Learn to solve critical problems or shape the next generation of social workers with coursework that combines the research, analysis, collaborative, and practical skills and knowledge you need.
PERSONALIZE YOUR PHD
Research what interests you and work toward your personal and professional goals by choosing one of three specializations.
LEARN FROM EXPERT FACULTY
Gain key insights from doctoral scholar-practitioners who are active in their field, preparing you to make an impact.
MOVE PAST ABD
If you have finished everything but your dissertation, our completion program can get you on track to finishing your PhD.
EASY APPLICATION
Walden has streamlined the online social work PhD program admissions process. When you’re ready to apply, you’ll pay no application fee—and you won’t have to write an essay.
TRANSFER CREDITS
You’ve invested your time. You’ve gained experience. Transferring credit can save you time and money on your PhD in Social Work program.
SAVE ON TUITION
As part of our commitment to reducing barriers to higher education, Walden offers many options to lower the cost of your PhD in social work online program.
Doctoral Experience
How will I learn?
YOUR DOCTORAL JOURNEY
The path to your doctorate won’t be easy, but Walden is here to provide support, resources, and encouragement at every stage of your journey.
DOCTORAL DEGREE COACH®
Map and track your doctoral program milestones, meet weekly targets, connect with faculty, and find support with this personalized digital resource.
ACADEMIC RESIDENCIES
Broaden your knowledge, engage with peers and faculty, and shape your professional identity during this valuable doctoral learning experience.
Tuition and Scholarships
We believe you can achieve your goals—and we are here to support you along your journey. Request information to learn more about scholarships and financial aid for those who apply and qualify.
Tuition Breakdown
If you’re looking for ways to manage the costs of your online PhD in public policy and administration degree, we’re here to help with partner and military savings, transfer credits, and grants.
Discover the possibilities with:
Tuition savings
Transfer credits
Grants
Program Savings
Program Savings
Receive up to a $5,000 grant when you start an eligible PhD program.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 63 quarter credits | $680 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $42,840^ | |
| Tuition-Dissertation | 20–130† quarter credits | $680 per quarter hour for dissertation credits | $13,600–$88,400* | |
| Program Fee | $185 per quarter | $1,850–$5,920* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies | $1,420 (virtual) $1,520 (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) | $5,680–$6,080 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.75-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $63,970 | $143,240*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 2.75-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 2.75-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
| Curriculum | Required Quarter Credits (min) | Required Quarter Credits (max) | Cost per Quarter Hour | Total (min) | Total (max) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 5 | 5 | $680 | $3,400 | $3,400 |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20 | 55 | $680 | $13,600 | $37,400 |
| Program Fee | $185 | $925 | $2,220 | ||
| Estimated Range: | 15-months | 36-months | |||
| $17,925 | $43,020 |
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic, such as tuition and fee increases; transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; writing, research, and editing skills; use of external data for the doctoral study/dissertation; and individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations, caregiving responsibilities, or health issues; leaves of absence; or other personal circumstances.
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Social Work Teacher
Teach courses in social work at the graduate level; conduct research.
Expected growth: 4%1
Estimated annual wage: $46,790–$96,6701
Social and Community Service Manager
Coordinate and supervise programs and organizations that support public well-being.
Expected growth: 8%2
Estimated annual wage: $48,880–$98,7402
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
2Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the PhD in Social Work program will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries. Wage estimates are based on the 10th–75th percentile.
Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of Walden’s online PhD in Social Work program, you will be prepared to:
Utilize current research, best practices, and theory to promote prevention and intervention strategies that address social problems and needs of social groups.
Employ various research and statistical tools to gather data used to address the etiology and dynamics of social problems and social needs.
Evaluate the role of research and evaluation in social work in improving social interventions and advancing theory development.
Critically evaluate the history of social work, its mission, and its core values.
Promote social change by collaborating with leaders, agencies, and universities to advocate for policies and programs that advance the economic and social well-being of culturally diverse clientele.
Assess the role of diversity in characterizing and shaping the human experience.
Apply ethical decision-making and practices in social work.
You Might Also Be Interested In
PhD in Social Work FAQ
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in the field of social work is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2023–2033.1 This growth is projected to include a variety of positions within a variety of industries. Those who graduate from an online social work PhD program often pursue careers in research and academia; however, there are many options available to professionals who obtain this degree, including:
- Postsecondary social work education
- Community and social services management
1Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
While both degree paths can help prepare you for a career devoted to making a difference in people’s lives, it’s helpful to look closer to determine which program better aligns with your interests and goals. If you’re looking to pursue a career in academia, a PhD in Social Work program allows you to focus on advancing your skills as a researcher and educator. If you would like to focus more on how research can be applied to social work programs and policies, as well as gain key leadership and management skills needed to improve your practice, a DSW program is the better choice. Put simply, a PhD can better prepare you to teach, whereas a DSW can prepare you to make an impact in the field.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has designated March as National Professional Social Work Month, a celebration that highlights the important contributions of social workers. Social work professionals make a meaningful impact on nearly every aspect of society as advocates for the vulnerable and underserved. Dr. Barbara Solomon, namesake of Walden University’s Barbara Solomon School of Social Work, exemplifies this tradition of service. A longtime Walden University board member and respected leader in the field, Dr. Solomon is recognized by the NASW as a Social Work Pioneer and is an inductee in the California Social Work Hall of Distinction. Walden is proud to count Dr. Solomon as a member of our community and celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of our social work students and alumni.
Furthering your education is often a good idea, but it’s important to find a degree program that aligns with your personal and professional goals. If you’re looking to pursue a social work career that centers on conducting research and/or teaching, then a PhD in Social Work is the best choice for you. Walden’s PhD program is designed to give you skills and knowledge that can be applied to a career in academia immediately, whether as a scholar, researcher, or university professor. Whether you want to work in the public or private sector, a PhD in Social Work from Walden can prepare you to make a difference wherever you go.
Completion time for this program varies by student, particularly related to how long it takes to write your dissertation. Students can finish this program in as little as two and a half years but have eight years to complete their degree should they need more time to finish their dissertation.
With a PhD in Social Work, individuals can pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, contribute to policy development and advocacy, or lead clinical and nonprofit organizations. These roles often involve teaching, conducting research, shaping public policy, or managing social service programs. The degree equips professionals with advanced skills in leadership, analysis, and evidence-based practice to drive systemic change and improve community well-being.
Yes, students with an MSW from a CWSE-accredited institution may apply to the PhD in Social Work program at Walden University.