About the Programme (PhD)

About the Programme

The Doctor of Philosophy (social work by research) is a research intensive advanced course for qualified social workers committed to their continuing professional education. Candidates with a good degree in social work can be considered and they will need to undertake research work in social work practice or human service arena under the supervision of an assigned academic staff. Research scholarships are available.

Research Areas

Supervision is available in areas of research such as; family studies, social work practice, intervention outcomes, ageing issues, social support networks, community development, evaluation of service delivery, social policies, volunteerism, crime and deliquency, mental health, drug abuse, coping behaviour, social-ecological response, human service management, and rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.

Testimonials

Dr Ho Lai Peng

What made you choose to do a PhD in Social Work?
Having been a social worker for more than 20 years, the choice of doing a PhD in Social Work was never in doubt. However, going back to school after a long time was daunting and I hesitated for a long time before taking the plunge. I did not think I could go endure the PhD journey which I have often heard is an arduous one. But as my supervisor, A/P Esther Goh said, “What is the point if it is not difficult”.

Source: Straits Times (060321), medical social worker finds meaning in supporting COVID-19 patients

How has the NUS PhD in Social Work benefited you personally and professionally?
With the support from my organisation, I could pursue my PhD full-time which enabled me to immerse myself totally in learning. My learning curve was very steep as I had little experience in research. In my 4 years in NUS, I not only gained knowledge through coursework which helped to sharpen my mind, I grew personally as getting a PhD is not about intelligence but about focus and perseverance. Professionally, I am gradually shifting into education and social work research and education. Having a PhD have opened up opportunities for research collaboration with colleagues from other departments in my organisation as well as people in other organisations.

How has NUS Department of Social Work supported you in your PhD journey?
The coursework which I had to complete was very helpful in helping me frame my PhD topic. The support from my supervisor was instrumental in the successful completion of my studies. She provided guidance throughout the process. She encouraged me to publish and her guidance gave me the confidence to do so. The professors, lecturers and other staff in the department were very approachable and encouraging as well.

Yogeswari D/O Munisamy (current student May 2023)

Why did you choose to study a PhD at NUS?
The Department of Social Work has a great reputation and experienced faculty staff that would help guide me in my pursuit of a PhD. From my time in Washington University doing my master's in social work, I really enjoyed the rigour of research. It is important in providing evidence-based credibility in my work with clients and programmes that we develop at MSF and also when I was working in a FSC. I have always wanted to do a PhD for a long time and with the right timing, research interest areas (supervision and trauma), family support and life stage, coupled with the research scholarship provided by NUS, it felt like the right decision.

How has the PhD in Social Work benefited you personally and professionally?
Personally, I have grown in greater confidence as a social worker – in practice and teaching and now research. Doing research is like flexing another part of my brain and I like the sense of movement and development when I meet the milestones in the research process. When I read the readings and through the research process, it gives me time to integrate learning and to document what I have learnt. I also learnt about systematic review through my independent module.

Professionally, I see how research has a direct impact on practice with clients, training of younger workers and group supervision for social work supervisors. Through the PhD journey, I also had opportunities to participate in another faculty’s research. I enjoy the rigour in finding evidence and to scan the relevant literature. In addition, I got opportunities to share parts of my research at the Australian Childhood Foundation Conference 2022 and will be sharing at the Complex Trauma Institute Conference on post-traumatic growth later this year. It also helped me connect with others who are also doing research in this area.

How has NUS Department of Social Work supported you in your PhD journey?
I have a good supervisor who is very thorough and experienced in research methodology. My supervisor also coached me along the way – giving timely advice, being always available and providing honest feedback. My thesis committee is also very supportive and supported my PHD process. This became a resource for me as I got to consult the experts in their fields. The research seminar was very helpful in formulating my thesis as I got to hear how other postgraduate students were considering in their research journey. Whenever I need to consult a faculty member in my research, they have been very helpful.