The Advanced Certificate in Oncology Social Work Practice is designed for current healthcare social workers to gain superior knowledge and skills for work with individuals, families, and communities impacted by cancer. This program provides the opportunity for practicing social workers to learn from national experts, to engage with peers in the field, and to tailor professional development to the needs of their institutions and patients.

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate from Penn’s School of Social Policy & Practice. This certificate will demonstrate that participants possess advanced training to support diverse patients and families coping with cancer.

Oncology social work is a specialization within social work practice that addresses the psychosocial needs of individuals, families, and communities impacted by cancer. Emerging from a long tradition of social work in healthcare, the sub-specialty of oncology social work has flourished in the last century as biomedical advances transformed cancer from a terminal to a chronic disease. Despite these advances, a diagnosis of cancer is often emotionally and financially devastating. Through multi-systemic and holistic practice, research, education, and advocacy, social workers are integral to providing comprehensive care to people with cancer.