PhD Program FAQs

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about Columbia School of Social Work's doctoral program. 

 

To be eligible for the CSSW Doctoral Program, an applicant must have:

  • A master’s degree in Social Work or a related discipline.
     
  • Excellent undergraduate and graduate academic records.
     
  • Demonstrated competence to undertake independent research.
     
  • For those applying to the Advanced Practice method, a minimum of two years of post-Masters direct practice experience is preferred.

Successful completion of the Doctoral Program requires approximately two years of full-time coursework followed by more concentrated work on an original, scholarly dissertation that contributes to and advances knowledge in the field of Social Work.

Before proceeding to the dissertation, doctoral students must pass a comprehensive examination demonstrating mastery in integrating Social Science Theory and Research Methodology within the student’s chosen field of substantive interest.

The curriculum comprises two to three advanced Social Work method courses at CSSW as well as courses in Research Methodology, Statistics and the Social & Behavioral Sciences taken both in CSSW and at various graduate divisions of Columbia University.

While much of the program is highly individualized, all students will be enrolled in approximately two years of full-time course work plus time for tutorials, research projects, examinations, and dissertation work.

Also, all students conduct an intensive individualized research practicum, or a research assistantship, in conjunction with a current faculty research project.

For the complete descriptions of courses and program policies, go to Doctoral Program Resource Guide which offers Sample Student Schedules.

Around 25 students are enrolled in the Ph.D. program.

While the majority of students have a master’s in Social Work, many others have master’s degrees in related disciplines such as economics, education, psychology and public policy.

The majority of our graduates accept positions conducting research and/or teaching in universities and research institutions throughout the world.

Other graduates choose to join governmental organizations or think tanks that conduct relevant social policy research and analysis. A few opt to re-enter the social services field in an executive capacity.

Still Have Questions? Contact: 


Jessica Troiano, Director of Administration for the Doctoral Program
Dr. Qin Gao, Associate Dean for Doctoral Education