University of Tennessee, Knoxville campus

Health Sciences

PhD Social Work at University of Tennessee, Knoxville

University of Tennessee, Knoxville, United States

Programme overview

The PhD in Social Work develops scientific inquiry, research skills and leadership in social work education, research and practice. Courses are offered in Knoxville.

Faculty: College of Social Work  |  Duration: 67 graduate credit hours beyond the master's degree; foundation coursework typically in the first two years with dissertation in years three and four  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: Knoxville, TN, United States

What you will study

The foundation curriculum covers research methodology and statistics, critical reasoning, grant writing and pedagogy, including Research for Social Work Practice I-III, Analysis of Social Work Data I-II, Qualitative Research Methods and teaching practica, with advanced electives and at least 24 hours of dissertation. Students pass a comprehensive exam consisting of a scholarly paper, dissertation proposal and professional presentation, and defend the dissertation.

Career pathways

Leadership roles in social work education, research and practice.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

For students with a master's degree from an accredited school of social work and post-master's practice experience.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

International graduate applicants on F and J visas: Fall online submission April 15 and file completion May 15; Spring June 15 and October 1; Summer October 15 and February 15. Departmental deadlines may be earlier.

Apply through the official page: https://gradschool.utk.edu/

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