collaboration with another college, including the Tippie College of Business, College of Public Health, College of Law, or Urban and Regional Planning. The course plan for these options are highly individualized and require careful planning.

Several combined-degree options are available through the Graduate College.

For more information on pursuing an interdisciplinary focus of study, contact us at ssw-admissions@uiowa.edu.