The PhD in Social Work degree currently a minimum of 50 credit hours. Our curriculum
includes policy, research, and statistical courses, as well as social work and educational
theory seminars. In addition to the core courses, our program requires some interdisciplinary
elective studies and at least 14 hours of dissertation research.
At least two years of doctoral study, of which at least two consecutive semesters
of full-time study (9 hours per semester) must be taken in residence.
Satisfactory on the performance on a written + oral selection of the Qualifying Examination,
completed taken after completion of the required core course work.
Admission to candidacy.
The completion of a dissertation.
Successful defense of the dissertation.
Completion of all dissertation work within three years from the date of admission
to candidacy. Extensions of this time requirement must be approved by the PhD Committee.
Completion of all work toward the degree within six years of admission to the Program.
Extension of this time requirement must be approved by the PhD Committee and the University’s
Graduate School.
All candidates for graduation must complete an Application for Graduate Degree with
the Graduation Division of the Office of the Registrar. In addition, a Thesis Release
is required prior to graduation. Please see theGraduation Overviewfor further information and deadlines.
