Are you looking for the best DSW programs online? Are you curious to learn more about social work interactions in a clinical environment? In this case, an advanced social work degree will benefit your career. A doctoral degree provides the validity you need to hire a group of researchers and create your unique research program. To benefit from the limitless opportunities in this field, enrolling in the best DSW programs online is an excellent idea. These programs enable you to pursue as well as land your ideal position. By earning a DSW, you can shape and educate the subsequent generation of social service workers in an academic setting.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, social worker jobs will rise by 9% from 2021 to 2031. Once you earn your doctorate in social work, you can join professional organizations, careers, and more. The DSW degree will pave the way for you to become an expert in providing clinical health services.
This guide outlines the best DSW programs online, career paths, and certifications for professional social workers.
GetEducated's Picks
- University of Kentucky Doctorate of Social Work
- Capella University Doctor of Social Work
- University of Kentucky Doctorate of Social Work / Administrative Leadership
Article Navigation: The Best 6 Online DSW Programs | What is a DSW? | Accreditation | Program Expectations | Curriculum Overview | Licensure | Career Information | Conclusion
The Best 6 Online DSW Programs
Barry University
Degree: Doctorate in Social Work
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $23,760If you’re looking to get enrolled in one of the cheapest DSW programs online, then you should try Barry University. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and it offers one of the best DSW programs online. They offer the Doctorate in Social Work online degree, which is one of the cheapest online DSW programs on our list, and it will only cost you a mere $649 per credit.
If you are looking for a doctorate that can help make your social work practice better, then this is the right degree for you. The Doctorate in Social Work degree focuses on learning about how to effectively lead and support people who are experiencing trauma and dealing with its effects. You’ll learn how to help others with safety, trust, and collaboration in mind. Once you complete this program you’ll be able to pass on your knowledge to others about how to best support people who are going through tough situations.
Here, students will have access to one of the best online DSW programs. They will learn the techniques as well as approaches to conduct self-reliant research and study that enhances social work practice at various levels. Through this program, candidates will showcase their ability to conceptually and intellectually frame, look into, and analyze human behaviors, complex systems, intervention outcomes, and societal issues via a trauma-informed lens. The learning outcomes of the doctorate program are to equip practitioners to: demonstrate experience in doing personal research that impacts advocacy, system reform, service delivery, and social work practice.
Find Out More:
Doctorate in Social WorkThe University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Degree: Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice & Leadership
Total Cost (In-State): $33,600
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $37,200If you’re looking to get enrolled in one of the cheapest DSW programs online, then you should try the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and they are one of the second cheapest online DSW programs on our list. They offer the Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice & Leadership degree, which is one of the best DSW programs online. This program is recommended for you if you’re looking for further knowledge for helping others. This degree is designed for people who are looking for more advanced knowledge in social work. When you complete this degree you can make better progress towards a more advanced practice.
The curriculum is from one of the best online DSW programs. It will prepare students for leadership positions as well as advanced clinical practice. The DSW is a rigorous accelerated program designed for working professionals. It aids graduates in completing all course requirements within three years without interfering with their careers. In this program, which is considered to be one of the top DSW programs, you will learn more about evidence-based methods which help patients, ways to be more successful at leading your teams, and scientific principles around clinical social work research. Since the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, offers this program completely online, you can easily maintain your current employment full-time when doing your studies there.
Find Out More:
Doctor of Social Work in Clinical Practice & LeadershipCapella University
Degree: DSW – Social Work
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $36,480Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and it offers one of the best online DSW programs. They offer the Doctorate of Social Work degree, which is one of the third cheapest online DSW programs on our list. This program offers many courses, such as Advanced Social Work Practice: Integrating Technology and Teaching in Academic and Agency Settings, which is a course that will teach you how to become better leaders and teachers in social work.
Another course that they offer is the Doctoral Project Development – Topic Development. This course teaches you how to think critically and research a problem. You’ll learn to assess various theories related to your topic before deciding on the best one for you. You will also be given the required assistance to create an appropriate framework for the project. Furthermore, during this session, you will learn how to develop literature reviews to further refine your topics of study that go toward completing your doctoral journey.
Through this program, considered to be one of the top DSW programs, future social workers will learn how to teach people in both universities and agencies, through following the National Association of Social Workers’ guidelines.
Find Out More:
DSW - Social WorkWalden University
Degree: Doctor of Social Work/Social Work Administration
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $50,630Looking for affordable online DSW programs? Then you should try Walden University. The Higher Learning Commission accredits Walden University. Additionally, Walden’s program offers the fourth cheapest online DSW programs on our list. They offer the Doctor of Social Work degree, which is one of the best online DSW programs. With this program, you will be able to quickly gain key doctoral skills and learn about how social change tools work. So if you want to be empowered with the knowledge and wisdom necessary to create a lasting impact, then choosing the Doctorate Social Work degree is the correct choice to make.
As for the learning outcome, after completing this program, you will understand how to study social problems and use your research and knowledge to help other people. You will be able to look at a situation from all angles, by using what you know about the culture, ethics, and facts. Basically, anything that can make life better for the person or community involved. You will also learn how to come up with different solutions, like how to talk to policymakers so laws are changed to benefit more people – or help create programs where everyone is included no matter their race or background. Social work isn’t just learning stuff, it also means taking action as well.
Find Out More:
Doctor of Social Work / Social Work AdministrationUniversity of Pennsylvania
Degree: Doctorate in Clinical Social Work
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $77,304Are you looking for affordable online DSW programs? Then you should try the University of Pennsylvania, which is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and offers one of the fifth cheapest online DSW programs on our list. They offer the Doctorate in Clinical Social Work degree, which is one of the best online DSW programs. Additionally, it is offered in an online format where you can earn the degree without having to take time off work. You will be able to study with teachers who are experts on different topics related to clinical practice, research, and teaching.
The coursework and dissertation go hand in hand so you will be able to finish your doctorate within three years – as there’s no need for long breaks. During these studies, students will come together several times through video conferencing which will allow everyone to connect even though they’re not close to each other physically. Once you complete this program, which is one of the best doctorate in social work online programs, you will have opportunities as leaders of social work practices or educators – and be able to reach your goals even faster than before.
The classes at The University of Pennsylvania cover all the aspects of social work, from theory to practice and research. Through lectures by experts and faculty members, students will get the chance to learn more about evidence-based practices in teaching. They will have the opportunity to discuss up-to-date discoveries with other professionals so they can be prepared for their future roles as teachers themselves. The dissertation that they will participate in writing will allow them to increase their knowledge related to how social work is making an overall good impact on society.
Find Out More:
Doctorate in Clinical Social WorkUniversity of Southern California
Degree: Doctorate of Social Work
Total Cost (In-State & Out-of-State): $80,976Are you looking for the best online doctor of social work programs? Why not try the University of Southern California? The University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, and they offer one of the best DSW programs in social work online. They offer the Doctorate of Social Work degree, which is one of the best online doctor of social work programs.
This degree is recommended for those who like helping others. In this program, which is one of the best doctorate in social work online programs, you’ll get the skills to take action and make changes that help people in need. You can learn how innovators lead change so real improvements can be made in the world around us. As a social worker and scholar, your job is to explore problems with detail and drive solutions for better outcomes for those who need it – such as making sure all kids can have access to good food and clean water. Your studies will not only prepare you as an expert in social work but also someone capable of leading this kind of impactful progress.
To earn the Doctorate in Social Work degree, you will need to complete 42 units of coursework for 3 different areas. The first area is about figuring out ways to solve problems that we are facing in our world today. The second area is about learning how to be creative and how to come up with new ideas. The third area is about how to practice skills needed for managing groups, such as using teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills. So, in short, it’s about understanding the issues we’re facing today and coming up with solutions for them.
Find Out More:
Doctorate of Social Work
What is a Doctorate of Social Work?
In short, a Doctorate of Social Work is a practical degree that devotes additional time to preparing students for advanced clinical practice in social work. With the help of this degree, professionals can further their careers and work in management or leadership roles.
Research vs. Clinical Practice
The DSW clinical practice degree centers around clinical leadership, clinical science, applied research, and evidence-based practice. The clinical practice curriculum also equips candidates for advanced practice leadership and advanced clinical practice. Students receive extensive pedagogical and research training on topics that connect to the demands of the community at large.
In research-based DSW programs, students learn how to perform data analysis, study different types of methods for examining various problems in society and use statistics. The aim is to train scholars who can create their investigations that may lead down the path toward obtaining policy changes related to social work theory as well as other areas where there needs improvement. Clinical practice courses, on the other hand, focus more on providing training regarding hands-on skills required when they are directly working with clients or groups within a community. So in short, while clinical practice DSWs focus more on working with clients, Research-based DSWs do not.
Specializations
Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision
If you want to be an expert in clinical social work, then a Doctor of Social Work degree in Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision specialization could help. It will teach you important leadership skills while also helping you build the confidence needed for advanced supervision roles. This type of study will prepare you for leading teams or managing your practice better. In short, this kind of specialty training can give you more freedom with how you manage others.
Impact Leadership in Social Work Administration
If you want to be a major difference-maker and drive positive change in social work, then you should get the Doctor of Social Work degree with the Impact Leadership in Social Work Administration specialization. This specialization will help you learn important skills such as strategic program development, finance, budgeting, and collaborative practices. All of which will help you in solving challenges you will face in the future.
Social Work Education
Getting the Doctor of Social Work with a specialization in social work education will help you learn how to give your students the best training possible. It will teach you how to adapt to instruction and assessment for different types of people and backgrounds while also helping them develop their technical skills. You’ll learn new ways of teaching according to the Council on Social Work Education standards so that your students can get help in reaching their goals, no matter who they are. Plus, it gives you the chance to make positive changes within the profession – all by showing others what directly works and what doesn’t.
What is the Difference Between an MSW and a DSW?
Master’s in Social Work programs train graduates for careers that center around working with the elderly, adolescents, families, and children. MSW students learn to conduct clinical evaluations, manage cases, and supervise others. A Doctorate in Social Work degree goes a step further. It equips graduates with the skills necessary for the most prestigious roles, including management, staff training, and supervision.
Do I Need an MSW to Earn a DSW?
In most cases, candidates for a DSW must hold a master’s degree or certificate in social work (MSW). Still, a master’s degree in a relevant field, such as public health or nursing, is acceptable in certain instances. In addition, candidates for DSW positions typically must have a minimum of two years of post-MSW experience.
GetEducated's Picks
- Grand Canyon University Master of Social Work
- University of Kentucky Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing)
- Our Lady of the Lake University Master of Social Work
What is the difference between a Ph.D. in Social Work and a DSW?
A Ph.D. prepares students for teaching, whereas a professional doctorate focuses on a career path. A doctor of philosophy places a strong emphasis on research and teaching methods. Graduates of Ph.D. programs in social work often function as academic researchers or professors. Whereas, a DSW strongly emphasizes social work practice, applied research, and leadership. Furthermore, most DSW graduates work in administrative and leadership positions in social services or expand their social work careers as licensed social workers.
Top Online Ph.D. in Social Work Program
Our Lady of the Lake University
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work
Total Cost (In-State): $56,406
Total Cost (Out-of-State): $Our Lady of the Lake University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. They offer the Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work degree. This degree is for people who love doing research and teaching others at universities. The program helps people get the opportunity to be part of it even when they are busy working full-time. When you finish this course you will have learned many new things about social work, and gain the knowledge for teaching others on how to lead as social workers. People graduating from here will get the knowledge on how to create the changes needed within society.
This program is recommended for those who want to learn how best to help people in need. Social work can teach you valuable skills. The Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work degree is perfect for those who want a career in helping their community. This learning opportunity will provide you with knowledge about what works in various settings. After the completion of this program, you’ll be well-equipped to strategize effective solutions while improving your understanding of them. In short, it will help you gain useful insight into the best ways to aid other individuals with your educational experience.
Find Out More:
Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work
Are Online DSW Programs Accredited?
You will be hard-pressed to find accredited DSW programs online since CSWE-accredited online DSW programs are currently not available. The Council on Social Work Education only got started on CSWE-accredited online DSW programs recently since the fall of 2021, so it will take time, but eventually, you should be able to find accredited DSW programs online at some point.
For now, though, many DSWs still need to be evaluated. It also doesn’t apply to programs from before when the accreditation takes place. It will only apply to the new components that are reviewed during this process. If someone didn’t get their doctoral degree from an accredited program, then they may have some difficulty with certain employers or organizations. So in short, earning a doctorate that is currently accredited is important.
MSW and BSW degree programs are certified due to their connection to practice. The student or professional must have graduated from a recognized (accredited) institution to achieve licensure in this field.
What Can I Expect from an Online DSW Program?
The doctoral degree in social work (DSW) brings together working practitioners who want to improve their leadership abilities in a teaching and clinical context. DSW academic programs focus on families, people, and communities. They tackle important issues such as gun violence and homelessness.
Are There Any Full-Time DSW Programs Online?
Yes, there are. Most online learning colleges allow candidates to take full-time DSW programs to enhance their careers and effectively compete in the social work environment. Full-time enrollment will enable students to complete their degrees in less time than part-time programs.
Earn Your DSW Online
Do you want to earn a doctorate of social work programs online? If you want to earn a doctorate of social work programs online, then keep in mind that flexibility and convenience are the most significant benefits of obtaining a DSW online. Many DSW candidates continue to work full-time while pursuing their degrees without much hassle.
Benefits of a DSW Degree
By earning a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW), from a list of DSW programs in social work online, social workers can develop their clinical practice, begin academic careers, and assume leadership positions.
Admission Requirements
Most institutions require applicants to meet these academic requirements for online DSW programs:
- A minimum GPA of at least 3.0 from a previous graduate program
- Proven professional experience in a relevant field (between 2-5 years)
- Reasonable Graduate Entrance Exam (GRE) score
- Active social work license
- Personal essay or statement
Is Professional Experience Required to be Accepted into a DSW Program?
Since the DSW curriculum is for seasoned social work professionals, most programs demand at least two years of working experience and a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree.
Paying for Online DSW Programs
Enrolled students in online doctoral programs in social work have access to various financial aid options, including scholarships, fellowships, student loans, and more. Also, applicants can fund their program via work-study possibilities provided by the federal government and some reputable employers.
How Long Does it Take to Get DSW?
Each institution has a different DSW program duration criteria. Some institutions provide an accelerated 24-month curriculum comprising a capstone project and residency. While some colleges/universities offer full-time or part-time enrollment options, it typically takes two to five years to finish a DSW program.
Inside Look at Online DSW Programs Curriculum
Primary Learning Objectives
DSW programs prepare students for advanced clinical practice and teach advanced clinical theory. With these skills, they can work to improve things all around the world. They also learn how to apply complicated ideas related to social work. Students will acquire knowledge not only about individuals but whole societies as well – such as figuring out ways of tackling complex problems for the benefit of everyone. It’s a great way for people who want to address difficult situations in society today and make positive changes tomorrow.
Popular Courses in DSW Online Programs
While each university’s online DSW program has its own set of courses, many of them provide some of the ones below:
- Diversity
- Social Work Research
- Leadership
- Trauma in Social Work
- Clinical Theories of Social Work
- Advanced Social Work Practice
- Organizational administration and leadership
- Research methodology and theory
- Evidence-Based Social Work
- Program Implementation and Planning
- On-Campus Residencies
For most online DSW programs, graduates must participate in at least one on-campus practicum/residency. Although some institutions need a single residency at the start or end of a degree, others demand multiple on-campus sessions. Students may engage in various activities during their residency programs, such as networking, in-depth study, practice sessions, etc.
Capstone Project
Students will undertake a capstone project that reflects the extent of their skills in a prototype meant for public dissemination and application. Students may focus their project on business strategy, a significant contract proposal, or an organizational transformation plan. Candidates will be expected to apply and demonstrate social innovation in this project using the information and abilities they have gained throughout the program.
How To Choose an Online DSW
Cost
Tuition is the most considerable portion of an online DSW program’s costs. In this academic program, the charge can run anywhere between $24,000 – $80,000.
Admission Requirements
Although each institution may have different criteria, most demand that applicants hold a master’s degree in a related discipline or social work field. Various online DSW programs’ enrollment requirements stipulate that applicants must have a Master of Social Work degree that is CSWE-accredited.
Note: CSWE stands for “Council on Social Work Education.”
Program Format
Candidates can fully complete the online DSW programs without leaving the comfort of their own homes. Students can also use one or more learning platforms and computer programs designed by the institution to complete their homework, attend lectures, and interact with classmates and instructors.
Location
Working professionals might not bother much about location, especially if they opt for online or distance learning. For those who might prefer a hybrid or on-campus learning format, ensure that your institution is convenient in terms of ease of navigating to the school.
Accreditation
Doctoral social work curricula are not qualified for specialist accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), in contrast to master’s and bachelor’s degrees in social work. However, it is still important to go to a college or program that is officially accredited. Doing so will assure that your education meets certain standards. If the degree you earn comes from an accredited institution, then it will also get more respect in your job field.
Certification Opportunities
A lot of factors will determine the certification procedure for social workers. Location is a crucial factor. The technicalities of certification also differ because each state has its unique set of social work standards, laws, and licensing requirements. Therefore, candidates need to enroll in colleges/universities that make applying for certifications during the program more accessible.
Online DSW Programs Licensing
Before pursuing a social work doctorate, you must be a licensed social worker. However, most social workers finish their Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) certification after earning an MSW degree and passing the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam.
Below are some of the licenses and certifications:
- Licensed Advanced Practice Social Worker (LAPSW)
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Certified Social Worker in Health Care
- Qualified Clinical Social Worker
What Can You Do After Online DSW Programs?
Earning a degree from an online DSW program will equip you for key leadership positions in the field. With this degree, you can influence societal change and possibly make a good living. This section outlines the Doctorate in Social Work salary and relevant jobs and positions that DSWs and PhDs are eligible for after graduation. A few of these jobs are:
- Field Researcher
- Social Work Administrator
- Medical Social Worker (MSW)
- Clinical Social Worker
- Social and Community Service Managers
Can You Become a Teacher with a DSW?
If you have the requisite expertise, then a DSW could allow you to instruct or educate at the post-secondary level. A Ph.D. in Social Work will enable you to start a career in research and teaching.
Is a Doctorate in Clinical Social Work Salary Worth It?
Yes, it is. On average, graduates earn between $65,000 and $88,000 per annum.
Apply to an Online DSW Program Today!
If the lack of flexibility, training, and experience has dissuaded you in the past from forging ahead in this field, then consider an online DSW program to advance your social work practice. Graduates of DSW programs can pursue professions in academia, government, and social work administration, in addition to offering helping hands in clinical social work settings.
At GetEducated, we have more educational resources that will benefit you as you advance without limits in your academic pursuits.
How we researched and created this article:
Sources: