MA in Social Impact FAQ

We anticipate launching an online, part-time program in Fall 2027.

The Master of Arts in Social Impact Leadership is designed for forward-thinking, solution-seeking, and aspiring leaders committed to driving meaningful, measurable change in organizations, communities, and systems. The MSIL seeks students who aim to work with other like-minded students to build practical skills and leadership capacities in the social impact sector.

TOEFL, IELTS, MELAB, or ECPE scores are required for applicants whose native language is not English regardless of their status when applying. Applicants are exempt from submitting a TOEFL, IELTS, MELAB, or ECPE score if they have either 1) earned a degree from an institution where the language of instruction is exclusively English, regardless of country, within two years of applying to the MSW or MA in Social Impact Leadership (MSIL) or 2) studied in the US for two years or more within two years of applying to the MSW or MA in Social Impact Leadership (MSIL).

Social impact refers to the effect an organization’s or an individual’s actions have on the well-being of the community and the world at large. In the context of social work, social impact is the positive and measurable change a social worker's actions have on individuals, groups, or communities. It's about moving beyond providing a service to creating a lasting, transformative, and systemic positive change that improves people's well-being by addressing a pressing social issue. This can include anything from local improvements to major global shifts.

Students in the MSIL will develop a blend of practical, analytical, and leadership skills that prepare them to create measurable impact across sectors. Core competencies include:

The MSIL program is built on the premise that impactful leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of social justice, ethical decision-making, and collaborative action. We believe that social impact leaders must be equipped not only with technical skills but also with the values and vision to drive equitable change.

The MSIL is a 30-credit program. The MSIL is launching as an in-person, full-time residential/on-campus program in Fall 2026. The residential program is designed as a 2-semester program with students starting in the Fall term and completing the degree at the end of the Winter term. An online version of the program will be available starting in Fall 2027 and will appear as an option on the 27/28 application cycle opening in July 2026.

The MA requires coursework in: Foundations and Frameworks for Social Impact, Technology for Social Good, People Leadership for Social Impact, Financial Management for Social Impact, and Impact Measurement.

All students complete a two-semester signature social impact leadership project.

Students have additional credits that they can use for electives within the School of Social Work as well as from other graduate program courses within the University of Michigan.

Students in the MSIL will be able to use their electives to take classes in other schools such as the Ross School of Business, the Ford School of Public Policy, the School of Environment and Sustainability, and the School of Information, among others. 

Our signature Social Impact Leadership Project pairs students with real organizations and communities seeking innovative solutions to pressing challenges. Over the course of two semesters, you will identify problems, build authentic relationships, and design and implement solutions—all while developing the leadership skills that will define your career.