University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh has one of the oldest and most well respected social work doctoral programs in the United States. Our full time program is highly competitive and we accept 6-8 students each year. The students we accept are fully funded with tuition and stipend support for four years of study. Tuition support includes health insurance, and we have a wonderful Social Work Library which is part of the University’s Library System. The doctoral program is open to applicants who have demonstrated intellectual capacity, critical thinking skills, and potential for research and scholarship. Doctoral students are supported in years 1 and 2 by research-based Graduate Student Assistantships (GSAs), and in years 3 and 4 by Teaching Assistantships (TAs). Exceptional students with post master’s teaching experience and who have defended their overview may apply for our Teaching Fellowship (TFs).

Both GSAs and TA/TFs provide tuition remission and stipends for the fall, spring, and summer terms. There is a 20-hour-per-week work requirement for both the GSR and TA appointments. A student receives GSA or TA support for four years as long as they are making satisfactory progress toward their doctoral degree. If a fifth year is required, it is usually supported by adjunct teaching. Students are also encouraged to apply for pre-doctoral research traineeships and other awards. In addition to the above, we offer some support for conference travel after the first year.