Who we are
The International Summer University in Social Work (ISUSW) is an international consortium of nine higher education institutions committed to advancing social work education through critical exchange across countries and cultures.
Since 2009, ISUSW has brought together postgraduate students, academics, practitioners and communities to explore the theory, practice and ethics of social work in a changing world. Each edition is hosted by a member university and focuses on a theme of contemporary importance, creating a shared learning space in which participants compare perspectives, reflect on different contexts and build lasting academic and professional relationships.
Our mission
Our mission is to promote academic, professional, social and cultural exchange among participants from around the world; connect teaching with research; and engage critically with the global and local forces shaping social work.
By bringing together students, scholars, practitioners and communities across borders, ISUSW strengthens mutual understanding and supports thoughtful, ethical and socially just responses to shared challenges.
A continuing international partnership
ISUSW began in 2009 under the founding leadership of the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO). The formal Consortium was established in 2017, building on collaborations developed among participating institutions over more than a decade.
Today, nine member institutions share responsibility for the continuity and development of ISUSW under the ISUSW Consortium Agreement, with Western Sydney University serving as the General Secretariat (2025-2028).
Learning through exchange
ISUSW is normally convened annually as an intensive two-week program, comprising approximately ten days of academic, professional, social and cultural learning. It is designed primarily for postgraduate social work students, particularly those studying at master's level, while doctoral candidates and students in related fields may also participate where appropriate.
Each edition generally includes:
keynote lectures, seminars and roundtable discussions led by academics and experts;
interactive student workshops and small-group learning;
visits to social service organisations and engagement with frontline professionals and communities;
student presentations and critical reflection; and
social, cultural and place-based learning activities.
Together, these experiences connect theory with practice and enable participants to learn how social work is understood and practised in different social, cultural and national contexts.
Our shared values
Our work is guided by respect and human dignity, social justice, pluralism and diversity, critical and reflective learning, collaboration across borders, equity of opportunity and integrity.
These values shape how we learn, host, participate and work together, and are given practical effect through the Consortium Agreement and the policies adopted by the Steering Committee.
