Social Work Minor
Students can combine our minor in social work with a major in almost any field. Those majoring in sociology or psychology may find a social work minor especially beneficial to their career goals, while students majoring in such fields as political science, economics, religion, or communications may find it equally helpful. Our minor offers students a foundation for the study of social work, which is particularly useful for those interested in pursuing graduate programs in the field.
Student Testimonials
"For the first time ever, I felt like I was able to use everything that I have learned in school and life and apply it in a way that has made a difference. -Political science major and social work minor
"During my internship I learned to divide my time appropriately, work alongside others, coordinate different departments, schedule meetings and interview those who were applying for services." -Psychology major and social work minor
"I have known for awhile that I love working directly with those with disabilities, but I have realized that I also have a desire to be an advocate for those with disabilities." -Psychology major and social work minor
What Social Science Division Grads Are Doing
Data collected from the 2023 class within six months of graduation.
Employed Full-Time or Part-Time
Admitted to Graduate School
Military
Total Settled Graduates
Why Pepperdine
Pepperdine Seaver College is consistently recognized among the top-ranked universities in California and the United States. We are a Christian university where students grow in knowledge and character. As a liberal arts institution, we focus on providing rich opportunities for intellectual and spiritual exploration for students with a diverse community.
Located in Malibu, CA
13:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio
80% of Students Participate in an International Program
120,000 + Alumni Network
Social Work Program
Our Curriculum
Pepperdine University's minor in social work involves two foundational courses in
social work, several supplemental psychology or sociology courses, and an internship
in the Los Angeles area in an appropriate agency. This curriculum provides students
with a strong and solid foundation for pursuing graduate studies in social work or
in securing human services employment directly after graduation.
Our Internship Sites
Internship sites include:
- Daybreak Shelter for Homeless, Mentally Ill Women
- Virginia Avenue Park Teen Center
- Silverado Memory Care Residential Facility
- OneGeneration Senior Services
Foundations of the Field
The origins of social work lie in the early 20th century efforts to meet the needs of poor and neglected children, exploited workers, and other disadvantaged and disabled people.
Today social workers continue to be active in offering professional services to and advocating for those in need. They are employed by private companies, nonprofit organizations, and in government agencies. Many also offer services as professional consultants or counselors. Other social workers serve in the public policy field, designing and advocating public and private programs that address the problems of the needy.
Social workers are employed in such fields as child and family service agencies, drug treatment centers, hospitals and hospices, public health departments, social welfare agencies, probation programs, counseling centers, and child care centers. More than most professions, social work is closely linked to the University's Christian mission and its motto, "Freely ye received, freely give."
Contact Us
Social Science Division
Pepperdine University
24255 Pacific Coast Highway
Malibu, CA 90263
Office: AC 201
Robert E. Williams
Divisional Dean & Professor of Political Science
Robert Escudero
Office Manager