USC School of Social Work

Please submit a Statement of Purpose that encapsulates your motivation in seeking an MSW. Your statement should demonstrate an ability to synthesize your professional/personal experiences and desire to enter the field of social work. This statement will be used to assess your creativity, critical thinking, self-awareness, and writing skills. Please note your Statement of Purpose must be five double-spaced pages in length, with 1-inch margins, and 12-point Times New Roman font that addresses all topics listed below. You must upload the Statement of Purpose to the Supporting Documents section of the online Graduate Admissions Application. Topic #1: Describe your understanding of the social work profession and its core values. How have you incorporated social work values in your human service experiences and interactions with others? What significant relationships and life experiences have you had in giving or receiving help that has motivated you to enter the field of social work? What personal qualities equip you for the social work profession? Discuss your experiences and feelings about working with populations different from your own. Topic #2: The USC School of Social Work is dedicated to providing excellent graduate education for people destined to create social change. What social welfare areas interest you and why? What social problem most concerns you that might be addressed with an MSW? Topic #3: Please discuss your career goals. What do you expect to be doing in five years and 10 years? How will your chosen department and practice area help you reach your personal/professional goals and future contributions as a social worker? Include why the USC School of Social Work is a good fit for your goals. Topic #4: The rising cost of higher education today is a key concern for the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work and we work closely with our students to ensure they understand the financial implications of graduate study. Given the variety of ways to fund your education, please describe in detail your personal plan to finance your education including what steps you have made to obtain the necessary funding.   Topic #5: Field education is a core pillar of the Master in Social Work program. Our curriculum includes 1,000 hours of field placement conducted over 4 semesters. What is your plan for managing your personal and professional obligations while completing the required field placement?