PhD in Social Work in Washington D.C., DC United States | The Catholic University of America

The Catholic University of America | Washington D.C., DC United States
Visit institution website for more information
Qualification
Doctor of Philosophy
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition ()
0
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
48 months

Earn the highest degree in the social work profession – the Ph.D. In keeping with the mission of The Catholic University of America, NCSSS prepares doctoral students to teach, research, and lead from a framework of mercy, charity, justice and peace that emanate from the teachings of Jesus Christ, and are expressed in the social and moral doctrine of the Church.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is awarded as the mark of the highest academic achievement in preparation for active scholarship, research, and leadership in the social work profession. The doctoral program is committed to imbuing students with the knowledge, skills, and vision to promote human rights and social justice. It seeks to further the development of the profession through scholarly research, theory building, and leadership, so that it may increasingly serve society in the prevention, intervention, and ultimate alleviation of social problems as well as in the enhancement of social well-being.

Ph.D. Program Goals

Grounded in the content of the curriculum, doctoral graduates are prepared to:

  1. Contribute to the critique, transformation, and dissemination of knowledge for the profession in response to existing and emerging social problems.
  2. Apply humanistic values, ethical principles, and philosophical and theoretical perspectives to the understanding and alleviation of these problems.
  3. Promote and enhance the role of social work in society by assuming leadership and research roles in clinical practice, administration, social policy analysis, and social work education.

Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

The Ph.D. in Social Work program is a 45-credit-hour plus dissertation degree program. 

The curriculum for The Catholic University of America's Ph.D. in Social Work program is designed to equip students with advanced research skills and knowledge for leadership in the social work profession.

Coursework

  • Total Credits: Students complete a minimum of 45 credit hours of coursework, covering advanced topics in social work theory, research methods, and statistics.
  • Core Courses: Key courses include Multivariate Statistics and Design, Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods, and Advanced Theoretical Frameworks for Social Work.
  • Electives: Students choose 6 credit hours of electives tailored to their research interests, such as health, mental health, child welfare, or international development.

Comprehensive Examination

  • Components: The comprehensive exam includes a written examination, an integrative paper, and an oral defense. This exam tests students' ability to synthesize and apply their knowledge across the curriculum.

Dissertation

  • Proposal: Students must submit a dissertation proposal within two years of attaining candidacy.
  • Research: The dissertation must present original research that contributes to the field of social work.
  • Defense: Students must defend their dissertation in a public oral examination.

Additional Requirements

  • Continuous Enrollment: Students must maintain continuous enrollment by registering each semester for Dissertation Guidance until the dissertation is completed.

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 6.5

Qualification Requirements

Minimum Required Documents for PhD

  • A completed Catholic University online application along with the $60 application fee.
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions (Unofficial transcripts can be used for the admissions review.)
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • A statement of purpose
  • Results of the Graduate Record Examination are required. The Catholic University of America accepts applications on a rolling basis. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: Application requirements and deadlines vary by the individual graduate program. Call the department or search / consult the individual programs for full details.

Costs

$1,225 / credit hour


Similar programs for you