Graduate College of Social Work - Ph.D. Program

Program Objectives

The doctoral program seeks applicants with potential to:

1. contribute new research knowledge which will advance the profession's ability to respond effectively to social service needs of individuals, groups, families, and communities;
2. critically analyze the existing theoretical knowledge and value bases of contemporary social work practice;
3. understand the processes of theory construction and validation in the development of social work;
4. acquire advanced research competence to: (a) evaluate social work practice and the theories which undergird that practice; (b) critically evaluate interventions, outcomes, and effectiveness of services; (c) understand the policies which effect the delivery of social services; and (d) evaluate new and evolving needs and problems of individuals, families, groups, and communities in general, as well as special populations in need of social work services;
5. seek and synthesize relevant knowledge and approaches to theory-building in the behavioral and social sciences, the humanities, and other helping professions in order to enrich social work theory, knowledge, practice, education, and social work research;
6. understand the historical roots, philosophical value positions, and parameters of social policy that affect contemporary social work provide the context for social work practice;
7. understand and critically evaluate contemporary trends and issues in social welfare policy development;
8. understand how cultural diversity impacts social welfare policies, direct social services, complex organizations, and research;
9. understand the dynamics of complex organizations and how they affect the context in which social work services are administered; and
10. produce and disseminate knowledge in professional publications, lectures, and conference presentations.