Social Work (PhD) at University of Southern California

Programme overview

The PhD in Social Work, established in 1953 as the first social work doctoral program in the Western United States, trains social work scholars to contribute to the profession's knowledge base and to professional leadership. Graduates develop theoretical, conceptual, critical and analytic skills for addressing social, organizational, interpersonal and individual problems.

Faculty: Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work | Duration: Minimum 56 units of coursework beyond the master's degree, excluding dissertation units | Study mode: full-time | Location: Los Angeles, CA, United States

What you will study

Students complete at least 33 units of school core courses (e.g. SOWK 703 theories, SOWK 760 and SOWK 764 statistics, SOWK 762 and SOWK 763 research methods, SOWK 770 qualitative and mixed methods), at least 6 units of SOWK 790 research, an additional methods or statistics course, and three courses in other university units. Each student develops a concentration outside social work or in a problem area. There is no foreign language requirement.

Career pathways

Graduates are prepared for research, scholarship and professional leadership roles in social work and social welfare.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants need a master's degree from a CSWE-accredited program or a field related to social work; above-average undergraduate and professional achievement; a personal statement of scholarly goals; and substantial professional social work experience. International applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores (valid if taken no more than two years before the intended first term) and documented evidence of financial support. Application materials: statement of purpose, resume, transcripts, four letters of reference (at least three from people who can assess scholarly potential), PhD supplemental information, career plans and goals, and a scholarly writing sample. Priority is given to applications completed by December 1. Applicants who do not fully meet the requirements, including recent MSW graduates, are considered. Minimum score thresholds are not stated.

Duration: Minimum 56 units of coursework beyond the master's degree, excluding dissertation units

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