Because the time needed to complete the dissertation varies widely, the time required for completion of the PhD program also varies. In general, students take from four to five years to complete all requirements. The table below outlines the suggested plan for progress in the program.
First and Second Years
- Coursework
- Pre-dissertation research
- Research assistantship
Third Year
- Complete qualifying exam by beginning of year
- Complete coursework by beginning of year
- Dissertation proposal
- Teaching assistantship
Fourth Year and Beyond
- Dissertation data collection, analysis, writing, and defense
- Teaching assistantship
Jeff Simms, AM '12
"I chose to study social work, and especially policy, because I believe working at that level is where one can truly affect some of the wider causes of poverty and homelessness."