• School of Social Work, Psychological and Brain Sciences

Introducing the School of Social Work, Psychological and Brain Sciences

The University of Missouri–St. Louis is working to bring together the School of Social Work and the Department of Psychological Sciences to form a new School of Social Work, Psychological and Brain Sciences. Coordination will take place through fall 2026 with no interruption to current academic programs expected during the transition. 

The new school reflects the university’s long-standing commitment to advancing education, research and engagement in areas that support individual and community well-being. Over the months ahead, UMSL will align academic programs in social work and psychological sciences within a unified administrative structure—strengthening collaboration and amplifying the university’s impact across education, research and community engagement.

The programs housed within the new school share complementary strengths in applied learning, clinical practice, research and community partnership. This alignment will allow UMSL to more effectively support students, faculty and staff; strengthen relationships with community partners and alumni, and to coordinate resources in ways that support long-term growth and innovation to impact the St. Louis region and far beyond.

Importantly, this change is administrative and structural in nature only. There are no immediate changes to degree programs, degree requirements, course offerings, faculty, advising or student support services. All programs remain fully intact, however, any potential future changes will be phased in thoughtfully and communicated well in advance.

As this transition moves forward, the School of Social Work, Psychological and Brain Sciences will continue to focus on student success, academic excellence and meaningful community impact—building on the strong foundations already in place while positioning the university for the future.

School Leadership

Sharon Johnson

Sharon Johnson
Dean

 Matthew Taylor

Matthew Taylor
Associate Dean

Social Work

 Lori Curtis

Lori Curtis
BSW Director

 

Courtney Mcdermott 

Courtney McDermott
Field Director

 obrien-photo.jpg

Diane O’Brien
MSW Director

Psychological Sciences

 Jennifer Siciliani

Jennifer Siciliani
Undergraduate Director

 Carissa Philippi

Carissa Philippi
PBS Program Director

Steven Bruce 

Steven Bruce
Clinical Program Director

Why is UMSL making this change?

The University of Missouri–St. Louis is bringing together the School of Social Work and the Department of Psychological Sciences to form the School of Social Work, Psychological and Brain Sciences in order to strengthen alignment across programs that share complementary missions, expertise and community impact.

By organizing these academic programs and support systems into a cohesive group, UMSL is better positioned to:

  • Amplify the work being done for students and the community
  • Strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and applied learning
  • Enhance support for community partnerships, clinics and centers
  • Improve coordination of leadership, development and alumni engagement
  • Invest more strategically in academic and student support resources over time

This change reflects a long-term vision for growth, collaboration, and impact—while maintaining stability for students, faculty, and staff.

When does this change take effect?

The administrative transition will occur gradually over the spring and summer 2026 semesters. Some administrative changes are already underway, but these are not expected to be noticeable to students. Additional changes will be phased in thoughtfully, with ongoing communication as plans are finalized.

Will this affect degree programs or academic requirements?

No. All degree programs, degree names and academic requirements remain unchanged. Students will continue to follow the same curricula and degree paths currently in place.

Will this affect who teaches my courses or the courses offered?

No immediate changes are planned. Faculty assignments, course offerings and instructional delivery will continue as usual.

What academic degree programs will be included under the new school structure? 

  • Social Work (BSW, MSW)
  • Applied Psychology of Child Advocacy Studies (BA)
  • Psychological Sciences (BA, BS)
  • Psychology - Online (BA)
  • Psychology (MA)
    • Psychological and Brain Sciences
  • Psychology (PhD)
    • Psychological and Brain Sciences
    • Clinical Psychology

Who awards my degree?

All degrees will continue to be awarded by the University of Missouri–St. Louis.

Will this change affect advising or student support services?

There are no immediate changes to advising assignments or student support structures. Students will continue to receive support from their current advisors, faculty and student service professionals. Any future adjustments to advising or support services will be communicated well in advance and will be designed to enhance—not disrupt—the student experience.

Will there be changes to physical locations or offices?

At this time, all units will remain in their current locations. Due to ongoing campus construction, any future space changes will be considered as projects are completed and will be communicated clearly to students, faculty and staff.

Will this affect commencement ceremonies?

Psychological Sciences students graduating in spring 2026 or summer 2026 will participate in the regular College of Arts and Sciences commencement ceremony for the academic program. Students graduating in winter 2026 and beyond will participate in the commencement ceremony associated with the new school, alongside social work graduates. Multiple communications will be shared well in advance of commencement.

Who leads the programs within the new School?

All programs will maintain their existing leadership and structure, including program directors and clinical leadership. The new school structure allows for additional coordination and leadership support while preserving the integrity of each program.