At a Glance
- 92 quarter unit academic program focusing on critical analysis in theoretical approaches to research and policy
- Promotes integrative and interdisciplinary research focusing on chronic social issues, social justice, implementation science, and global practice
- Small class size for maximum learning experience
- One-on-one faculty mentoring
- Graduate assistantships nurturing research interests, publications, and career endeavors
- Diverse faculty and student population
- Christian environment emphasizing integrated learning and compassionate whole person care
- Embedded professional self-care
Request Information
Program Director: Larry Ortiz, PhD, MSW
Program Requirements
All course grades should meet the minimum B (3.0) standard, which by university policy indicates satisfactory performance.
Curriculum Guide Course Descriptions
Specialization
Students admitted to the program should have demonstrated evidence of interest in social welfare, values aligned with a commitment to social justice, and research interests compatible with the areas of expertise supported by program faculty. Information regarding faculty areas of expertise is available by contacting the program director. Years one and two are largely composed of course work, a comprehensive examination and shaping of one's dissertation question.
While completing all required course work students choose a dissertation committee chair and committee with whom they work closely to develop and defend a dissertation proposal—following University guidelines. Upon successful defense of the proposal students are admitted to candidacy and actively engage in dissertation research, culminating in the successful defense of their dissertation. Consistent with Faculty of Graduate Study policy, the department requires a two-publication dissertation. More information is available from the program director.