Graduate Studies

About Program

A Ph.D. in Social Work will be offered as an online program with students enrolling in hybrid-synchronous (meeting bi-weekly), synchronous, (meeting weekly) or asynchronous (no meetings) online classes.

The curriculum of the program extends from the social work knowledge base and its values and principles. It also draws upon broad theoretical and empirical knowledge from related disciplines helpful in the formulation, analysis, and solution of social problems.

Specific curriculum content focuses on the assessment and application of social work perspectives and behavioral and social science theories, research methods, social work education, critical analysis and assessment of social problems, social welfare policy, and knowledge development in a substantive research area of interest.

The curriculum consists of a minimum of 58 credit hours, including dissertation hours. It is organized around three major components: (1) core curriculum; (2) electives, and (3) dissertation research.

MISSION STATEMENT

Continuing the historical heritage, belonging, and pride of HBCUs, the Social Work doctoral program at AAMU prepares visionary thinkers to address the grand challenges of our time. Equipped with empathy, technology, and cultural skills to support rural and vulnerable populations, AAMU’s social work Ph.D. graduates are trailblazers in research, education, and advancing social justice.

ADMISSIONS CRITERIA

To be considered for admission to the PhD program in Social Work, the applicant must meet the admission requirements outlined by the School of Graduate Studies. In addition to meeting admissions criteria for admission to the School of Graduate Studies, students must meet admission criteria set by the Ph.D. Program.

Admission to the PhD in Social Work Program is based on having the following:
  • A master's degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
  • A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 in graduate courses
  • Academic promise, as evidenced by above average achievement in undergraduate and professional education.
  • Professional competence as demonstrated through substantial experience in responsible social work, internships or other positions either during or subsequent to the master's program.
  • Personal qualities compatible with performance in social work indicating a potential for leadership in the field: Relationship skills, flexibility and openness to new ideas, maturity, identification with the profession of social work and commitment to furthering the development of the profession.
  • Satisfactory performance on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for all international students prior to the date of application.
  • Submission of all application materials as outlined in the application process.

Graduate Admissions Application for PhD Program

  • Personal Statement

    The Personal Statement must be submitted as part of the online graduate admissions application. The Personal Statement (double-spaced, 12-point font, 1-inch margins, 6-page maximum) should answer the following questions:

    • What is your motivation for pursuing a Ph.D. in social work?
    • Why is a Ph.D. in social work important to your professional trajectory?
    • What specifically attracts you to the Alabama A&M University Social Work Ph.D. program?
    • What practice experience in social work have you had?
    • What is your career goal?
    • What is your research interest?
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  • One-way Video Interview

    Admission into the program requires a one-way video interview for the Social Work Program Admissions Committee. In 3-5 minutes, please discuss your ability to persevere through the rigors of an online doctoral program.

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  • Resume

    Applicants should upload a current resume into the Admissions Portal.

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  • Transcripts

    The School of Graduate Studies requires the submission of official academic transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. International applicants must submit one official original-language copy of their academic transcript with a certified English translation from each institution attended.

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  • Recommendations

    Please identify three persons who are in a position to provide recommendations concerning your academic, professional, and/or personal qualifications for entry into doctoral social work education. At least two of the three references should be people who have known you in a professional or academic setting. Each identified reference person will be provided with a recommendation form and directed to follow the instructions forwarded to them for uploading their recommendation into the Graduate School’s application portal.

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  • Scholarly Writing Sample

    All applicants are required to submit a sample of their best scholarly writing, such as a case study, policy analysis, research paper, or conceptual paper, not to exceed 20 pages. Applicants must use the School of Graduate Studies Application Portal to submit the writing sample.

    • Do not submit books 
    • Coauthored Papers/ Publications
    • Presentations
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  • Admission Status

    Official notification of admission status will come from the School of Graduate Studies by mid-May.

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Contacts Information

Cassandra L. Scott, Ph.D., MSW, CFSW

Assistant Professor, Alabama A&M University
Interim Coordinator of PhD in Social Work Program

cassandra.scott@aamu.edu
(256) 372-8301

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