Online Doctorate of Social Work Degree (DSW & Ph.D.)

Southern Connecticut State University's Doctor of Social Work (DSW) with a University teaching concentration is a pioneering program in New England, meticulously designed for master's-level social workers targeting academic leadership roles. The innovative hybrid format combines online coursework with an immersive five-day summer residency, enabling students to maintain professional commitments while advancing their education. Emphasizing ethical practice and research translation, the program incorporates a comprehensive 240-hour externship and multi-semester capstone project. Leveraging a collaborative cohort model, students develop advanced pedagogical skills, preparing them to become transformative educators and leaders in higher education settings.

• First DSW program in New England.
• Hybrid format: online with summer residency.
• Three-year, part-time study.
• 240-hour self-designed externship.
• Capstone project over four semesters.
• Focus on university teaching.
• Prepares for leadership in academia.
• Cohort model for online courses.
• In-person residency in June.
• Advising by full-time faculty.

This DSW program at Southern Connecticut State University offers a comprehensive University teaching concentration, strategically crafted for social work professionals aspiring to academic leadership. Through a dynamic hybrid model combining online learning and an intensive summer residency, students can seamlessly balance professional responsibilities with advanced educational pursuits. The curriculum focuses on translating research into policy, developing ethical practice frameworks, and cultivating leadership competencies. With a self-designed 240-hour externship and a rigorous capstone project, graduates emerge as innovative educational change agents equipped to navigate complex academic environments.

• First DSW in New England.
• Hybrid online and in-person.
• Three-year, part-time format.
• Focus on University teaching.
• 240-hour self-designed externship.
• Capstone project required.
• Cohort model online courses.
• Five-day summer residency.
• Prepares for academic leadership.
• Ethical practice emphasis.

Southern Connecticut State University's DSW program in Leadership and Management provides a robust pathway for master's-level social workers seeking advanced organizational leadership opportunities. This cutting-edge hybrid program strategically blends online coursework with an immersive five-day summer residency, accommodating working professionals' schedules. Focused on translating research into actionable strategies, the curriculum emphasizes ethical leadership and practical skill development. The program's distinguishing features include a personalized 240-hour externship and a capstone project tailored to individual career objectives, preparing graduates to drive meaningful change in diverse professional contexts.

• First DSW in New England.
• Hybrid online and in-person.
• Three-year, part-time format.
• Leadership and management focus.
• 240-hour self-designed externship.
• Capstone project enhances expertise.
• Cohort model for online courses.
• Five-day summer residency required.
• Prepares for academic or organizational leadership.
• Ethical practice and research translation focus.

The Leadership and Management DSW concentration at Southern Connecticut State University represents an exceptional opportunity for social work professionals seeking advanced leadership development. Utilizing an innovative hybrid format, the program combines flexible online learning with an annual five-day intensive residency, enabling students to progress without interrupting their careers. Over three meticulously designed part-time years, participants engage in a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing ethical practice, policy translation, and strategic leadership. The self-directed 240-hour externship and personalized capstone project ensure graduates are equipped to drive transformative change in organizational and academic environments.

• First DSW program in New England
• Hybrid online and in-person format
• Three-year part-time schedule
• Leadership and Management concentration
• 240-hour self-designed externship
• Capstone project enhances expertise
• Cohort model for online courses
• Five-day summer residency required
• Prepares for organizational leadership
• Focus on ethical practice

University at Buffalo's innovative online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program offers a distinctive advanced educational pathway for experienced social work professionals. Uniquely positioned as the first DSW in the SUNY system, this part-time program strategically integrates implementation science, trauma-informed approaches, and digital technology. Students engage in a comprehensive 39-credit curriculum designed to bridge research and practice, with a strong emphasis on advancing equity. The program's flexible online format—combining synchronous and asynchronous learning—accommodates working professionals. A mandatory Capstone Project allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. With competitive tuition rates ($800 for NY residents, $1,092 for others) and a required virtual reality headset, the program prepares social work leaders to drive meaningful systemic change through advanced practice and research skills.

• Part-time online program.
• 39 credit hours.
• 3 years to complete.
• Focus on implementation science.
• Trauma-informed human rights perspective.
• Capstone Project required.
• Synchronous and asynchronous learning.
• $800 per credit for NY residents.
• $1,092 per credit for others.
• Virtual reality headset needed.

California Baptist University's innovative Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program offers a hybrid online format with a transformative approach to social work leadership. Emphasizing community engagement and social innovation, the program uniquely integrates Christ-centered justice and global leadership perspectives. Designed for working professionals, students complete 48 units in two years with two annual on-campus residencies. The program costs $1018 per unit and prepares graduates for advanced roles in management, academia, and social policy. Targeting professionals with a master's in social work, the program leverages a cohort-based learning model and biblical values to develop advanced practice skills and research capabilities.

• Hybrid program format
• Focus on community engagement
• Christ-centered justice emphasis
• Global leadership training
• Flexible online modality
• Two on-campus residencies yearly
• 48-unit program
• 2-year completion time
• $1018 per unit cost
• Designed for working professionals

Bridging online learning with meaningful social work practice, California Baptist University's DSW program cultivates leadership through a distinctive hybrid model. With a strong emphasis on community engagement and Christ-centered justice, the program equips professionals to drive social change. The flexible curriculum allows working professionals to advance their careers while maintaining current employment. Integrating biblical perspectives with advanced research methodologies, students explore global leadership strategies. The cohort-based approach ensures personalized learning, with two annual on-campus residencies complementing the online format and fostering deep professional connections.

• Hybrid online and on-campus learning.
• Focus on community engagement.
• Christ-centered justice emphasis.
• Global leadership training.
• Cohort model for engagement.
• $1018 per unit cost.
• Designed for working professionals.
• Prepares for leadership roles.
• Biblical values integrated.
• Advanced practice and research.

California Baptist University's DSW program with a Christ-centered justice concentration provides a transformative educational experience for social work professionals. This hybrid program strategically blends online learning with intensive on-campus residencies, enabling students to develop advanced leadership skills. The curriculum emphasizes social innovation, community engagement, and global perspectives through a biblical lens. Designed for working professionals, the 48-unit program can be completed in two years at $1018 per unit. Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, leadership, and social policy advocacy, with a unique focus on integrating faith-based principles into professional social work practice.

• Hybrid online and on-campus format.
• Christ-centered justice concentration.
• 48-unit program.
• 2 years to complete.
• $1018 per unit plus fees.
• Designed for working professionals.
• Emphasizes community engagement.
• Focus on social innovation.
• Global leadership perspective.
• Biblical values integration.

California Baptist University's DSW program with a global leadership concentration offers an innovative pathway for social work professionals seeking advanced expertise. The hybrid format combines flexible online learning with two annual on-campus residencies, accommodating working professionals. Emphasizing Christ-centered justice and social innovation, the program develops advanced practice skills and research capabilities. The 48-unit curriculum prepares students for executive, academic, and research roles in community and faith-based organizations. With a cost of $1018 per unit, the program integrates leadership development, social innovation, and a faith-based approach to transforming social work practice.

• Hybrid program format
• Global leadership concentration
• 48 units total
• $1018 per unit
• Two years to complete
• Two annual residencies
• Cohort learning model
• Christ-centered approach
• Flexible for professionals
• Focus on social innovation

The University of Louisville's Online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program is strategically designed for advanced social work professionals seeking transformative leadership roles. As a fully online program, it leverages flexible learning modalities, allowing students to complete their degree in three years through asynchronous and synchronous courses. Unique program features include specialized teaching and leadership practicums, no dissertation requirement, and a cohort model limited to 20 students. With competitive admissions, the program targets experienced social workers holding a CSWE-accredited master's degree and three years of post-master's professional experience. Notably, the program emphasizes ethics, social justice, and professional development, preparing graduates for roles in academic, organizational, and leadership settings. The program's affordable tuition of $775 per credit hour and military-friendly options enhance its accessibility.

• 100% online classes
• 44 credit hours
• Smaller cohorts
• Teaching and leadership practicums
• R1 research institution
• Flexible learning
• Experienced faculty
• Capstone project
• No dissertation required
• 3 years to complete

The University of Alabama's online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program offers advanced professional development through two distinctive concentrations: Advanced Clinical Practice and Organizational Leadership. Tailored for seasoned social work professionals, the program demands 45 credit hours completed over three years at $480 per credit. Students must possess a CSWE-accredited MSW, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and have three years post-MSW experience. The curriculum includes mandatory summer residencies in Tuscaloosa, providing intensive learning opportunities. Designed for practitioners seeking to elevate their clinical expertise or transition into leadership roles, the program requires a compelling Statement of Purpose and supports non-native speakers through TOEFL/IELTS options. A one-day on-campus orientation and access to a practice location are essential components of this comprehensive online doctoral program.

• Primarily online format.
• 45 credit hours required.
• $480 tuition per hour.
• Advanced Clinical Practice track.
• Organizational Leadership track.
• 3 years to complete.
• Mandatory summer residencies.
• 3.0 GPA requirement.
• CSWE-accredited MSW needed.
• 3 years post-MSW experience.

Angelo State University's online Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.) in Clinical Social Work represents a cutting-edge program uniquely tailored for advanced clinical practitioners. Emphasizing comprehensive training in therapeutic interventions, this program enables students to develop sophisticated skills in individual, couple, family, and group therapy approaches. The curriculum integrates rigorous academic coursework with practical experiences through a mandatory capstone project and internship. Designed for professionals seeking leadership roles in clinical settings or higher education, the program offers flexible online learning with opportunities for scholarship support. Notably, it stands as Texas's pioneering D.S.W. program, providing military-friendly education with licensed clinical faculty guidance.

• First D.S.W. in Texas.
• Online and in-person options.
• Capstone project included.
• Internship opportunities available.
• Prepares for clinical practice.
• Scholarships and financial aid.
• Small class sizes.
• Licensed clinical faculty.
• Teaching practicum offered.
• Focus on individual, couple, family therapy.

Angelo State University's online Doctor of Social Work program delivers an intensive clinical social work curriculum focused on advanced mental health practice. Students gain comprehensive training in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of complex emotional and behavioral disorders through a dynamic educational model. The program distinguishes itself with unique features like teaching practicums, capstone projects, and structured internship experiences that prepare graduates for high-level clinical and educational leadership positions. Leveraging experienced licensed faculty, the program offers a flexible online format accommodating working professionals. Scholarships and financial aid options enhance accessibility, making this pioneering Texas D.S.W. program an attractive pathway for ambitious social work professionals.

• First D.S.W. in Texas
• Online and in-person options
• Focus on clinical practice
• Capstone project included
• Internship opportunities available
• Teaching practicum component
• Prepares for leadership roles
• Scholarships available
• Licensed clinical faculty
• Small class sizes

The University of Utah's online Doctor of Social Work program offers a pioneering hybrid learning model that strategically blends distance education with essential on-campus intensive sessions. Launching in Fall 2026, this innovative doctorate provides social work professionals unprecedented flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic standards. The program uniquely requires on-campus engagement during the first two years, ensuring robust faculty interaction and collaborative research opportunities. Distance learners receive equivalent financial support and research prospects as traditional students. Military-friendly and supported by a campus hospital, the program encourages prospective doctoral candidates to proactively discuss research interests with the PhD Program Director prior to application. Prospective students should anticipate a comprehensive, professionally-oriented doctoral experience.

• Hybrid program model
• Starts Fall 2026
• On-campus sessions required
• Same admissions for all
• Financial support available
• Research opportunities included
• Contact director before applying

The University of St. Thomas delivers a specialized online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program targeting experienced social work professionals seeking advanced leadership and teaching capabilities. Uniquely designed for educators, the program emphasizes transformative teaching strategies, curriculum development, and scholarly publication skills. Spanning 45 credit hours with a three-year completion timeline, students benefit from a cohort model and banded dissertation approach. The program requires an MSW degree and features a distinctive four-day orientation in St. Paul, Minnesota. Nationwide accessibility allows working professionals to enhance their academic credentials while maintaining current employment. Graduates are prepared for university-level teaching roles with a strong focus on social justice and advanced pedagogical techniques.

• Online delivery format
• Four-day in-person orientation
• 45 credit hours
• Three-year completion
• Cohort model
• Banded dissertation
• Focus on teaching pedagogy
• Curriculum development emphasis
• Scholarship preparation
• Transformative teaching skills

University of St. Thomas offers an innovative online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program meticulously crafted for social work practitioners aiming to elevate their academic and professional trajectory. With a comprehensive curriculum emphasizing leadership, scholarly writing, and transformative teaching methodologies, the program provides a flexible learning environment. The 45-credit program integrates a cohort model, banded dissertation, and a four-day in-person orientation to support professional development. Designed exclusively for MSW degree holders, the program cultivates advanced skills in social work education, research, and leadership. Participants gain expertise in pedagogical approaches, social justice advocacy, and academic writing, positioning themselves for impactful university-level teaching and administrative roles.

• Online delivery format.
• 45 credit hours required.
• Three-year completion time.
• Cohort model for support.
• Banded dissertation project.
• Focus on teaching pedagogy.
• Leadership and social justice emphasis.
• Four-day in-person orientation.
• Designed for working professionals.
• MSW degree required for admission.

USC's Doctor of Social Work program provides a cutting-edge hybrid learning experience tailored for seasoned social work professionals seeking transformative leadership opportunities. The program uniquely bridges scholarly research with pragmatic community solutions, emphasizing social change and executive leadership development. Students engage in intensive capstone projects addressing complex societal challenges, preparing them for high-impact roles in social services. While maintaining a flexible online format, the program requires a master's degree in social work or related field, with strong preference for candidates demonstrating leadership potential and deep commitment to social justice. Admission is competitive, focusing on applicants who can drive meaningful systemic improvements.

• Hybrid program format.
• Focus on social change.
• Executive leadership preparation.
• Capstone projects required.
• For experienced professionals.
• Blends research and practice.
• Master's degree required.
• Leadership potential emphasized.
• Commitment to social justice.

Florida Atlantic University's pioneering Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program delivers a transformative hybrid learning experience designed for ambitious social work professionals. With a strategic blend of online flexibility and in-person engagement, the program cultivates advanced leadership skills across clinical practice, academia, and administrative domains. Leveraging evidence-based methodologies, students benefit from Fall cohort admissions and comprehensive scholarly training. The curriculum meticulously prepares graduates to drive meaningful change, emphasizing innovative clinical approaches and practice-oriented leadership strategies. Ideal for practitioners seeking to elevate their professional trajectory, FAU's DSW program represents a cutting-edge pathway to high-impact social work roles.

• Hybrid online and in-person format.
• Florida's first DSW program.
• Cohorts admitted every Fall.
• Focuses on evidence-based practice.
• Prepares for leadership in clinical practice.
• Ideal for academia and administration roles.
• Scholarly clinician training.

Florida Atlantic University's distinguished DSW program offers a dynamic hybrid educational model that empowers social work professionals to transcend traditional practice boundaries. By integrating online coursework with strategic in-person interactions, the program champions community engagement and scholarly clinical leadership. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum provides Fall cohort entry and focuses intensively on evidence-based practice methodologies. Graduates emerge equipped with advanced skills to navigate complex social work landscapes, bridging academic insights with pragmatic interventions. The program's commitment to flexibility, professional development, and innovative leadership positions students at the forefront of transformative social work practice.

• Hybrid online and in-person format.
• First DSW program in Florida.
• Cohorts admitted every Fall.
• Focus on evidence-based practice.
• Prepares for leadership roles.
• Scholarly clinician training.
• Flexible for working professionals.
• Emphasizes community engagement.