Dr. Ricardo Ornelas

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Rick Ornelas, DBH, MSW, is an Associate Teaching Professor and a leader in Practicum Education in social work at the University of Southern California. With over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, he focuses on integrating social work within the legal system. He co-leads the Social Work and Public Safety Program, which pioneers innovative partnerships that combine social work with legal services to effectively serve communities. His work emphasizes the importance of collaboration between public safety and social work to implement effective strategies that meet the needs of diverse populations.

Research Interests

Social Work Public Safety Legal System Integration

Experience

Associate Teaching Professor

— Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Leading Practicum Education and integrating social work within the legal system.

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.