how much does a phd in social work cost

PhD in Social Work Degree Guide | Salary & Programs 2024

A PhD in Social Work is a mark of distinction as an expert in the discipline. Graduates of social work PhD programs often use their knowledge and training to conduct groundbreaking research on critical issues facing society. Their discoveries shape policy and assist countless people. As respected leaders, they hold top positions at various social services organizations. As professors, they mold new generations of social workers.

In addition to increased ability to help others, PhDs in social work can expect something else following graduation – good job prospects. The U.S.  Bureau of Labor Statistics  (BLS) projects employment in the community and social service occupations to grow a hearty 12% between 2020 to 2030. 1

What is a PhD in Social Work?

A PhD in Social Work is a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work. It is one of the two highest degrees that someone can earn in the field, the other being a DSW (Doctor of Social Work). PhD programs in social work focus heavily on research methods and pedagogy. DSW programs emphasize advanced training for practicing social workers.

Outstanding Schools with PhD in Social Work Degrees in U.S.

The road to a PhD in Social Work begins with admittance to a school that meets an aspiring student’s needs. While the “perfect” school varies by an individual’s interests and circumstances, here’s a sample of some noteworthy institutions:

• University of Southern California  – Through its Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, USC offers a PhD program that prides itself on promoting independent inquiry. Students gain competence in research methodology and communicating results. They learn skills vital to their future, such as how to submit grant proposals, how to write articles for publication, and how to present findings at conferences.
• New York University  – From day one, each PhD student in NYU’s Silver School of Social Work gets paired with a faculty mentor who helps develop research, scholarships, and teaching skills. Areas of staff expertise include racial and social justice, behavioral health services, child welfare, and aging. The school’s location in New York City provides a dynamic, diverse setting for studying important social work issues.
• Wayne State University  – Opportunities for professional and intellectual growth abound in the PhD program at this public institution in Michigan. The school encourages students to take coursework outside of the School of Social Work to support their individual interests. This interdisciplinary approach can lead to special degrees in areas such as infant mental health, gerontology, or social work and anthropology.
• Baylor University  – No need to live in Waco, Texas, to attend this institution. After a required five-day session on campus, social work PhD students can live elsewhere while pursuing their degree through an online classroom. Online PhD in Social Work courses meet via videoconferencing at specific times each week. The program focuses on the integration of religion and faith with practices of the social work profession. Graduates leave ready to address complex social issues as leaders, educators, and researchers.
• The University of Utah  – Other than a week on campus at the start of each semester, this institution’s “distance-delivered doctoral program” allows students to pursue an online PhD in Social Work from any location. Individuals attend classes remotely at the same time as their on-campus cohorts. All students possess equal access to research opportunities and financial support.

If you’re looking for other schools that offer PhD’s in social work, check out the Find Your Perfect “U” tool. You can search over 6,000 colleges and universities with 11 different filters to find the  perfect school for you !

What Can I Do with a PhD in Social Work?

Many who pursue a PhD in Social Work do so in hopes of securing a faculty position at a university or junior college. They wish to continue conducting research in their area of interest within the field or teach up-and-coming social work students. Others may find employment at think tanks, non-profits, or governmental agencies.

PhD in Social Work Salary and Career Outlook

The U.S. Department of Labor includes postsecondary social work teachers on its list of Bright Outlook Occupations because of the job’s rapid growth prospects (9%) over the next decade (2020-2030). 9  Projections are not a guarantee, but the information is encouraging to PhDs looking to go in that direction.

While the mean annual wage for social work professors is $71,570, possibilities exist to earn substantially more. In California, for instance, the mean annual wage stands at $110,020. New York, the state with the highest concentration of postsecondary social work teachers, posts a mean annual wage of $91,680. 7

Some PhDs find employment as social service consultants. They train social service staff members and help organizations implement improvements in procedures and policies. According to PayScale, this type of position brings in an average hourly rate of $32.50. 8

PhD in Social Work Career Paths

Students in PhD programs usually enter possessing an MSW (Master’s of Social Work) and a social work license. After earning their doctorate, some individuals decide to return to careers in applied social work rather than enter academia. Their increased knowledge and training oftentimes set them up for higher-level positions in occupations such as:

• Median Salary: $51,760 
• Career Outlook: +12% (2020-2030)

Social workers identify and assist individuals, families, and groups within a community that need help with various life challenges.

• Median Salary: $48,140 
• Career Outlook: 17% (2020-2030)

These professionals promote wellness and serve as a liaison between individuals/groups and health care systems.

• Median Salary: $58,120 
• Career Outlook: +11% (2020-2030)

These counselors help individuals with social and academic issues in order to succeed in school and forge an employment plan.

Source: BLS

Earning a PhD in Social Work

Individuals generally go into social work because they want to  make a difference in the lives of others . Earning a PhD in Social Work certainly advances that objective. The decision to undertake something so rigorous, however, should not be made lightly.

Pros and Cons of PhD in Social Work Degrees

Completing a PhD program in social work takes time, money, and effort. Only you can decide if such an endeavor is in your best interest.

• Expanded job opportunities, especially in academia, consulting, and research
• Recognition as an expert in the field
• Good job growth predictions from the BLS
• The potential for increases in income, responsibility, and influence
• A chance to study specific areas of interest and learn advanced knowledge about them
• The cost of pursuing a degree
• The stress of staying on track and finishing this academic challenge
• Taking away time from other endeavors in order to focus on studies
• Possibly moving to a new location to be closer to campus

PhD in Social Work Program Prerequisites

Most students enter social work PhD programs already possessing an MSW and a history of social work employment. People with a  background in a similar field , such as psychology, may also be eligible for consideration. Some institutions conduct dual-degree programs where participants earn both an MSW and a PhD upon completion of studies.

Courses in PhD in Social Work Programs

While specific courses vary by program, the following are some of the courses frequently encountered in social work PhD programs:

• Quantitative research
• Qualitative research
• Data analysis
• Social policy analysis
• Scholarly writing
• Grant writing
• Teaching and pedagogy

Coursework helps students prepare for two important components of a social work PhD program:  the qualifying exam and the dissertation .

Passing an oral and/or written qualifying exam demonstrates a solid base of knowledge and readiness to engage in independent research. The dissertation focuses on a topic or research question of the student’s choice. In addition to writing the dissertation, the student must orally defend the ideas presented at a meeting with other scholars.

Skills Learned in a PhD in Social Work Degree Program

PhD programs promote scholarly development. Students hone their critical-thinking skills. They learn how to ask important questions about social work issues and how to go about seeking possible answers. They graduate knowing how to construct research studies and evaluate results.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Social Work?

Programs generally require 36 credit hours. In terms of time, this translates to 3-5 years.

Students pursuing accelerated studies may be able to shave off time from this range. On the flipside, students enrolled in a dual MSW/PhD program take longer to finish because they need to fulfill more requirements.

A substantial determinant of program length is progress on one’s dissertation. Some students develop a clear idea early on of what they wish to focus on and make steady progress toward completion. Others require more time to figure out what they want to do and how to do it.

Social Work Degree Specializations

Social work is a large discipline with many niches. Some areas PhD candidates may concentrate on include:

• Mental health
• Substance abuse
• School social work
• Military social work
• Children and families
• Gerontology
• Terminal illness
• Migration studies
• Disaster relief
• LGBTQIA+ community
• Public welfare
• Justice and corrections

Social Work Certification and Licensure

Many social work positions require a license and/or certification. People should look into the requirements for jobs of interest as well as for the geographical region in which they seek employment. A good place to start is the  Association for Social Work Boards .

Accreditation

Selecting a school with regional accreditation ensures the institution has met certain educational standards. Choose one approved by the  U.S. Department of Education  or the nonprofit  Council for Higher Education Accreditation  (CHEA).

While the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits BSW and MSW programs, it does not do so at the doctoral level. However, the Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work (GADE) can provide prospective social work PhD students with information on its member schools.

Online PhD Social Work Programs

Opportunities exist to pursue doctoral studies in social work online. The majority of such programs lead to a DSW, but some result in a PhD.

Online vs. On Campus Degrees

Earning an online PhD in Social Work degree through has a variety of potential benefits.

• Remote learning removes geographical barriers.
• Students gain greater choice in selecting an institution
• Students do not need to upend their lives to move to campus housing.
• Online programs generally offer more flexibility in terms of when and where work gets completed.
• Sometimes, ambitious students can accelerate their progress.

Some students prefer regular, campus-based programs. They enjoy the social aspect of physically attending class alongside others, focus better in an academic environment, or prefer a consistent schedule.

How Long Do Online Courses Take to Complete?

Finishing an online PhD in Social Work program generally takes about the same amount of time as on-campus studies, which is 3-5 years. Choosing an accelerated program can reduce some of that time.

Schools offering online PhD in social work programs tend to have a hybrid set-up. They require brief periods of time on campus, such as the first week of each semester.

Also, remote PhD programs in social work tend to favor synchronous learning. Off-campus students use video technology to attend classes with their on-campus peers on specific days at set times.

Applying to PhD in Social Work Programs

Students interested in obtaining a PhD in Social Work must apply to individual schools offering this graduate study. Due to substantial competition for spots, students oftentimes apply to more than one program.

Admission Requirements for PhD in Social Work Programs

Each school has its own specific set of criteria for applicants to present in order to receive consideration for admission. Things often required include:

• A master’s degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education
• Transcripts of all collegiate work, including degree(s) earned and GPA
• A resume of hands-on social work experience, including internships, employment, and volunteer experiences
• Satisfactory performance on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
• Personal statements/essays on the reason for pursuing a PhD
• Interviews with faculty members
• Letters of recommendation supporting the candidacy
• A scholarly writing sample

Paying for a PhD in Social Work

Students rightly worry about paying for higher education. Fortunately, a good number of options exist to  finance graduate studies , including grants, loans, and scholarships. Schools also often offer PhD candidates positions as research or teaching assistants, which can cover or reduce tuition and even provide a stipend.

PhD in Social Work Degree Costs

Many factors influence the cost of pursuing a PhD in Social Work. Choosing a public school in one’s state often proves more economical than tuition for private institutions. Programs partially or fully online can lower expenses by eliminating the cost of traveling to campus or residing in campus housing.

Any student looking for financial assistance should fill out the  Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) . It serves as the first step in determining eligibility for grants, loans, and school-specific monetary aid.

Scholarships for PhD in Social Work Students

Individuals looking for assistance in funding their PhD studies in social work may want to check out the following:

• Council on Social Work Education  – The CSWE offers a variety of general and niche scholarships for students interested in graduate studies in social work.
• National Association of Social Workers  – Doctoral students qualify for several funding opportunities offered by the NASW Foundation.
• Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund  – Students working for social change can apply for one of these need-based scholarships of up to $15,000 per year.

PhD in Social Work Career Resources

Along their educational journey and into their career, social work PhDs may find the following groups good sources of knowledge and support:

• Council on Social Work Education  – This national organization is dedicated to advancing excellence in social work education and research. PhD candidates may find the careers section on the group’s website particularly interesting. It contains job opportunities, career planning advice, and free resume review.
• The Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work  – This organization provides a wealth of information on what makes a good PhD program. Its website includes links to all its member institutions, which proves helpful to students trying to compare schools.
• National Association of Social Workers  – This well-established organization of professional social workers focuses on career development and advancing social policies. Its website contains resources on a variety of topics by interest, such as aging, child welfare, and LGBTQ issues. Networking opportunities and tips for landing a job prove useful to graduate students.
• Clinical Social Work Association  – This group focuses on meeting the practice needs of  clinical social workers  through support and advocacy. Members receive free consultative services for legal and ethical questions, reduced rates on liability insurance, and access to the association’s job board.
• Society for Social Work and Research  – For more than 25 years, this non-profit has supported faculty, students, and others interested in social work research. Funding, information sharing, and interdisciplinary networking are among its areas of concern.
• People often pursue a PhD in Social Work to become a professor at a university, college, or junior college. Such a job involves teaching classes, managing internships and other hands-on student experiences, and conducting research. Other PhDs work for the government, military, non-profits, think tanks, schools, and other organizations as social workers, community managers, researchers, and policy shapers.
• The answer depends on individual interests and career objectives. For someone hoping for a job in academia, a PhD is usually necessary. Individuals interested in positions such as social worker or community service manager oftentimes get hired with a lesser degree. A doctorate, though, can put someone in a better position for greater responsibility, leadership, decision-making, and pay.
• Examine your career goals. A  bachelor’s degree  can be enough for entry-level positions. A master’s will qualify you to perform more extensive duties and is a must for those interested in clinical social work. Future social work instructors and social work executives generally hold a doctorate, which can be a PhD in Social Work or a DSW (Doctor of Social Work).
• An  MSW (Master of Social Work)  helps individuals secure higher-level positions within the field of social work. Obtaining one signifies greater education and training than just a bachelor’s degree. A PhD in Social Work demonstrates exceptional knowledge and commitment. PhDs often remain in academia to teach others and to continue advancing the discipline through original research.

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• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/home.htm
• https://dworakpeck.usc.edu/academics/phd-program
• https://socialwork.nyu.edu/a-silver-education/degree-programs/phd.html
• https://socialwork.wayne.edu/phd
• https://www.baylor.edu/social_work/index.php?id=866760
• https://socialwork.utah.edu/phd/
• https://www.bls.gov/oes/2018/may/oes251113.htm
• https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Social_Service_Consultant/Hourly_Rate?loggedIn
• https://www.onetonline.org/find/bright?b=1&g=Go

Is a Ph.D. in Social Work Worth it – (Pros VS. Cons)

Are you a social worker who loves your job? Do you have a master's degree but feel ready to rise to the top of the social work field? If so, earning a Ph.D. in social work may be the right choice for you. You may be asking yourself, is a Ph.D. in social work worth it? It is understandable to wonder about the pros and cons of returning to school before making a career-altering decision. Considering essential factors will help you decide if this is the right career path. In this article, I will share some valuable information about Ph.D. in social work programs and 25 reasons why a Ph.D. in social work is worth it and also 7 reasons why it may not be the right degree for you to help you make an informed career decision.

WHAT IS A PH.D. IN SOCIAL WORK DEGREE?

How long does a ph.d. in social work degree take, how much does a ph.d. in social work degree cost, what are the admission requirements for a ph.d. in social work degree.

• A master’s degree in social work (In some cases, you can have a master’s degree in another field or at least three years of social work profession work) • Personal statement/letter of intent • Detailed resume • 3+ letters of recommendation (These should come from employers, supervisors, or former professors.) • Undergraduate and graduate transcripts • Application fee (Some schools will waive this fee) • English proficiency scores (if English is not your first language) • GPA review (Most schools require a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative) • Statistics prep course • Passing examination score on the GRE (majority of schools have waived this requirement)

WHY IS A PH.D. IN SOCIAL WORK WORTH IT? – THE PROS

Reason #1: a ph.d. in social work allows you to have a broader scope of practice and will make you stand out., reason #2: a ph.d. in social work will allow you to teach at prestigious colleges and influence aspiring students., reason #3: with a ph.d. in social work, you can positively impact others’ lives., reason #4: a ph.d. in social work gives you the credentials to open your own business., reason #5: with a ph.d. in social work, you can offer solutions for unemployment, positively impacting the lives of others., reason #6: a ph.d. in social work can position you for jobs in leadership., reason #7: with a ph.d. in social work, you can advocate for social justice in the workplace., reason #8: a ph.d. in social work will allow you to be a part of policymaking and advocacy., reason #9: with a ph.d. in social work, you can help individuals deal with addiction or substance abuse., reason #10: a ph.d. in social work allows you to impact society and initiate measures that contribute to positive change., reason #11: with a ph.d. in social work, you will have the potential to be a part of life-changing research, reason #12: you could use your knowledge and experience to become a published author., reason #13: you can impact the lives of others by participating in crisis intervention measures., reason #14: you can choose from several specializations when you earn a ph.d. in social work., reason #15: your degree could lead you to a position with top think tanks., reason #16: you can have more autonomy in your social work roles., reason #17: if you are interested in counseling others, your ph.d. in social work can create opportunities to pursue that path., reason #18: you will gain the respect of your peers., reason #19: you will have a personal sense of accomplishment, reason #20: you can take on influential roles in your community., reason #21: with a ph.d. in social work, you will have good income-earning potential., reason #22: there is a wide variety of work settings to choose from., reason #23: the job outlook for social workers is positive., reason #24: a ph.d. in social work will help you develop a higher level of cultural competence., reason #25: with a ph.d. in social work, you will become part of a large network of professionals with a common goal., why a ph.d. in social work may not be worth it for you – the cons, reason #1: a ph.d. in social work takes a considerable time commitment., reason #2: a ph.d. in social work can be expensive., reason #3: you may not be able to continue working while in school., reason #4: a ph.d. in social work may not be worth it if you do not like research, reason #5: with a ph.d. in social work, you could be overqualified for jobs, reason #6: you may prefer to work in more of a clinical setting., reason #7: you are not 100% sure that school is the right choice for you., what are the 3 main reasons behind the demand for ph.d. in social work degree holders, 1. colleges and universities need qualified instructors to prepare future social workers:, 2. covid-19-related issues:, 3. research is always in demand:, what is the starting salary for new ph.d. in social work degree holders, what is the average salary for experienced ph.d. in social work degree holders, is the cost of a ph.d. in social work degree worth the return on investment (roi), what are the 3 best jobs you can get with a ph.d. in social work degree, 1. college professor:, 2. mental health clinician:, 3. researcher:, bonus 3 tips to make more money with a ph.d. in social work degree, 1. become a consultant., 2. find your niche and stay focused., 3. choose to pursue clinical social work., so, is a ph.d. in social work worth your time and money – my final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered, 1. what is the best age to pursue a ph.d. in social work degree, 2. how hard is it to get into a ph.d. in social work degree program, 3. do i need work experience to get into a ph.d. in social work degree program, 4. what is the minimum gpa to get into a ph.d. in social work degree program, 5. are online ph.d. in social work degree programs worth it, 6. are scholarships and grants available for ph.d. in social work degree programs, 7. is it hard to complete a ph.d. in social work degree, 8. can ph.d. in social work students have a life, 9. can i work part-time and successfully complete the ph.d. in social work degree program, 10. can i work full-time and successfully complete the ph.d. in social work degree program, 11. do students fail in ph.d. in social work degree programs, 12. will i ever regret getting a ph.d. in social work degree, 13. how much does a ph.d. in social work graduate make per hour, 14. how much does a ph.d. in social work graduate make per year, 15. will ph.d. in social work graduates be paid less in the future, 16. are all ph.d. in social work graduates successful in their careers, 17. are ph.d. in social work graduates happy with their jobs, 18. can ph.d. in social work degree holders become rich, 19. what are some of the best ph.d. in social work degree alternatives.

Graduate School

Social work (ph.d.), social work (ph.d.) | graduate.

Earn your Ph.D. in Social Work from a top 16–ranked school of social work. We prepare students to transform systems and policies, drive structural change, and empower individuals, families, and communities to meet their needs and interact with resource systems while deepening scholarly inquiry about the experiences of underserved groups globally.

Ranked 16th in the nation by U.S. News, Howard’s Ph.D. program in Social Work is firmly rooted in a strengths-based perspective, global awareness, and social justice framework. Since its founding, the School of Social Work has been strengthening communities in Washington, D.C., through partnerships with agencies like the District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency, Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, Central Union Mission, D.C. Public Schools, and our own Howard University Hospital. Our Ph.D. program provides a solid foundation in contemporary social work theory and community-engaged research design, deepening scholarly inquiry into the structural, sociocultural, historical, and behavioral factors that inform the individual, family, and community contexts of social issues. Our program aims to develop social work researchers, college and university faculty, policy and legislative analysts, practitioners, educators, and senior-level administrators highly skilled in designing and evaluating evidence-based policy, direct practice assessment, and interventions, while communicating their impacts. You'll benefit from a highly personalized learning environment and the close mentorship of faculty who are leading social work practitioners and scholars with research interests in child and family serving systems, positive youth development, trauma-informed care, social determinants of health, mental health, and anti-poverty policy. With Howard’s premier location at the center of policymaking in Washington, D.C., you'll have access to a network of top-ranked and nationally recognized policy think tanks, research institutes, non-profits, clinical settings, and child and family-serving agencies. 

Program Snapshot

      ❱  48 credit hours        ❱  Full-time       ❱  On-campus format       ❱  Degree: Ph.D.

Application Deadlines

Spring 2024 entry:         ❱  No spring entry

Fall 2024 entry:         ❱  Dec. 1, 2023  (early deadline)       ❱  Jan. 15, 2024  (final deadline)

Applicants should submit their applications as early as possible for earlier consideration of departmental funding opportunities. Applicants have until the final deadline to apply. However, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the admissions cycle. 

Transfer credits accepted  (reviewed by committee)

Dr. Sandra Crewe

Sharon fletcher, program details.

• Degree Classification: Graduate
• Related Degrees: Ph.D.

Admission Requirements

Application for admission .

• Online GradCAS application
• Statement of purpose/ Statement of academic interest ( 3-5 pages double-spaced )
• Critical writing sample (i.e., p ublished paper, thesis, or research paper)
• GRE scores not required
• Official transcripts sent to GradCAS
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from an accredited university (at least a 3.0 GPA) or the international equivalent
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (2 years of post-MSW social work experience preferred)
• Autobiographical statement ( 500-750 words )

GRE Required?

Gre preferred minimums.

• GRE Verbal Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Quantitative Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Analytical Writing: N/A

GPA Required Minimums

• Overall GPA minimum: 3.0
• Undergrad GPA minimum: 3.0

Reference Requirements

Evaluator type accepted:

• Professor (Required)
• Supervisor/Manager  (Required)

Evaluator type not accepted:

• Family Member

Personal Statement Guidance

Statement of purpose/statement of academic interest should highlight why you wish to pursue a career in social work and address the following:

• Your philosophy and your understanding of the social welfare/social work profession
• Your personal, professional, and educational goals as well as your research interests 
• Any life experience with social work research and practice (you may highlight  interest in a specific group or population)
• How will obtaining your Ph.D. in Social Work enhance you in your current position and/or future career or better prepare you to serve people as a professional social worker, researcher, or instructor?

Doctorate in Social Work Degrees: Search the Best DSW Programs for You

Are you a licensed social worker interested in advancing your career in administration, policy advocacy, advanced clinical practice, or college-level teaching? Earning a doctorate in social work may be the right move for you.

Explore these rankings to help you choose the right Ph.D. or DSW program for your personal and professional needs. Our degree guide explains what to look for when comparing different doctoral programs in social work, and what you can do with your degree after graduation.

Key Factors for Selecting a Doctorate in Social Work Program

What should you look for when choosing the best Ph.D. or DSW program for you? Before enrolling in any program, investigate several options, noting the program’s academic reputation, curriculum requirements and available specializations, and faculty areas of expertise.

Accreditation

Consider social work programs offered by schools with regional accreditation from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. While the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) currently only accredits BSW and MSW programs, the CSWE’s Commission on Accreditation has begun a DSW pilot accreditation program.

Specializations

If you want to work in a particular area of social work, look for DSW or Ph.D. programs that offer specializations or concentration paths that align with your interests and career goals.

Faculty Research Areas

The best colleges and universities hire faculty with strong research reputations who bring their expertise into the classroom. When comparing doctoral programs, check out faculty profiles to find out about their research interests and publications.

Featured Online Social Work Degrees

The best doctorate in social work programs.

Our rankings of the best schools for doctoral degrees make it easier for you to see how one program differs from another. You can compare curriculum, learning formats, costs, and other factors that matter most to you.

We use a data-driven methodology to determine the best bachelor’s in social work programs based on four primary factors: academic quality, overall cost, reputation, and accessibility.

University of California-Los Angeles

For over a century, the University of California-Los Angeles has garnered a reputation for academic excellence. UCLA boasts 16 Nobel Laureates, 15 MacArthur Fellows, 11 National Medal of Science winners, and two Pulitzer Prize winners among its faculty.

The Ph.D. in social welfare, offered by the Luskin School of Public Affairs, integrates personalized instruction and applied research with an interdisciplinary focus. Coursework includes nursing, public health, psychology, and sociology. Most applicants hold an MSW degree, but the program accepts students with a master’s in related fields, such as public policy or sociology.

Full-time students enroll in 12 units each quarter, completing two years of coursework prior to their dissertation research. Students can complete the program in four years.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Established in 1795, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the oldest public university in the nation. The university enrolls over 35,000 students in 95 bachelor’s, 104 master’s, and 65 doctoral degrees.

The Ph.D. in social work, organized around the theme of social intervention, comprises nine core courses, a professional development seminar, a teaching seminar/practicum, a dissertation seminar, and additional electives. Students must complete 45 credits prior to beginning their doctoral dissertation.

Applicants for the doctorate in social work need an MSW from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and two years of work experience in human services. A master’s in a related field may also be considered.

University of California-Berkeley

One of the most prestigious public universities in the nation, the University of California-Berkeley , offers over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate courses through over 300 degree programs.

Berkeley’s top-ranked Ph.D. in social welfare admits students who have completed a master’s in social work or social welfare, or a comparable degree in a related field. The doctorate takes a minimum of three years to complete, including two years of full-time coursework and one year for the dissertation.

The social welfare Ph.D. provides doctoral students with a generous financial package that includes tuition, health insurance, and an allowance for living expenses, funded jointly through fellowships and salary as a graduate student instructor or researcher.

Florida State University

Based in Florida’s capital city of Tallahassee, Florida State University administers close to 300 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including a doctorate in social work.

FSU’s Ph.D. in social work emphasizes hands-on training in research and teaching. The curriculum comprises core methods and theory courses, specialized social work research methods courses, statistics courses, and cognates taken outside of the social work department related to the student’s areas of interest. Students typically complete the program in 4-5 years.

Admission requirements include an MSW from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and GRE scores taken within the previous five years.

University of Chicago

The University of Chicago in Hyde Park ranks among the top U.S. and global research institutions. The Crown Family School, one of the nation’s first schools of social work, has played a seminal role defining the profession.

The Ph.D. in social work requires a minimum of 15 courses, including one on the history of social work, five on statistics and research methods, and nine additional courses that include three taken in other departments. Students take 4-5 years to complete their degree.

Admission to the Ph.D. program is highly selective. Of the approximately 100 applications received annually, the program admits only eight students. Enrollees receive a substantial financial aid package that includes a stipend, health insurance, tuition, and fees.

University of Georgia

Established over 235 years ago in Athens, Georgia, the University of Georgia is the state’s oldest institution of higher education.

The 60-credit Ph.D. in social work provides students with an interdisciplinary curriculum and certificate opportunities in gerontology, women’s studies, qualitative studies, quantitative methods, and nonprofit management and leadership. The program supports students with four years of financial assistance through teaching and research assistantships.

The Ph.D. program admits MSW-holders who have at least two years of post-MSW professional experience, an overall 3.0 undergraduate GPA, and a 3.5 MSW GPA. Applicants must submit GRE scores from within the last five years.

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Consistently ranked among the top U.S. public universities, the University of Washington-Seattle Campus receives more federal research funding than any other public university. The campus hosts a student population of close to 30,000.

The Ph.D. in social welfare focuses on prevention/intervention research that addresses topics in health/mental health, promotion and disparities, aging, child and adolescent services, family-based practice, interpersonal violence, substance abuse, income distribution, and issues related to gender, communities of color and other underrepresented groups. An optional statistics track provides students with advanced quantitative training relevant to their areas of specialization.

The program offers four years of financial support, including teaching or research assistantships or fellowships, tuition, and health benefits.

The University of Texas at Austin

Established in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin has grown into a leading research university. As the main campus for the University of Texas system, UT Austin supports 52,000 students and 3,000 teaching faculty across 18 colleges and schools.

The Ph.D. in social work offers an interdisciplinary approach to the field with an emphasis on advanced research methodology and statistics. Minimum requirements for admission include an MSW from a Council on Social Work Education-accredited or related field and extensive experience in human services. Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or above in upper-division undergraduate courses and in any completed graduate work.

University of South Florida

A relatively young university founded in 1956, Tampa Bay’s University of South Florida enrolls over 50,000 students across 13 colleges.

Based in the College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, the Ph.D. in social work emphasizes five topic areas that reflect the strengths of the college and the forecasted direction of the profession. These five areas cover societal change and innovation, global issues, health, behavioral health, and leadership and business.

Admission is typically limited to individuals who hold an MSW from a Council on Social Work Education-accredited program or international equivalent, with an overall 3.5 GPA. Applicants without an MSW may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Florida International University

Florida International University is a public research university in Miami, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees to over 56,000 students. The university emphasizes research as a major component in its mission.

The Ph.D. in social welfare boasts one of the fastest completion rates and highest retention rates among U.S. social work doctoral programs. Students typically complete the program in as little as three years.

Admission to the program is selective. Requirements include an MSW from a Council on Social Work Education-accredited school of social work or a master’s in a closely related field, at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and a 3.5 graduate GPA, and GRE scores. Preference is given to applicants with prior social work experience.

Advantages of Earning a Doctorate in Social Work

If you are already working as a licensed social worker, you may wonder why you should invest the time and money into earning a doctorate in social work. Today, the need for highly trained social workers in advanced practice and leadership roles has never been greater, and earning a Ph.D. or DSW comes with many advantages.

Salary Potential

A doctoral degree expands your career opportunities in administrative roles, with salaries significantly higher than master’s-level positions. According to a report from the National Association of Social Workers , DSWs earn $20-$25,000 more than MSWs.

Opportunities in Academia

The increased enrollment in social work programs has resulted in the need for more social work educators to train the next generation of professionals. Most college-level teaching positions in social work require a doctorate. Postsecondary social work teachers employed at colleges, universities, or professional schools earn an annual average salary of over $78,000 a year.

Increased Credibility

As the most advanced practice-focused degree in the field, a doctorate provides you with a high level of expertise and the credibility to address complex social work issues, formulate social policy, and bring about social change. A doctorate in social work establishes you as a “thought leader” and critical thinker with the insight and skills to make significant contributions to the field.

How to Apply to a Doctorate in Social Work Program

Required application materials for DSW or Ph.D. programs vary by institution. Most often, schools request official transcripts, 2-3 letters of recommendation from teachers and supervisors, and a current resume. Be prepared to submit a personal essay outlining why you are seeking the degree, what you hope to accomplish with it, and why you have chosen to apply to this program.

Admission requirements also vary by program. In general, applicants must hold a master’s in social work from a CSWE-accredited program and at least two years of post-MSW practice experience. Some programs may admit individuals who have earned a graduate degree in a related field, such as counseling or psychology.

The best DSW programs look for candidates with strong undergraduate academic records, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA. A growing number of programs no longer require GRE scores for admission.

What Can I Do with a Doctorate Degree in Social Work?

A doctorate provides a respected credential to advance in clinical practice and to move into leadership positions. Doctorate-level graduates find employment in social service agencies, educational organizations, nonprofits, and governmental agencies. This degree can prepare graduates to take on administrative and managerial roles at the macro level; developing and implementing organizational policy; and supervising, teaching, and guiding clinical practitioners.

Employment prospects in social work remain strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 9% increase in social work positions between 2021 and 2031, exceeding the national average for all occupations.

When considering whether to pursue a DSW, keep in mind that educational attainment impacts salaries in almost all professions. According to a 2021 BLS report , doctoral degree-holders make $400 a week more than individuals with only a bachelor’s degree. Social workers with a DSW can expect to earn the highest salaries in the field.

Your Next Career Path: Is a Doctorate in Social Work Right for Me?

Earning a DSW or Ph.D. in social work can lead to significant professional advancement, but keep in mind that the expanded career opportunities and higher salaries also come with increased responsibilities. When choosing a DSW program, evaluate how the curriculum can help you acquire the skills needed to achieve your professional goals.

Does the program offer specializations and electives that reflect your interests? Does it prepare you to move into a leadership role in your organization or conduct research that informs policy change? Will you get the training needed to teach, supervise, and mentor the next generation of social work practitioners?

Besides the academic preparation you receive in a doctoral program, you must develop the needed “soft skills” to take on these new roles and obligations, such as perseverance, perceptiveness, and listening skills.

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Social Work Programs

What is the difference between a dsw and phd.

The DSW focuses on advanced training for clinical practice, leadership, and applied research for policy advocacy and professional practice. The Ph.D. emphasizes theoretical and methodological perspectives and research to build knowledge in the field.

How long does it take to get a DSW?

Earning your doctorate in social work takes 3-5 years, depending on whether you enroll full or part time. Some programs offer accelerated two-year options.

Can you complete DSW or Ph.D. in social work online?

Yes, though students enrolled in an online DSW or Ph.D. will need to attend local fieldwork. See our roundup of online Ph.D. in social work programs to learn more.

Where do DSW graduates work?

DSW graduates pursue careers as social work administrators, community or social service managers, policy analysts, educators, and nonprofit directors. They work in a variety of settings, including social service agencies, healthcare facilities, schools, and government offices.

Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.

Take the next step toward your future in social work.

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Doctoral Program in Social Work (Ph.D.)

GSSWSR is proud to offer a nationally renowned Ph.D. program in social work. The country's first Ph.D. degree in social work was awarded at the Graduate School for Social Work and Social Research in 1920.

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Meet our Doctoral Students

Our Ph.D. students—like our faculty—come to Bryn Mawr from throughout the U.S. and internationally to join in our deep commitment to scholarship and our field. Graduates of the program are extremely well situated to pursue academic positions throughout the country and abroad, and indeed our alumni can be found in many key positions of leadership. 

The school’s traditional strengths in clinical practice, social theory, and research help to foster a generative community that values innovative approaches that reach across traditional silos to better address the central problems we face as a field.

Significant Financial Support

Consistent with our model, all Ph.D. students are funded equally, and do not compete for basic financial support during coursework. We support all Ph.D. students to engage deeply in doctoral training with full tuition waivers and substantial stipends to offset costs of living.

Small Cohorts That Foster Close Collaboration

Our small cohorts each year enable a close-knit, vibrant, and productive community of scholars where students often collaborate closely with each other and faculty. In addition to teaching, students and faculty meet frequently to workshop new projects and discuss dilemmas in teaching.

Diverse Approaches to Research

Our Ph.D. program places value in qualitative inquiry, quantitative analysis, mixed method designs, and theoretical conceptualization.

Distinguished Students and Alumni

Our students have been awarded Fulbright and Woodrow Wilson Fellowships, fellowships from foreign governments, and funding from the Council on Social Work Education.

Our Primary Areas of Focus for Research and Teaching

Health and Mental Health Across the Lifespan

Children, Families, and Society

A close-knit community of scholars.

The centering of faculty-student relationships has been core to our Ph.D. program’s success for almost a century. A distinctive feature of our Ph.D. program is our small size—typically enrolling cohorts of just three or four students per year, and class sizes are typically seven students. This model allows for students to engage and learn more deeply, as individuals, as a cohort, and in close collaboration with faculty.

Access the Larger Bryn Mawr Community

Resources Beyond GSSWSR

To support our focus on interdisciplinary social work scholarship within a broader liberal arts tradition, students have access to a wealth of resources beyond GSSWSR. Ph.D. students often connect with faculty throughout Bryn Mawr College for special projects and innovative research across traditional disciplinary lines. Students can also take electives to pursue additional areas of focus within the college of arts and sciences at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as at Haverford and Swarthmore colleges. 

Sara Bressi Ph.D. Program Director 610-520-2634 [email protected]

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2024-2025 Cost of Attendance

Smith College recognizes that a graduate education is a major life investment. Like all sound investments it requires planning and preparation. We are committed to providing our students with the information they need to plan and prepare for payment/financing of this major investment. 

2024-2025 Tuition & Fees

Also, see  General Billing Processes and Policies  as well as  Important SSW Process Dates and Related Info  for bill and due dates and other important timelines . 

*Tuition and Fees will be set for each new academic year in late January by the Smith College Board of Trustees.

2024-2025 Additional Budget Components

The Department of Education requires a standard budget or Cost of Attendance (COA) be set by the School. Personal actual expenses vary by individual student circumstances.                 For example, a student may choose not to borrow an unsubsidized loan offered and hence will not incur an origination fee even though the School has included this as a standard budget component.                 The standard expenses shown below are an estimate. Living expenses include housing, food and utilities. Your actual expenses may be less and will vary based on living and travel arrangements, internship location, and other personal choices.  Please plan your budget carefully and borrow conservatively to reflect your own living expenses. The Department of Education provides budgeting resources  to assist in your planning.

2024-2025 Total Cost of Attendance (COA)

COA = Tuition + Activity Fee + Additional Components listed above.                 The Total COA is set by Smith College. Billed COA components by Smith include tuition and the student activity fee. Additional components, not directly billed by Smith include living expenses, books and the unsubsidized loan origination fee.                  If you plan to utilize Student Loan/s to assist in financing your education, the Total Cost of Attendance (less any other aid received in an academic year) represents your maximum borrowing eligibility. Please see  Federal Student Loans  for application requirements and other important loan information.

Ph.D. students are also responsible for  Ph.D. supervisory fees .

Special circumstances sometimes warrant an increase in the standard cost of attendance budget based on a student’s actual expenses in order to create additional loan eligibility. Examples include Ph.D. supervisory fees, high unreimbursed medical expenses, dependent care and/or dependent maintenance expenses. Please see our  Budget Adjustments section on the  Student Loans  page for more information on submitting a Cost of Attendance appeal form.

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Benefits of a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) Degree

For most professional social workers, their biggest educational step is earning a Master of Social Work degree, or MSW. That’s the degree most often required to earn jobs in social work, as well as to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

But many working professionals, as well as social work students, have a desire to continue their social work education beyond a master’s degree level. For those students, there generally are a few options for doctoral education — Ph.D., Psy.D. or DSW.

Your mileage may vary, but let’s explore the biggest benefits for the average social worker or social work student in pursuing the DSW, or Doctor of Social Work.

Practical Focus Area

Through about the middle part of the 20th century, the only doctoral option out there for students of fields like social work was a Doctor of Philosophy degree, or Ph.D. But the advent of both the DSW degree, which emerged in the 1940s, and the more recent Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.), which started being offered in the 1970s, changed that.

Both the DSW and Psy.D. were built to provide the hands-on training required to do clinical work in social work, psychology, counseling and other areas. Ph.D. programs, on the other hand, tend to focus more heavily on research and academic study in those respective fields.

DSW programs include a rigorous course of classroom study, to be sure, but these programs include curriculum focusing on the hands-on or clinical application of social work practice. Psy.D. programs, likewise, are generally considered clinical doctorates, and they have quite a bit in common with DSW tracks.

But social work programs tend to focus more heavily on things like counseling and crisis intervention, whereas Psy.D. programs will generally lean more heavily into understanding the biological influences on human behavior.

Access to Higher-Level Jobs

This may seem like an obvious point, but doctoral programs of any kind, DSW tracks included, can help elevate and expand a professional’s career options. But for social work professionals and students who want to contribute to public policy in social work, or who want to lead instruction in the area, DSW degrees are ideal.

SEE ALSO: DSW vs PhD in Social Work

These higher-level jobs will usually come with higher salaries but also increased levels of responsibility. Potential careers that become a real possibility after earning a DSW degree include:

• Nonprofit Director
• Public Policy Advocate
• Social Work Professor
• Social Work Administrator
• Advanced Practice Social Worker
• School Social Worker
• School Counselor
• Adoption Counselor
• Social Service Manager

Social workers in the United States earn a median annual salary of about $50,000, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. But, of course, completing a doctoral program will boost an individual’s earnings potential, and on the higher end of the scale, social workers can expect to earn upwards of $80,000.

SEE ALSO: Salary Outlook with Ph.D. in Social Work Degree

Social service managers in the 90th percentile of annual earnings make about $112,000, which means the potential for earning a very high wage is elevated the further one goes up the social work educational ladder.

Program Flexibility

Some but not all DSW programs are offered online. In fact, most people consider the DSW program offered by the University of Pennsylvania to be the best in the country, and even this incredibly well-regarded program is completed mostly online.

SEE ALSO: List of Accredited Online DSW Programs

Because this degree is so heavily focused on the practical applications of social work study, many institutions are well aware that most of their students are probably working professionals in the field. That’s a big reason why it’s quite common to be able to find DSW programs that will allow professionals to continue their careers while they earn their doctoral.

This is less common with Ph.D. programs in social work, and while it’s slightly more common for Psy.D. programs to be offered online, their programmatic focus on psychology may not be the right fit for most social work students.

Most programs also include a doctoral dissertation process, and this allows students to study, research and publish about topics that interest them, and this means that every student’s DSW course can be unique to them.

Professionals and students who are dedicated to the practice and advancement of social work will probably find a great many reasons beyond what we’ve listed above to consider earning a Doctor of Social Work degree. As the pinnacle achievement in the academic study of this field, pursuing and earning a DSW can benefit not only the earner but the entire community in which they practice.