Social Work (PhD)

About this programme

Society needs researchers who have a deep understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion and who are prepared to address inequality and promote social justice. Supported by world-class faculty, students undertake ground-breaking r esearch that fosters social justice and promotes new understandings of social issues affecting individuals, families, organizations, and communities. This offering reflects Western ways of knowing, though students are exposed to and encouraged to consider Indigenous ways of knowing and research, decolonization, and critical methods in their research. This offering is only open to full-time students and is available annually except when the Indigenized offering is implemented. The program begins in May with an in-person orientation and development session over multiple days at the Faculty of Social Work in Kitchener, Ontario. Thereafter, all courses, seminars, and program meetings will take place over Zoom or a similar platform. Full-time students receive minimum guaranteed funding and are eligible to apply for Ontario Graduate Scholarships, SSHRC or CIHR doctoral awards. Note: Students who are 60 years of age or older before the first day of classes in a term qualify for a tuition exemption and are not eligible for minimum guaranteed funding. Please note: The date for the next Indigenized Offering of the program is yet to be determined. This offering is situated in Indigenous knowledges and embraces Indigenous teaching methods, such as circle, ceremony, and land-based learning. This offering is designed for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit