College of Social WorkAt a Glance
For more than 50 years, the University of South Carolina College of Social Work has influenced the well-being of individuals, families and communities in South Carolina and beyond. Our graduates improve lives in countless ways and through varied careers from advocates and administrators to educators and policymakers.
The College of Social Work is a leading, research-based learning setting that’s a Top 20% Social Work program nationally, according to US News & World Report. Here, students take an active role in understanding and shaping the ways social work improves communities. Whether working toward an advanced generalist career or focused certificate specialization, our social work practitioners and scholars are committed to positive social change.
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Alumna finds her niche as an advocate for survivors of domestic violence and trafficking
University of South Carolina graduate Monique Garvin, '19 knows how critically important her work is in combatting various forms of abuse in South Carolina’s communities and acutely recognizes the impact violence has on individuals.
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2024 rural health faculty experts
More than a quarter of South Carolina residents live in rural areas and must overcome greater health care challenges than their urban counterparts. USC faculty members are available to offer their expertise in rural health services and research. To coordinate an interview, contact the staff member listed with each expert entry.
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Social work professor uses advocacy, reflection to carve pathways for students in legal system
Forensic social work is a specific discipline that examines how social workers intersect and interact with the legal system under domains both criminal and civil. Stephanie Hunter has 22 years of experience in the field, specifically working in criminal indigent defense. Now an assistant clinical professor at USC’s College of Social Work, she finds that both students and professionals often require an explanation about the field.
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Arrest diversion program offers nonviolent offenders resources and a second chance
LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Deflection), a partnership between the West Columbia Police Department and the S.C. Department of Mental Health, is a community-based alternative to prosecution. Developed and staffed by two College of Social Work alumni, the program offers deflection and resources to people accused of nonviolent low-level offenses whose behavior stems from substance use, mental health challenges or poverty.
Making a Difference in SC
The College of Social Work’s research expertise impacts business and government entities every day. Our students and faculty are serving the wellness of physicians, nurses, social workers and pharmacists in South Carolina to better prevent career burnout. Our field education program is one of the nation’s strongest, providing 350,000 student volunteer hours statewide annually — an infusion of service valued at more than $1 million to the South Carolina economy.
Centers and Institutes
