About PhD Program,
The Graduate School of Social Work is home to one of the nation’s oldest social work PhD programs, but nothing about it is old-fashioned. We see ourselves as more than social work researchers; we’re social justice scholars, educators and policy experts whose work responds to today’s most pressing community needs.
There’s never been a better time to embark on a PhD in social work. Social work job opportunities in academia are plentiful, and given the social challenges of the 21st century — challenges such as the growing wealth and achievement gap in the U.S. and the impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations worldwide — the need for social work research and scholarship is greater than ever.
PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
GSSW doctoral program, you must have one of the following:
- a master’s degree conferred by a school of social work accredited by the Council on Social Work Education(CSWE)
- a master’s degree in one of the social sciences and demonstrated evidence of substantial professional experience in the social work field
In addition, you must have:
- a clear interest in developing advanced theory, policy and research skills in a substantive area relevant to the field of social work
- a superior academic record in all previous work
- the maturity, intellectual ability and readiness for advanced study
NOTE: the GRE is no longer required for admission into the PhD program.
Two years of post-master’s practice experience is strongly preferred, but not mandatory.
It is important to have proficiency in descriptive and inferential statistics. This knowledge is necessary for several of the required doctoral courses. An introductory course in statistical analysis and inference is available in the first quarter of study if needed.
PhD Funding Coverage,
Most students are admitted to our PhD program with a competitive funding package that typically provides four years of financial support
In the first two years, PhD students receive a graduate assistantship, which includes a living stipend, 100 percent tuition waiver and a health care subsidy. PhD students will also receive a Graduate Assistantship which includes a 9-month base salary in exchange for work with a GSSW faculty member on research activities.
Application Requirement,
You must submit an online application to be considered for our PhD program. If you are interested in joining the fall 2025 PhD cohort, the application will be available in August 2024.
A completed online application includes:
Statement of Professional and Educational Intent
Application Deadline,
Feb 01, 2025
Application Fee,
You can submit your $65 nonrefundable application fee in the online application. The fee can be paid using any major credit card or check
