What Are the Best Online PhD Social Work Programs in 2024?
As PhD students often balance numerous obligations, such as work or family, the demand for high-quality online social work PhD programs has grown significantly. However, with such a vast number of programs available, it can be challenging to narrow down the options. Our comprehensive listing of online programs eliminates the guesswork by presenting a complete list of accredited programs in one convenient location. By using our list, you can identify the features that are most important to you and sort through the options to determine which programs are the best match for your needs.
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of graduate students at the school taking at least one class online.
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for graduate students per academic year.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio: Schools with lower ratios ranked higher.
- Percentage of students admitted. More selective schools ranked higher.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Boston, Massachusetts
The social work PhD program from Simmons University is designed to teach professionals scientific research skills required to lead their own studies that add to professionals' understanding of the field. To facilitate this deep dive, the coursework covers research-related topics such as social and behavioral theory, survey research methods, quantitative science methods, and the philosophy of science. In addition, students are required to pass a comprehensive exam and complete a dissertation. To help boost student performance throughout the program, there's an emphasis on mentorship. As a result, every student is assigned a mentor who guides them every step of the way.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work
- Credits: 45
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $1,200/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: NECHE
2
Waco, Texas
Are you a social worker who wants to conduct original social work research? Would you prefer to rise up the ranks to lead a social work agency, or is it your aim to teach social work at the college level? Whatever your aspirations are, Baylor University's social work doctorate degree program is designed to help you hone your understanding of social work theory, policies, and research methods to land high-level positions in the field. This rigorous program is extremely selective, so applicants are required to have a master's degree in social work and pass a statistics examination administered by the school. Additionally, you'll be required to submit a personal statement that is 7 to 10 pages long, samples of scholarly writing, three letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Program Highlights:
Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work
- Credits: 60
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $2,285/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
What Can I Expect from an Online Social Work PhD Program?
Online social work PhD students can expect to fulfill the majority – if not all – of their program requirements through online coursework. This is because PhD programs concentrate on theoretical applications of social work concepts and are intended for individuals who have already completed their master’s degree and extensive fieldwork requirements. Designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, online PhDs in social work offer flexibility to accommodate for the busy lives of individuals with multiple responsibilities outside of school.
Are part-time online programs available for PhD social work degrees?
Yes, online part-time programs are an option for students who simply can’t fit the full-time program into their busy lives. The part-time option allows for taking fewer courses each semester or term, and also provides the opportunity for more time to complete the dissertation or capstone project. However, keep in mind that not all schools offer part-time curriculums. If this is something that interests you, be sure to check with the school to ensure part-time is a possibility.
Are there any on-campus requirements or can I earn my PhD completely online?
In many cases, there are limited on-campus requirements for PhD students. In many cases, students are expected to travel to the main campus to meet with their cohort for a few weekends or a week during each semester. During this time, they will receive hands-on training, classroom discussion and peer networking opportunities. These are often known as “intensives” or “residencies.”
What are some common courses I should expect to take for my social work PhD?
Though each program offers its own curriculum, the core concepts you’ll learn in the social work PhD program are the same. Here are some of the core courses you’ll encounter:
Do you still have to do a dissertation in online social work PhD programs?
While some schools may permit a capstone project, most require a dissertation as a culminating requirement for social work PhD programs. Additionally, some institutions may require a comprehensive final exam in conjunction with the dissertation or capstone. A motivated student can complete the dissertation within a year; however, it is typical for students with work and family obligations to take several years to finish this final step in their education.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online PhD in Social Work?
Full-time social work PhD students can anticipate spending a minimum of three years in the program. During the first year, students will concentrate on fundamental and theoretical concepts, while the second year delves into research methods and application of previously learned concepts. The third year is dedicated to the dissertation or capstone project. However, part-time students or individuals requiring additional time to complete their dissertation may experience a different timeline, which could take five years or more to complete.
Here’s an idea of what to expect for full-time students in the online PhD in social work program.
| Term | Course Examples |
|---|---|
| Year 1, Fall Semester | Social Work Seminar, Theory for Social Work Practice |
| Year 1, Spring Semester | Quantitative Research, Qualitative Research |
| Year 1, Summer Semester | Statistical Analysis, Religious and Cultural Diversity |
| Year 2, Fall Semester | Research Practicum, Measurement in Social Work |
| Year 2, Spring Semester | Advanced Qualitative Research, Religion and Ethics in Social Work |
| Year 2, Summer Semester | Leadership in Social Work, Electives |
| Year 3, All Semesters | Dissertation Seminar, Research Seminar |
What Are the Admissions Requirements for Online Social Work PhD Programs?
Each school has their own standards for admission, but some elements will always be universal, such as already holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree (which one depends upon the program) and completing certain prerequisite courses. Here are some other points that might be required for admission to the competitive online social work PhD programs.
Transcripts
Official transcripts from all schools attended are always required for entry into a PhD social work program, and the social work program is no exception.
Resume
Many programs are highly competitive, and they want to see that applicants have a certain amount of work experience. A detailed resume will help the admissions committee get a feel for how much experience you have and how serious you are about applying your PhD to the social work field.
Letters of recommendation
Many schools will require at least a few letters of recommendation from former professors, colleagues, supervisors, or others who are well-versed in your experience and education in the field of social work.
Active social work license
Most programs will require students to hold licensure as a social worker as well as prove that license is in good standing in their state.
GRE scores
Some schools require standardized test scores. These can be sent directly to the school after taking the test. In most cases, the results must be within five years of admission, or the test might need to be taken again.
Personal statement
This statement, also known as an essay or a writing sample, will often focus on what your intentions are when you earn the PhD, how you can put it to good use to help others, and what your inspirations are for entering the field.
How Much Does an Online PhD in Social Work Cost?
Pursuing a PhD program can represent a substantial investment of both time and money, and the social work PhD is no exception. Costs associated with these programs can vary significantly from one institution to another, and the amount of financial aid available may also differ. Before applying to any program, it is crucial to carefully examine all associated costs, including fees, to determine whether the overall expense is feasible for you. Here is an approximate range of what you can expect in terms of tuition for an online social work PhD program.
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baylor University | 60 | $1,785 | $107,100 |
| Institute of Clinical Social Work | See school website | $21,000 flat rate per year | $63,000 (based on flat-rate tuition for three years completion) |
| Walden University | 63 quarter credits plus 20-130 quarter credits for dissertation | $610 | $50,630 – $112,850 |
*Note: This data represents tuition costs only. Additional fees will likely apply. Check individual college websites for complete cost figures.
Are There Accredited Online Social Work PhD Programs?
There are many accredited online social work PhD programs to choose from. But it’s important to remember that while the Council on Social Work Education accredits bachelor’s and master’s level programs in social work, it does not accredit PhD programs. That’s why it’s so important to look to regional or national accreditation at the institutional level. Any school that holds this accreditation will offer a program that will be suitable for obtaining a respected, reputable PhD in social work.
What Can You Do with a PhD in Social Work?
A PhD in social work can open doors to a wide variety of positions, including those in research, teaching, administration and leadership. Social workers can go into healthcare, child and family services, substance abuse and mental health issues, postsecondary education and so much more. If you’re curious about the wide variety of things you can do with a degree in social work, including the PhD, check out our page on what you can do with a degree in social work.
