Boston University · Boston, Massachusetts
PhD in Social Work at Boston University
What Should You Know About PhD in Social Work at Boston University?
PhD in Social Work is a research doctorate (PhD) at Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts, offered on campus. It requires 63-credit plan with coursework completed in four semesters (two years) and takes full-time program designed to be completed within five years. Final project: dissertation (traditional monograph or three-paper format). The school states that PhD students are funded.
How PhD in Social Work Works
- Degree
- PhD in Social Work
- Format
- On campus
- Schedule
- Full-time cohort
- Credits
- 63-credit plan with coursework completed in four semesters (two years)
- Length
- Full-time program designed to be completed within five years
- Final project
- Dissertation (traditional monograph or three-paper format)
Admission to Boston University's PhD
- Degree you need
- An MSW or a related master's degree
- GRE
- GRE and MAT no longer required
What Boston University's PhD Costs and How It's Funded
- Funding
- Multi-year funding package of up to five years, including tuition, paid stipends and health care
From bu.edu, reviewed October 10, 2026. Check start dates, deadlines and current tuition with the school before you apply.
How PhD in Social Work Compares
- Its 63 credits compare with a median of 51 across social work PhDs that state credits.
- It doesn't require the GRE, like 26 of the 77 social work PhDs on this site.
- It states full funding, as do 46 of the 77 social work PhDs on this site.
Accreditation and Boston University's PhD
CSWE accredits social work programs at the bachelor's, master's and practice doctorate levels, not research doctorates, so PhD in Social Work carries no CSWE status. PhD programs are covered by the university's institutional accreditation.
Similar Social Work PhDs at Other Schools
- PhD in Social Work at Boston CollegeChestnut Hill, MA · On campus · 45 credits · funded
- PhD in Social Welfare at University at BuffaloBuffalo, NY · On campus · funded
- Doctoral Program in Social Work (Ph.D.) at Bryn Mawr CollegeBryn Mawr, PA · On campus · funded
- Doctor of Philosophy in Social Welfare (PhD) at Penn (University of Pennsylvania)Philadelphia, PA · On campus · funded
Social work PhDs sharing a format with this one: matching funding first, then the nearest schools.
PhD in Social Work at Boston University: Common Questions
Is Boston University's PhD in Social Work Funded?
Multi-year funding package of up to five years, including tuition, paid stipends and health care.
How Long Is PhD in Social Work at Boston University?
Full-time program designed to be completed within five years, 63-credit plan with coursework completed in four semesters (two years), according to the school's program page.
What Do You Need to Apply to PhD in Social Work at Boston University?
An MSW or a related master's degree.
Does PhD in Social Work at Boston University Require the GRE?
GRE and MAT no longer required, according to Boston University's admissions information.
Is PhD in Social Work at Boston University Online?
No. It is offered on campus.
Compare Programs Like This One
- Boston University Social Work DoctoratesThe school's full profile
- PhD in Social WorkEvery verified social work PhD
- Fully Funded PhD ProgramsPhDs that cover tuition and pay a stipend
- Social Work Doctorates in MassachusettsEvery program in the state, plus online options
- DSW vs PhD in Social WorkPractice vs research doctorate