Offered through the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and the School of Social Policy and Practice, this program is a unique opportunity to combine the study of law with work in social policy. Students can complete the program and earn both degrees in four years. Students with a BSW can enter the advanced standing track and earn the degree in three years.

The Law School gives credit for four relevant courses in Social Policy & Practice toward the JD degree. MSW students take eight foundation courses, a research course and a research option, two required advanced practice courses and field placement, two social work practice electives, and two non-practice elective courses. Students in the joint degree program may receive credit for up to four courses at the Law School for their electives.

Below are possible tracks for completing the program:

*Please note that courses taken in the MSW before matriculation as a Law candidate cannot be counted toward the Law degree.

Students apply separately to each department. Applications to the MSW program are welcomed contemporaneously with the Law School application or during the 1L year.

The School of Social Policy and Practice and the Law School will accept either the GRE, GMAT, or LSAT.

For more information, admitted or current JD students should contact Amanda S. Aronoff. Applicants or prospective applicants to the Law School should contact contactadmissions@law.upenn.edu.