MSW-PSE

Master of Social Work in Psychosocial Software Engineering

Where psychology, social work, and software engineering unite to advance human well-being

Bridging empathy and technology, the MSW-PSE program empowers a new generation of professionals to design digital systems that understand people—not just process them. It’s where human insight meets software innovation for a more inclusive and mentally resilient digital world.

Why Choose the Master of Social Work in Psychosocial Software Engineering?

The MSW-PSE program pioneers a new academic frontier where psychology, social work, and software engineering converge to create ethical, inclusive, and human-centered technologies that advance mental health, social equity, and community well-being.

Interdisciplinary Innovation for Human Well-being

This program is the first of its kind to unite psychology, social work, and software engineering, training professionals who design ethical, inclusive, and human-centered digital systems. It bridges technology with empathy — ensuring that digital tools enhance mental health, social equity, and community well-being rather than merely optimizing efficiency.

Career-Ready Skills for a Digital Care Economy

Graduates gain both technical mastery (AI, mobile and web app development, cloud computing, cybersecurity) and psychosocial insight (behavioral analysis, ethical auditing, participatory design). This dual skill set prepares them for emerging global roles such as mental health tech developer, digital ethics specialist, or social innovation architect.

National and Global Relevance

The program was developed through national stakeholder workshops and needs assessments involving government, NGOs, and tech industries (e.g., Ethio-Telecom, UNICEF, Africa CDC). It responds to the rising demand for digital mental health interventions and data ethics in Africa, positioning graduates as pioneers in a globally relevant, socially impactful field.

Commitment to Quality, Ethics, and Real-World Impact

Structured under the Bologna Process and European Standards for Quality Assurance, the MSW-PSE emphasizes evidence-based learning, ethical compliance, and community engagement. Through a 30-ECTS Capstone Project, students collaborate with industry or social service organizations to build real digital solutions addressing mental health and social care challenges.

Who created this program?

School of Social Work

College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities

School of Information Technology Engineering

College of Technology and Built Environment

Addis Ababa University

What is Psychosocial Software Engineering

The Master of Social Work in Psychosocial Software Engineering (MSW-PSE) is a pioneering interdisciplinary graduate program designed to equip students with the unique ability to integrate psychosocial knowledge and software engineering expertise. This two-year, 120-ECTS program prepares graduates for impactful careers in digital social services, mental health tech, nonprofit innovation, and responsible AI application.