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Ph.D.: Program Curriculum

Curriculum
Timetable
Credit/No Credit Courses
Qualifying Exam
Admission for Candidacy

Students who devote themselves full-time to the doctoral program should be able to complete all class requirements and the qualifying examinations within two academic years. Initial work on the dissertation research proposal usually begins by the end of the second year, but students are encouraged to consider their topic as early as possible. Subsequent semesters are devoted to dissertation research, followed by a final oral examination in defense of the dissertation.

The course load as described in the Curriculum outline below is a normal course load for any student who plans to complete all candidacy requirements within two academic years. Students must complete the requirements for candidacy within six years in accordance with University policy. The course load as described in the curriculum outline may vary, particularly when students are serving as teaching assistants or research assistants while enrolled as full-time students.

Typical Program of Work for Full-time Ph.D. Program (Fall 2008 Entry)

First Year - Fall

Theories and Social Work
Data Analysis and Computers I
Research I
Colloquium on Social Work Education and Research

First Year - Spring

Theory Specialization (Direct Practice, Administration, or Policy)
Data Analysis and Computers II
Research II: Quantitative Research Methods
Colloquium on Social Work Education and Research

First Year - Summer

Research Practicum

Second Year - Fall

Research III: Qualitative Research Methods
Elective
Elective
Colloquium on Social Work Education and Research

Second Year - Spring

Pedagogy in Social Work
Elective
Elective
Colloquium on social Work Education and Research

Second Year - Summer

Area of Specialization

Third Year - Fall and Spring

Dissertation