phd requirements social work

College of Education and Human Development

School of Social Work

Applying to the PhD in Social Work Program

Applications are evaluated based on potential for independent research and knowledge development in social work. While preference is given to applicants with post-master’s work experience, there is not a set amount or type of experience required, and all of the applicant's previous experiences and career goals are considered.

Useful information about applying:

• The University of Minnesota Graduate School's admissions webpage.
• The section below about required application materials for the School of Social Work.

When you are ready to start your application, click the button below. You will be able to save and return to your application.

Application Deadline: Friday, December 1, 2023

Required application materials, 1: unofficial transcripts.

Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended (including the University of Minnesota). Please see the Graduate School's transcript instruction page for information on submitting transcripts with your application.

Applicants must have a master’s degree in social work, social welfare, or a related field, preferably from a school of social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Applicants may be enrolled in a master’s program when they apply for the PhD program, but the program must be completed before they begin doctoral studies. Master’s degrees in related disciplines are considered, but students may be required to complete some MSW coursework as a condition for enrollment.

2: Test Scores

Gre (not required).

GRE scores are not required for admission to our PhD program. However, if you do choose to submit them, we accept scores from the last five years. We recommend the GRE for applicants who cannot demonstrate a strong background in research, writing, and statistics.

The Graduate School has more information about GRE tests and scores, here . 

English Proficiency 

A strong command of the English language is necessary for successful study at the School of Social Work.  International applicants for whom English is not a primary language are asked to take the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test to demonstrate proficiency. For more information on the University's language proficiency test and score requirements, kindly visit this site.  

3: Curriculum vitae (CV)

Your CV should list your educational history, including dates of degree conferral, and relevant employment history, including job titles, agency names, dates of employment, and whether jobs you list were full-time, part-time, or internships. Also list your research experience, publications, presentations, teaching experience, leadership experience, service to the community, and any honors or awards.

4: Personal Statement

Submit a statement, not exceeding four pages, which explains your research interests and career goals. Please address the following two topics within this document.

• Research interests: In this essay, discuss the specific social welfare problems or questions you are interested in researching during your doctoral program. We welcome a broad variety of research problems or questions, including those geared to helping the social work profession better meet the needs of a diverse society. Explain the potential social impact of your research ideas and how your research may contribute to knowledge in the field of social work/social welfare. Also describe your past or present research training or experience and explain anything else you would like us to know related to your preparation for doctoral study. If there is a particular faculty member with whom you wish to study, please give that person's name and explain why you want to study with that person.
• Career goals: Describe your overall career goals and explain how doctoral study, research, teaching, and leadership align with your goals.

5: Writing Sample

Provide a scholarly writing sample that was written for a public or professional audience. Your sample should provide evidence of your ability to effectively conceptualize and communicate complex ideas and demonstrate clarity, organization, and appropriate use of grammar and style. Scholarly writing samples may include: sole-authored manuscripts, course papers, and papers prepared for academic conferences. If your writing sample was co-authored, please articulate your contributions to the writing process and highlight the portions that you wrote. Informal examples of writing, such as newspaper articles or PowerPoint presentations, are not acceptable writing samples.

6: Diversity Statement

Submit a statement, not exceeding two pages, which identifies the distinctive qualities, characteristics and life experiences you would contribute to the School of Social Work. Your diversity statement can include, but is not limited to:

• Your contribution to student body diversity
• Your contribution to the doctoral learning community
• How your research interests relate to diversity issues
• How your career plans include diversity and equity components
• Your history of overcoming obstacles to achievement

7: Three Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required. Your references should be professionals who are able to comment on your potential for research and scholarly activity. At least one letter, if not two, should be from a current or former professor. At least one current or former professor should have a PhD and speak to your ability to complete a PhD program.

Admissions FAQ

All students are required to submit undergraduate and graduate school transcripts, a curriculum vita, a personal statement, a diversity statement, an academic writing sample, and three letters of recommendation. All international students must also take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), with the exception of students who earned an academic degree in an English speaking country.

We accept Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores and recommend them for applicants who cannot demonstrate a strong background in research, writing, and statistics; however, GRE scores are not required.

The GRE is only valid for five years. If your GRE is more than five years old, you will need to take it again.

A master’s degree is required for admission directly into the PhD program. While we do accept people with master’s degrees in other related fields, we strongly encourage applicants to complete their MSW before applying to the PhD program. An MSW provides important theoretical and practice knowledge that is useful throughout the PhD program. In addition, applicants should know that many social work departments will only hire faculty with an MSW and at least two years of post-MSW practice experience, which is another reason why the MSW is valuable for applicants.

The PhD program is very selective. Usually we accept less than 20% of applicants. Most applications are quite strong, so we have turn away many applicants each year who could potentially succeed in our program.

Number of students: 5-8 Average verbal GRE percentile: 75th Average quantitative GRE percentile: 65th Average analytic writing GRE percentile: 75th Average undergraduate GPA: 3.60 Average graduate GPA: 3.85

We are looking for students who will be able to conduct meaningful scholarship upon graduation and will eventually become national or international leaders in developing the social work knowledge base and providing academic leadership in the field. Thus, we are looking for people who excelled in their undergraduate and graduate programs, have excellent GRE (and TOEFL) scores, have had meaningful social work or related professional experience, have participated in research projects and publications, have strong critical thinking and writing skills, and have a strong interest in a career centered upon social work scholarship.

General FAQ

Students take two years of coursework both inside and outside the School of Social Work, including required courses in research methods, statistics, theory, history, policy and teaching, as well as supporting program courses from across the university. Students typically complete their preliminary examinations and defend their dissertation proposal, and then complete their dissertation in their fourth or PhD fifth year.

No, the PhD program is a weekday program with courses offered during the daytime. Students should expect to be on-campus at least three days per week, if not more, for at least the first two years of the program.

There is no formal, part-time program, though some students do work off-campus part-time and complete the program at a slightly slower rate. However, we do not encourage part-time study and give preference to students interested in full-time study and do not provide funding packages to part-time students. Full-time students are better able to engage in all aspects of the program and are more likely to complete the program.

No, we do not have a combined MSW/PhD program. Applicants must have a master’s degree in social work, social welfare, or a related field, preferably from a school of social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Applicants may be enrolled in a master’s program when they apply for the PhD program, but the program must be completed before they begin doctoral studies.

No. Our PhD program does not focus on developing advanced clinical skills.

Our program is designed so that students can complete the program in 4 years, though most finish within 4-5 years.

The PhD program includes two years of coursework, examinations and the dissertation. Please see the PhD Student Handbook for the specific requirements and timetables for completion.

An MSW program is an advanced professional practice degree geared towards preparing social work practitioners for work in direct practice social work or community practice social work. Our MSW graduates secure positions in a variety of areas, including clinical social work, case management/care coordination, advocacy, community organizing, planning, or leading. A PhD program is a research degree that focuses on the development of advanced research, theoretical and teaching skills. Most of our PhD graduates work in academia or research positions.

Because of the rigorous demands of the PhD program, most students are unable to work full-time and successfully complete the program. A PhD program should be thought of similarly time wise to a demanding full-time job.

Social Work (PhD)

Program description.

NYU Silver School of Social Work’s PhD program prepares students to become leading researchers and educators in the promotion of social justice and the health and well-being of marginalized communities nationally and globally.

Our intensive doctoral training competitively positions graduates for top-tier academic and research opportunities—such as faculty positions at leading research universities—cultivating the next wave of independent investigators, scholars, and social work leaders. Building on Silver’s nationally recognized strength in intervention and implementation research and our focus on addressing inequities, the PhD program prepares students to make their own unique contributions to the field of social welfare.

Our rigorous coursework educates students in classic and contemporary theory, cutting-edge quantitative, qualitative and mixed methodologies, and specialized learning in their substantive areas. The opportunity to take electives within the larger university allows students to explore further their areas and methodologies in an interdisciplinary classroom. NYU Silver also prepares students to be educators through training, including in anti-racist pedagogies, and hands-on experience teaching BSW and MSW level courses.

At the heart of our program is the mentored research practicum offering students the opportunity to put their learning into practice. NYU Silver PhD students are paired from day one with a research mentor as part of our personalized mentoring program , helping them develop competencies in core research, scholarship, and teaching areas. NYU Silver Faculty are renowned for their expertise in several key research areas, including racial and social justice, behavioral health services, child welfare, and aging. Being part of a large Global Network University and located in the diverse and dynamic city of New York, NYU Silver offers an unparalleled environment for the study of areas critical to local, national and global well-being.

Requirements for admission to the Social Work PhD program include:

• a master’s degree (MSW is preferred) with a graduate grade point average of 3.0 or higher, based on a 4-point scale;
• a bachelor’s degree with an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or higher, based on a 4-point scale;
• TOEFL Score Requirements NYU Silver accepts the TOEFL iBT test, the TOEFL iBT Home Edition and the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition. The minimum scores for the TOEFL are 92-93. Our TOEFL code is 2506. We will accept an unofficial score until we receive an official copy from Educational Testing Service (ETS).
• IELTS Score Requirements Admission criteria for the IELTS is an overall score of 7.0 or higher (no individual scores less than 7 in any category).
• Duolingo English Test Admission criteria for the Duolingo English Test is a minimum score of 115.
• Applicants who have earned a degree from an institution where the language of instruction during their entire undergraduate program (four years) and/or master's degree was exclusively English, regardless of country, are exempt from submitting a TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo score.
• Applicants who are U.S. Permanent Residents and have earned their undergraduate degree from a US Institution.
• an updated Curriculum Vitae;
• a well-written and compelling  statement of research interest ; and
• three outstanding letters of recommendation.
• International applicants ‒ please  learn more about your additional requirements .

Note:  Although post-MSW practice experience is not a requirement, at least three years of experience is recommended.

Program Requirements

Required coursework, non-coursework requirements, qualifying exam.

The qualifying exam will entail a choice between a systematic review or a comprehensive literature review of a given topic of interest. All students must pass a qualifying exam, which serves as an examination of what students have learned to date in the program and a determination of whether they are ready to engage in independent research. Successful completion of the qualifying exam also demonstrates that a student is able to adhere to accepted norms of scholarship and produce written work of publishable quality.

Dissertation Proposal

In creating a dissertation proposal, students will choose a topic or research question to study, and will form a dissertation committee based on their research area interest and faculty area of expertise. Students will submit their written proposal to the dissertation committee and arrange for an oral defense.

Dissertation

The student, in consultation with their dissertation committee, will determine the appropriate structure and form of the dissertation. All dissertations will be evaluated on the quality and clarity of the conception, writing, presentation, evidence of scholarship and systematic inquiry, originality, and significance to the field of social work. Students will submit a written dissertation and also have an oral defense of their dissertation, which is open to the public.

Note: The doctoral program does not prepare students for advanced practice in clinical social work or for licensure for social work practice in New York State. Students licensed as an LMSW or LCSW by the New York State Education Department may practice according to the guidelines of their particular license. Unlicensed students may not provide professional services in New York State unless otherwise authorized by state law.

Sample Plan of Study

Program-level student learning outcomes.

Upon completion of the Silver School of Social Work doctoral program, graduates will be able to:

• Provide leadership in the development of knowledge in a substantive area that is important to social work practice and/or social service delivery.
• Conduct independent research that demonstrates advanced knowledge of the methodology used, and which meets current publication standards.
• Engage in critical analysis of clinical practice models and their underpinning theories, including evidence of empirical support.
• Draw upon established social science theories to generate hypotheses regarding problems relevant to social work practice.
• Critically examine social policies using established models of analysis.
• Communicate effectively at a professional level, orally and in writing, the products of one’s scholarship to diverse constituencies.
• Compete successfully for academic positions in social work or related disciplines.

Transfer and Articulation Agreements

Academic standing and progress, withdrawals, redress of grievances, nyu policies.

Normally, credit for required courses in the PhD or DSW program cannot be transferred from other institutions. For admissions purposes, transfer credit from other educational programs within the school or from other institutions is generally not allowed. 

A PhD student who is on academic probation is considered not to be in good academic standing or not to be in good academic progress. Students will be automatically placed on academic probation for any of the following reasons: 

• A grade-point average of less than 3.0
• A grade of lower than B- in any course
• Failure to complete course requirements (as indicated by grade of IP or IF) within one semester following the end of the semester in which the course was taken.
• Inadequate performance in the research practicum (e.g., did not fulfill required weekly hours, did not turn in agreed-upon tasks on time). 

Academic probation triggers the formation of a Status Committee, which serves to help the student identify obstacles to remaining in good academic standing and provides guidance and support for helping the student plan for improvement. Status committees consist of three faculty members: the student’s mentor, a member of the PhD program committee, and the director of the PhD program. 

The program will provide written notification to the student of their probationary status as soon as practicable and within sixty (60) days after the final grades posted by the University (when applicable). The notification will inform the student of the ground for the determination, the specific steps that must be taken to return to good standing, the means by which the student’s performance will be evaluated and the penalty that will be imposed if these requirements are not met. 

When the student is required to repeat the course(s) with grade lower than B- as stipulated by the recommendations from the faculty on the Status Committee, students will be responsible for the tuition and fees for such repeating course(s). 

If the student is notified within the first two weeks of a semester, the student may be required to complete all requirements by the end of that semester. If  notification occurs after the first two weeks of a semester have been completed, the student has until the end of the next full semester (including summer) to complete all requirements.  If a student is awarded funding or financial aid (fellowship, assistantship, tuition, fees, health insurance, or other awards), then the probation letter will state the consequences of the probation on the financial aid award(s) including the terms required for the continuation or resumption of the award(s). 

Students who do not improve their academic performance or progress sufficiently within one semester of being placed on academic probation will be dismissed from the program. The criteria for sufficient improvement regarding academic performance are as follows: a grade-point average of 3.0 or higher, a grade of at least B- for any course, and no additional failures to complete course requirements (including the research practicum) in the probationary semester and thereafter. Students must be in good academic standing in order to progress from the coursework phase of the program to the qualifying exam and the dissertation. When academic probation is triggered in a student’s final semester of coursework, a status committee will determine the requirement(s) for returning to good academic standing. In addition, the criteria for sufficient improvement regarding academic progress are as follows: objective evidence showing substantial progress has been made in the probationary semester and thereafter (e.g., successfully completed QE, successfully defended proposal, successfully defended dissertation). 

Students cannot be on academic probation more than once.  Students on academic probation who do not satisfy the stated terms of probation may be formally terminated from the program.  The Program is required to provide written notification to students of their termination as soon as practicable. The notification must inform students of the grounds for termination, including the specific steps that the student failed to take to meet the program requirements, the effective date of the termination, and the appeal process available to the student.  When a student is put on probation or terminated, the program must notify all relevant offices, including but not limited to, the Office of Global Services if the student is international, and Graduate Enrollment Services if the student is receiving Silver or program funding.

Leaves of Absences/Term Withdrawal Overview

Most leaves and withdrawals are voluntary: psychological and/or physical medical leaves and personal leaves. Involuntary leaves and withdrawals are used in cases of academic/performance dismissal and as an option in cases of danger to self, others or property. Students are no longer allowed to request a leave of absence after the end of the add/drop period; they can instead request a term withdrawal up until the 9th week of classes (or 9th week equivalent in summer). A term withdrawal allows students to withdraw from their current semester courses, but in this case they will receive W (withdrawal) grades on their transcript. They will be held responsible for related tuition and fees according to the  Bursar’s Refund Schedule . Students cannot take a leave of absence or term withdrawal after the 9th week of classes; they must receive a grade for all current semester courses. Term withdrawals after the 9th week of the term for extenuating circumstances must be initiated and approved by the program director. If a student is planning on any of the above, please refer to the  Leave of Absence/Term Withdrawal Checklist .

Right to File a Grievance

Any student registered in Silver courses or otherwise formally involved in Silver programs has the right to file a grievance. Certain types of grievances must be adjudicated within Silver, while others must be adjudicated at the University level. The following rules are designed to provide Silver students with a mechanism of redress.

Grievances Adjudicated Outside Silver

In the following cases, grievances must be adjudicated outside Silver. Questions about whether or not grievances fall within these guidelines should be addressed to the Office of Student Conduct.

Harassment, Discrimination, Sexual Misconduct

If the matter involves alleged harassment, discrimination, or sexual misconduct in violation of either the University’s Non-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy and Complaint Procedures for Students or the University’s Sexual Misconduct, Relationship Violence, and Stalking Policy, grievances should be filed promptly with the Office of Equal Opportunity.

Grievance Arising in Other School or College

If the student’s grievance concerns a student, faculty or staff member whose primary affiliation is with another school or college, the student shall consult and follow that school or college’s procedures. In addition, the student shall submit copies of the written grievance to either of the OASA Assistant Deans and the comparable office in the other school or college.

Grievances Adjudicated by Silver

In the following cases, grievances can be adjudicated within Silver: the student believes that he or she has been subject to treatment which is in violation of a Silver rule, procedure or policy; the student believes that he or she is being affected by an unfair and/or incomplete Silver rule, procedure or policy or implementation of same.

Grievances Concerning Grades

A student may file a grievance concerning a grade on the basis of inequitable or prejudicial practices or administrative or clerical errors if he or she believes a grade to be incorrect. No other reason can form the basis for a grievance regarding a grade.

Grievances Concerning Academic Probation or Termination:

Students may not issue a grievance against an academic probation or termination or the terms therein. If a student believes that an academic probation or termination decision, or the terms thereof, is in violation of an NYU or Silver rule, the appeal process should be employed.

Student Status during Grievance

During the grievance process of an academic probation or termination, a student must be allowed to maintain student status and continue enrollment in any courses they were enrolled in at the date of the enactment of the probation or termination. The student’s academic record will be frozen for the duration of the appeals process. No grade changes will be accepted during this time. However, as provided in University Bylaw 80, the Dean of a school or the Dean’s representative may suspend a student pending consideration of a case. The Silver School of Social Work (Silver) urges that such action should only be taken to protect the physical or emotional safety and well-being of the student, the physical or emotional safety and well-being of other students, faculty, and/or University staff, the security of University property, the maintenance of public order or the effective continuation of the educational process. When such action does occur, the student shall be afforded the opportunity to expedite disciplinary proceedings. Any period of interim suspension shall be deducted from any final sanction involving suspension.

Initiation of the Complaint:

Complaint proceedings concerning events or conditions within Silver may be initiated in two ways:

• Informal Resolution: If the event or condition occurred within a program context, the student shall notify the Program Director within thirty (30) days of the occurrence of the event or occurrence being grieved. The Director shall investigate the complaint and respond to the student within fifteen days of notification. The student may be offered terms which, if accepted, will constitute a binding consensual agreement in resolution of the issue.
• Informal Resolution: If the event or condition occurred outside the program context but still within Silver, the student shall contact the Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs within thirty (30) days of the occurrence of the event or occurrence being grieved. The Assistant Dean will arrange meetings within fifteen (15) days of notification as appropriate, attend such meeting(s), and attempt to aid in the resolution of the complaint. The student may be offered terms which, if accepted, will constitute a binding consensual agreement in resolution of the issue.

Formal Grievance

If the complaint is not resolved to the student’s satisfaction, and the complaint is one defined to be adjudicated by Silver, the student may bring a formal grievance to the PhD Program Committee within fifteen (15) days after the conclusion of the initiation of the complaint. In this case, the student must submit a formal written grievance to the Committee. The grievant shall state the grounds for the grievance, specifying program, Silver policy, rules, or procedures in question, describe the facts and evidence supporting the grievance, indicate what redress the grievant seeks, provide a brief history of the attempts to resolve the grievance, and identify any individuals who can be contacted for relevant information. Students may request a restriction of the investigation or attempted resolution of a grievance based on concerns about privacy or conflict of interest. The PhD Program Committee will determine which faculty member on the Committee will oversee the grievance and will notify the student of their decision.

Receipt of Formal Grievance

Upon receipt of a formal grievance, the PhD Program Committee faculty overseeing the grievance will promptly schedule a meeting with the grievant. One person may accompany and advise the grievant, but cannot directly participate in the meeting. The PhD Program Committee or the student may request the presence of the other OASA Assistant Dean. The student or the PhD Program Committee may request that the meeting be recorded. The PhD Program Committee may contact such other persons as the Assistant Dean deems appropriate, subject to the restrictions of the grievant, for the purpose of ascertaining the facts and evidence in the case. The PhD Program Committee shall render a written decision on the grievance to the grievant, the respondent, and, if the matter had previously been addressed in the program, to the program.

Appeal of PhD Program Committee’s Decision

The student may appeal in writing the decision of the PhD Program Committee to the Dean of Silver within two weeks of receipt of the PhD Program Committee’s decision. The Dean will review only the process resulting in the PhD Program Committee’s finding to determine if it was fair and impartial and followed the rules and policies of the Graduate School. No new information beyond what was reported to the PhD Program Committee will be considered. The Dean will render a written decision to the student within thirty days of receipt of the appeal. The Dean’s decision shall be final for Silver and its program.

Appeal of Dean’s Decision

Students wishing to appeal the Dean’s decision should consult the University’s Student Grievance Procedure. GSAS procedures cover Phases I and II of the University’s procedures, so any appeal would start with Phase III, the University Judicial Board.

Record Keeping

The Office of the Dean shall retain a copy of any grievance formally submitted to the PhD Program Committee or to the Dean, any amended grievance, and any decision of the PhD Program Committee and/or Dean for five (5) calendar years following the date on which the grievance is resolved.

University-wide policies can be found on the New York University Policy pages .

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• Graduate College of Social Work
• PhD Program
• Degree Requirements

PhD in Social Work Degree Requirements

The curriculum is oriented towards an evidence-based, multidisciplinary understanding of complex issues and problems, and emphasizes the varieties of translational research methods. Fifty-three (53) semester credit hours (SCH) are required for the Ph.D. degree: 44 hours in coursework and 9 hours in Dissertation Research. 

The Comprehensive Examinations

Students must pass a written examination at specified time points in the degree plan.  Successful completion of these milestones is required to progress through the program.

Dissertation Proposal and Dissertation

After a student has successfully passed the written comprehensive examination, and all required coursework, s/he is responsible for organizing a Dissertation Committee, developing and defending the dissertation proposal, and successfully completing the dissertation. The Chairperson of the Dissertation Committee is the student's major advisor in formulating the dissertation proposal, conducting ongoing research, and preparing the final dissertation manuscript.

The dissertation proposal must provide a comprehensive overview of the proposed dissertation research study. The focus of the dissertation proposal and dissertation must be relevant to social work, social welfare and/or evidence-based social work. Dissertation research is organized around one or more testable hypotheses or may be exploratory in nature. The proposed dissertation must also be feasible in terms of the candidate's qualifications to complete the study, the data available, the resources required for the study, and a reasonable timeline for completion.

Students are required to follow all UH timelines and policies. All dissertations must be completed within five (5) years of passing the comprehensive examination or students will be required to retake the comprehensive examination. Students must complete the dissertation within 10 years of the date of first enrollment in the doctoral program. 

The Ph.D. Program Academic Advisor and Associate Dean for Doctoral Education provide academic and faculty advisement, respectively, for students until a Dissertation Chairperson is chosen. Students are urged to consult with a wide range of faculty members on matters related to substantive research areas and interest for their course of study.

M.S.W./Ph.D.

Applicants who do not hold a master’s degree in social work (M.S.W.), or a master’s degree in a different discipline, may pursue a program of study that leads to both the M.S.W. and the Ph.D. degrees. Students are prepared to practice social work, conduct research, and hold high level positions upon graduation from the dual program. Applicants must submit separate applications and fees to both the M.S.W. and Ph.D. programs.

Upon acceptance, it will take approximately 3 ½ years to complete the dual M.S.W./Ph.D. coursework with an additional 6 months to two (2) years allotted for completion of the doctoral dissertation. The GRE is the accepted graduate school entrance exam for both programs and applicants will need to plan ahead to ensure their scores are submitted before application deadlines. Dual degree students spend their first year focused exclusively on M.S.W. coursework.

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Phd program, phd program in social welfare.

The UW School of Social Work doctoral program stands out among advanced social welfare programs by offering an array of academic resources available at one of the nation’s premier research universities. Transdisciplinary opportunities and faculty mentorship enrich the learning experience and help to shape a viable career path in social justice teaching, research or public service. It’s one of the key reasons our graduates find work in highly regarded social work programs throughout the country.

Is a doctoral education in your future? Find answers to some of your questions at  FAQ About the PhD Program .

For more information about the application process, refer to Apply to PhD .

About the PhD Program

Read program director Roberto Orellana's vision for delivering a world-class advanced degree in social welfare.

PhD Degree Requirements

Find out what you need to know about required and elective courses as well as additional course expectations.

College of Social and Behavioral Health: PhD in Social Work

• College of Social and Behavioral Health
• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
• Master of Social Work (MSW)
• Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
• PhD in Social Work

Learning Outcomes

Minimum degree requirements, course sequence.

• Doctoral Writing Assessment

8-Year Maximum Time Frame

• MS Dual Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling
• MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling
• MS in School Counseling
• PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision

Program Website  

The PhD in Social Work program is designed to prepare experienced social work professionals as leaders, researchers, educators, and supervisors in the field. This program offers students an opportunity to engage in a core body of social work knowledge and processes that focus on the history and development of the profession, contemporary issues in social work, advanced social work theory and practice, program planning and evaluation, and research methods leading to a dissertation experience designed to prepare students for their roles as leaders and advocates for social change in the field.

Graduates of this program are able to:

• Synthesize scholarly research and theory to examine gaps in social work knowledge.
• Demonstrate the skills necessary to create and implement ethical research designs that take into account cultural factors to expand social work knowledge.
• Demonstrate the ability to employ a variety of research approaches to understand or address the etiology and dynamics of social problems and needs.
• Evaluate research related to social work interventions, social programs, and the empirical knowledge-base.
• Analyze social problems related to the field of social work from a culturally aware, ethical, and empirically-driven perspective.
• Demonstrate the ability to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders to advocate for social change.
• Demonstrate the ability to use scholarly research to advocate for policies and practices that advance the economic and social well-being of culturally diverse clientele.
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in social work practice and research.
• Professional Development Plan
• Foundation course (3 credits)
• Core courses (20 credits)
• Specialization courses (15 credits)
• Research Courses (20 credits)
• Building Doctoral Socialization and Competency (1 credits per term for five terms)
• Dissertation support course (5 credits)
• Dissertation (5 credits per term for a minimum of three terms; taken continuously until completion)
• Quarter Plans
• Four residencies

Foundation Course (3 credits)

Core courses (20 credits), specialization courses (15 credits).

These courses are dependent upon the particular specialization. Please see the course list on each specialization page.

Specialization in Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision

Specialization in impact leadership in social work administration, specialization in social work education, foundation research courses (15 credits).

Courses comprising the Foundation Research Sequence are conducted online and require weekly readings, participation in discussions, and assignment completion. Course instructors guide discussions and evaluate discussion and application assignments. RSCH 8110 must be completed prior to Residency 2 of the academic residencies. RSCH 8210 and RSCH 8310 must be completed prior to beginning the dissertation or attending Residency 3.

• Students may take this as a non-degree course.

Advanced Research Course (5 credits)

All PhD students are required to complete one advanced-level research course that mirrors the methodology of their intended dissertations. The university offers three advanced courses; individual programs may have other advanced options. Students should refer to their specific programs of study to determine program-specific requirements.

One of the following three courses is required:  

• Students may take this a non-degree course.

Residency Requirements

• Complete Residency 1 as soon as you begin your program;  should be completed in Term 1 or Term 2.
• Complete Residency 2 within 18 months of your start date or linked to your registration for or completion of your first research course.
• Complete Residency 3 by the end of your third year.
• Residency 4 General  (RESI 8404) OR
• Residency 4 Proposal Writing  (RESI 8404Q) OR
• Residency 4 Methods & Data Collection: Qualitative  (RESI 8404R) OR
• Residency 4 Methods & Data Collection: Quantitative  (RESI 8404S) OR
• Residency 4 Publishing & Presenting  (RESI 8404T) OR
• an approved professional conference (RESI 8900 for select programs only. Contact Advising for information.) OR
• a dissertation intensive (DRWI 8500) during your 9000 course. Contact Student Success Advising to register. You must attend all sessions and advising throughout the entire intensive retreat in order to successfully complete the experience to satisfy residency 4 requirements.  NOTE: Intensive Retreats are NOT included in Fast Track tuition.
• Optional:  Complete a PhD  dissertation intensive  (DRWI 8500) during your dissertation. Contact Student Success Advising to register.

Completion of the Doctoral Capstone

Dissertation Writing Courses

Students take this course for a minimum of three quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a doctoral dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the  Dissertation Guidebook .

Specializations Not Currently Accepting New Students

Specialization in addictions and social work (not currently accepting new students), specialization in clinical expertise (not currently accepting new students), specialization in criminal justice (not currently accepting new students), specialization in disaster, crisis, and intervention (not currently accepting new students), specialization in family studies and intervention (not currently accepting new students), specialization in medical social work (not currently accepting new students), specialization in policy practice (not currently accepting new students), specialization in social work administration (not currently accepting new students).

Students take this course for a minimum of three quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. In general,students are continuously registered in the dissertation course until they complete their dissertation, and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation course shell.

Students who start or readmit to doctoral programs at Walden University in the university catalog for academic year 2017 or later will complete the university’s required  doctoral writing assessment . Designed to evaluate incoming doctoral students’ writing skills, this assessment aims to help prepare incoming doctoral students to meet the university’s expectations for writing at the doctoral level.

In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.

Students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral degree requirements (see  Enrollment Requirements  in the student handbook). Students may petition to extend the 8-year maximum time frame, but an extension is not guaranteed.

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• Faculty & Research

PhD Program

Join the next generation of social work leaders and scholars..

Welcome to admissions for the PhD in Social Work program in Social Work at Boston University! Building upon BU School of Social Work’s robust commitment to social justice  and empowerment of historically marginalized populations, our doctoral program provides training in the theory, research methods, and values of the social work profession necessary to solve urgent human and societal problems.

Our students’ work  reflects the interdisciplinary nature of our program and individualized course of study. Interested in learning more? Explore our curriculum  and funding package . Ready to apply? Read about the admissions process , familiarize yourself with the deadline , then start your online application !

The application for Fall 2024 entry is now closed. Be sure to check back in September 2024 for our Fall 2025 application cycle.

START YOUR APPLICATION

For further information about the PhD program, request information below or contact   Daniel P. Miller , Director of the PhD Program in Social Work, at [email protected] .

University of South Florida

School of Social Work

College of Behavioral and Community Sciences

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Ph.d. in social work, degree requirements.

Students should expect to take at least 4 additional credit hours either in research or area of strategic emphasis, coursework (see below), or in directed studies or dissertation hours.

Students will also take a minimum of three (3) (9 credit hours) graduate research methods courses offered in the College or University.

Students will also take a minimum of three (3) (9 credit hours) of graduate course work in their area of strategic emphasis offered in the College or University.

Other Requirements:

Students must successfully pass the School of Social Work qualifying exam and successfully defend their dissertation proposal in order to be admitted into Candidacy.

Dissertation

Successful defense of a dissertation consisting of original Social Work research. Students will take a minimum of 2 dissertation credits hours at the time of their defense.

General Catalog

Social work, phd.

This is the first version of the 2023–24 General Catalog. Please check back regularly for changes. The final edition and the historical PDF will be published during the fall semester.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will:

• locate their work in the intellectual landscape of social work;
• critically analyze theories, practices, policies, and research in at least one specialized area of social work knowledge;
• disseminate knowledge that contributes to the advancement of social work research, practice, and policy, including writing publishable, peer-reviewed manuscripts; presenting at local, national, or international conferences; and/or producing policy briefs or white papers; and
• in the social work classroom, create a learning culture and classroom climate that is inclusive of a diverse population of students and diverse learning styles.

The Doctor of Philosophy program in social work requires 78 s.h. of graduate credit. Students must maintain a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.00. Students complete the required coursework, research, and teaching practicum; pass a comprehensive exam; write a dissertation; and defend it in an oral exam. Their work includes courses in one of four outside disciplines—sociology, psychology, public health, or education—to prepare for the comprehensive examination and dissertation.

The doctoral program prepares students to conduct research that contributes to the knowledge base of social work, to become leaders in the profession, and to teach social work in postsecondary educational institutions.

Those who enter the program with an MSW are granted 30 s.h. credit; they must complete an additional 48 s.h. for the degree. Individuals with master's degrees in related disciplines (for example, psychology or sociology) may choose to earn a PhD in social work without first earning the MSW. Credit from a related master's degree may be applied to the PhD degree program, as determined by the School of Social Work.

Individualized and Interdisciplinary Curriculum

The program allows students to develop a coherent program of study with opportunities to pursue their own scholarly interests. These interests are pursued through a core social work curriculum, a concentration (sociology, psychology, education, or public health) and a social work focal area (e.g., family violence). Students may take focal area courses in any college or department at the University of Iowa. The median time to complete the degree is four years.

The School of Social Work provides a supportive environment with substantial opportunities for mentoring and interaction with faculty members. Throughout PhD studies at the University of Iowa, the school assists students in developing a program of study based on their unique educational and career goals. There are many opportunities to work closely with faculty members in a mentoring environment. In the first year, students complete a mentored research practicum with a faculty member and a mentored in-class teaching experience. During the second year, students choose a faculty member to guide them through the comprehensive examination and dissertation process.

To ensure that all doctoral students receive mentoring, the School of Social Work typically admits three or four students annually; approximately 35% of applicants are admitted.

Admission Requirements

Students are required to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, and a minimum undergraduate grade-point average of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale).

Students should have completed an introductory statistics course (including graphing techniques for presenting data, descriptive statistics, correlation, introduction to regression, prediction, logic of statistical inference, elementary probability models, estimation, and tests of significance) with a grade of B or higher. Research methods courses taken in an MSW program typically do not meet the criteria for an introductory statistics course. Applicants who have not taken an introductory statistics course must complete one before beginning the program.

Applicants whose first language is not English must submit official test scores to verify English proficiency. Applicants can verify English proficiency by submitting official test scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET).

Applicants applying only to the PhD program are required to have an MSW or a master’s degree in a related field, such as public policy, public health, sociology, psychology, political science, economics, education, nursing, or anthropology.

Admission and Selection Process

Applications are accepted beginning Sept. 1 for the following academic year; applications are due Feb. 1. Admission decisions are made in February. Applicants are notified, in writing, of the decision by April 1. In some years, there may be a waiting list. If applicants are placed on the waiting list, they are notified of this decision by April 1.

The school evaluates applicants based on their potential to independently conduct and disseminate scholarship that contributes to policy or practice and on their potential to prepare students to educate future social workers.

The School of Social Work provides full-time students with a competitive, multiyear financial package (full tuition, an assistantship, a health and dental insurance allowance). It also provides scholarships, awards, travel awards, and dissertation awards.

In addition to funding provided by the School of Social Work, applicants may be eligible for financial awards through the Graduate College, other departments at the University of Iowa, and organizations outside the university. The director of the PhD program works with students to identify sources of funding.

The Graduate College awards dissertation and research fellowships, summer fellowships, and travel awards. The Graduate College website contains a complete list of awards .

To learn more about the academic job market, see the Council on Social Work Education  (CSWE) career center. The CSWE posts jobs year round, although most new ads for teaching and research positions are posted between August and November.

Graduates become leaders in education, research, and government. All of the PhD graduates from the University of Iowa's School of Social Work program have obtained employment within one year of graduation. Of these, about 75% of graduates obtain teaching or research positions, and about 25% obtain policy, administrative, or practice positions.

To learn more about some of the recent graduates' careers , visit the School of Social Work website.

Sample Plan of Study

Sample plans represent one way to complete a program of study. Actual course selection and sequence will vary and should be discussed with an academic advisor. For additional sample plans, see MyUI .

This sample plan is currently being updated and will be added at a later date.

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2023-24 Catalog

A PDF of the entire 2023-24 catalog.

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IUPUI Campus Bulletin 2022-2023

• Policies & Procedures
• Undergraduate
• Social Work MSW

Social Work PhD

• e-Social Work Practice CT
• Student Learning Outcomes

Ph.D. & Pre-Doc

• Ph.D. Admission
• Ph.D. Requirements

The Pre-Doc Exploratory Option allows prospective doctoral students to test their interest in and commitment to doctoral education. The program provides students with the time to gain the information and experience needed to make an informed decision about formal application to the program. This option permits qualified students to enroll in up to three of the school’s regular Ph.D. foundation courses and to complete up to 9 credit hours of doctoral course work before deciding to apply formally to the program. If a student later applies and is accepted to the regular Ph.D. program, credits earned during the pre-doc phase will automatically apply toward the Ph.D. degree.

Participation in the Pre-Doc Exploratory Option does not guarantee acceptance into the PhD program. It does, however, provide a unique opportunity for students to explore that possibility. Courses counted toward the PhD degree must be completed within seven years of passing the required qualification examination.

Applicants to the Pre-Doc Exploratory Option should have earned master’s degree in social work or a related field. Admission to the PreDoc Option is based on evaluation of:

• An online application
• A professional resume
• Official copies of all baccalaureate-and master’s- level transcripts. A graduate grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale is preferred.
• At least one letter of reference
• A sample of scholarly writing
• A 500-word written statement that outlines the applicant’s reasons for seeking enrollment in the Pre-Doc Exploratory Option

Applications for the Fall semester should be submitted by April 1st. PhD Students enrolled in the Pre-Doc Exploratory Option are strongly encouraged to complete S 718 and S 721 as part of their program of studies. The following is a list of other S 700 level courses:

• S710 Social Work Theories of Human and Social Behavior (3 cr.)
• S712 International Social Development in a Global Context (3 cr.)
• S718 Intermediate Statistics for Social Work (3 cr.)
• S720 Philosophy of Science and Social Work (3 cr.)
• S724 Theory, Practice, and Assessment of Social Work Teaching (3 cr.)
• S726 Advanced Social Work Research: Qualitative Methods (3 cr.)
• S727 Advanced Social Work Research: Quantitative Methods (3 cr.)
• S728 Advanced Statistics for Social Work
• S730 Proseminar on Social Work Policy Analysis (3 )

For additional information contact:

Margaret Adamek, PhD Program Director Education/Social Work Building 4138 Indiana University

School of Social Work 902 W. New York Street

Indianapolis, IN 46202-5154

Telephone: (317) 274-6730 E-mail:  [email protected]

Ph.D Admission

Admission requirements.

All applicants to the PhD program must have a master’s degree in social work or a related field. Admission to the PhD program is based on evaluations of

• an online application
• a professional resume
• undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• three letters of reference
• an example of the applicant’s scholarly writing
• a 750-word statement of purpose
• Graduate Record Examination General Test scores taken within the last five years
• TOEFL scores for international applicants

Application Deadline

Applications for the full-time PhD Program are due February 1 for admission in the following fall semester. For application materials and further information, write to:

PhD Admissions

Education/Social Work Building 4138 Indiana University

Ph.D Requirements

Course requirements.

The student must complete a total of 90 credit hours, including dissertation and research internship. Candidates for the PhD degree may be granted up to 30 hours of graduate credit from other institutions as follows:

• Of the 30 graduate transfer credit hours counted toward the PhD degree in social work, 15 of these credits must be in an area directly related to research (e.g., research methods, statistics, a mentored research project, etc.).
• Of these 15 research-related credit hours, at least 6 credits must have been completed within three calendar years prior to the date the student enrolls in his/her first doctoral class following acceptance into the PhD program.
• All 15 research transfer credits must have been successfully completed as prerequisites for the two advanced research methods courses (S 726 and S 737), the Research Internship (S 725), and the advanced statistics course (S 728).
• Any or all of the 15 research transfer credits may be taken prior to acceptance into the PhD program and in addition to the 9 credit hours associated with the Pre-Doc Option.
• All students must have successfully completed a graduate-level statistics course within three calendar years prior to enrolling in the required advanced statistics course. Students who have completed a statistics course more than three years prior to enrolling in the advanced statistics course may petition the director of the PhD program to test out of this requirement.
• Any research transfer credits not completed prior to acceptance into the PhD program must be completed as part of the student’s doctoral studies in accordance with the above provisions.
• Foundation research courses offered by the program include S 718, S 721, and S 790.

All courses credited toward the PhD degree must have a minimum grade of B and must receive written approval from the School of Social Work PhD Program Committee and the Dean of the University Graduate School. Specific program requirements include:

• professional social work component  (33 cr.)
• specialization component  (18 cr.)
• research component  (21 cr.)
• research internship  (6 cr.)
• dissertation  (12 cr.)

All students in the PhD program, with the approval of the program director, will select 3 faculty members to serve as their academic advisors throughout their doctoral studies, one of whom will represent the student’s area of specialization outside the School of Social Work.

Qualifying Examination Process

The qualifying examination process is comprehensive and integrative in nature. Specific guidelines for the completion of the qualifying process are available from the PhD Program Director. Admission to Candidacy following the passing of the qualification examination and the completion of all course work, the student’s advisory committee will submit a Nomination to Candidacy Form to the University Graduate School. Upon approval of the Dean, the student will be admitted to candidacy and awarded a Certificate of Candidacy.

Research Proposal

After nomination to candidacy, the student, with the approval of the Program Director, will select a research committee of no fewer than four faculty members, including one member outside of the School of Social Work. This committee must approve the proposed dissertation topic.

Final Examination

The final examination is the oral defense of the dissertation.

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Find a social work PhD program

This comprehensive guide breaks down what it takes to get a PhD in social work and compares PhD programs to doctor of social work (DSW) programs.

• DSW overview
• PhD overview
• DSW versus PhD

Selecting a program

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Higher education opportunities in social work

Those who seek to improve the lives of others and inspire social change in their communities often pursue careers in social work. But while a master’s in social work is often considered a terminal degree (meaning one can independently practice with that degree) there are two additional degree options for those seeking additional career advancement and opportunities at the top of the profession: a doctor of social work (DSW) or a PhD in social work.

Both DSW and PhD in social work degrees are excellent credentials that provide further specialization and advanced knowledge in social work that can benefit your career and personal growth. These degrees are also often accompanied by wage increases to reflect your enhanced expertise and work experience. 

The primary difference between the degrees is the desired career trajectory: a DSW is considered an advanced clinical practice degree and is best suited for those who want to work directly with clients or lead social service agencies. A PhD is an academic degree and is best suited for those interested in teaching and research at the undergraduate and graduate level. 

Doctor of social work (DSW) degree overview

A DSW degree is ideal if you want additional expertise in order to continue working with clients, as the DSW is considered to be an advanced professional practice degree. Clients can be individuals as in those seeking individual therapy (micro level practice), community groups and organizations (mezzo level practice), or even government officials or others creating, influencing and implementing policies and laws (macro level practice). The DSW degree prepares graduates for management and other leadership roles and advanced clinical practice in a specific area of social work, such as medical social work, addictions, or juvenile justice.

Social work PhD overview

If you are interested in designing and conducting research, a PhD is an excellent option to consider.  You’ll concentrate your studies and research to become an expert in one particular area of interest.  Similarly, if you are excited by the prospect of teaching and training the next generation of social workers, a PhD program prepares you to teach at the undergraduate and graduate levels.  

While most PhD’s work in academia, this is not a requirement. Some may open consulting or research firms, others work in think tanks or international nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), while others become speakers or authors. The PhD provides a rigorous academic background to prepare graduates for researching, writing and teaching about their area of expertise. This may be promoting resilience in foster care youth, assessing and improving telehealth/virtual therapy interventions for adolescents with substance use disorder, or Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in female veterans.

Similarities and differences between social work DSW and social work PhD programs 

Similarities.

Both PhD and DSW programs have similar admissions requirements. You must have a master’s degree, preferably in social work. Sometimes programs will accept applicants with other graduate degrees but may require additional social work foundation courses as a requirement prior to graduation. 

You’ll need a GPA of at least 3.0 in order to be considered for admission to either type of program. Letters of recommendation are needed from previous employers and/or graduate school professors who can attest to your ability to handle the level of rigorous coursework a doctoral program requires. At least one written essay is required, describing your area of interest, your career goals and how the selected degree program will help you achieve those goals. Some schools require graduate record examination (GRE) scores as well. If you’re an international student, you’ll need to take and submit your scores for the TOEFL, or Test of English as a Foreign Language.

While both degree programs prefer that applicants have post-master’s work experience, this is not always a requirement. Some schools have joint MSW/PhD program tracks, wherein a student immediately enters the PhD program upon completion of the MSW courses. However, many DSW programs require that applicants have at least three or more years of social work experience before returning to school for the doctoral degree. Indeed, a number of students have a decade or more of experience in the field before pursuing their DSW.

The tuition you can expect for a campus-based social work doctoral degree depends on several factors. For instance, the cost per credit will affect your overall tuition expenses more than any other factor and can vary both from school to school and whether or not you are attending from out of state. Out-of-state credits usually cost more than in-state credits.

Furthermore, you have to consider the time it’ll take you to complete your Ph.D. program. Certain costs, like general technology fees or student housing expenses will continue to accumulate the longer you take to finish the program. Programs that can be completed more quickly will necessarily be cheaper in the long run unless the savings are offset by extremely high costs per credit.

US News and World Report indicates that doctoral programs in social work usually range between $915 per credit hour to $1730 per credit hour. Thus, most students can expect to pay between $38,000 and $90,000 in total tuition for their doctoral degrees. 

Time to completion

Both DSW and PhD programs have an average of two years of coursework to complete. The final research project for each program can take anywhere from one to four additional years, though this is dependent on a number of factors. On average, most DSW and PhD students complete their degrees within four years. 

Differences

Courses offered

Both types of programs can offer similar foundational courses covering social work theory, research methods and policy. DSW programs then offer specialized courses depending on the track or concentration that the student has selected. For example, if you’re in an advanced clinical practice track you may study psychopathology, pharmacology, and trauma-informed therapeutic interventions. If you are focusing on leadership and administration, you may study program evaluation, financial management of nonprofit organizations and trauma-informed leadership practices.

In contrast, PhD students will have additional courses in statistical analysis, research study design, writing for publication and teaching methods. Within the courses, you can tailor papers and projects to the area of specialization that you have selected and around which your dissertation research will be based.

Licensing requirements

As previously mentioned, some DSW programs require applicants to have a certain number of years of experience in the field prior to entering the degree program. Some even insist that applicants are Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) meaning they have completed the examination and practice hours required to be licensed by their state.  PhD programs do not have this requirement.

Program structure

The structure of the program is another big difference in DSW and PhD programs. Most DSW programs are designed to be completed by working professionals, so classes are offered in the evenings, on weekends or online. This allows students to continue gaining valuable practice experience while also applying topics taught in classes to real world scenarios they are facing in their daily work. Conversely, the majority of PhD courses are offered during the workday and are taught in-person. While this may be slowly changing, few courses are offered online, and relatively few students work full time while completing a PhD program.

Financial assistance

PhD programs are more likely to have fellowships, research assistantships and teaching assistantships for their students. As social work faculty are awarded grant monies, they will often hire doctoral students as assistants to help reduce their workload while also providing valuable hands-on research experience for the student.  PhD students can also offset some of their tuition costs if hired as a teaching assistant. This provides the opportunity to build critical teaching skills while being mentored by a more experienced professor.  Some DSW programs do offer scholarships and other financial assistance packages, but this is much more common in PhD programs. 

Capstone versus dissertation

Finally, the required final project often differs between PhD and DSW degree programs, though this is not always the case. A dissertation is required by PhD programs. The dissertation is the culmination of a unique research project designed by the student, implemented, the data analyzed, and a report written in a standardized format. This may be in the form of one large report or broken down into three articles that are ready to submit to academic journals for publication depending on the program requirements. 

In contrast, DSW programs typically have students complete a capstone project as their final project. This too, is a research project or program evaluation, but on a smaller scale. The capstone project is much shorter, similar to a thesis. A capstone paper runs approximately 30 pages long and while it still has some of the same sections as a dissertation, including a literature review/ statement of the problem, a research component, data analysis and summary, it is not as detailed nor as in depth as a dissertation.

Career outlook for doctoral level social work graduates

Your potential earnings with a social work PhD can vary dramatically depending on your profession, especially as most social work professions don’t require a PhD.

Master’s level social workers earn an average salary of around $52,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, with a Ph.D. or DSW, you’ll be able to command a higher salary. According to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), PhD and DSW degree holders earn $20,000 to $25,000 more per year than MSW level social workers, and may earn well over $100,000 per year.  In fact, some tenured professors with a PhD can earn well over $175,000 a year. 

In addition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates there will be a 13 percent job growth rate over the next 10 years, meaning there should be plenty of jobs available for future graduates.

How do you decide what degree program is best for you? Below are some items to consider:

• What are your career goals? Do you want to open up your own nonprofit organization or become a director of a large agency? Then a DSW is a better fit for you. If you want to conduct research and teach social work students, then consider a PhD program.
• What areas of concentration or specialization does the program offer? This may be of more importance when selecting a PhD program. Does the program have faculty studying a similar or closely related area of interest that you’d like to focus on? If so, this means more opportunities for mentorship and guidance. If you select a program and want to study a specific topic or population that no one on the faculty has experience with, it may be a frustrating or less rewarding experience for you, by not having a closely aligned mentor. This may also limit your networking opportunities with similarly inclined colleagues.
• Finally, practical considerations are also necessary. Is the program local or would it require you to move, and how does that impact the total costs involved with completing the program? How would a move impact your family? Do you have the time and energy available to devote to doctoral studies? Do you have a strong support system to assist you? Do you have the financial resources to pursue full time education if you are unable to continue working?

A recap of a PhD in social work

PhD and DSW degrees provide specialized education and training for social workers wanting to reach the pinnacle of their fields. Programs are rigorous but create opportunities for incredible career growth and increased financial rewards that can far outweigh the tuition costs for these programs.  If you want to work in social work leadership or higher education, consider pursuing a DSW or PhD degree, as it can be well worth it!

Anastas, J.W. (2015). Clinical social work, science and doctoral education: Schisms or synergy? Journal of Clinical Social Work, 43 , 304-312.

Coyle, S. (2018). Evolving education: The DSW and Ph.D. degrees – goals and choices. Social Work Today, 18 (2), 8.

Drisko, J., Hunnicutt, C., & Berenson, L. (2015). A national content analysis of PhD program objectives, structures and curricula: Do programs address the full range of social work’s needs? Journal of Teaching in Social Work, 35 (1-2), 14-28. 

Howard, T. (2016). PhD versus DSW: A critique of trends in social work doctoral education. Journal of Social Work Education, 52( s1), S148-S153.

Johnson-Motoyama, M., Petr, C.G., & Mitchell, F.M. (2014). Factors associated with success in doctoral social work education. Journal of Social Work Education, 50 (3), 548-558.

National Association of Social Workers. Social Work Salaries. https://www.socialworkers.org/Careers/Career-Center/Kickstart-Your-Job-Hunt/Social-Work-Salaries

Petr, C.G., Harrington, D., Kim, K., Black, B., Cunningham-Williams, R.M., & Bentley, K.J. (2015). Quality indicators and expected outcomes for social work PhD programs: Perceptions of social work students, faculty and administrators. Journal of Social Work Education, 51 (4), 648-667.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook: Social Workers. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm

Expert Advice – for PhD/DSW in social work

Find the latest interviews with subject matter experts and people working at the forefront of their field and get advice on PhD/DSW in social work directly from some of the world’s leading authorities. Learn more about all the different pathways and opportunities available in social work today.

• What are the most important factors for students deciding between a PhD and a DSW program?
• How can students best prepare for a PhD/Doctorate program?
• Can students take electives, or customize their PhD/DSW experience?
• What does it take to be successful as a PhD/Doctorate student?
• What types of jobs are PhD/Doctorate graduates finding? 
• If you had to choose one or two books, articles, documentaries, podcasts, etc. to be included on a required reading list for social work students, what would it be?

Social Work Ph.D Programs

Dsw programs.

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• CENTERS & INSTITUTES

UNC School of Social Work ranked No. 4 best graduate school for social work in the nation 

Posted on April 9, 2024

Tied for No. 2 public, No. 4 overall, UNC School of Social Work is recognized alongside a score of Carolina programs ranked Top 10 in the nation in their respective categories by the magazine.  

Months after being ranked fourth in national research and development (R&D) expenditures among R1 higher education institutions, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work earned another No. 4 ranking today.  

The School of Social Work moved up three spots in the latest U.S. News & World Report “Best Graduate Schools” rankings , rising to a tie for fourth in the nation among the 319 surveyed social work schools accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Social Work Education.  

The School ranked No. 1 among schools of social work across the Southeast and tied for second nationally among public universities. 

Dean Ramona Denby-Brinson said being ranked second among all public university social work programs was especially meaningful due to the school’s responsibility to serve local, national and global communities. 

“Our new national ranking is exciting news,” Denby-Brinson said. “Among many measures of success, the ranking recognizes the tremendous contributions of our faculty and staff. Our MSW (Master of Social Work) program is preparing practitioners, researchers and advocates who improve life for thousands of people each day. We are honored to be recognized by our peers for the excellence displayed by our faculty in all they do.” 

Executive Vice Provost Amy Locklear Hertel, a clinical assistant professor at the School, said “The UNC School of Social Work is a true asset on campus, to our state, and the globe. By drawing our attention to pressing issues of our most vulnerable populations, to developing strong communities and systems, to informing policy as well as practice, the UNC School of Social Work is preparing social service practitioners and researchers to fully ‘advance equity, transform systems, and improves lives’ — just as the School’s mission states.” 

She went on to say, “It is an honor to be a clinical faculty member in the School.” 

Since arriving at the School as dean in August 2021, Denby-Brinson worked closely with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to establish a strategic plan that helped to elevate the graduate programs, modernize the curriculum, and increase student enrollment by providing access and flexible degree offerings while using advanced learning modalities and proven pedagogical tools.  

“Our graduates are prepared to work with individuals, families and communities to solve complex problems,” Denby-Brinson said. “The practice approaches that we teach derive from the impactful research produced by our faculty. We have a strong faculty, and they are tackling entrenched issues and devising real world solutions.” 

“I’m delighted to hear this news, and to note that the School has consistently ranked in the Top 10 since 1997,” said Dean Emeritus Jack Richman.

The latest rankings were compiled based on peer assessments from administrators, deans and faculty of accredited degree programs and are compiled on a scale of one (marginal) to five (outstanding). The surveys were sent in fall 2023 and early 2024. 

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UNC School of Social Work ranked fourth in national research expenditures

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work researchers helped the school secure a top four placement in the latest NSF HERD Survey.

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April 9, 2024 | Ziba Kashef

UConn School of Social Work Rises in 2024 U.S. News & World Report Rankings

The UConn School of Social Work (SSW) is ranked at No. 28, which puts the SSW among the top 9% of graduate social work programs in the nation.

Exterior views of the School of Social Work (SSW) with students walking out of the building. Sept. 15, 2022. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)

On April 9, U.S. News & World Report released its national rankings of graduate schools of social work, with the UConn School of Social Work (SSW) ranked at No. 28. That ranking, which is up from No. 36, puts the UConn SSW among the top 9% of graduate social work programs nationally.

With this ranking, the UConn SSW continues to lead graduate social work programs in Connecticut and be a top choice for students across the country.

“The UConn School of Social Work stands strong among graduate social work programs nationwide,” says Dean and Professor Laura Curran. “Building upon more than 75 years of history, we have a growing research portfolio, innovative academic programming, and long-standing partnerships that impact communities locally and globally.”

The U.S. News social work rankings were calculated and published in 2024, based on surveys in fall 2023 and early 2024. Those surveyed included 318 social work programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education Board of Accreditation.

The UConn SSW is the first public university in Connecticut to offer bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. degrees in social work, and its research doctorate is the only public social work Ph.D. program in the region. Areas of distinction include child and adolescent well-being, health and behavioral health, LGBTQ youth and families, aging, policy practice and community organizing, and global social work.

In 2023, the UConn SSW expanded its national footprint by welcoming Innovations Institute , an interdisciplinary, translational research center. The SSW is actively involved in a growing number of interdisciplinary collaborations within the University – including with UConn Health and the Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute – and has extensive collaborations with public and private human service agencies.

Earlier this year, the SSW launched a new fully Online MSW program to provide greater access to aspiring social workers across the state and region.

SSW graduates – more than 8,800 strong – play major roles in planning, administering, and providing social and mental health services in Connecticut, the region, and beyond.

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Please visit our commencement page for all information regarding the  ceremony for Class of 2024 PhD, DSW, MSW and MSN graduates. 

Fall 2024 On-Campus MSW Application FINAL Deadline: July 16, 2024

Next Generation Partnership Project Stipend

Integrated and Interprofessional Behavioral Health

Stipend Amount

A one-year stipend of $10,000 for second-year MSW students.

About the Project

Please carefully review the Next Generation Partnership Project Information Sheet for more details.

Eligibility Criteria

The stipend is available to second-year MSW students, including those from the Virtual Academic Center (VAC), who graduate in the spring (ideally) or summer semester and who are committed to providing integrated behavioral health services focused on the needs of children, adolescents, and transitional age youth (CATAY) in high need communities. Recipients of this stipend must be placed in a qualified practicum placement serving CATAY clients. NGPP requires recipients to participate in a series of specialized training sessions, maintain good academic standing (including practicum education), and pass specific elective courses along with other stipend requirements.

Although the goal is for stipend recipients to work with the target population upon graduation, there is no mandated “employment-payback” requirement. This stipend is funded by a federal grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration through its Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) Program.

For more information, campus-based students should contact Associate Teaching Professor Umeka Franklin . VAC students should contact Assistant Teaching Professor Jenebah Lewis .

Applications will be accepted beginning February 26, 2024 and due by May 6, 2024 . Please note applications may continue to be accepted after the deadline until slots are filled with students who best fit the criteria and requirements. A different timeline might be adopted for students from the VAC.

Apply Today

Social Work increases in national rankings

Tuesday, Apr 09, 2024 • Neph Rivera : contact

Three University of Texas at Arlington graduate programs ranked among the top 50 nationally in the 2024 Best Graduate School rankings from U.S. News & World Report, highlighted by a No. 31 national ranking, out of 170 universities, for the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program in the College of Nursing and Health Innovation (CONHI).

CONHI’s MSN program jumped 23 spots from its previous ranking. The college sets the standard for nursing education in Texas as the largest producer of baccalaureate-degreed nurses in the state and one of the largest in the country. With a variety of graduate options, including registered nurse to MSN programs, professionals can take their careers to the next level, no matter where they are in their nursing journeys.

“The U.S. News & World Report's recognition of our MSN program is a testament to the outstanding faculty who lead and teach in the program,” said CONHI Dean Elizabeth Merwin. “Their contributions in educating the next generation of health care professionals deserve this recognition, and we are excited to take our graduate programs to even greater heights in the future.”

School of Social Work

UTA’s School of Social Work (SSW), which for over 50 years has been training the next generation of professionals looking to improve the lives of their clients, improved eight spots to No. 43 overall out of 319 schools. SSW trains professionals through education, interdisciplinary research and evidence-based clinical practice. The school has more than 12,000 alumni making a difference every day in government agencies and organizations, as well as creating and leading nonprofits, working in the military or in private practice and serving as deans, professors and directors in social work programs worldwide.

“The UTA School of Social Work has long been a leader in our field,” Dean Kirk A. Foster said. “Our increase in this ranking reflects the strength of our academic programs and the reputation we have as a research powerhouse producing social work leaders who are making a difference every day in communities throughout Texas and the country.”

College of Business

The College of Business also was recognized for its graduate program success. Its part-time Master of Business Administration (MBA) program was ranked No. 60 nationally out of 269 programs.

College of Business Associate Dean of Students and Programs Fernando Jaramillo touted the program’s flexibility as one reason for its success, as it offers 13 concentration options and the opportunity to take classes online or at the Arlington or Fort Worth campuses.

"Our MBA faculty and staff have worked incredibly hard to build a quality graduate program that competes nationally with other well-ranked programs and institutions,” Jaramillo said. “This ranking is a reflection of those efforts and the high-quality MBA students we have here at UTA.”

In addition, UTA’s public affairs graduate program, located within the College of Architecture, Planning and Public Affairs, jumped up nine spots to No. 99.