More than ever, society is in need of advanced researchers who have a deep understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion and are equipped to shine a critical light on inequality and injustice. Our PhD in Social Work offers you an opportunity to develop a nuanced understanding of the social issues that matter to you.
We are looking for students who have had successful practice experience and who are also looking for more than just an additional professional degree. This program is ideal if you want to enhance your already strong critical and analytic abilities and develop your passion for social work research and study.
Research Focus
Our faculty members support a diverse range of research interests across all types of direct practice, public policy, international social work, disability, health and wellbeing, Indigenous issues, organizations and community development. The Faculty of Social Work’s research centres, programs and chairs include the Centre for Indigegogy, Walls to Bridges, the Lyle S. Hallman Chair in Child and Family Welfare, the Manulife Centre for Community Health Research and the Social Innovation Research Group.
Careers
Graduates of our program have pursued successful careers in higher education, teaching, government and the private sector.
Examples of jobs held by our graduates include:
Expected September 2025
Kitchener Campus
120 Duke Street West,
KITCHENER,
Ontario (ON),
N2H 3W8, Canada
Students must have the following:
A Master of Social Work (MSW) or equivalent with a minimum A- standing.
English Proficiency
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL):
TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 89, with minimum skill scores of 21 in each of the skills tests (speaking, writing, reading and listening).
Paper-based TOEFL: minimum of 573.
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS): minimum score of 7.
Pearson Test of English (PTE): minimum score of 60.
The Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Assessment: minimum score of 70.