PhD in Social Work - Doctorate in Social Work Programs

• To have earned a MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited school
• Experience in the field, submit resume
• GRE scores
• Application statement (purpose)
• An aptitude for writing, conducting research, and analyzing complex findings

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Social Work PhD?

Typically a full time student earns a doctorate of social work degree in two to five years. This may require the completion of about 48 course credits. Other than that, you are likely to have to pass a comprehensive exam, as well as write and defend a dissertation, or complete a project for graduation.

However, program lengths and course credits vary between social work doctoral programs. Completion times also depend on whether you attend full time or part time.

BY THE NUMBERS

When asked about their education level, 65% of BSW Program Coordinators responded they had earned a Doctorate degree.^[i]  Click to Tweet!

What's the Difference Between Social Work Doctoral Programs and PhD Programs in Social Work?

Social workers may have to fine tune their career intentions to choose between social work doctoral programs. While the choice is between two degrees of similar stature, the DSW and the PhD in Social Work differ. So how does one decide between the two?

DSW Programs

The Doctorate in Social Work or DSW is considered a practice doctorate degree. DSW programs may give you the opportunity to conduct practical clinical research and prepare to lead social service programs (e.g. Director of Social Work)ⁱⁱ. Most classes are concerned with the application of knowledge and the implications of research in the field.

PhD Social Work Programs

The Doctor of Philosophy or PhD in Social Work degree is considered more research-oriented and may emphasize educational practices. Graduates typically seek advanced careers in research or academia (e.g. Social Work Professor or Program Coordinator)ⁱⁱⁱ. These programs may therefore be more theoretical in nature.

DSW and PhD Social Work Courses

Depending on whether you pursue a PhD or DSW degree, you may have some required coursework in some of the subjects listed below.

• Social methods
• Social change
• Leadership and advocacy
• Research practice and methodology
• Statistics and social sciences
• Theories of social work
• Social work data analysis
• Quantitative research in social work
• Qualitative social work research
• Social work pedagogy
• Counseling services

Doctor in Social work programs each design their curriculum differently. Contact schools directly for more on available courses.

Social Work PhD Concentrations

Typically, doctoral students choose a program concentration to focus their research. This could be issue-related (drug addiction, mental health, cancer patients) or population-related (child welfare, seniors, veterans). Alternatively, a Social Work PhD student might choose a pertinent issue in the larger context of advocacy, prevention and causes of child abuse, or policy and implementation.

There are many options at this level of education which might be well-suited for the social worker who has mastered the basics of clinical or advanced generalist practice, is licensed and now wants to pursue their own academic vision. However not all doctorate in social work programs offer every concentration. Therefore be sure you check available options at the schools that interest you.

Are There PhD & DSW Programs Online?

While most social work programs require time on campus, online DSW programs may be available for more experienced practitioners. While online programs do diminish interpersonal interactions, it is assumed that you have built these skills with your master’s degree. Online PhD social work programs also have the advantage of being flexible and convenient, which could make them an excellent choice for working students.

On the other hand, social work is a human-centered field, so earning a PhD in Social Work on-campus may have some distinct differences. You could gain access to valuable campus resources, gain practical experience at local partner programs or work with professors on their research projects.

Can't decide? Some social work schools offer a hybrid of both. Hybrid DSW programs may combine campus and online courses throughout the year. Others may rely primarily on online coursework but require short campus residencies.

Every school designs their program differently, so be sure to contact Doctorate in Social Work programs directly to learn more.

Find Accredited DSW Degree or Social Work PhD Programs

Doctor in Social Work programs, unlike the MSW programs, are not subject to programmatic accreditation. However, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) considers faculty qualifications when evaluating programs for accreditation – having faculty with doctoral degrees is a plus.

What Is the Council on Social Work Education?

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits BSW and MSW programs. Doctorate in social work programs have other standards applied. Since regulations vary between states, your state board may state that a doctoral program must be in a school that has an accredited master's program -- or that the university itself have regional accreditation.

In most cases, candidates do earn a master's en route to a Doctor in Social Work degree, so this may not be an issue for you.

Choose a DSW or PhD in Social Work Degree

For graduate students and current social workers who aspire to work in administration, academia or research, a Social Work PhD or DSW program may be a great way to potentially advance a career.

Whether you are interested in a clinical or leadership role, browse our sponsored program listings. Use our on-page navigation to tailor your list or follow the links to contact prospective graduate schools.

Then follow the links to read descriptions adn contact PhD Social Work programs directly. Take the next step today!

[i] bls.gov/OOH/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-4 | [ii] onetonline.org/link/summary/21-1022.00 |[iii] onetonline.org/link/summary/25-1113.00 | Sources for Table: socialwelfare.berkeley.edu/doctoral-program | luskin.ucla.edu/social-welfare/apply-now/phd-social-welfare/ | waldenu.edu/doctoral/phd-in-social-work/curriculum/addictions-and-social-work | socialwork.utah.edu/academics-resources/phd/phd-curriculum/