The DSW at the University Of East Anglia

Dr Beth Neil

Outline of the degree

• 6 years part time, plus one year registration only (full time route also available)

• Designed as a research doctorate for social workers.

• “An opportunity for experienced social workers to acquire skills in care analysis and research and to explore and develop areas of theory, policy and practice at a high level of enquiry.”

Assessment

Part 1: Two case analyses (10-15,000 words) and a 5,000 word research proposal. Students must pass to progress to part 2.

Part 2: Research thesis (60,000). Examined by two examiners and viva (like PhD)

Teaching/supervision

• In first two years students attend UEA once a month for case analyses classes and (added later) taught input on application of theory to practice

• Initial research methods training, plus individual training plans

• Can join Phd student group sessions once they start on part 2

• Supervision arrangements same as Ph.D

Our experience

• 16 students registered from 1998-2002

• 2 have obtained the degree

• 2 are still studying

• 12 have withdrawn, most before submitting part 1

• This is comparable with part time, non staff Phds.

Reasons students withdrew

• Time, money and work: Few employers offered any financial help or time off, so most students were entirely self funding and remained in full time work

• Family pressures – the ‘sandwich generation’• Many not local or even in our region• Academic pressures – demands of doctoral

study too much

Who succeeds?

• 3 of the 4 successful or ‘still going’ students employed in social work education

Where are we now?

• To be viable we need more students (for peer support and because taught input is required)

• Problems with student applications and attrition likely to continue unless funding is available so students do not have to work full time

• DSW is suspended but we encourage experienced SWs to take Phd route, or pursue higher specialist or advanced awards.