Walden University · Minneapolis, Minnesota

PhD in Social Work at Walden University

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What Should You Know About PhD in Social Work at Walden University?

PhD in Social Work is a research doctorate (PhD) at Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota, offered online (four PhD residencies (minimum 16 units), virtual or in person). It requires 63 quarter credits minimum coursework plus 20-130 dissertation credits and takes as little as two and a half years; up to 8 years. Final project: dissertation. At $680 per credit, estimated tuition is $42,840 before fees.

Researched and edited by Taylor Rupe · Updated October 10, 2026

How PhD in Social Work Works

Degree: PhD in Social Work
Format: Online
Residency and class meetings: Four PhD residencies (minimum 16 units), virtual or in person
Schedule: Part-time study offered
Credits: 63 quarter credits minimum coursework plus 20-130 dissertation credits
Length: As little as two and a half years; up to 8 years
Final project: Dissertation
Focus areas: Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision; Impact Leadership in Social Work Administration; Social Work Education
Start terms: August 31, 2026 (next start)

Admission to Walden University's PhD

Degree you need: MSW or higher from a CSWE-accredited program, minimum 3.0 GPA
Practice experience: Three years of professional/academic experience related to the program preferred
GRE: GRE not required

What Walden University's PhD Costs and How It's Funded

Tuition: $680 per quarter hour (coursework and dissertation credits)Program tuition, per credit. Source: waldenu.edu, reviewed October 10, 2026.
Estimated tuition: $42,840$680 per credit times 63 credits, before fees.

Add fees and federal loans to the Walden University PhD estimate

From waldenu.edu, reviewed October 10, 2026. Check start dates, deadlines and current tuition with the school before you apply.

How PhD in Social Work Compares

Estimated tuition of $42,840 is the lowest of 5 social work PhDs on this site with an estimate (median $56,925).
Its 63 credits compare with a median of 51 across social work PhDs that state credits.
It asks for 3 years of post-master's practice; the median among social work PhDs that state a figure is 2.
It doesn't require the GRE, like 26 of the 77 social work PhDs on this site.

Accreditation and Walden 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.

Other Social Work Doctorates at Walden University

Doctor of Social Work (DSW) at Walden UniversityOnline · 59 credits · est. $43,070

Similar Social Work PhDs at Other Schools

Social work PhDs sharing a format with this one: matching funding first, then the nearest schools.

PhD in Social Work at Walden University: Common Questions

How Much Does PhD in Social Work at Walden University Cost?

$680 per quarter hour (coursework and dissertation credits). That works out to about $42,840 for 63 credits, before fees.

How Long Is PhD in Social Work at Walden University?

As little as two and a half years; up to 8 years, 63 quarter credits minimum coursework plus 20-130 dissertation credits, according to the school's program page.

What Do You Need to Apply to PhD in Social Work at Walden University?

MSW or higher from a CSWE-accredited program, minimum 3.0 GPA. Three years of professional/academic experience related to the program preferred.

Does PhD in Social Work at Walden University Require the GRE?

GRE not required, according to Walden University's admissions information.

Is PhD in Social Work at Walden University Online?

Yes. It is offered online: four PhD residencies (minimum 16 units), virtual or in person.