DOCTORAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The College of Social Work doctoral program at FSU offers a Ph.D. and emphasizes training in research methods and teaching. Our program has awarded well over 130 doctoral degrees, and our graduates have highly successful careers in academic settings and the private sector. We develop social work scholars and leaders in both research and education by offering hands-on experiences in research and teaching, along with challenging coursework and close mentoring by a welltrained, diverse faculty. The faculty members at the FSU College of Social Work have a strong commitment to doctoral education. The curriculum is cutting-edge methodologically and designed to nurture students’ success. The doctoral program typically admits four to seven applicants each fall who are among the best and brightest students in social work. Students study in a variety of different areas: child welfare, foster care and adoption, mental health, substance abuse, aging, domestic violence, juvenile and adult criminal justice, HIV/AIDS, homelessness, and several other areas of great importance to society. Small class sizes and the availability of peer and faculty mentors provide outstanding opportunities for collaboration and long-term professional relationships.

Stephen Tripodi, Ph.D. Faculty Director – Academic Dissemination, Institute for Justice Research & Development , Associate Professor, Doctoral Program Director stripodi@fsu.edu

During the first year of the program, students learn the foundations for excellence in research and begin to develop a substantive area of interest. In their second year, students focus on applying this learning to their individualized area of study. Student learning opportunities also include both a research and teaching practicum. A minimum of three years is required to complete the program; students typically finish in four to five years.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to become active members of the academic community. By the time they earn their Ph.D., students have typically conducted research with faculty members, collaborated on articles for publication in journals, presented their work at national conferences, and taught multiple courses in the College of Social Work. They also have participated in College and University activities and organizations and become involved in community activities as well. Our students develop into well-rounded scholars who contribute to the research literature, educate social work practitioners, and take leadership roles in their professional organizations and communities. They become well prepared for the academic job market.

Charlotte M. Hayes, M.S. Doctoral Program Manager 850.645.1321 chayes4@fsu.edu