项目介绍

2022年9月27日

The Doctor of Philosophy in Social Welfare (PhD) Program will transform you into a scholar well-equipped to identify and solve social problems – both close to home and around the world. Grounded in innovation and academic rigor, the SP2 PhD allows you to explore diverse perspectives and approaches to social work, social welfare research, social policy, social theory, and social justice

Coursework provides students with core knowledge and skills as well as the opportunity to develop a specific expertise area. Papers and projects in core courses, combined with strategically selected electives, ensure a broad understanding of the field as well as deep study in the theoretical and empirical aspects of a specific area.

The typical curriculum of the program includes the first six core required courses – SWRK 8030, 8110, 8520, and 8550, and MSSP 6300 and 8970 or an approved equivalent sequence of statistics courses – completed in the first year. Students are next required to take SWRK 8610, SWRK 9680, and a theory course selected in conjunction with their advisor. The SWRK 9010 proseminar is required each semester until the dissertation proposal is successfully defended.

Students work with their academic advisors to develop an individualized plan for five electives. Graduate-level electives can be taken in any Penn department. At least one of these electives must be an advanced methods course, such as advanced statistical methods or qualitative research methodology.

Courses may be offered in varying order and year of program. Students are notified of such arrangements well in advance.