Ph.D. in Social Work Plans of Study

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Fordham University's GSS is committed to preparing the next generation of social workers to be a leader of change. Our Ph.D. program offers unique opportunities for you to collaborate with faculty in research, training, and educational projects while earning your Ph.D. in Social Work.

The Ph.D. in Social Work program consists of 48 credits of coursework and a dissertation. Students can complete the program in four years. 

The program requires two years of coursework and approximately two years to complete the comprehensive examination requirement, along with the dissertation.  

The Importance of Representation

Doctoral graduate Vanessa Castellanos, Ph.D., is a first-generation Latina college student—and while coming up in higher education, she didn't see many professors who looked like her. Now, after graduating with her Ph.D. in Social Work, Castellanos has accepted an assistant professor position at California State University, Dominguez Hills. Her mission is to mentor students through the imposter syndrome that is exacerbated by new experiences, such as the college culture.