Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

When you enroll in Walden University's online Ph.D. in Human Services program with a specialization in Clinical Social Work, you have the option of choosing between a self-directed format and a course-based format. The self-directed format is designed to offer you a structured program of study that allows for online collaboration and in-person residencies. In contrast, the self-directed format is less structured but focuses on independent research and collaboration with a faculty member. Some of the courses covered in the curriculum include finance and budgeting for the public sector, advanced social work theory and practice, human service administration, the history and development of human services, and ethics and social justice.

What Are the Prerequisites?

If you apply to Walden University's Ph.D. in Human Services program with a specialization in Clinical Social Work, you should have some background in the human services field and have a desire to learn about the clinical aspects of the field. Walden University's programs should be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent; applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Course Requirements?

The Ph.D. in Human Services program consists of between 101 and 102 credits depending on the number of elective courses taken. The degree program is divided into a foundation course, core courses, specialization courses, a foundational research sequence, advanced research, an elective course, and a dissertation. Four doctoral residencies are required as well.

Core Courses

• Foundation of Human Services
• Organizational Management and Leadership
• Research Theory, Design, and Methods
• Social Change, Leadership, and Advocacy for Counseling and Human Services Professionals
• History and Development of Human Services
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Human Services Theory, Research, and Practice
• Ethics and Social Justice
• Culture and Psychology
• Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Human Services Administration
• Writing a Quality Prospectus
• Advanced Quantitative Reasoning OR Advanced Qualitative Reasoning OR Advanced Mixed Methods Reasoning and Analysis
• Finance and Budgeting for the Public Sector
• Advanced Social Work Practice
• Specialization Course
• Dissertation
• Specialization Course
• Dissertation
• Specialization Course
• Dissertation
• Elective Course
• Dissertation

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

When you have completed Walden University's Ph.D. in Human Services program with a specialization in Clinical Social Work, you have the opportunity to pursue jobs in the field. Possible employers include community care centers, group homes, shelters, day programs, and hospitals. Colleges and universities provide opportunities for those who are interested in entering into academia as prospective teachers, mentors, and researchers. Clinical human services work can be stressful since some clients can be difficult to deal with. As a job candidate, you should be able to handle these situations by demonstrating to your prospective employer strong communication and interpersonal skills. Some possible jobs could include:

• Educator
• Social work clinician
• Case manager
• Nonprofit administrator

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.