PhD Program Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a GPA requirement for the Ph.D. Program?
- Is the GRE required for the Ph.D Program?
- Do you have funding for Ph.D. students?
- Can any of the degrees be completed online?
- What is the deadline to apply? Can someone apply late?
- What’s the fee to apply?
- How can I learn more about the program?
- How long does the program take to complete?
- Can you apply to the Ph.D. Program without an MSW? If so, what types of degrees are acceptable or desirable?
- Do you have a dual MSW/Ph.D. Program?
- How do I find out about the status of my application once I apply?
- How many students are in the program?
Is there a GPA requirement for the Ph.D. Program?
There is no minimum GPA required for the Ph.D. program. Generally, applicants with a strong academic background have a master’s degree GPA of 3.5 and an undergraduate degree GPA of 3.0.
Is the GRE required for the Ph.D Program?
The GRE is not required for the Ph.D. program.
Do you have funding for Ph.D. students?
Graduate Tuition Fellowships (GTF), Research Assistantships, and/or Teaching Fellowships are available to full-time Ph.D. students on a competitive basis. Scholarships are also awarded based on the funding availability, student qualifications, and research interests.
Can any of the degrees be completed online?
The Ph.D. program does not offer online courses.
What is the deadline to apply? Can someone apply late?
December 15 is our application deadline date. All application materials must be received no later than December 15. Incomplete applications cannot be reviewed. You are encouraged to begin the application process early.
There is a $50 non-refundable application fee for domestic students. There is an $80 non-refundable application fee for international students.
How can I learn more about the program?
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend one of the Information Sessions scheduled at the GCSW during the Fall semester. Individuals can also request information at 713-743-8075 or gcswinfo@uh.edu
How long does the program take to complete?
Doctoral course work consists of 44 credit hours plus an additional 9 credit hours of dissertation research. The program is designed so that full time students can complete all of their course work in 2 1/2 years. The average time to degree range for full-time students is 4-5 years.
Can you apply to the Ph.D. Program without an MSW? If so, what types of degrees are acceptable or desirable?
While our preference is for applicants to have a MSW, we will consider applicants who have education/experience in the social and behavioral sciences or human services. Additional coursework (foundations in Social Work) is required for applicants who do not hold an MSW.
Do you have a dual MSW/Ph.D. Program?
Yes, the Graduate College of Social Work offers a dual program to obtain the M.S.W. and Ph.D. degrees.
How do I find out about the status of my application once I apply?
You may log-in onto the University’s system at www.applyweb.com/uhouston or you may contact the GCSW Office of Admissions and Student Affairs at gcswinfo@uh.edu or 713-743-8075.
How many students are in the program?
The program has approximately 30 students in various stages of enrollment. Each fall we have space for a cohort of 6 to 8 students.