Do you have a part-time program?

Our program is considered a full-time graduate degree program. Each semester, for the first two years, students enroll in 9 credit hours, which is three courses. These courses may be offered on different days during the week, or may be clustered over two different days.

Can I work while I am in the program?

You may have outside employment while in the program. However, the expectation is that you will participate in the full course schedule and cover work hours outside the responsibilities of the doctoral program.

Do you offer financial aid?

Yes. If a student is accepted into our program, we offer full tuition and fee waivers for two years and the option to work as a graduate research assistant for twenty hours a week. The graduate research assistant position includes a monthly stipend for the academic year and student health insurance for the year.

Are courses offered in the evenings or weekend?

No. Our courses are small, with four to seven students in each section offered within the School of Social Work. All courses are offered during the day.

How long does it take to complete the PhD. Program?

The program typically takes 3 to 4 years, with the last year dedicated to dissertation research. While working on the dissertation, students have completed their course work and conduct their research under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

Do I need a MSW degree to enter the program?

Yes. The ASU PhD. Program is built upon the proficiencies acquired through completion of an accredited MSW Program.

Do I need post MSW practice experience?

No, you do not. However, currently most social work education programs prefer to hire new academics with practice experience. Also, current accreditation standards set forth by the Council on Social Work Education require that direct practice courses must be taught by someone with at least two years post masters experience.

Do I need to take the GRE for entrance into the program?

Yes, it is one of the application requirements.

Will I get classroom experience?

One of the goals of our program is to introduce students to teaching and the development of social work education. Students in their second year are assigned as teaching assistants. For students who are interested in teaching, we offer some opportunities to teach classes in their third and subsequent years. These opportunities are based on the availability of courses in the teaching schedule and doctoral student's areas of expertise.