Yes, applicants without an MSW can apply to the PhD program. However, they must have a master’s degree in another field, and additional coursework may be required to establish foundational knowledge in social work. The admissions committee evaluates applications holistically based on academic background, research experience, and alignment with program goals. You can review the program’s requirements in the PhD Handbook 2024–2025.

PhD students earning the degree full time are offered funding with their admission decision, and therefore receive priority for graduate assistantships, which include tuition coverage, a stipend, and health insurance. MSW students do not have guaranteed funding. While there may be limited graduate assistantships or scholarships available for MSW students, the majority of MSW students finance their education through loans. Learn more about funding opportunities on the Funding webpage.

Applicants interested in the combined program must apply separately to both the MSW and PhD programs. Each program’s admissions committee will independently review the applications. Approximately 10% of applicants to the combined MSW/PhD program are admitted. Visit the PhD in Social Work webpage for more details.

The number of additional credits depends on your academic plan, which is developed in collaboration with the PhD program director. Sample academic plans are available on page 11 of the PhD Handbook 2024–2025.

Graduates of the PhD program often pursue academic careers as faculty members, as well as research, policy, and leadership roles in social work and related fields. The program emphasizes preparation for roles in both academia and research-intensive settings.

Yes, academic references are strongly recommended as they can best speak to your research skills and ability to succeed in a rigorous PhD program. If you have been out of academia for an extended time, professional references may be considered, but academic references are strongly preferred. More information can be found here.

Yes, applicants who have completed a degree at a U.S. institution are typically exempt from English proficiency test requirements. For more information, visit the English Proficiency Requirements page.

Yes, the University of Iowa provides application fee waivers for eligible students, including those facing financial constraints. You can find information about eligibility and the application process on the Graduate Admissions Fee Waiver page.

However, it is important to note that the School of Social Work does not have funding for international application fee waivers. International applicants are encouraged to check the university’s general fee waiver policies for potential options.

PhD students are typically funded in graduate assistantships in teaching and/or research. These positions provide tuition coverage, a stipend, and health insurance. Details about funding can be found on the PhD funding section.

Applicants must have a master’s degree (MSW or a related field), experience in social work or a related area, and foundational knowledge in research and statistics. An introductory statistics course is required of admitted students before beginning the program.

The PhD program typically takes four to five years to complete. The exact duration may vary depending on your academic background, research focus, and dissertation timeline.

Introductory statistics is a prerequisite for beginning the PhD program. Other courses may be required if you lack an MSW or foundational social work knowledge. Refer to the PhD Handbook 2024–2025 for details.

Yes, PhD students are required to take interdisciplinary courses that align with their research interests. Examples include courses in public health, sociology, and education.

Students in our program are go-getters and self-starters who are encouraged to build the fortitude to investigate and use their resources to find answers to their questions. Learning how to navigate complex systems is an essential skill in social work and research. We encourage students to apply these skills not only to their own research but also to programmatic questions and challenges.

Yes, we encourage prospective applicants to schedule a meeting with the PhD program director or faculty to discuss the program, funding opportunities, and job prospects after graduation. Contact the School of Social Work at ssw-admissions@uiowa.edu with your questions and we will direct you to the right place / person for more information.

The PhD Handbook 2024–2025 is available on the School of Social Work’s PhD program webpage and provides detailed information about program requirements, policies, and sample plans of study.

The University of Iowa’s PhD in Social Work program offers a highly interdisciplinary approach that encourages students to develop individualized academic plans tailored to their research interests. Students have access to:

• A collaborative academic environment with small class sizes.
• Opportunities to work closely with faculty on cutting-edge research projects.
• Interdisciplinary course options across departments like Public Health, Sociology, and Psychology.
• Strong mentorship that supports students in developing skills for careers in academia, policy, or research.

Additionally, the program places a strong emphasis on fostering independence, critical thinking, and the ability to navigate complex systems and social problems through rigorous investigation—essential skills for social work scholars and researchers.

The School of Social Work prides itself on a supportive academic community. Formal support includes:

• Mentorship from faculty advisors who guide students in their research and career development.
• Writing and research workshops to enhance academic skills.
• Access to campus resources like the Graduate College’s professional development programs.
• Financial support to attend conferences.

Informal support networks include:

• Peer mentorship among PhD students.
• Social gatherings and networking events organized by the department.
• Access to university-wide student groups and graduate student belonging initiatives.

These resources foster both academic and personal growth, ensuring students feel supported throughout their time in the program.

Recent alumni of the PhD program have gone on to hold positions in academia, research institutions, and leadership roles in social work policy and practice. Examples include:

• Faculty positions at universities across the United States.
• Leadership roles in nonprofit organizations and government agencies.
• Research positions in think tanks and policy organizations.

The School of Social Work’s alumni network is expansive, and many graduates maintain strong ties with the program, offering guidance and opportunities to current students.