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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USC programs, faculty, students and alumni work to address rural health
Rural communities face significant barriers to adequate healthcare. That’s why USC is bringing major players to the fight for better rural health through innovative programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, behavioral health and more. For National Rural Health Month, we’ve gathered highlights of the work being done by the USC community.
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Students from military families are often misunderstood in US public schools - a retired military officer and behavioral health expert explains what schools can do
Students from military families have specific experiences and needs that require support from their schools. Nikki R. Wooten, an associate professor of social work, writes for The Conversation about how some educators may not understand the experiences of military children and the challenges of military life.
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Social work researcher aims to improve mental health outcomes for autistic adults
For her dissertation at Carlton University in Canada, assistant professor Margaret Janse van Rensburg collaborated with the Ottawa Adult Autism Initiative to better understand how human service workers can help autistic adults overcome barriers to accessing mental health support. Now, at USC, she is expanding on her research and working toward her goal to enhance outcomes for autistic people.
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Graduate's journey from softball to social work leads to selection as U.S. team therapist at Jewish Olympics
After navigating the challenges of life beyond Division I softball, licensed clinical social worker Olivia Gott, now supports athletes facing similar transitions. She will serve as the U.S. team therapist at the 2026 Maccabiah Games, bringing both personal experience and professional care to the world stage.
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
