Social Work and Social Research Doctorate – Get Info

Lead the Future

of Social Work

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Work Toward Changing the World

The Ph.D. Program in Social Work and Social Research at Portland State University educates the next generation of scholars, researchers, teachers, and leaders in social work and related fields. Now in its 30th year, students in the program will be prepared to contribute to scholarly knowledge, conduct ethical, rigorous, and community-engaged research, and teach passionately and effectively in various settings — all with special attention to equity and justice.

The only public Social Work higher education program in Oregon.

More than 40 faculty members with a variety of research interests.

Ranked among the top 12% of Schools of Social Work in the nation by US News & World Report

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Graduate Careers

Our graduates hold tenure-track academic positions at universities across the nation, principal investigator positions at major research projects, leadership roles in diverse communities and social service agencies, and more.

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SCHOLARSHIPS

The School of Social Work awards over $250,000 in scholarships every year to undergraduate and graduate students across all disciplines.

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Nationally Recognized Research Centers

The School of Social Work hosts a broad range of research activities at the Regional Research Institute (RRI) and the Center for Improvement of Child and Family Services (CCF). PhD students have opportunities to work with senior researchers at both centers.

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Student Research

Students focus their dissertation research in a variety of areas and our faculty works closely with students to help achieve their goals.

RACIAL EQUITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

Our programs are committed to centering critical self reflection, racial equity, and social and economic justice. We encourage our students to be active citizens and practitioners who embody these values.