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PhD - Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work

Canada

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What will I learn?

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:

  • University professors at University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, York University, Ryerson University and many other domestic and international universities and colleges.
  • Senior policy roles with the federal and provincial governments and non-profit organizations.
  • Private clinical practice.
  • Research roles in government, non-profit organizations and industry.

Which department am I in?

Faculty of Social Work

Study options

Full Time (8 terms)

Tuition fees
CAD$20,655.00 (US$ 14,843) per year
CAN $6,885 per term
Start date

Expected September 2025

Venue

Kitchener Campus

120 Duke Street West,

KITCHENER,

Ontario (ON),

N2H 3W8, Canada

Entry requirements

For international students

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.

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