Course Overview

The Social Service Administration (MA, PhD) program at the University of Chicago is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in social work, policy, and administration. Offered through the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice, the program emphasizes evidence-based practice, social justice, and innovative solutions to complex social challenges. Students engage in rigorous academic training combined with field placements to develop skills in direct practice, policy analysis, and research.

Unique Features

The program stands out for its integration of clinical and administrative training, offering students the flexibility to tailor their studies toward direct service or macro-level policy work. The curriculum is grounded in interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from sociology, psychology, and economics to address systemic issues.

Career Prospects

Graduates are equipped for diverse roles in social work, public policy, nonprofit management, and academia. The program’s strong emphasis on research and practice prepares students to influence social change at individual, community, and systemic levels.

Key Faculty and Staff

Notable faculty include leading scholars in social work and policy, with expertise in areas such as poverty, mental health, and child welfare. Specific names and titles are available on the university’s official faculty directory for the Crown Family School.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

The program benefits from partnerships with numerous Chicago-based organizations, providing students with access to real-world field experiences in diverse communities. The university’s location offers proximity to a wide range of social service agencies, advocacy groups, and policy institutes.