phd in social work salary canada

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Social Work (PhD)

Society needs researchers who have a deep understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion and who are prepared to address inequality and promote social justice.

Supported by world-class faculty , students undertake ground-breaking research that fosters social justice and promotes new understandings of social issues affecting individuals, families, organizations, and communities.

Program Highlights

• The country’s only Indigenized PhD in Social Work offering. Following a successful pilot in 2018, the program was implemented again in 2022.
• Small class sizes foster a strong sense of community among students and enable faculty to provide individual support and mentorship.
• 56% of students who graduated between 2016 and 2021 hold full-time faculty positions.
• For the 2023/24 academic year, 10 of our students were awarded external funding to support their research from either the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada or the Ontario Graduate Scholarship.
• One of our students was the recipient of the prestigious Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship.

Program Details

The PhD program includes two offerings: a general offering and Indigenous offering. Each offering involves the same program structure and milestones. Students complete seven required courses and one elective course, with an optional elective available. They then complete the comprehensive examination followed by the dissertation.

The Social Work PhD comprehensive examination is an important stepping-stone in students’ dissertation research. It provides students with the opportunity to develop deep knowledge of the theory and knowledge/research related to their area of interest, which both informs and frames their dissertation research.

General Offering

This offering reflects Western ways of knowing, though students are exposed to and encourage to consider Indigenous ways of knowing and research, decolonization, and critical methods in their research. This offering is open to both full-time and part-time students and is offered annually except with the second offering is implemented.

Indigenized Offering

This offering is situated in Indigenous knowledges and embraces Indigenous teaching methods, such as circle, ceremony, and land-based learning. This offering is designed for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. It is open to full-time students and is offered every 4-5 years.

This offering is a critical part of the Faculty of Social Work’s commitment to indigenization and decolonization and responds to recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. It also helps to respond to the growing demand for Indigenous scholars within higher education.

Courses are taught by Indigenous scholars from the Indigenous Field of Study (IFS). Course content privileges Indigenous scholarship and discourses relevant to Indigenous issues in practice, research and education. Indigegogy is a term that is employed by the IFS team to capture the Indigenous theories and practices that underpin the transformative Indigenous educational process. Indigegogy in each course is wholistic in design and flow from Indigenous ways of seeing, being, knowing, and doing. Course pedagogy involves the sharing circle in the presence of medicines, ceremony, and Elders, and land-based learning, when possible.

Graduates take their place in the circle of Indigenous knowledge, restoring and generating indigenous knowledge. Graduates understand "how" to gather knowledge, carve pathways, research, engage in Indigegogy, how to take their places within the academy or teaching and research positions and maintain their Indigeneity and Indigenist frameworks.

Field Learning Option

Students for whom field experience in a particular setting is necessary to advance their ability to conduct their research may request permission to enrol in the Field Learning Option. The student identifies the setting, negotiates the details of the role, and submits a written proposal for the Field Learning Option to the associate dean of the PhD program and the PhD committee for approval. If taken, the field learning option would fulfil an elective.

Program Structure

Full-time students are expected to complete their coursework within four terms and their comprehensive examination in two terms. They usually complete the program in 4-5 years.

Full-time students receive minimum guaranteed funding and are eligible to apply for Ontario Graduate Scholarships, SSHRC or CIHR doctoral awards.

Term One (Fall)

• SK790: Social Work Thought and Theory
• SK791: Epistemology and the Nature of Social Work Knowledge

Term Two (Winter)

• SK704: Applied Quantitative Research Methods
• SK805: Applied Qualitative Research Methods

Term Three (Spring)

• SK820: Doctoral Seminar 
• SK894: Writing for Publication 

Term Four (Fall)

• SK801: Advanced Qualitative Data Analysis 
• Required Elective 

Terms Five (Winter) and Six (Spring)

• SK893: Comprehensive Examination

Terms Seven to 12

• SK899: PhD Dissertation

Part-time students complete a maximum of two courses per term and expected to complete the comprehensive examination within four terms.

They follow the same curriculum as full-time students and are expected to complete courses in the terms the courses are offered to full-time students.

Following admission to the program, in collaboration with the associate dean of the PhD program, the student develops a plan for completing their courses.

Please note, part-time students are not eligible for the minimum guaranteed funding package or for Ontario Graduate Scholarships, SSHRC or CIHR doctoral awards.

Faculty Research

Our faculty members pursue a range of research interests across the micro-macro practice spectrum from the local to global contexts. They use various research methodologies, including critical, feminist, and Indigenous methods.

Our research centres, programs, and chairs include the Centre for Indigegogy , Manulife Centre for Community Health Research , the Social Innovation Research Group , Walls to Bridges , Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Global Adversity and Wellbeing, and the Lyle S. Hallman Chair in Child and Family Welfare.

Core Research Areas

Aligned with social work’s mission and values, faculty’s research addresses these core areas:

Community-Engaged Research for Inclusion

Faculty conduct research in partnership with marginalized and vulnerable communities and work toward social justice and social transformation. Faculty are deeply engaged with the community and engage is scholarship that is driven by community priorities, centres community voices, and advances social justice and inclusion.

Indigenous Scholarship and Decolonizing Relationships, Knowledges, and Practices

This area includes Indigenous scholarship by Indigenous faculty members as well as research and knowledge mobilization related to decolonizing practices and relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Common to these topics is strong recognition, respect and value placed on Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing, being and doing.

Adversity, Trauma, Wellbeing and Social Change

Faculty engage in research exploring the connections between various forms of adversity and, trauma, and wellbeing, with the goal of facilitating positive wellbeing, belonging, and inclusion. This work informs interventions at the micro and macro levels, including challenging systems of oppression that underpin various forms of adversity.

Gender and its Intersections

Faculty examine the ways gender and gendered experiences (i.e., expressions, identities, sexualities, and embodiment) are shaped by and intersect with factors such as racism, colonialism, patriarchy, cisgenderism, heterosexism, ableism, poverty, and religion. Faculty explore topics such as violence against women, criminal justice, immigration and refugee issues, disability, and 2SLGBTQ+ realities.

"The PhD program provided opportunities for me to build lifelong relationships with colleagues and friends. I am thankful for the care put into fostering these opportunities to connect and the mentors that helped guide my journey". 

Christine Mayor (PhD ’22)

Take the first step in your graduate education and apply to one of our graduate programs. Follow our three-step admission process — we’ll walk you through how to apply and prepare for your first day as a graduate student.

We are excited to share that the PhD in Social Work program has recently undergone a redesign process. The launch date for the next intake cycle has yet to be determined. Please stay tuned for the application dates schedule.

Attend a Virtual Information Session

Learn more about our program and register for one of our Virtual Information Sessions.  

Admission Requirements

• A Master of Social Work (MSW) or equivalent from a related discipline with a minimum A- standing.
• Three or more years of post-MSW practice experience, but other combinations of practice, education, and lived experience may be considered. We particularly value practice with diverse marginalized communities and populations.
• Strong critical and analytic abilities and a passion for intellectual and personal growth and research that fosters social justice, inclusion, and well-being.
• Potential and motivation to pursue independent research that reflects social work values.
• Please note, we do not require prospective students to pre-arrange an advisor as this is a process we believe best occurs when part of the program. However, feel free to contact faculty with whom you might want to work to discuss your research interests. In your application you are asked to identify faculty with whom you would like to work.

Application Checklist

Applications must be complete to be considered. The annual application deadline is usually mid-January. The application includes assessments from referees and a statement of intent, which includes a proposed research plan, therefore we recommend you start developing your application early. Applications are assessed by faculty serving on the PhD program committee. We reserve the right to interview applicants and consider applications until the program is full.

After you have submitted your  OUAC application , paid the non-refundable application fee, and Laurier has received your application, you'll receive an email from [email protected] advising you to upload the additional required documentation to   Laurier’s Online Registration and Information System (LORIS) .

An application for admission to our PhD in Social Work program must include:

• The Application Summary , which is generated after you complete your OUAC application (log back in to OUAC to retrieve it).
• Transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work. Documents must be dated within the past six months.
• A completed statement of intent (see below for details).
• A resume of your academic and work experience. Include a history of your research experience, publications, presentations/workshops given, and any other information you feel will interest the admissions committee. Distinguish between paid and volunteer positions, and practicum and full- or part-time work.
• A sample of your scholarly writing (10-20 pages in length). This may be a chapter of your master's thesis or a paper written for a graduate course.
• Completed reference forms . Three academic references are required. Note: Reference forms are electronically submitted to Laurier by the referee and do not need to be uploaded.

Statement of Intent

As you complete the   statement of intent   keep the following points in mind:

• Answers each of the questions outlined on the form, with most of your attention given to your research interests and proposed research plan.
• Conveys your motivation for pursuing a PhD in social work in terms of your education, practice experience (not limited to paid work), and lived experience, and how these connect to your research interests, which reflect the social work profession’s mission and values.
• Reflects reflexivity and self-awareness regarding your positionalities, especially if proposing to conduct research with a community you are not a member of. 
• Provides evidence that you examined the scholarly literature, including theory, regarding your area of interest and how your proposed study fits with these. Ideally conveys how your research might advance understanding of the topic.
• Includes a clear and answerable research question that aligns with the research issue you plan to address in your doctoral research.
• Presents a coherent and feasible research plan (methodological approach, sampling, and data collection and analysis) that address your research question and is appropriate to research population. Because of space limitations, the research plan does not need to address minor points, such as how confidentiality will be maintained.

English Proficiency

Proficiency in written and spoken English is essential to graduate studies at Laurier. Applicants whose language of instruction during their previous postsecondary education was not in English must submit evidence of proficiency in English. If applicable, results from accepted testing services must be uploaded to  LORIS .

Your Next Steps

Questions?  Contact  [email protected] . 

"The collegiality of peers, staff, and faculty was a valuable and cherished part of my experience. The physical spaces for students to work and engage with each other created a great extension to classroom learning. My advisor’s commitment guidance and support were essential in creating an intellectually stimulating experience that challenged me and deepened my critical thinking."

Bibi Baksh (PhD '22)

Kitchener Location

This program is available at the Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work in the heart of downtown Kitchener . This fully renovated historic building houses seven classrooms (including a unique circular classroom), a computer lab, a 2,000 square foot library, an interview-viewing room, a large conference/lecture hall, a community meeting space, a student lounge, and a spiritual room.

Close to 300 graduate students are based in Kitchener, just minutes away from Laurier’s Waterloo campus where they can access a full range of student supports and a variety of campus amenities.

Learn more about Laurier's campuses .

Tuition and Funding

Full-time domestic students will benefit from bursary and teaching assistantship opportunities at the university. 

All full-time domestic students receive the PhD minimum guaranteed funding (MGF) package of two teaching assistantships and a scholarship.

The Faculty of Social Work welcomes international students to the PhD Program. International students who have confirmed funding from a third-party, such as their employer or a scholarship program in their home country, will be considered for admission beginning in the 2024/25 admission year.

Learn more about  admission requirements for international applicants.

"In addition to preparing me to become a researcher, the PhD program helped me to become a more compassionate and informed practitioner and lecturer. Most importantly, it afforded me an opportunity to learn new ways of thinking and challenge myself on difficult topics."

Jennifer Scarborough (PhD '21)

In addition to becoming faculty members, our graduates assume research, policy analysis, and leadership roles in human service organizations.

Your Path to Post-Degree Success

ASPIRE is Laurier's professional skills development training program for graduate students. The program helps you craft an individualized, extracurricular learning plan tailored to your professional journey and entry to the workplace .

If you are looking for more information about this program, have questions, or want to set up a meeting, contact a member of our team. 

Program Inquiries 

If you are looking for more information about the program or want to discuss next steps, you can email Cheryl-Anne Cait, associate dean at [email protected] .

Learn About Our Faculty

To contact other members of our team, or l earn more about the interests of our faculty members, visit our contacts page.  

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Ph.D. in Social Work

Full-time program, accessible - fully online for fall 2025 cohort admissions, research intensive curriculum, promote social justice and improve people's lives through research, become a leading expert in your area of specialization, program highlights & admission requirements.

If you are passionate about social justice and want to advance social work research, practice, and education, our Ph.D. program is for you. You will learn from our internationally recognized faculty how to think critically about knowledge creation and dissemination through the lens of multiple scientific paradigms to tackle the complex challenges of our time as they relate to contemporary social work practice. You will also develop your leadership potential and prepare for a successful career in higher education, research, and community organizations or administrations.

The curriculum includes learning about epistemology (the theory of knowledge), history and theory of social work, and qualitative and quantitative research methods and analysis. These six courses are followed by a comprehensive exam and a dissertation seminar, with this latter course supporting students in preparing their dissertation research proposal leading to conducting their independent body of research. Note that the program will be online for Fall 2025 cohort admissions.

Apply today to become a social work scholar and leader with a global impact!

Admission requirements

• Completion of a Social Work degree from an accredited university
• A minimum A- average in their most recent graduate degree
• Statement of interest & Research Proposal
• Practice, education, and leadership experience demonstrating capacity to engage in a research-oriented doctoral program.
• Curriculum vitae
• Sole or co-authored sample of professional or academic writing (if co-authored please note your specific written contribution). This may include a research-oriented paper, scholarly paper, report (research or technical), funding proposal or significant course paper
• Three letters of reference

For any inquiries, please contact our international recruiters/advisors .

Why a PhD at UWindsor's School of Social Work?

• Learn a wide range of research methods to advance knowledge and effect change.
• Work with notable scholars that represent a wide range of expertise who will support and guide your own research
• Graduate assistantship and sessional instructor opportunities provide first-hand experience of conducting research and educating students
• Our talented network of alumni stretches beyond international borders with graduates in leadership positions across North America

The School of Social Work's Ph.D. program journey is an incomparable experience. The prime characteristic of this journey can be termed with three words: Opportunity for Growth. Faculty here wholeheartedly welcome you with an open door and a passion to support your growth. Not once have I left an office without an opportunity: An opportunity to grow and contribute, or an opportunity to learn about a new area of scholarship. In support of my passionate self to progress, I have been entrusted with unique challenges, as I call them, that helped me become the person I am today. I carried roles of teaching, research, and service with great honour and so much appreciation. The opportunities for professional development are yet another integral aspect of the Ph.D. journey, and I owe it to these opportunities for not only enhancing my professional and academic skills, but also expand my networking opportunities with key figures in the academic world and community wide. An unexpected yet delightfully appreciated opportunity has arisen where I was able to graduate while becoming the next addition to my home school, the School of Social Work at the University of Windsor. As the next Assistant Professor with a Teaching Intensive focus, I can only envision what the next phase of collegial work with an honourable circle of faculty will bring!"

Dr. Riham Al-Saadi '23 Assistant Professor, School of Social Work, University of Windsor

"The PhD program at the University of Windsor, School of Social Work, is one of a kind as it allowed me to take my academic career to a unique level. The small cohort offered me a customized experience with unmatched supported from the faculty and staff. The program's structure assisted me in individually focusing on my courses, comprehensive exam, dissertation proposal, and dissertation respectively, while acquiring the necessary research, employment, and service experience in academia as a doctoral student."

Dr. Mohamad Musa '23 Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work, Cape Breton University

"My education at the University of Windsor, and specifically the School of Social Work, not only prepared me for the job market in my field but motivated me to apply what I learned in my community to make a positive difference. The faculty were genuinely invested in my development outside of the classroom as well. Many reached out to me to encourage me to pursue my doctorate and offered mentorship and support in my research, practice, and civic leadership over the years.

I've always felt competent and prepared in all settings of practice thanks to the education I received. I will continue to extend this invaluable experience and guidance to my students in the future, paying forward the same support that has benefitted me."

Dr. Michael Bennett, MSW PhD '23 Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Texas at Arlington Director at Oneday Dreams

World-Class Faculty

Our nationally and internationally renowned scholars represent a broad spectrum of expertise in social work practice and research methods to guide and mentor students through the program. Feel free to reach out to anyone of them to discuss shared interest in social work research and possibilities for collaboration.

Dr. Robin Wright

Dr. Thecla Damianakis

Dr. Adrian Guta

Dr. Dana Levin

Dr. Kristina Nikolova

Dr. Cynthia Stirbys

Dr. Wayne Ambrose-Miller

Dr. Elizabeth A. Donnelly

Dr. Nazim N. Habibov

Dr. Kristen Lwin

Dr. Wansoo Park

Dr. Betty Jo Barrett

Dr. Jayashree Mohanty

Dr. Irene Carter

Dr. Kevin Gorey

Dr. Connie Kvarfordt

Dr. Sung Hyun Yun

Dr. Patrick Selmi

Dr. Riham Al-Saadi

Dr. Carol Wade

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Land Acknowledgment

The University of Windsor sits on the traditional territory of the Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations, which includes the Ojibwa, the Odawa, and the Potawatomi. We respect the longstanding relationships with First Nations people in this place in the 100-mile Windsor-Essex peninsula and the straits – les détroits – of Detroit.

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Social Work: McGill/UdeM/UQAM (PhD)

Program description.

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work: McGill/UdeM/UQAM offered by the School of Social Work in the Faculty of Arts is a research-intensive program that emphasizes collaborative and rigorous learning opportunities. The program's objective is to equip students with skills in forward-thinking, analysis, and critical thinking to pursue professional opportunities in academia or industry.

Keywords: social justice, social policy, counselling, participatory approaches, community based research, intervention research, global issues, health services, social welfare, children and families.

Unique Program Features

• The program offers students the opportunity to acquire advanced analytic and research skills and to apply these to a range of areas relevant to social work, including direct practice, theory and policy;
• Students generate original research on important social problems and issues that have the capacity to inform social work knowledge and practice;
• The School's Faculty members have expertise in various areas including aging, social exclusion, child welfare, international social welfare, Indigenous people and communities, violence against women and children, health and disability, poverty and social development, migration, and community organizing;
• The School is a member of the International Association of Schools of Social Work (IASSW) and the Canadian Association for Social Work Education (CASWE);
• The program prepares graduates for careers in university teaching and research, policy development, social services leadership and management.

University-Level Admission Requirements

• An eligible Bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA out of a possible 4.0 GPA
• English-language proficiency

Each program has specific admission requirements including required application documents. Please visit the program website for more details.

Visit our Educational credentials and grade equivalencies and English language proficiency webpages for additional information.

Program Website

PhD in Social Work website

Department Contact

Graduate Program graduate.socialwork [at] mcgill.ca (subject: PhD%20in%20Social%20Work) (email)

Available Intakes

Application deadlines.

Note : Application deadlines are subject to change without notice. Please check the application portal for the most up-to-date information.

Application Resources

• Application Steps webpage
• Submit Your Application webpage
• Connecting with a supervisor webpage
• Graduate Funding webpage

Application Workshops

Consult our full list of our virtual application-focused workshops on the Events webpage.

Department and University Information

Graduate and postdoctoral studies.

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Social Work

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Thesis-based program

Program overview.

The Social Work Doctoral program graduates highly qualified social work researchers, educators and leaders.  

Completing this program

Courses: Required core courses (15 units) include Theory, History and Philosophy: Values, Ethics and Professional Beliefs; Research Foundations: Epistemology and Professional Knowledge-Building; Research Methods I: Quantitative; Research Methods II: Qualitative and Integrative Research Colloquia. Students must also complete 4 elective courses (12 units) relevant to their area of research.

Research Proposal: Students must have their dissertation proposal approved by their supervisory committee prior to applying for ethics certification and Field of Study Exam.

Portfolio:  Students must have their portfolio approved by their supervisory committee at least 3 months before the Field of Study Exam.

Field of Study Exam: This includes a written and oral component, both of which must be completed to the satisfaction of the examining committee.

Dissertation: Students conduct original research and prepare a written dissertation which is evaluated and is orally defended before an examination committee.

Post-secondary academia, government, research, hospitals/community health centers, mental health clinics, schools, non-profit/advocacy groups, social service/child welfare/family service agencies, employee assistance programs, private counselling, consulting.

A PhD in social work is usually considered a final degree.

Completing the PhD does not qualify students to register with the Alberta College of Social Workers (CSW) unless they hold an accredited BSW or MSW.

Students are required to prepare a dissertation and successfully defend in an open oral defense.

Minimum of nine courses

Learn more about program requirements in the Academic Calendar

Classroom delivery

Time commitment.

Four years full-time; six years maximum

A supervisor is required; potential supervisors must be listed when applying to the program

See the Graduate Calendar for information on  fees and fee regulations,  and for information on  awards and financial assistance .

Virtual Tour

Explore the University of Calgary (UCalgary) from anywhere. Experience all that UCalgary has to offer for your graduate student journey without physically being on campus. Discover the buildings, student services and available programs all from your preferred device.

Supervisors

Learn about faculty available to supervise this degree. Please note: additional supervisors may be available. For more information visit our website .

Heather M Boynton

Patrina Duhaney

Yahya El-Lahib

Deinera Exner-Cortens

Linda Kreitzer

Yeonjung Lee

Anne Marie Mclaughlin

Patricia Samson

Admission requirements

A minimum of 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 point system, calculated on the Master of Social Work or equivalent Master’s degree.

Minimum education

A Master of Social Work or equivalent Master’s degree from a recognized institution.

Work samples

A sample of written work such as a published or unpublished scholarly paper, or a professional report.

Professional experience

A minimum of two years full-time post-master's social services practice experience.

• A program proposal outlining the applicant’s reasons for pursuing doctoral education in social work, educational goals and career expectations, prior research course work and experience, and a research proposal.
• A Curriculum Vitae.

Reference letters

Two; one academic and one professional.

Test scores

English language proficiency.

An applicant whose primary language is not English may fulfill the English language proficiency requirement in one of the following ways:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL ibt)  score of 97.
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)  score of 7.0.
• Pearson Test of English (PTE)   score of 68, or higher (Academic version).
• Canadian Academic English Language test (CAEL)  score of 70 (no less than 70 in writing and speaking; 60 in reading and listening).
• Academic Communication Certificate (ACC)  score of A- in academic writing and oral communication courses and B+ in other courses.

For admission on September 1:

• Canadians and permanent residents: December 1 application deadline
• International students: December 1 application deadline

If you're not a Canadian or permanent resident, or if you have international credentials, make sure to learn about international requirements

Are you ready to apply?

Learn more about this program.

MacKimmie Tower (MT) 301 2500 University Drive NW Calgary, ABT2N 1N4 403.220.5942

Visit the  Faculty of Social Work website

Learn more about UCalgary by taking a virtual tour

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Highlights of the Social Work program

Creating Meaningful Experiences for Neurodivergent People

Dr. David Nicholas’ Vocational Abilities Innovation Lab is internationally acclaimed for its innovative approach in supporting autistic and other neurodivergent youth and adults.

Making neighbourhoods more liveable for older adults

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University of Manitoba

University of Manitoba Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada, R3T 2N2

Social Work (PhD)

The University of Manitoba PhD in Social Work focuses on developing skills for research and teaching in the field of social work. Our goal is to advance the fields of social work practice and social policy, striving to promote respect for human rights and dignity, individual worth and wellbeing, diversity, social inclusion and the principles of social justice.

Program details

Admission requirements.

• Faculty of Social Work • Faculty of Graduate Studies

• PhD in Social Work

Expected duration

• 4 to 6 years

The knowledge generated by our doctoral students is shared with other academics, students, government policy-makers, not-for-profit social service organizations, individuals who make use of social work services and supports and members of the general public.

The Faculty of Social Work's research focuses include:

• human rights and social justice
• child welfare
• family violence
• social determinants of mental health
• Indigenous methodologies and ways of being

To earn your PhD, you must demonstrate an ability for independent investigation, original research or creative scholarship. You will be expected to write a thesis and you will be tested in an oral examination where you exhibit mastery of your field of study.

Expected duration:  4 to 6 years

Tuition and fees:  Tuition fees are charged for terms one and two and terms four and five. A continuing fee is paid for term three, term six and each subsequent term. (Refer to Graduate tuition and fees .)

You must contract with an advisor upon admission. An advisory committee that includes your advisor and two additional members will be appointed to assist the you in developing a study plan and to supervise your research.

Course work

You must complete 24 credit hours of approved 7000 level course work beyond the Master of Social Work degree.

You will select your courses in consultation with your advisory committee to further your specialized program of study. We strongly recommend that you include courses focusing on both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The PhD Program Committee must approve your course selection.

Sample course offerings

• SWRK 8010: Perspectives on Knowledge for Social Work (3 credit hours)
• SWRK 8100: Social Work Past and Present: Trends, Institutions and Practices (3 credit hours)
• SWRK 8200:  Indigenizing and Decolonizing the Global Academy: The Role of Social Work Education and Practice (3 credit hours)

For full course descriptions please visit the  Academic Calendar .

This program is only available through in-person instruction. We do not offer graduate programs through distance delivery or online learning.

Candidacy examination

The candidacy examination should be taken within a year of completion of coursework. The candidacy examination consists of a major paper on a topic within your general area of study and an oral examination of the topic covered in the paper. A candidacy examination committee will be appointed when you begin to prepare for your candidacy examination. This three-person committee, which includes your advisor, is responsible for administering the candidacy examination.

Dissertation research

Your PhD advisory committee, chaired by your thesis advisor, provides advice and guidance in the development of the proposal for the dissertation and during the ongoing research phase. Normally, advisory committee members become members of the examining committee for the dissertation during the final examination for the PhD degree.

To qualify for admission to the PhD in Social Work, you must:

• Have a Master of Social Work degree, or equivalent, from an accredited degree-granting university, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 (B)
• Demonstrate minimum research competency in both qualitative and quantitative methods equivalent to the level required for the Master of Social Work degree from the University of Manitoba, with a minimum grade of 3.0 (B) within the last 10 years
• Much of the evaluation of applicants’ admission to the program will be based on evaluation of each applicants’ research intent statement. The admission committee also evaluates past research or academic teaching experience. Be sure to emphasize any past research assistance work or thesis work as well as publications that includes peer review papers, research reports, and book chapters.

If you do not meet these entrance requirements, you may be recommended for conditional admission with the stipulation that you take the necessary course or courses. The course or courses will be an additional requirement beyond the 24 credit hours required for the program.

In addition to the admission requirements described here, all applicants must meet the minimum  admission requirements for the University of Manitoba's Faculty of Graduate Studies .

How to apply

The Social Work PhD program has only one application deadline per year, and applications are accepted for September entry only. Applications must be completed online and include several parts:

• Application fee (non-refundable)
• Unofficial copies of transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation (must be requested from within the application)
• A CV that shows you have educational and professional experience and the capacity to undertake research-oriented postgraduate work.
• Proof of English language proficiency , if required
• a rationale for the proposed research
• research questions
• a concise literature review of the topic
• a proposed methodology for the research
• the outline of a  plan to complete the research

Potential applicants are encouraged to examine the area of expertise of Social Work faculty members to ensure that there are potential advisors that share their research interests.

Please read the  Faculty of Graduate Studies online application instructions  before beginning your application.

Application deadline

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Architecture reviews applications in March.

Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.

Start or continue your application

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for City Planning reviews applications in March.

Winter applications are accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Design and Planning reviews applications in March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Interior Design reviews applications in March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Landscape Architecture reviews applications in March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Anthropology reviews applications in March/April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Applications open September 1 of year prior to start term.

Application deadlines

Applications open   up to 18 months prior  to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for History reviews applications in February.

Applications are reviewed on a  rolling basis .

Applications open July 1 of year prior to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a  Committee basis . The Committee for German and Slavic Studies reviews applications in February/March.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis .

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Management reviews applications in February / March.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Physical Therapy reviews applications in April / May.

Applications open  August 1 of the year prior to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Orthodontics reviews applications in August/September and holds interviews in September/October.

Program currently undergoing review, applications will not be opening at this time.

Select Preventive Dental Science in the Program drop-down on the application form.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Educational Administration, Foundations and Psychology reviews applications in March / April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Education reviews applications in February / March.

Applications are reviewed after the deadline, with decisions issued in March - April.

Currently not accepting applications to this program.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Please contact the department for admission committee review timelines.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. Applications received by the March 1 deadline for a September start-date will receive first consideration for any available funding. Late applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis for any available funding, please contact the department for further information.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Human Rights reviews applications in January - March.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Law reviews applications in January - March.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Nursing (MN) reviews applications in April / May.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Nursing PhD reviews applications in February / March.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee reviews applications as per the timelines noted below each table.

Winter applications reviewed in October Summer applications reviewed in February Fall applications reviewed in June

Winter applications reviewed in June Summer applications reviewed in October Fall applications reviewed in February

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. This includes having the support of a faculty supervisor before you apply.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Natural Resources Management reviews applications in March - June.

After the annual application deadline (see below), applications are reviewed on a committee basis by the Faculty of Social Work internal admissions committee. Once this process is complete, decisions are sent to all applicants in March / April. 

Applications open  July 1 of year prior to start term.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Social Work reviews applications in March / April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Music reviews Fall term applications in December / January, and Winter term applications in July.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Occupational Therapy reviews applications in May / June.

Master of Occupational Therapy regular program  applications open September 15 of the year prior to deadline .

Master of Occupational Therapy accelerated program  applications open October 1  of the year prior to deadline .

The name of your confirmed supervisor is required at the time of application. To identify a prospective thesis research supervisor on your application, please  contact Immunology Faculty members .

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Community Health Sciences reviews applications in March / April.

Canadian, US and International applicants

The name of your preferred supervisor is required at time of application.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . Students selected for in-person interview will be notified in February.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Physician Assistant Studies reviews applications in April.

Offers of admission will be released to successful applicants on May 17, 2024 from the University of Manitoba Master of Physician Assistant Studies, the same day as the University of Toronto BScPA Program and McMaster University Physician Assistant Education Program. The three institutions are pleased to provide applicants their offers on the same day to help with the decision-making process.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Pharmacology and Therapeutics reviews applications one month after the application deadline.

Applications for Pathology MSc are reviewed on a  rolling basis .

Applications for Pathologist Assistant are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Pathologist Assistant reviews applications in April / May. 

The Pathologist Assistant program only admits Canadian and US students every two years. The next intake is tentatively scheduled for Fall 2026.

Canadian and US applicants

International applicants

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Statistics reviews applications in March / April.

Applications are reviewed on a  committee basis . The Admissions committee for Biological Sciences reviews applications one month after deadline.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions committee for Indigenous Studies reviews applications in February and June.

Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated. For those who wish to be considered for scholarships, applications must be received by January 15 of the year in which you're seeking admission.

Applications are reviewed on a committee basis . The Admissions Committee for Applied Human Nutrition reviews applications in February.

Les demandes d’admission sont évaluées par un comité . Le comité d’admission évalu les demandes durant les mois de Mars et Avril.  

Les demandes peut être surmise jusqu’à concurrence de 18 mois avant le début de premier trimestre.

Toute demande d’admission en ligne doit être déposée, avec documents à l’appui, au plus tard aux dates indiquées.

Soumettre ou continuer votre application

Learn about our social work researchers and find an advisor to help oversee your studies.

Financial aid and awards

Social Work students are eligible for faculty-specific as well as university-wide funding opportunities.

Tuition and fees

Learn about the tuition and fee requirements associated with graduate studies at UM.

Explore program requirements and detailed descriptions for required and elective courses throughout the PhD program.

Explore the Faculty of Social Work

We are working towards a world where there are no great inequalities of wealth or income, where economic and political power is more evenly distributed, where human need is the central value of distribution of society’s resources, where diversity of culture is celebrated, where people have greater control over their own lives and where all persons are afforded maximum opportunity to enrich their physical, spiritual, psychological and intellectual well-being.

• Faculty of Social Work student experience
• Faculty of Social Work community and partners
• Faculty of Social Work research
• Social work faculty and staff

Explore the Faculty of Graduate Studies

Discovery happens here. Join the graduate students and researchers who come here from every corner of the world. They are drawn to the University of Manitoba because it offers the opportunity to do transformational research.

• Funding, awards and financial aid
• Graduate student experience

Keep exploring

Discover more programs

With over 140 graduate programs across multiple faculties, schools and colleges, the University of Manitoba offers more learning, teaching and research opportunities than any other post-secondary institution in the province.

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
• Master of Social Work (MSW)
• Master of Social Work based in Indigenous Knowledges (MSW)

Join the students and researchers who come here from every corner of the world.

What it's like to be a UM student

Be adventurous, challenge yourself and make a difference.

Opportunities for Indigenous students

Experience a world-class education in the heart of Canada.

Why international students study with us

We offer state of the art facilities with 140 years of history.

Admission and application inquiries

Faculty of Graduate Studies Room 500 UMSU University Centre 65 Chancellors Circle University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus) Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

[email protected] Phone: 204-474-9377

Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program inquiries

Faculty of Social Work Room 521 Tier Building 173 Dafoe Rd. W University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)   Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada

[email protected] Phone:  204-474-7050 Fax:  204-474-7594

• Bachelor of Social Work
• Master’s Program

PhD Program

• Undergraduate Practicum
• Graduate Practicum
• Field Instructors & Community Partners
• Student Association
• Equity & Inclusion
• Job Opportunities

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work program at UBC Vancouver provides opportunities for advanced scholarship, contributing transformative knowledge through research relevant to social work theory, practice, policy, social development, and administration.

The PhD program is for students with a background in social work, giving them an opportunity for advanced scholarship and professional growth in the context of a research-intensive program.

The program provides critical components for professional practice in research, policy analysis, and human service management.

In addition to making an original contribution to social work knowledge, you will be prepared for university teaching and research (theoretical and applied), including program evaluation.

A research-based dissertation adding to the field’s knowledge base is the capstone of this program.

• Ability to conduct quantitative and qualitative research using a range of paradigms and methods which inform and advance knowledge and its application in the areas of social work
• Leading-edge substantive knowledge of an area of social work (defined by your research interests), including questions in the area that need to be addressed empirically
• Comprehensive understanding of professional, educational and policy issues in social work, with an ability to explicate the implications of research for the social good

Degree Requirements

The PhD program should be completed within a period of six years. It is possible to request a one-year extension to this time limit, but such extensions are not automatic.

Achieving Candidacy

All students are expected to be admitted to candidacy within two years of initial registration and must complete within three years. Exceptions to this can only be granted by the Dean of UBC’s Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.

To achieve candidacy, students must:

• Complete all required courses
• Pass their comprehensive examinations
• Have their thesis proposal approved

Course Work Requirements

Students in the program will be required to take at least 18 credits of coursework.

• SOWK 601 Advanced Doctoral Seminar (runs alternate weeks across both terms) (3 credits)
• SOWK 621 Social Theory, Ideology & Ethics (3 credits)
• Elective to be determined in consultation with supervisor (3 credits)
• SOWK 654 Advanced Qualitative Inquiry (3 credits)
• XXX Methods course to be determined in consultation with supervisor (3 credits)

Year 2 (6 credits minimum)

• SOWK 623 Advanced Data Analysis in Social Work (3 credits)
• XXX Theory course in relation to substantive area of study (sometimes a directed study) (3 credits)
• Preparation for comprehensive exams and thesis proposal

Academic Progress

A minimum of 68% (B-) must be achieved in all coursework taken for credit. Where a grade of less than 68% (B-) is obtained in a course and on the recommendation of the PhD Program Chair and the approval of the Dean of UBC’s Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, the student may repeat the course for higher standing or take an alternate course.

If the PhD Program Chair does not make such a recommendation, or if the recommendation is not approved by the Dean of UBC’s Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, the student will be required to withdraw.

A student who obtains a grade of less than 68% in more than one course can be required to withdraw.

If progress in research is unsatisfactory, a student will be required to withdraw.

The student will be informed of unsatisfactory academic progress in writing before any action regarding withdrawal is taken. In a course that is repeated, both marks will appear on the transcript.

Comprehensive Examinations

The comprehensive examination will take the form of two papers of not more than 7,000 words each.

One paper will focus on theoretical concepts relevant to the student’s proposed field of research, and the second paper will address a substantive topic related to the student’s research, for example, a critical literature review.

The student‘s supervisory committee will determine the specific subjects of each paper.

The student will have 28 days to complete each paper and submit it to their supervisor from the time of receiving the topic.

Both papers will be completed within 82 days at a time agreed upon by the student and their supervisor.

Where the supervisory committee feels it appropriate, students have the option of combining the two papers into a single submission which covers the areas noted above.

In this case, the student would have 56 days to complete with a further 28-day revision period if required.

Comprehensive papers are normally completed within the first two years of the program.

Within 28 days of the final paper submission, the student will undertake an oral defense of the papers to be organized by their research supervisor.

The comprehensive examination is conducted by members of the Supervisory Committee, plus one member who is external to the School and who preferably is a member of UBC's Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. The extra member will meet similar eligibility for the Supervisory Committee as laid out in Graduate Studies’ policy.

If either paper is unsuccessful, the student will have a further 28 days to resubmit and defend the paper. Only one resubmission is allowed per paper.

Success of the papers will be determined based on the expectations set out by the committee when assigning the paper.

In general, papers will be expected to show a solid and comprehensive understanding of the relevant literature and an ability to critically analyze the literature presented. Normal scholarly expectations regarding style, presentation and grammatical correctness will also apply.

Upon completion of the defense the supervisor should inform the PhD Chair of the outcome on a Pass/Fail basis. Students who do not satisfactorily defend their comprehensive paper upon the second attempt will be required to withdraw from the program.

Thesis Proposal Evaluation

An examining panel will determine whether the proposal:

Proposal is:

• shows sufficient knowledge of the literature and methodological issue
• is feasible
• provides the basis for a dissertation which is original and scholarly

Requires deferral for revision

• generally acceptable but requires refinement in one or more of the above areas in order to be approved

Is to be rejected

Proposal is rejected due to one or more of the following:

• does not demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the relevant literature
• is methodologically unsound
• is not feasible
• does not provide the basis for a dissertation which is original and scholarly

In all cases the student will be provided with oral and written feedback from their research supervisor identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the proposal, any advice the panel may have, and what is required of the student to successfully complete the proposal phase.

In the case of a rejected proposal a substantially revised proposal must be submitted addressing the areas indicated by the panel.

In the case of a deferred proposal, the panel will determine if a further examination is required or if the supervisor can approve the required changes alone. If rejected, a full defense of the new proposal will be required.

Students will be permitted two attempts to successfully defend their proposal. Students who fail to successfully complete the proposal defense within the required timeframe will be required to withdraw from the program. In exceptional circumstances, the Chair of the program can approve a third defense upon advice of the supervisory committee.