Social Welfare, PhD

The PhD in Social Welfare program develops leaders in academia and research. We foster scholarly energy, collaboration, and creativity and offer a confluence of diverse philosophies and approaches to social work, social welfare research, social policy, social theory, and social justice.

View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.

Required Courses

A minimum of 20 course units are required.

Core Requirements
SOCW 6300Quantitative Reasoning/Social Statistics1
SOCW 66801
SOCW 8030Advanced History and Philosophy of Social Welfare1
SOCW 8110Social Theory1
SOCW 8520Social Welfare Research Methods1
SOCW 8550Advanced Social Welfare Research Methods1
SOCW 8610Advanced Policy Analysis Research Methods1
SOCW 8970Applied Linear Modeling1
Proseminar
SOCW 9010Proseminar (at least four semesters)2
Additional Courses 1
Transfer Credit
Up to 4 CU of transfer credit can be accepted4
Select one theory class1
Select five electives5
Total Course Units20
1

Up to four credit units of transfer credit from another graduate program will be accepted.


The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.