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.
-
2025 Autism Acceptance Month: USC faculty experts list
April is Autism Acceptance Month. The CDC estimates that one out of every 36 eight-year-olds and one in 45 adults is affected by autism, a lifelong developmental disorder. As South Carolina’s leader in health sciences, USC has researchers across disciplines who specialize in autism.
-
Journey from homelessness to social worker gives alumna insight and empathy
Renee Shaw’s journey is a testament to courage and perseverance. Now a social worker, she draws from her own experiences with homelessness and hardship to uplift others and to make a meaningful impact in her community.
-
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.
-
Gamecocks Take New York: Sharita Sims
Sharita Sims may not live in New York, but as manager of the New York Public Library’s community wellness programs, she couldn’t be more committed to the city and its people.
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
