PhD Admission Requirements

1. A Master's degree in Social Work from an accredited school of social work. In exceptional circumstances, a student without an MSW may be admitted. However, compensatory MSW level work may be required.

2. At least a 3.0 GPA as evidence of superior academic achievement in undergraduate and graduate education.

3. A minimum of two years social work or related experience is recommended. This experience should demonstrate the applicant's professional competence, ability to undertake advanced study, and potential for leadership.

4. Satisfactory performance on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) taken within the last 5 years. Preparatory courses have proven to effectively raise the test scores. For further information, contact the UofU Preparatory Courses at 801-581-5361 or www.aoce.utah.edu/prep. Students concerned that their GRE scores are less than reflective of their quantitative skills may want to consider enrolling in a statistics course prior to admission so that grades or a letter of support from a professor can be submitted as part of the application.

5. For international applicants whose primary language is not English, a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) must be taken.

6. A personal statement of intent describing professional interests and career aspirations, reasons to receive advanced research training in social work, major areas of interest in research or social work practice, practice experience in social work, plans regarding financing a PhD program, and post-PhD plans.

7. Three academic and/or professional letters of reference.

8. A sample of writing in the form of a published article, a manuscript that is being submitted for publication, a report that has been completed in connection with a research interest, or a paper that has been prepared specifically for admission to the College of Social Work PhD Program.

9. A personal interview if recommended by the PhD Admissions Committee.