Search
PhD Members Programs

University of South Carolina

College of Social Work

At the University of South Carolina, our PhD program in social work develops scholars who generate and disseminate new knowledge to drive social change and create a more equitable, just, and inclusive society.  Through a rigorous and individualized program of study, our PhD program prepares each student to become an emerging expert in their self-determined specialized substantive area, with strong foundations in diverse theoretical and methodological approaches.  Coursework, seminars, mentored research assistantships, and a warm, engaging, and diverse scholarly community provide students with opportunities to follow their curiosity, challenge their thinking and assumptions, and deepen their understanding and research skills.  Mentored research and teaching practica support students to become increasingly independent in conceptualizing and conducting research and educating new social workers.  With foci on transdisciplinarity, collaboration, and impactful research, our students learn and contribute through meaningful relationships with faculty in our College and across our University, and with practitioners, community members, and other stakeholders in advancing positive social change.  

University of South Carolina
University of South Carolina
  • Columbia, South Carolina
  • Public
  • PhD in Social Work
  • In-Person Program Only
  • Full-time Enrollment Only
  • 3-5 Students
  • Yes
  • Yes, with a cut-off score
  • Yes, MSW or other master's degree required
  • No, but preferred
  • No

Substantive Research Areas of Faculty

  • Addiction/Substance Use
  • Adolescent and Youth Development
  • Aging/Gerontology
  • Child Welfare
  • Children & Families
  • Community Practice/Macro Practice
  • Corrections/Criminal Justice/Restorative Justice
  • Disability
  • Family Violence
  • Gender
  • Health
  • Housing/Homelessness
  • Immigrants, Refugees & Displaced Persons
  • International Social Work & Global Development
  • LGBT Issues & Services
  • Mental Health
  • Military/Veterans' Issues
  • Organizations, Management & Administration
  • Poverty/Disadvantaged Populations
  • Race and Ethnicity
  • Religion/Spirituality
  • Rural Social Work
  • School Social Work
  • Social/Economic Justice
  • Social Welfare Policy
  • Social Work Education
  • Social Work Practice

To update your program's profile, please complete the Program Directory Update Form.