Data Analytics in Social Policy, Minor
The MSW Program at the University of Pennsylvania is the first social work program to combine the MSW degree with a data analytics credential. The MSW with the minor in Data Analytics for Social Policy will empower students interested in social work and social policy to use data science to actively impact social good. The Data Analytics for Social Policy minor will allow social work students to engage in learning beyond their MSW coursework, enhancing training and skills in the conceptual foundations of data analytics, programming of data structures, applications of machine learning and predictive analytics, spatial analytics, data processing techniques for web scraping, and data visualization for broader public audiences. Students will gain rigorous training in social work and data analytics for social policy during the usual time to degree for the MSW degree (2 years).
Curriculum
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| MSSP 6070 | Practical Programming for Data Science | 1 |
| MSSP 6080 | Practical Machine Learning Methods | 1 |
| MSSP 6380 | MSSP+DA Capstone Seminar: Telling Stories with Data | 1 |
| MSSP 6390 | MSSP+DA Policy Practicum in Data Analytics | 0 |
| MSSP 7100 | Democratizing Data? Critical Data Studies in Algorithmic Governance | 1 |
| MSSP 7300 | Community Mapping | 1 |
| MSSP 8970 | Applied Linear Modeling | 1 |
| Total Course Units | 6 | |
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.