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Social issues present multifaceted challenges. The University of Pennsylvania's Social Welfare PhD program cultivates academic and research leaders capable of recognizing these challenges and developing innovative responses. We actively promote intellectual vitality, teamwork, and original thinking. Our alumni frequently secure roles in governmental agencies, global institutions, research companies, and policy organizations. The four-year doctoral curriculum allows students to finish coursework during the initial two years. While mastering core subjects and research methodologies at SP2, candidates may enroll in courses across Penn's diverse academic departments. The final two years focus on research immersion, teaching practice, and dissertation completion. Graduates typically possess several published works and have gained teaching experience at the graduate level.
Students are required to have a master’s degree in social work or a social science field before they can enter the PhD program.
This requirement applies to all such applicants, including those who have studied in the U.S. A minimum score of 100 is required for the iBT TOEFL. A minimum Overall Band Score of 7.5 is required for the IELTS.