PhD in Social Work (Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work)
PhD In Social Work About
PhD Social Work is a 2-3 year doctorate course in Social Work. This course is specially designed for professionals for advancement in their profession and in their careers. This is a research-based course where the candidates usually work in a specific area. They conduct their own research on the problems residing in our society.
The course usually covers topics like Quantitative Scientific Methods, Survey of Research Methods in Social & Behavioral Science, Integrating Public Policy Issues, Outcomes into Social Work Research, Doctoral Teaching Practicum, and Dissertation direction. Candidates opting for the course should have a passion for research and aspire to present at conferences or publish their findings in respected journals
The duration of the program varies depending on the institution. The minimum duration is 2-3 years from the date of registration and the maximum is 5-6 years. The minimum eligibility is a master’s degree in Social Work from a recognized college or university or its equivalent exam.
PhD Social Work admissions are done based on the candidate's performance in a relevant entrance test, followed by a round of counseling. Institutes also offer direct admission to candidates who have work experience of 5 minimum years in the field of social work. The average tuition fee charged for PhD Social Work programs in India ranges between INR 1,000 to INR 2,00,000.
One can also pursue a PhD through distance learning programs. Institutes like Madras School of Social Work, IGNOU, etc offer distance learning in PhD Social Work. IGNOU is especially known for distance learning education only and also stands best in this field.
Distance Learning PhD meets the needs of students who are unable to attend on-campus classes. However, they have less value as compared to a Full-time PhD. The course fees for distance education range from INR 16,000 to INR 60,000.
Such postgraduates can work as Lecturers/professors, Social and Community Service managers, School, and Career counsellors, Social and Human Service Assistants, etc. The average salary of the candidates in this field is around INR 4,50,000 per annum.
PhD In Social Work Highlights
| Course Level | Doctorate Degree |
| Duration of the Course | 3-6 years |
| Examination Type | Semester |
| Eligibility Criteria | Master's Degree / M.Phil in a related subject |
| Admission Process | Entrance exam and personal interview |
| Average Course Fee | Notified Soon |
| Average Starting Salary | INR 2 lacs to 8 lacs |
| Top Job Areas | Educational Institutes, Human Services Industry, Publishing Houses, Newspapers, Magazines, etc. |
| Top Job Positions | Lecturer & Professor, Social and Community Service Manager, Schoo,l and Career Counsellor, etc. |
Entrance Exam for PhD In Social Work
UGC NET
TISS RAT
Loyola College PhD Entrance Test
Christ University PhD Entrance Exam
Admission Process for PhD In Social Work
Merit-Based Admission
Colleges like the University of Madras, Madras School of Social Work, etc. conduct admission based on merit i.e, the marks scored in the master’s degree programs.
Also as per the UGC Regulations 2016, those who have qualified UGC-NET / UGC-CSIR NET/ SLET / GATE/teacher fellowship holder (KSET, SET, etc.) or have passed the M.Phil Programme shall be exempted from the Entrance Examination. These candidates should take only a Research Skill Assessment Test along with their Interview.
Entrance Based Admission
Some of the top institutes like TISS Mumbai, Delhi University, Loyola College, and Christ University offer admission on the basis of Entrance Tests. The exams are usually conducted at the university level or they select based on State/ National Level Entrance Exams. Here are the steps of the admission process through entrances.
Step 1: The candidates will have to apply for the entrance exam by filling up the application form, uploading the documents, and paying the application fees.
Step 2: The candidates can download the admit card and sit in the entrance exam.
Step 3: The results will be declared and the institutes accepting the particular exam will release their cut-off list.
Step 4: Candidates who cleared the cut-off, can apply to the institutes.
Step 5: The institute will call the candidate for a personal interview.
Step 6: Candidates who were able to clear the interview, can enroll after document verification.
Eligibility Criteria for PhD In Social Work
The candidates taking admission in PhD Social Work should fulfill the minimum eligibility criteria, that include:
A Master’s degree in Social Work is required to gain admission to a doctoral program. In some subjects, doing a Masters in Philosophy (M.Phil.) is a prerequisite to start PhD
M.Phil students will also be exempted from the entrance exams.
For some prestigious Universities, a candidate is required to qualify the all India level examination such as ‘National Eligibility Test for Lectureship (NET) conducted by University Grants Commission.
Duration of PhD In Social Work
| The duration of a PhD program in Social Work typically ranges from 3-5 years, although this can vary depending on the program and the student's research progress. Some programs may offer part-time or flexible scheduling options. |
Selection Criteria for PhD In Social Work
Admission decisions for PhD programs in Social Work are based on a combination of factors, including academic record, research experience, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and interview performance.
Programs may also consider diversity and inclusion factors, such as prior experience working with diverse populations or a commitment to social justice.
PhD In Social Work How to Apply
Applicants typically apply to PhD programs in Social Work through the program's online application portal, which may include submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, GRE scores, and a writing sample.
Some programs may also require an interview with program faculty. It is important to carefully review the application requirements and deadlines for each program before applying.
PhD In Social Work Application Form
The application form for a PhD program in Social Work is typically available on the program's website.
The application will require personal information, academic history, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, GRE scores (if required), and a writing sample.
PhD In Social Work Application Process
The application process for a PhD program in Social Work typically involves several steps, including completing the application form, submitting transcripts, test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a writing sample. Some programs may require an interview with program faculty as part of the application process.
PhD In Social Work Fee Structure
| The application fee for a PhD program in Social Work varies depending on the program and institution. The fee typically ranges from Notified Soon. |
Syllabus of PhD In Social Work
- Foundations of Social Work Research
- Advanced Social Work Theory and Practice
- Quantitative Research Methods in Social Work
- Qualitative Research Methods in Social Work
- Advanced Topics in Social Policy
- Advanced Social Work Practice
- Program Evaluation in Social Work
- Seminar in Social Work Research
- Elective Course
- Proposal Writing and Grantsmanship
- Dissertation Research
Job Scope After PhD In Social Work
| Job Position | Job Description | |
| Social and Community Service Managers | Social and community service managers are responsible to coordinate and organize social service programs and community organizations. They are in charge of managing staff that provides social services to the public. | |
| School and Career Counsellors | School counselors are responsible to help candidates develop social and academic skills and succeed in school. Career counselors take responsibility to assist people with the method of making career decisions by helping them grow skills or choose a career or educational program. | |
| Social and Human Service Assistants | Social and human service assistants are responsible for providing client services, including support for families, in a wide variety of fields, such as rehabilitation, psychology, and social work. They are in charge of assisting other workers, likewise social workers, and they empower clients to find benefits or community services. | |
| Health Educators and Community Health Workers | Health educators are in charge of teaching people about behaviors that promote health. They are responsible to develop and implement strategies to enhance the health of peoples and communities. Community health workers are responsible to collect information and discuss health problems with members of specific populations or communities. | |
| Researchers | Researchers are in charge of conducting research in government or private organizations or in institutes, universities or college departments. |
Career Opportunities after PhD In Social Work
A PhD in Social Work can lead to a variety of career opportunities, including:
| Professor or researcher in social work education |
| Researchers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private industry |
| Director or administrator of social welfare programs |
| Policy analyst or consultant for social welfare programs |
| Social justice advocate or activist |
PhD In Social Work Top Colleges
- University of Michigan
- University of Chicago
- Columbia University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Washington
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Boston College
- New York University
Admission Process for PhD In Social Work
- Application for the entrance exam
- Result declaration
- Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
- Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
- Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
- Course work examination
- Result declaration of coursework
- Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
- Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
- A registration letter shall be issued
- Research work started by scholar
- 6 progress reports shall be submitted
- Soft copy thesis submit
- plagiarism report check by the university
- Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
- After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
- After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be submitted
- Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.
Document Required for PhD In Social Work
- Documents (10th onwards)
- Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
- Migration Certificate (Original)
- NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
- Affidavit (undertaking)
- Guide Willing
- Assignments
- Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
- Library No Dues
- Lab Letter
- Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
- No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
- Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
- C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
- Conference Certificate - 2
- Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
- summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies
- Plagiarism Report Below 10%
FAQs About PhD In Social Work
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participating in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SOCIAL WORK (PHD IN SOCIAL WORK)
Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work (PhD in Social Work) is a 3 Years Doctorate Degree Courses program that focuses on Doctor of Philosophy. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare students for a career in Doctor of Philosophy.
Syllabus & Subjects
Quick Links
Get Course Details
Fill the form to receive complete course information