San Diego Frequently Asked Questions
How many units do I need to earn an MSW?
You will need to complete 60 units of coursework along with two field internships. Visit our MSW section for more information on the degree program.
Is this the same as the MSW program offered at the University Park campus in Los Angeles?
Yes, the San Diego Academic Center offers the same program and high-quality instruction your peers receive at the University Park campus.
What concentrations are offered in San Diego?
San Diego students may choose Mental Health; and Community Organization, Planning and Administration (COPA). The San Diego Academic Center provides all courses required for the MSW in these three concentrations. Additionally, students may choose a sub-concentration in Military Social Work and Veteran Services or School Social Work. Coming soon, students will also be able to specialize in child mental health as part of the Mental Health concentration.
Do you offer advanced standing in San Diego?
Yes, we accept advanced standing applicants.
Are scholarships available to incoming San Diego students?
Yes, specific scholarships are available to San Diego students.
Will I be able to schedule my classes around work?
Foundation (first-year) courses are offered morning, afternoon and evening in three time blocks: 8 a.m. – 11 a.m., 1 p.m. – 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. However, upon entering the concentration year (second or final year), students who continue to work full-time may need to make schedule accommodations.
What are field placements?
Field placements, or internships, are a required part of the MSW curriculum and provide you with practical, hands-on experience in community settings.
Are field placements available in my area?
Since the San Diego Academic Center attracts students from Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego counties, there are field placements available all over Southern California. Most students are placed closest to where they live.
Do you have full-time faculty in San Diego?
Yes, the San Diego Academic Center has full-time research and teaching faculty. Many full-time faculty from the main campus also teach at the center.
Will I have access to USC library and information resources?
Yes, San Diego students have the same USC Libraries privileges as University Park students. Services include remote and on-site access to USC subscriptions of online journals, books and databases, as well as other USC Libraries benefits, including 24/7 online chat and instant messaging with USC librarians, interlibrary loan and document delivery. San Diego also offers on-site computer terminals networked with the Hamovitch Center for Science in the Human Services and the Randall Information Center through the USC Libraries system.
What are the facilities like in San Diego?
Our center is located in a four-story building near Interstate 15 in Rancho Bernardo. We have smart classrooms, conference rooms, a student lounge, computer lab, library, study room, and staff and faculty offices. We also have free parking, an elevator, disabled student services and video-conference technology.
Will I have the opportunity to visit USC’s main campus?
Yes. The center organizes trips to the University Park campus for our students to experience the Trojan spirit by participating in community immersion, orientation, All School Day, homecoming and other campus activities, including athletic events.
I want to be active in the school. How can I get involved?
We have exciting leadership opportunities, including participating in caucuses, managing fundraisers and organizing social activities, which help build resumes and encourage teamwork.
If I am a U.S. veteran, who do I contact regarding my eligibility for educational assistance?
The USC Office of Veteran Affairs certifies enrollment for USC students who are eligible for educational assistance administered by the Veterans Administration.