The DSW at the University Of East Anglia

1. The DSW at the University Of East Anglia Dr Beth Neil

2. 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.”

3. 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)

4. 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

5. Our experience • 16 students registered from 1998-2002 • 2 have obtained the degree • 2 are still studying • 12 have withdrawn, most before submitting part 1 • This is comparable with part time, non staff Phds.

6. 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

7. Who succeeds? • 3 of the 4 successful or ‘still going’ students employed in social work education

8. 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.