Interest in social entrepreneurship using innovation and enterprise to address social problems is introduced with training from a business perspective.

This fall, the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis will sponsor the first social entrepreneurship program based in a social work setting.

There is enormous enthusiasm among our students and recent graduates, many of whom want to apply entrepreneurial thinking to social problems.” – Edward F. Lawlor Brown School dean

We are excited to work with the Brown School on this initiative and for the opportunity to help educate future leaders who will take innovative approaches to address social issues.” – Ken Harrington Skandalaris Center for Entrepreneurial Studies managing director

Social entrepreneurship at the Brown School is a 12-credit specialization within the Master of Social Work (MSW) program.

The program is based at the Brown School, but it is available to students from the Olin Business School, the School of Law and other schools across the university.

In addition to classes that focus on social entrepreneurship and business planning, students will participate in field placements related to the specialization. Students will have opportunities to meet and be mentored by practicing social entrepreneurs.

The Brown School also will partner with the University to host a lecture series and convene a conference on social entrepreneurship.