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Phd Social Work Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PhD/DSW in Social Work or in a related field and MSW from a CSWE accredited pro-gram with a minimum of two years post-MSW degree practice experience in social work practice. ABD candidates will be ...

Earned doctorate degree in Social Work (PhD or DSW) or a doctoral degree in a closely related field. * Eligibility for LMSWI LICSW, LCSW licensure. * Minimum of two years post-MSW full-time ...

MSW degree from a CSWE accredited university and a PhD or Doctorate in social work, social welfare or closely related field. * A minimum of two years post-MSW social work practice experience is ...

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Phd Social Work information

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$33K

$67.3K

$112.5K

How much do phd social work jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd social work in the United States is $67,283.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to make $100,000 as a social worker?

Social workers can earn $100,000 by gaining advanced degrees such as a PhD in social work, specializing in high-demand areas like healthcare or mental health, and working in leadership, administrative, or consulting roles. Increasing experience, obtaining licensure, and pursuing additional certifications can also help boost earning potential, often requiring a combination of clinical skills and management expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD Social Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Social Worker, you need advanced expertise in social work theory, research methodology, and policy analysis, typically supported by a doctoral degree in social work or a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, qualitative research tools, and academic publication platforms is commonly required. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and leadership abilities help professionals influence policy, mentor others, and advocate for systemic change. These skills and qualifications are essential for driving innovation in social work practice, research, and education at the highest levels.

Can you make $200,000 as a social worker?

Social workers with a PhD can potentially earn $200,000 or more, especially in senior roles, administrative positions, or specialized fields such as healthcare or policy. However, typical salaries for social workers generally range from $40,000 to $80,000, with higher earnings often requiring extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership responsibilities.

What is a PhD in Social Work?

A PhD in Social Work is a doctoral degree focused on preparing graduates for advanced research, academic, and leadership roles within the field of social work. This program emphasizes the development of new knowledge through original research, critical analysis, and theoretical work. Graduates often pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, or take on leadership positions in organizations addressing complex social issues. The degree typically requires coursework, comprehensive exams, and the completion of a dissertation.

What could I do with a PhD in social work?

A PhD in social work prepares individuals for advanced roles such as university faculty, research scientists, policy analysts, and clinical supervisors. Graduates often work in academia, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or healthcare settings, utilizing research, policy development, and leadership skills.

Is a PhD in social work worth it?

A PhD in social work prepares individuals for advanced research, academic roles, and leadership positions in social service organizations. It can lead to higher salaries and greater influence in policy development, but requires significant time and financial investment. The degree is valuable for those seeking careers in academia or specialized research fields within social work.

What is the difference between Phd Social Work vs Licensed Clinical Social Worker?

AspectPhd Social WorkLicensed Clinical Social Worker
Required CredentialsPhD in Social Work, research experienceMaster's in Social Work (MSW), LCSW license
Work EnvironmentAcademia, research, policy developmentClinical settings, therapy, counseling
Employer & IndustryUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesHospitals, mental health clinics, private practice

While a PhD in Social Work focuses on research, teaching, and policy, an LCSW is licensed to provide clinical therapy and counseling. Both roles require social work education, but their career paths and work environments differ significantly.

What career paths are available to those with a PhD in Social Work, and how do they differ from those with a master's degree?

With a PhD in Social Work, professionals can pursue advanced roles in academia, research, policy analysis, and leadership within social service organizations. Unlike those with a master's, PhD holders are often qualified for tenure-track faculty positions, lead large-scale research projects, and influence policy at institutional or governmental levels. They may also supervise doctoral students and contribute to the development of the field through scholarly publications. This degree opens doors to roles that focus more on systemic change and thought leadership, in addition to advanced clinical or administrative positions.
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Social Work PhD Program - Adjunct Instructor

shu

Fairfield, CT

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Adjunct Instructor

School of Social Work PhD Program

College of Arts and Sciences

Sacred Heart University

Start Date: Fall 2026

The School of Social Work in the College of Arts and Sciences at Sacred Heart University invites applications for an Adjunct Instructor, beginning Fall 2026, with opportunity to be online or on-ground.

About the School of Social Work

Our mission is to prepare social workers—through instruction in integrated social work theory, research, methods, and practice—to identify, dismantle, and resist all forms of social inequality and oppression, particularly racism. The School offers a BSW, MSW (on-ground and online), and PhD in Social Work, all guided by a deep commitment to anti-racist, anti-oppressive approaches to education, research, and practice.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide a learning environment welcoming to all learners.
  • Provide instruction in the PhD program
  • Mentor PhD students and coordinate the advancement to candidacy through the dissertation process.
  • Support and collaborate with fellow faculty.
  • Attend and participate in PhD student summer residency.
  • Maintain an active research agenda aligned with the School’s mission.

Qualifications

  • MSW from a CSWE-accredited program and a PhD in social work, social welfare, or a closely related field.
  • Minimum of two years post-MSW social work practice experience.
  • Minimum of five years post PhD.
  • Demonstrated commitment to anti-racist, anti-oppressive pedagogy, research, and practice.
  • Evidence of teaching excellence, especially in quantitative research methods, statistical analysis, and mixed methods.
  • Familiarity with doctoral education and GADE standards.
  • A strong commitment to collaboration.

Application Instructions

Applications should include:

  1. Letter of interest (including a statement of research agenda)
  2. Curriculum vitae
  3. Statement of teaching philosophy
  4. List of three professional references (letters will be required from final candidates)
  5. One peer-reviewed publication (as a sample of scholarship)
  6. Graduate transcripts (copies acceptable at this stage)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please direct any questions to Maura Rhodes, Associate Dean and Assistant Clinical Professor at rhodesm@sacredheart.edu.Â