African American PhD Social Work Students’ Perspectives and Experiences on Qualitative Research Methods

Abstract

African American PhD students are severely underrepresented in the attainment of PhDs compared with their White counterparts and, therefore, underrepresented as PhD professors. Key factors contributing to the lack of African American students seeking doctoral education include financial hardship, racial discrimination, and a lack of mentorship. The purpose of this qualitative study is to investigate the experiences and meaning of African American social work students enrolled in a PhD qualitative research methods course at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Results from this study will shed light on Black scholars’ experiences in obtaining a doctoral education, identify challenges and barriers in completing a doctoral program, and contribute to ideas on how to increase the number of Black scholars in HBCU PhD.