Social Work PhD: Online

The Simmons University Online PhD in Social Work is designed for experienced practitioners who want to deepen their clinical skills and support evidence-based practice through research.

Program Overview

The program is offered fully online, allowing students to maintain their professional and personal commitments without relocating. The faculty bring extensive expertise in online teaching, social work education, and interdisciplinary research.

Why Pursue a PhD in Social Work at Simmons?

At Simmons, the balance between academic tradition and modern flexibility is perfected. The program offers:

• Study from anywhere: Maintain professional and personal commitments without relocating.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from interdisciplinary pioneers who are skilled at online pedagogy and groundbreaking research.
• Interactive Community: Engage in a student-centered experience that fosters deep connection.

Program Format

The online PhD program replicates the structure of the historic in-person program. All classes are synchronous, with select asynchronous content, and emphasize active interaction with faculty and peers.

Degree Requirements

PhD students take 11 core courses and 9 elective credits of the Integrative Research & Professional Development Seminar. Total Required Credits: 45.

Years 1 & 2 Requirements

• SW 685A is taken during all semesters (fall, spring, and summer)
• Core courses include:
  • SW634: Policy Analysis in Political, Social and Economic Contexts
  • SW650: Quantitative Scientific Methods
  • SW685A: Integrative Research & Professional Development Seminar
  • SW670: Integrating Public Policy Issues and Outcomes into Social Work Research
  • SW654: Qualitative Research Methods
  • SW635: Qualitative Data Analysis
  • SW651: Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis
  • SW652: Introduction to Multivariable Statistics
  • SW631: Philosophy of Science
  • SW633: Survey Research Methods
  • SW610: Social and Behavioral Theory
  • SW624: Intervention Research

Requirements Year 3

• Fall semester: Students take a Comprehensive Qualifying Exam
• SW 685B is taken during all semesters (fall, spring, and summer)

PhD Courses

All students are required to take the following courses, usually within the first two years of the program:

• SW610: Social and Behavioral Theory
• SW624: Intervention Research
• SW631: Philosophy of Science
• SW633: Survey Research Methods
• SW634: Policy Analysis in Political, Social and Economic Contexts
• SW635: Qualitative Data Analysis
• SW650: Quantitative Scientific Methods
• SW651: Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis
• SW652: Introduction to Multivariable Statistics
• SW654: Qualitative Research Methods
• SW671: Teaching Methodologies, Course Design, and Assessment
• SW670: Integrating Public Policy Issues and Outcomes into Social Work Research
• SW685A: Integrative Research & Professional Development Seminar
• SW685B: Integrative Research & Professional Development Seminar
• SW685C: Integrative Research & Professional Development Seminar

The Dissertation

The dissertation is an independent research project that demonstrates the ability to successfully engage in scholarly work. As a PhD candidate, students have the option to complete a traditional dissertation or a three-paper dissertation.

Offered As

• Doctorate

School/Department

• School of Social Work

Format

• Online

Faculty

The faculty includes:

• Joanna Almeida: Professor and Eva Whiting White Endowed Chair
• Johnnie Hamilton-Mason: Professor and Associate Dean for Faculty Development
• Peter Maramaldi: Professor and Social Work Alumni Fund Endowed Chair
• Kristie Thomas: Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs
• Noelle C. Dimitri: Assistant Professor
• Christina M. Sellers: Associate Professor, Jennifer Eckert '08SW School of Social Work Endowed Chair, and Director of the Center for Innovation in Behavioral Health Education and Research
• Vanessa Robinson-Dooley: Professor and Director of the PhD Program
• Renada Goldberg: Assistant Professor

Related Programs

• Undergraduate:
  • Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
  • Social Work (BSW) + Master of Social Work (MSW) 3+1
• Graduate:
  • Social Work MSW
  • Social Work MSW: Accelerated 16-Month Program
  • Social Work MSW: Advanced Standing (BSW Holders)
  • Social Work: Online DSW

Simmons University

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Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

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Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

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Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.