Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work, PhD
Our program fosters deep understanding and appreciation of the scientific method and prepares graduates for careers as social work researchers, educators, and leaders. Students must have an MSW/MSSW degree in order to pursue our PhD program.
Program Overview
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work program’s goal is to create scholars who will develop and disseminate new knowledge about interventions, programs, and policies that will advance social justice and improve the quality of life and well-being for vulnerable groups of people. The PhD is a research degree where students take courses in research methods, statistics, grant writing, teaching preparation, and theory to prepare them for careers in research and teaching.
Why a PhD in Social Work?
- Opportunities to develop teaching skills
- Extensive training in advanced research methods
- Mentorship from internationally recognized faculty experts
- Four years of competitive funding
Curriculum
The PhD curriculum includes required coursework, electives, and mentored research opportunities. Required coursework includes:
- 34 credit hours of research design, statistics, advanced critical thinking, and teaching methods
- 9 credit hours of electives in related social and behavioral science areas
All PhD students are required to pass the comprehensive examination and an oral defense of the research proposal after their second year of coursework. The comprehensive examination consists of a significant paper demonstrating the student’s knowledge of a substantive area and the student’s ability to integrate that knowledge with the foundation content of the program. This paper is the first paper in the student’s three-paper dissertation.
We encourage you to visit our program and discuss your educational and professional goals with our PhD Program Director, faculty, and current students.
As a PhD student at the College of Social Work, I value our commitment to community-centered approaches that uplift marginalized voices. For me, social work is about empowering underrepresented communities and promoting lasting change by meeting people where they are and working collaboratively to build pathways to a more just and inclusive future.
Eliza GalvezPhD Canidate
Guided by Ethical Principals
The PhD program is designed with the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics in mind. We pride ourselves on a curriculum updated with the standard’s latest guidelines on self-care, cultural competence, and a commitment to the profession’s mission and core values.
Admissions and Aid
Financial Aid
Graduate school is an investment in your future, and we can help you manage the associated costs.
Application & Admissions
Learn more about applying for graduate school at UT Knoxville and the specific admissions requirements for the PhD.
How Can We Help?
We’re here to help you learn more about applying to and attending our PhD program at the College of Social Work.
Reach out for more information, attend an information session, or contact us directly with any questions you may have.
Questions? Reach out!
