PhD in Social Work

The dual MSW/PhD degree program is offered to exemplary students seeking advanced research-based study in social work. Typically, the program attracts applicants without a master’s degree in social work or with a master’s degree in another field and prepares them for academic research and teaching careers.

Prospective students must meet both the MSW and PhD admission requirements to be considered for admission to the dual-degree program. Applicants must apply online for the MSW/PhD dual-degree program through the PhD application process completing Part 1 and Part 2, and submitting the required application materials. (Please use Post Code 1397 on the Graduate Admission Application.) Applicants do not need to submit a separate application through MSW admissions. The university must receive ALL application materials by the DECEMBER 1 deadline to be considered priority applications.

Once admitted and before the fall semester of their first year, students will develop an individualized study plan with their mentor to identify courses they plan to take in their first and second years. Students also will create a second plan with their mentor in the spring semester of their second year to identify courses and tutorials they will take in their third and fourth years. A total of 90 units is required for the dual degree (exclusive of SOWK 794 Doctoral Dissertation), but students who select the Mental Health concentration will be required to complete 93 units (45 MSW units and 48 PhD units). The program can be completed within four years.

Degree Requirements
42 units: MSW Program
48 units: PhD in Social Work Program

USC School of Social Work
PhD Program Office of Admission
669 W. 34th Street, Suite 214
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0411
213.821.7657
applyphdsw@usc.edu