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Social Work Licensure
The journey to earning a PhD in Social Work requires significant commitment, typically taking 3-7 years beyond your MSW degree. However, the investment pays dividends through expanded career opportunities, intellectual fulfillment, and the ability to shape the future of social work practice and policy. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the decision-making process, understand program requirements, and choose the path that aligns with your professional goals.
Quick Answer:
A PhD in Social Work is the highest academic degree in the field, requiring 3-7 years to complete after earning an MSW. It prepares graduates for careers in research, university teaching, and policy analysis, with salaries ranging from $75,000 to $112,740+ according to 2024 BLS data. Unlike the practice-focused DSW, the PhD emphasizes research methodology and academic scholarship, making it ideal for those seeking tenure-track positions or research roles.
Table of Contents
- What is a PhD in Social Work?
- PhD vs DSW: Choosing Your Path
- Admission Requirements & Prerequisites
- Top Online PhD Programs Comparison
- How to Choose the Right Program
- Curriculum & Coursework
- The Dissertation Process
- Career Paths & Salary Expectations
- Funding Your PhD
- Success Strategies & Timeline
- Detailed Program Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PhD in Social Work?
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work is a research-focused terminal degree designed to prepare scholars who will advance the profession through original research, theory development, and education. Unlike professional practice degrees, the PhD emphasizes methodological rigor, theoretical contribution, and the creation of new knowledge that addresses critical social problems.
Graduates emerge as experts capable of conducting independent research, securing grant funding, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and teaching the next generation of social workers. The degree positions you at the intersection of academia and practice, where you can influence both scholarly discourse and real-world social work interventions.
According to the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), there are currently 89 doctoral programs in social work across the United States, with enrollment growing by 15% over the past five years as demand for doctoral-prepared faculty and researchers increases.
PhD vs DSW: Choosing Your Doctoral Path
Understanding the distinction between a PhD and a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) is crucial for making an informed decision about your doctoral education. While both are terminal degrees, they serve different professional purposes and lead to distinct career trajectories.
| Aspect | PhD in Social Work | DSW |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Research & academic scholarship | Advanced clinical practice & leadership |
| Career Goals | University professor, researcher, policy analyst | Clinical director, private practice, executive leadership |
| Dissertation | Original empirical research study | Practice-focused capstone project |
| Teaching Preparation | Extensive pedagogical training | Limited teaching focus |
| Duration | 4-7 years full-time | 3-4 years part-time |
| Format Options | Limited online options | Many online programs available |
| CSWE Accreditation | Not accredited | Pilot accreditation program underway |
The PhD path is ideal if you aspire to contribute to social work knowledge through research, seek a tenure-track faculty position, or want to influence policy through empirical evidence. The DSW suits practitioners who want to enhance their clinical expertise, assume leadership roles in practice settings, or teach as clinical faculty without the research demands of tenure-track positions.
Admission Requirements & Prerequisites
Doctoral programs in social work maintain rigorous admission standards to ensure students are prepared for the intellectual demands of advanced study. While requirements vary by institution, understanding common expectations helps you strengthen your application and assess your readiness for doctoral education.
Educational Prerequisites
Master’s Degree Requirements: Most programs require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program. Some universities, including the University of Louisville and University of Illinois Chicago, accept applicants with master’s degrees in related fields (psychology, sociology, public health) but require completion of MSW foundation courses before beginning doctoral coursework.
Academic Performance: Competitive programs typically require:
- Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Graduate GPA of 3.5 or higher
- Strong performance in research methods and statistics courses
- Evidence of scholarly writing ability
Professional Experience
Most programs prefer candidates with 2-5 years of post-MSW practice experience. This experience provides context for research questions, demonstrates commitment to the field, and enriches classroom discussions. Clinical experience is particularly valuable for those interested in intervention research or clinical social work education.
Application Components Checklist
| Component | Requirements | Tips for Success |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Statement | 3-5 pages outlining research interests, career goals, and program fit | Connect your practice experience to research questions; identify potential faculty mentors |
| Writing Sample | 15-30 page scholarly paper demonstrating analytical ability | Use your best graduate paper; consider having it reviewed by a mentor |
| Letters of Recommendation | 3 letters from academic and professional references | Choose recommenders who can speak to research potential and academic ability |
| CV/Resume | Comprehensive academic and professional history | Highlight research experience, publications, presentations, and leadership roles |
| Statistics Requirement | Completion of graduate-level statistics within 5 years | Retake if needed; some programs offer statistics competency exams |
| GRE Scores | Varies; many programs have eliminated this requirement | Focus on programs that align with your strengths if test-taking is a concern |
| Interview | By invitation; typically virtual or on-campus | Research faculty interests; prepare questions about program resources and culture |
Top Online PhD Programs: Comprehensive Comparison
The landscape of online doctoral education in social work has evolved significantly, with several prestigious universities now offering distance-delivered programs that maintain the rigor of traditional on-campus education. Here’s a detailed comparison of the leading online PhD programs:
| University | Format | Duration | Residency Requirements | Unique Features | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our Lady of the Lake University | Synchronous online cohort | 4 years | 1 week on-campus each summer | Focus on minority-serving institutions; teaching pedagogy emphasis | $65,000-$75,000 |
| Baylor University | Synchronous evening classes | 10 semesters | 5-day initial residency | Faith integration; small cohorts (5-7 students) | $140,000-$160,000 |
| Walden University | Asynchronous with multiple start dates | 3-8 years | 4 residencies throughout program | 8 specializations; transfer up to 20 credits | $80,000-$100,000 |
| University of Utah | Synchronous distance-delivered | 3-5 years | First week of each semester (Years 1-2) | Interact with on-campus students; research-intensive | $70,000-$90,000 |
| Florida State University | Hybrid online/on-campus | 4-6 years | 2 weeks per year on campus | Strong research infrastructure; assistantship opportunities | $50,000-$70,000 (in-state) |
How to Choose the Right PhD Program
Selecting a doctoral program is one of the most important decisions in your academic career. Beyond rankings and reputation, finding the right fit involves careful consideration of multiple factors that will impact your experience and success over the next several years.
Faculty Research Alignment
The most critical factor in program selection is faculty expertise. Your dissertation chair and committee members will guide your research development, so their interests should align with yours. Research potential mentors by:
- Reading their recent publications in journals like Social Work Research and Research on Social Work Practice
- Reviewing their current grant funding through the NIH RePORTER database
- Examining their Google Scholar profiles for citation impact and research trajectory
- Contacting current doctoral students to discuss mentorship styles and availability
Program Resources and Support
Research Infrastructure: Evaluate the resources available to support your research ambitions:
- Access to research centers and institutes
- Statistical consultation services
- Grant writing support and internal funding opportunities
- Library resources and database access
- Conference travel funding
Financial Considerations: Doctoral education represents a significant financial investment. Compare:
- Assistantship availability (teaching, research, or administrative)
- Stipend amounts and cost of living adjustments
- Tuition remission policies
- Health insurance coverage
- External fellowship opportunities the program supports
Program Culture and Fit
The social and intellectual environment significantly impacts your doctoral experience. Assess:
- Cohort vs. Individual Model: Some programs admit cohorts that progress together, fostering peer support
- Diversity and Inclusion: Review faculty and student demographics, diversity initiatives, and support for underrepresented students
- Work-Life Balance: Understand expectations for full-time residency versus part-time study options
- Geographic Considerations: For online programs, consider time zones for synchronous classes and residency travel requirements
Curriculum & Coursework: Building Research Excellence
PhD programs in social work typically require 60-90 credit hours beyond the MSW, structured to progressively develop research competencies while deepening theoretical knowledge. Understanding the curriculum structure helps you prepare for the academic journey ahead.
Core Curriculum Components
Year 1-2: Foundation Building
- Advanced Theory Courses: Social work theory, human behavior theories, social policy analysis, organizational theory
- Research Methods Sequence: Quantitative methods (regression, multivariate analysis), qualitative methods (ethnography, grounded theory, phenomenology), mixed methods approaches
- Statistics Series: Inferential statistics, multivariate statistics, structural equation modeling, hierarchical linear modeling
- Philosophy of Science: Epistemology, research ethics, critical perspectives on knowledge production
Year 2-3: Specialization Development
- Concentration Courses: Based on your research area (e.g., child welfare, mental health, aging, health disparities)
- Advanced Methods: Specialized techniques like intervention research, community-based participatory research, or systematic reviews
- Teaching Preparation: Pedagogy, curriculum design, educational technology, supervised teaching experience
- Grant Writing: Federal and foundation funding mechanisms, proposal development, budget preparation
Year 3-4+: Dissertation Phase
- Comprehensive examinations (written and oral)
- Dissertation proposal development and defense
- Independent research with committee guidance
- Dissertation writing and final defense
Sample Course Descriptions
Epistemology and Theories in Social Work
Examines philosophical foundations of social work knowledge, including positivist, interpretive, and critical paradigms. Students analyze how different epistemological positions shape research questions, methods, and interpretations, with attention to decolonizing methodologies and indigenous ways of knowing.
Secondary Data Analysis
Develops skills in utilizing existing datasets for social work research. Students learn to navigate major databases like the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-being (NSCAW) and the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), manage complex data structures, and address methodological challenges in secondary analysis.
Intervention Research Methods
Focuses on designing and testing social work interventions using experimental and quasi-experimental designs. Topics include treatment fidelity, implementation science, adaptation of evidence-based practices, and strategies for community engagement in intervention development.
The Dissertation Process: From Proposal to Defense
The dissertation represents the culmination of your doctoral education, demonstrating your ability to conduct independent, original research that contributes to social work knowledge. Understanding the process helps you navigate this significant undertaking successfully.
Comprehensive Examinations
Before beginning dissertation work, most programs require passing comprehensive exams that assess mastery of:
- Social work theory and historical development
- Research methodology and statistics
- Your specialized area of study
- Ability to synthesize and critically analyze literature
Preparation typically involves 3-6 months of intensive study, often with peer study groups and faculty guidance. Formats vary but commonly include:
- Written exams over several days (in-person or take-home)
- Oral defense of written responses
- Publishable paper option at some institutions
Dissertation Development Timeline
| Phase | Timeline | Key Activities | Milestones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Topic Development | Months 1-3 | Literature review, identifying gaps, consulting with chair | Approved topic and preliminary research questions |
| Proposal Writing | Months 4-9 | Developing methodology, IRB preparation, committee formation | Proposal defense and approval |
| Data Collection | Months 10-15 | Recruitment, interviews/surveys, data management | Dataset complete and cleaned |
| Analysis & Writing | Months 16-21 | Data analysis, drafting chapters, committee feedback | Complete draft approved by chair |
| Defense Preparation | Months 22-24 | Revisions, defense presentation, publication planning | Successful defense and graduation |
Alternative Dissertation Formats
Many programs now offer alternatives to the traditional five-chapter dissertation:
Three-Article Dissertation: Comprises three publishable manuscripts addressing related research questions. This format accelerates publication and may better prepare you for academic careers where publication is essential.
Mixed Methods Dissertation: Integrates quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide comprehensive understanding of complex social problems.
Community-Engaged Dissertation: Developed in partnership with community organizations, emphasizing participatory methods and practical applications.
Career Paths & Salary Expectations
A PhD in Social Work opens diverse career pathways across academia, research, policy, and administration. Understanding the job market and salary expectations helps you make informed decisions about your doctoral investment and career planning.
Academic Careers
Tenure-Track Professor
The traditional academic path remains the primary career goal for many PhD graduates. Positions range from Assistant to Full Professor at research universities, liberal arts colleges, and regional institutions. Responsibilities typically include:
- Teaching 2-4 courses per semester
- Conducting independent research and publishing
- Securing external grant funding
- Advising graduate students
- Service to the institution and profession
According to the American Association of University Professors (AAUP), 2024 salary ranges for social work faculty are:
- Assistant Professor: $65,000-$85,000
- Associate Professor: $75,000-$100,000
- Full Professor: $95,000-$140,000+
Research and Policy Positions
Research Scientist/Senior Researcher
Think tanks, research institutes, and government agencies employ PhD social workers to lead research projects, evaluate programs, and inform policy development. Organizations like RAND Corporation, Urban Institute, and Mathematica Policy Research offer competitive salaries ranging from $85,000-$130,000.
Policy Analyst/Senior Policy Advisor
Federal agencies including the Administration for Children and Families, National Institutes of Health, and Centers for Disease Control employ doctoral-prepared social workers to shape national policy. GS-13 to GS-15 positions offer salaries from $96,000-$172,000 depending on location and experience.
Leadership and Administration
Executive Director/CEO
Nonprofit organizations increasingly seek leaders with doctoral credentials to manage complex operations, secure funding, and demonstrate organizational credibility. Salaries vary widely based on organization size but typically range from $75,000-$150,000+.
Hospital/Healthcare Administration
Healthcare systems employ PhD social workers as Directors of Social Services, Vice Presidents of Patient Services, or Chief Experience Officers. According to 2024 BLS data, healthcare social work administrators earn median salaries of $95,390-$112,740, with top earners exceeding $150,000.
Consulting and Private Practice
Many PhD graduates develop consulting practices offering:
- Program evaluation services
- Training and professional development
- Expert witness testimony
- Organizational development consultation
- Grant writing and research design
Consulting rates vary significantly based on expertise, location, and service type. Annual earnings depend on client base and time commitment.
Funding Your PhD: Financial Strategies and Resources
Doctoral education represents a significant financial investment, but numerous funding opportunities can make it accessible. Understanding available resources and developing a comprehensive funding strategy is essential for minimizing debt while pursuing your academic goals.
Institutional Funding
Graduate Assistantships
Most full-time programs offer assistantships providing:
- Tuition remission (partial or full)
- Monthly stipend ($1,500-$3,000)
- Health insurance coverage
- Valuable teaching or research experience
Types include Teaching Assistantships (TA), Research Assistantships (RA), and Administrative Assistantships, typically requiring 15-20 hours of work per week.
University Fellowships
Competitive fellowships offer funding without work requirements, allowing focus on coursework and research. Examples include:
- Diversity fellowships for underrepresented students
- Presidential or Chancellor’s fellowships for top applicants
- Dissertation completion fellowships for final-year students
External Funding Sources
| Funding Source | Amount | Eligibility | Application Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSWE Minority Fellowship Program | $30,000/year for 3 years | Underrepresented minority students | February deadline |
| Ruth L. Kirschstein NRSA (F31) | Stipend + tuition/fees | Dissertation research in health-related fields | April, August, December |
| NASW Foundation Fellowships | $15,000-$20,000 | NASW members pursuing doctoral degrees | May deadline |
| Ford Foundation Fellowship | $24,000/year for 3 years | Commitment to diversity and social justice | December deadline |
| Fahs-Beck Dissertation Grant | Up to $5,000 | Dissertation research on children and families | April deadline |
Alternative Funding Strategies
Employer Tuition Assistance: Many universities, healthcare systems, and government agencies offer tuition benefits for employees pursuing doctoral degrees. Some provide full tuition remission, while others offer $5,000-$10,000 annually.
Part-Time Study While Working: Online and hybrid programs enable continued employment while pursuing the degree. Though extending completion time, this approach maintains income and potentially reduces loan dependence.
Loan Forgiveness Programs: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) can forgive federal loans after 120 qualifying payments while working for eligible employers, including most universities and nonprofit organizations.
Success Strategies & Realistic Timeline Planning
Doctoral success requires more than academic ability; it demands strategic planning, resilience, and effective self-management. Understanding common challenges and proven strategies helps you navigate the journey successfully.
Time Management and Productivity
The Reality of Doctoral Timelines:
- Average time to degree: 5.5 years full-time, 7-8 years part-time
- Attrition rate: Approximately 40-50% of doctoral students don’t complete
- Key risk periods: Comprehensive exams and dissertation phase
Productivity Strategies:
- Daily Writing Practice: Commit to writing 250-500 words daily, even during coursework
- Time Blocking: Schedule dedicated research/writing time and protect it fiercely
- Pomodoro Technique: Work in focused 25-minute intervals with short breaks
- Project Management Tools: Use Trello, Notion, or Asana to track dissertation progress
Building Your Academic Profile
Begin establishing your scholarly identity early:
Year 1-2:
- Join professional organizations (SSWR, CSWE, specialized groups)
- Attend and present at regional conferences
- Collaborate on faculty research projects
- Start building your Google Scholar profile
Year 3-4:
- Submit manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals
- Present at national conferences
- Apply for small research grants
- Develop teaching portfolio
Year 5+:
- Lead authorship on multiple publications
- Network for postdoctoral or faculty positions
- Develop job talk from dissertation research
- Build relationships with potential references
Maintaining Work-Life Balance
Doctoral studies can be all-consuming, but maintaining balance is essential for long-term success:
- Set Boundaries: Establish clear work hours and communicate them to advisors and peers
- Prioritize Self-Care: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and mental health support are investments in your productivity
- Build Community: Connect with doctoral peers for mutual support and accountability
- Maintain Outside Interests: Preserve hobbies and relationships that provide perspective and joy
Detailed Reviews of Top Online PhD Programs
Our Lady of the Lake University – PhD in Social Work
Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) offers a distinctive online PhD program designed specifically for those interested in teaching at minority-serving institutions and conducting culturally responsive research. With over 75 years of social work education history as Texas’s first school of social work, OLLU brings deep expertise to doctoral education.
Program Structure: The 54-credit program follows a cohort model where students begin together each summer and progress through coursework as a supportive learning community. The blend of synchronous (live online) and asynchronous (self-paced) delivery provides flexibility while maintaining engagement. The required one-week summer residency on the San Antonio campus allows for intensive learning and relationship building.
Unique Strengths:
- Specialized focus on pedagogy for diverse student populations, preparing graduates for the realities of teaching at Hispanic-Serving Institutions and HBCUs
- Three-article dissertation format that accelerates publication and practical application
- Strong emphasis on translational research that bridges the gap between academia and practice
- Supportive cohort model that reduces isolation common in doctoral programs
Admission Requirements: OLLU seeks candidates with an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program, minimum two years of post-MSW practice experience (preferably with advanced clinical licensure), and a demonstrated commitment to serving diverse populations. The program admits one cohort annually with applications due in early spring.
Baylor University – PhD in Social Work
Baylor University’s online PhD program stands out for its integration of faith and social work scholarship within a rigorous research framework. As a nationally ranked research institution, Baylor provides exceptional resources while maintaining intimate cohort sizes of just 5-7 students.
Program Philosophy: The program uniquely explores the intersection of religious faith, ethics, and social work practice. This doesn’t require personal faith commitment but rather scholarly interest in how spirituality and religion influence social work practice and client outcomes. The curriculum examines diverse faith traditions and their implications for culturally competent practice.
Notable Courses:
- Religious and Cultural Diversity: Explores world traditions and their intersection with social work values
- Social Policy and the Religious Sector: Examines faith-based organizations’ role in social welfare
- Higher Education Teaching and Learning: Comprehensive preparation for academic careers
Selective Admissions: Baylor’s highly competitive admissions process (accepting cohorts only in odd-numbered years) seeks exceptional scholars with clear research trajectories. All applicants must pass a statistics competency exam regardless of prior coursework, demonstrating the program’s research rigor.
Walden University – PhD in Social Work
Walden University offers the most flexible online PhD option with multiple start dates annually and eight specialization tracks. This structure serves working professionals who need maximum flexibility while pursuing doctoral education.
Specialization Options:
- Addictions: Substance use disorders, treatment modalities, and recovery research
- Clinical Expertise: Advanced clinical practice, supervision, and intervention development
- Criminal Justice: Intersection of social work and justice systems
- Disaster, Crisis, and Intervention: Emergency response and trauma-informed approaches
- Family Studies and Interventions: Family systems and evidence-based family treatments
- Medical Social Work: Healthcare delivery, patient advocacy, and integrated care
- Policy Practice: Policy analysis, advocacy, and legislative processes
- Social Work Administration: Leadership, management, and organizational development
Transfer Credit Advantage: Walden allows transfer of up to 20 credits from previous doctoral coursework, potentially reducing time to degree and costs. The eight-year completion window accommodates life circumstances that might interrupt studies.
University of Utah – Distance Delivered PhD
The University of Utah’s newest distance-delivered PhD program launched in 2021, offering a unique hybrid model where online students participate synchronously with on-campus peers. This integration provides the full research university experience remotely.
Research Emphasis: As a Carnegie R1 institution, Utah provides exceptional research infrastructure including:
- Access to major research centers and institutes
- Opportunities to join funded research projects
- Strong emphasis on quantitative methods and secondary data analysis
- Connection to health sciences campus for interdisciplinary collaboration
Innovative Curriculum Highlights:
- Systematic Reviews: Training in meta-analysis and evidence synthesis
- Secondary Data Analysis: Skills for utilizing national datasets
- Scholarly Writing: Understanding academic publishing from editorial to economic perspectives
On-Campus Intensives: The requirement to be on campus for the first week of each semester (Years 1-2) creates community and allows for intensive learning experiences, research presentations, and networking with faculty and peers.
Florida State University – Online PhD Option
Florida State University recently expanded its highly regarded PhD program to include online options, maintaining the same rigorous standards as the residential program while accommodating distance learners.
Research Strengths:
- Institute for Social Work Research with multiple funded projects
- Strong emphasis on intervention research and evidence-based practice development
- Collaboration opportunities with the College of Medicine and Public Health
- Access to Florida’s extensive administrative data for research
Financial Advantages: FSU offers some of the most affordable doctoral education, especially for Florida residents. The program provides numerous assistantship opportunities even for online students, including remote research assistantships on faculty grants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a PhD and DSW in terms of job prospects?
PhD graduates typically pursue tenure-track faculty positions at research universities, research scientist roles, or policy positions requiring methodological expertise. The PhD is generally required for university positions emphasizing research and traditional academic scholarship. DSW graduates often work as clinical faculty, administrators, or maintain advanced practice while teaching part-time. Some universities now accept DSW holders for clinical faculty positions, though tenure-track positions usually require the PhD.
Can I work full-time while pursuing an online PhD?
While possible, working full-time significantly extends completion time and increases attrition risk. Most successful part-time students reduce work to 30 hours or less during coursework and take leave during dissertation completion. Online programs like Walden accommodate working professionals with asynchronous formats, but synchronous programs like Baylor and OLLU require evening availability. Consider negotiating reduced hours, sabbatical options, or transitioning to part-time work during critical phases like comprehensive exams and dissertation writing.
What GPA and GRE scores do I need for admission?
Most programs require a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA and 3.5 graduate GPA, though competitive applicants often exceed these minimums. Regarding the GRE, there’s been a significant shift: University of Utah, Baylor, and many other programs no longer require GRE scores, recognizing that standardized tests don’t predict doctoral success. Programs still requiring the GRE typically look for scores above the 50th percentile, but excellent research experience, strong writing samples, and clear research interests can offset moderate test scores.
How do online PhD programs compare to traditional on-campus programs?
Quality online programs from accredited universities provide equivalent rigor and outcomes to on-campus programs. The key differences lie in delivery method and networking opportunities rather than academic quality. Online programs often attract more experienced practitioners and offer greater geographic diversity in perspectives. However, on-campus programs may provide more immediate access to research opportunities, face-to-face mentoring, and spontaneous intellectual exchange. Choose based on your learning style, life circumstances, and career goals rather than presumed quality differences.
What funding opportunities exist for online doctoral students?
Online students have fewer funding options than on-campus students since traditional assistantships require campus presence. However, opportunities include: employer tuition assistance (many universities and healthcare organizations offer $5,000-$10,000 annually), federal financial aid including loans and some grants, external fellowships (CSWE Minority Fellowship, NASW Foundation), dissertation grants (Fahs-Beck, SSWR), and some universities offer remote research assistantships. Develop a diversified funding strategy combining multiple sources.
Is CSWE accreditation important for PhD programs?
Unlike BSW and MSW programs, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) doesn’t currently accredit PhD programs. CSWE began a pilot accreditation program for practice doctorates (DSW) in 2020, but PhD programs remain outside this scope. Instead, evaluate PhD programs based on university accreditation, faculty research productivity, graduate placement rates, and resources available. The university’s overall reputation and the social work program’s standing matter more than specific social work accreditation at the doctoral level.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Social Workers, All Other reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2025.
