Curriculum

As someone interested in the field of social work, you are dedicated to generating change that positively impacts individuals, families, and communities. The doctoral program in Social Work prepares you to contribute to positive change through translational research and scholarship. Our curriculum is organized on the translational science model, which is designed to move primary research results into application and dissemination to the practice community. Research is done in in real settings in the field including schools, mental health centers, prisons, community centers, and hospitals.

Translational research is broad and includes research at various stages in the process of moving research results into practice, including:  a) basic research on etiology, prevalence, and demographics of problems in communities and populations; b) designing interventions based on theories of change; c) research in efficacy and effectiveness of interventions; and d) research in the implementation, dissemination and utilization of evidence-informed interventions. The doctoral program is designed to help prepare you to understand and conduct research at any of these stages.

In order to determine and use the methods most suited to your research questions, the doctoral program also prepares you with a strong foundation in a wide range of research methods - quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods.

Developing your own area of expertise is also a critical part of your doctoral education. So, in the doctoral program, you will create a specialization - a unique and purposeful combination of courses from across campus - to inform your research and scholarship.

Guiding you through your journey to becoming and independent researcher and scholar are faculty members. Social Work faculty members have expertise in a variety of areas including: aging, health, mental health, substance abuse, corrections, juvenile justice, youth development, child welfare, international issues and human trafficking. For more details, visit the faculty profiles and research office.

Degree Requirements
Doctoral Courses 
Curriculum Timeline