University of Wisconsin–Madison

Overview

The PhD in Social Welfare at the University of Wisconsin–Madison equips students with the skills necessary to tackle complex social issues through a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach. This program emphasizes the importance of rigorous research methodologies and statistical analysis, enabling students to make meaningful contributions to areas such as human well-being, social justice, and policy change.

What you'll study

The curriculum is designed to provide a robust educational experience, combining advanced coursework, research seminars, and practical training in methods and statistics, ultimately culminating in a dissertation that showcases original research.

• Field of Social Work
• Human Behavior and the Environment
• Faculty Research Seminar
• Topics in Contemporary Social Welfare
• Student Research Seminar

Students participate in seminars that facilitate proposal development and scholarly feedback, supporting their journey towards dissertation completion. Additionally, the program focuses on enhancing students' abilities to conduct both quantitative and qualitative research within the social welfare domain.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet specific academic criteria to be considered for the program:

• Minimum GPA: A GPA of at least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale for the last 60 semester credits.
• Statistics: A course in statistics is required.
• Social science coursework: Completion of 30 semester credits in social science courses.
• GRE: GRE scores are required and should be obtained within 5 years prior to applying.
• English proficiency (if applicable): TOEFL scores must be from a test taken within 2 years before the application date.
• Application materials: Submissions should include a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, a writing sample, and a resume/CV.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD program in Social Welfare may pursue a variety of career paths, including roles in academia, research institutions, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. With a strong foundation in research and policy analysis, alumni are well-equipped to influence social change and contribute to the advancement of social welfare practices.

Work Permits

International students studying in the United States may have the opportunity to work following the completion of their degree, provided they maintain valid immigration status and satisfy specific program requirements.

• Post-study work authorization: Many graduates are eligible for work authorization to gain practical experience in their field of study.