PhD Graduation Requirements
The PhD curriculum consists of a minimum of 51 post MSW semester credit hours divided among three distinct but highly interrelated elements designed to complement one another in assisting students to achieve the competencies expected of a graduate of this program. A core of social work courses provides the foundation in the traditions and knowledge in the profession and exposure to state- of-the-art research and techniques for the 21st century. Electives from the broad spectrum of social and behavioral sciences offering available through MU departments provide students with the opportunity to design an individualized program of study that capitalizes on their unique interests and talents. A strong regimen of research methodology, theory and policy analysis are design to prepare students for use of both current and emerging methods of scientific inquiry. The policy of the MU Graduate School is that students have 5 years to complete their coursework and 5 years beyond the comprehensive exam in which to complete the dissertation.
Students without a MSW degree (12 hours)
Students entering the program who do not have an MSW degree are required to take up to 12 hours of Graduate Social Work Foundation coursework prior to beginning doctoral studies. These hours must be taken from the first year plan of study in the MSW curriculum.
Social Work courses (20 credit hours)
The School of Social Work offers courses in theory, research methods, and policy as a foundation for building more specialized knowledge. Other components include a research practicum, dissertation seminar, and dissertation hours. Elective opportunities may be offered including independent study or an additional research practicum with a faculty mentor.
Elective Courses (15 hours)
In consultation with the advisor and with approval of the committee a regimen comprising a minimum of 5 elective courses from social and behavioral sciences, one of which must be a research design and methodology course are required. The individualized plan of study may concentrate in one discipline or field or may be an interdisciplinary support area depending on the student's area of specialization and research emphasis.
Statistics (6 hours)
A minimum of 6 hours of statistic courses are required. The coursework may be taken within the School of Social Work or in other departments.
