MSW students have the option to incorporate nine different certificate programs or specializations into their standard course of study. Specializations and certificates are entirely optional, but offer a focused academic experience for those students who want to delve deeply into a particular area of practice. Occasionally, students are able to complete more than one specialization, but this requires very specific course scheduling. A number of factors contribute to the feasibility of completing additional specializations, including course availability, ability to cross-count courses between specializations, nature of field placement, etc. Students who are interested in more than one specialization should review the requirements for each specialization and discuss course scheduling with their academic advisor. It is expected that all requirements for the specialization be met while the student is completing the MSW degree. Any exceptions must be approved in advance by the specialization director. Ann Nolan Reese Penn Aging Certificate (PAC) Ann Nolan Reese Penn Aging Certificate (PAC) Through the Penn Aging Certificate (PAC) Program, students can be social change agents and leaders in the significant field of gerontological social work. Learn More Certificate in Law Certificate in Law The University of Pennsylvania Law School offers a Certificate in Law to students enrolled in a graduate or professional degree program at Penn. Learn More Child Well-Being & Child Welfare Child Well-Being & Child Welfare CW2 educates students to provide services in a culturally competent manner to produce positive outcomes for children and families. Learn More Cohen Veterans Network MSW Scholars Cohen Veterans Network MSW Scholars SP2 addresses a shortage of critical mental health services for veterans and their families who may be experiencing PTSD, depression, and suicidality. Learn More Criminal Justice Specialization Criminal Justice Specialization The Specialization educates students to provide culturally competent services to people involved with and impacted by the criminal justice system. Learn More Goldring Reentry Initiative Goldring Reentry Initiative The GRI addresses the growing epidemic of mass incarceration and the many barriers individuals incarcerated in the Philadelphia Prison System (PPS) face upon release. Learn More Social Work in Health Care Specialization Social Work in Health Care Specialization The SWIHCS aims to prepare students for successful careers across healthcare-relevant practice settings. Learn More Global Human Rights Certificate Global Human Rights Certificate The Global Human Rights is designed to provide enriched perspectives on human rights. Learn More MSW/Home-School Visitor Certificate MSW/Home-School Visitor Certificate Individuals with the Home and School Visitor Certification (HSV) provide professional social work services in a variety of K-12 educational institutions. Learn More
