How to Apply - PhD in Social Work
The application for the Summer 2027 PhD cohort will open Fall 2026. We admit students every other year, and our next cohort will be Summer 2027.
You can request more information at any time about our online PhD is social work program and the application process by completing the inquiry form. Baylor University is an NC-SARA approved institution.
Admission to the PhD program is a highly selective process. The admissions committee selects up to 7-10 students every other year that have:
- Clear interest in developing theory, policy, and research skills in a substantive area relevant to the field of social work
- A superior academic record in all previous work
- The maturity, intellectual ability, and readiness for doctoral study
A completed application includes:
1) Garland School of Social Work (GSSW) Required Statistics Exam
- The statistics exam is required in order for an application to be considered complete. The GRE is not required.
- Applicants must complete the exam with an earned grade of B or better.
- Applicants are allowed only two attempts to earn the required score on the exam.
- There are modules that can be used as a refresher for students prior to taking the exam. The modules and exam are free for students.
- Trying to access the modules and exam? You can find help here!
2) Personal statement
Please address each of the prompts below in a single, integrated narrative statement. This statement should be 7 to 10 pages in length, double-spaced, and may include citations formatted according to APA (7th ed.) guidelines. In your statement please:
Explain your motivation for pursuing doctoral education in social work, your expectations for doctoral study, and your professional goals for after graduation;
Identify particular strengths that you would bring to the school and to the profession, supported by specific examples from your academic, professional, research or lived experiences;
Identify areas you would most like to grow in academically and professionally;
Describe your area(s) of research interest, why these areas are important to you, and any related professional, practice, community, or research experiences;
Identify two to three GSSW faculty members whose research interests align with your own and explain why you see a potential fit for mentorship and/or collaboration; and
Describe briefly your understanding of integration of faith and ethical social work practice, drawing on relevant research and practice literature.
3) Sample of Scholarly Writing
A sample (not exceeding 25 pages) of a recent, single or co-authored work of scholarly writing that provides evidence of your capacity to think analytically and critically about a social welfare issue. The following are examples of appropriate submissions:
- published article
- book chapter
- other excerpts
- unpublished research report
- a paper written in a graduate-level course
- grant application
4) Resume or Curriculum Vitae
This should include a list of publications and professional presentations.
5) Three letters of recommendation
At least two recommendations should come from faculty who can attest to the applicant’s superior ability and potential. A third recommendation should come from a supervisor, director or someone that can provide insight into the applicant's ability and achievement in social work.
6) Degree Bearing Transcripts from Previously Attended Universities
A Master of Social Work from a CSWE accredited program is preferred but not required. Applicants without an MSW will be considered if they have exceptionally strong credentials, a master's degree in a related field, and experience working in social service settings. Exceptions may also be made for applicants from countries without university accreditation but with exceptionally strong credentials.
The Graduate School requires applicants to submit transcripts from every institution which has granted a bachelor's degree and higher. Transcripts should indicate the degree granted. If the transcript does not list the degree and date conferred, applicants must also submit a proof of degree (certificate, diploma, etc.).
7) $50 Application Fee
8) Foreign national and permanent resident applicants:
English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Scores are valid for two years from the time the test is taken.