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Shannon Daigle is an education writer with a BA in Journalism & Public Relations from Flagler College. She specializes in creating clear, approachable content that helps students and professionals navigate career paths, degree programs, and essential student resources for college success. Shannon has strong research skills and focuses on breaking down complex topics. She stays current with industry trends to provide readers with relevant and practical information for advancing their educational and professional journeys.
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Adrienne Auclair is an editor with a Bachelor's degree in English and extensive experience in content development, copy editing, and technical writing. They specialize in refining written materials for clarity, accuracy, and consistency, with expertise in line editing, fact-checking, and ensuring adherence to style guides across diverse publications. Adrienne also has experience formatting and designing layouts for digital and print materials, collaborating with writers and designers to produce polished, publication-ready content. Their work spans academic journals, training materials, and anthologies, managing projects from initial drafts through final production.
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Today’s Best Online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) Programs

The Doctor of Social Work degree is a natural fit for ambitious professionals seeking to advance their social work practice and take on leadership and administrative roles that enable them to influence and shape organizational structures and policy. If you aspire to become a leader in the social work field, pursuing an online DSW program may be an excellent option. Learn more about this advanced degree, get familiar with the online learning experience, and find the best schools that offer DSW programs online.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

Author: Shannon Daigle , BA
Shannon Daigle, BA Arrow up right
Author
Shannon Daigle is an education writer with a BA in Journalism & Public Relations from Flagler College. She specializes in creating clear, approachable content that helps students and professionals navigate career paths, degree programs, and essential student resources for college success. Shannon has strong research skills and focuses on breaking down complex topics. She stays current with industry trends to provide readers with relevant and practical information for advancing their educational and professional journeys.
Check Expertise: CareersHigher Ed.Online Learning
CareersHigher Ed.Online Learning
Editor: Adrienne Auclair , BA
Adrienne Auclair, BA Arrow up right
Editor
Adrienne Auclair is an editor with a Bachelor's degree in English and extensive experience in content development, copy editing, and technical writing. They specialize in refining written materials for clarity, accuracy, and consistency, with expertise in line editing, fact-checking, and ensuring adherence to style guides across diverse publications. Adrienne also has experience formatting and designing layouts for digital and print materials, collaborating with writers and designers to produce polished, publication-ready content. Their work spans academic journals, training materials, and anthologies, managing projects from initial drafts through final production.
Check Expertise: EditorialOnline LearningHigher Ed.
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A Closer Look at Online Social Work Doctoral Programs

The biggest advantage of an online DSW program is its convenience. For busy professionals, there is simply no easier or more efficient way to earn a DSW degree than through an online program. Many students can earn their degrees while still working full-time in their profession, only going in-person for residency requirements—if at all. Online DSW programs recognize the need for flexibility in their students’ study schedules, so curricula can offer synchronous classes at times that best fit their professional demands or asynchronous courses that can be accessed at any time.

Capella University

Inside Capella University’s Doctor of Social Work program, students develop advanced real-world social work leadership skills needed for advanced roles. This program was designed to meet the established guidelines of the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) to prepare students for leadership, advanced practitioner, or educator responsibilities in social work. As a capstone project, students are required to solve a real-world problem in their field. To make getting your doctorate more affordable, Capella has instituted a $45,000 maximum tuition policy for this program, meaning you’ll never pay more than that for your degree.

Duration: Three to four years

Mode: Online

Cost: $995/credit

Curriculum:

  • Advanced Social Work Practice: Integrating Technology and Teaching in Academic and Agency Settings
  • Doctoral Project Development – Topic Development
  • Doctoral Project Development – Framework Development
  • Survey of Research Methods
  • Quantitative Design and Analysis
  • Qualitative Design and Analysis
  • Advanced Social Work Practice: Theoretical Perspectives
  • Advanced Social Work Practice: Disaster and Crisis Management
  • Leadership and Management in Complex Social Systems
  • Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice I & II
  • Advanced Social Work Practice with Diverse Populations in Complex Systems
  • Advanced Social Work Practitioner as a Leader of Social Change
  • Doctoral Capstone

Millersville University

Millersville University offers an online Doctor of Social Work with a focus on advanced preparation for leadership and education that prepares students to lead and innovate at organizations or in university settings. The core program includes coursework in leadership, teaching, research, and theory to elevate social work knowledge and practice. Meanwhile, complementary program electives are offered from disciplines like nursing, education, business, or psychology, with the purpose of equipping students to work on interdisciplinary teams. For convenience, residencies may be completed either virtually or in person. As the culminating project, students complete a dissertation on a topic of their choosing.

Duration: Two to three years

Mode: Online

Cost: $671/credit (PA resident) / $1,006 (non-resident)

Curriculum:

  • Social Work Leadership I & II
  • Social Work Teacher-Scholar I & II
  • Research Methodology
  • Leadership Teaching Praxis I & II
  • Intervention Research
  • Qualitative Analysis
  • Comprehensive Seminar
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Dissertation Seminar
  • Dissertation I & II

The University at Buffalo

The Doctor of Social Work online offered by the University at Buffalo is ideal for experienced social work professionals who want to become leaders in the field and advance their professional practice. This part-time program was designed to allow students to complete studies alongside their current jobs. Students will find the school’s trauma-informed and human rights (TI-HR) perspective infused throughout the coursework. Another standout feature of this DSW is the commitment to integrating state-of-the-art digital technologies into social work education. At the end of the program, students implement a capstone project with a target population.

Duration: Three years

Mode: Online

Cost: $800/credit (NY residents) | $1,092/credit (non-resident)

Curriculum:

  • Digital Technology and Professional Collaboration Networks for Social Work Practice
  • Doctoral Seminar in Trauma and Human Rights
  • Concepts in Implementation Science
  • Evaluating & Utilizing Evidence-Based Practices in Social Work
  • Methods in Implementation Science I & II
  • Organizational Characteristics & Implementing Evidence-Based PRactice
  • Capstone I-IV
  • Disseminating, Spreading/Scaling, and Sustaining Interventions

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DSW vs. PhD in Social Work: What’s the Difference?

If you’re considering a social work degree program, it’s important to understand the key differences between a DSW and a PhD in Social Work. While both can be pursued online, the DSW is a practice-oriented degree that focuses on developing leaders in the social work field who are skilled in policy-making and management. In contrast, the PhD in Social Work is geared towards professionals who want to advance their careers in research and academia.

Doctor of Social WorkPhD in Social Work
ScopeSocial work practice, supervision, and applied researchAcademia, theoretical research, education
TimelineTwo to three yearsThree to five years
Residency RequirementsIn-person residency usually requiredIn-person residency sometimes required
Dissertation RequirementsDissertation and/or capstone research project often requiredDissertation sometimes required
Practical ApplicationSocial work administrator, advanced practice clinical social workerProfessor, researcher, leadership at social service agencies or in policymaking, providing specialized clinical services

FAQs About Online DSW Programs

How Long Does It Take to Earn a DSW Online?

Online DSW programs vary substantially in length depending on a range of factors, including the number of courses taken per semester and specific dissertation/capstone project requirements. Some accelerated programs may be fully completed in as little as 24 months, while others may allow up to five years or more. However, most online DSW programs are structured for three years (six semesters) of study for completion.

Do You Need an MSW to Enroll in a DSW Program? What Are Other Admissions Criteria?

A previously-earned Master’s in Social Work awarded by a CSWE-accredited program is a prerequisite for admission into most online DSW programs, but not all. Students applying to programs not requiring an MSW, however, must possess a master’s degree in a closely-related field, such as business administration, education, marriage and family therapy, nursing, public administration, or public health. Specific degree majors accepted vary by program.

In addition to an MSW or other professional master’s degree, most online DSW programs a minimum GPA of 3.0 to 3.5, professional practice experience, and GRE scores.

Are Online DSW Programs Accredited?

Programmatic accreditation of social work degree programs in the United States is administered by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The CSWE is currently in the process of establishing accreditation standards for DSW degree programs, but has yet to begin accrediting such programs. However, DSW students can still confirm CSWE accreditation of the BSW and/or MSW programs offered at the school offering the DSW, confirm program membership in the Group for Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work (GADE), and confirm the school’s institutional accreditation.

How Much Does an Online DSW Degree Cost?

The total cost of an online DSW degree varies significantly from program to program, due to factors such as whether the school is public or private, and whether the student is required to pay out-of-state tuition rates. At Tulane University, a private school, a DSW is $1,292/credit, while at a public university, like the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, you’ll pay just $700/credit.

What careers will a social work doctorate qualify me for?

Leadership is the key word when it comes to career opportunities for DSW degree holders. The DSW degree expands career options for social work professionals into executive and administrative positions throughout all areas of the social work and human services fields, and all sectors (private, government, non-profit) of the economy, both in the U.S. and internationally. Common job titles for DSW program graduates include: Advanced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Non-Profit Organization, Clinical Director, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, and Executive Director of Human Resources.

Online Social Work Doctorate Specializations

While many general DSW programs exist, many schools offer different concentrations to accommodate student strengths and career goals. While all DSW programs will emphasize leadership and advanced practice skills, the balance of these courses differs depending on the specialization you choose. Below, we’ve listed three common concentrations you’ll find in DSW programs.

Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision

The Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision concentration is for experienced social work clinicians who want to level up their practice or take on high-level supervisory roles. Courses focus on advanced clinical supervision, clinical instruction, and management. In this program, you’ll become an expert at clinical social work practice and develop new leadership skills, allowing you to grow your own practice or manage clinical teams. Walden University is just one school offering this specialization in their DSW program.

Social Work Education

The Social Work Education specialization is ideal for students who want to be at the forefront of curriculum development and education for the next generation of social workers. The University of Kentucky offers a doctorate in social work with a concentration in social work education where students learn how to address current challenges in social work education and develop curriculum grounded in Council in Social Work Education (CSWE) and National Association of Social Workers (NASW) accreditation standards.

Leadership in Social Work

If you specifically want to take on leadership or management roles in social work, then a leadership in social work administration concentration is a great choice. In these programs, you’ll learn both clinical and leadership skills with an emphasis on coordinating and facilitating effective teamwork in various organizations. For example, in the University of New England’s DSW with an emphasis on Interprofessional Leadership, students focus on working with professionals from various disciplines.

Top Social Work Doctorates Offered Online

If you’re interested in reaching the top echelon of the social work field, you’ve likely determined you need a DSW degree to do so. Additionally, getting your DSW online may be the best way to get there. Begin your decision-making process by taking a look at our list of the best online DSW programs. Programs were ranked on critical factors like affordability, accreditation, study flexibility, and academic quality.

1

Southern Connecticut State University

New Haven, Connecticut

Why We Selected Southern Connecticut State University:
The master of social work (msw) in clinical practice at southern connecticut state university requires 60 credits for completion, though students with advanced standing can finish in 33 credits. A cumulative gpa of 3.0 is necessary for graduation. The program includes courses on social welfare policies, human behavior, and clinical practice, culminating in a capstone. Applicants must meet specific admission requirements, including a relevant baccalaureate degree. Graduates can pursue careers in clinical social work across various settings. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in both generalist and specialist social work practice, preparing students for advanced positions or further education. Specific financial aid details and costs should be consulted directly with the university’s admissions office.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers competitive tuition waivers for eligible students, significantly lowering their overall educational costs.
  • Students can benefit from specialized scholarship opportunities tailored to various criteria, enhancing affordability and access.
  • The school boasts strong partnerships with local employers, ensuring high job placement rates for graduates in their fields.
School Details
  • AccreditationNECHE
  • Average Tuition$7,797
  • Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course59%
2

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, Florida

Why We Selected Florida Atlantic University:
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Florida Atlantic University prepares students for evidence-based clinical practice. The regular program requires 60 credits, while the Advanced Standing Program (30 credits) is available to applicants with a recent BSW degree and a 3.5 GPA in their last 60 credits. Admission requires three recommendation letters and a personal statement. Graduates pursue careers in child welfare, gerontology, clinical practice, and leadership, with some advancing to law or administration. The program emphasizes critical thinking, human diversity, and lifelong learning, providing a foundation for professional development and community engagement.
Program Highlights
  • Program offers tuition waivers for low-income students, enhancing affordability.
  • It provides unique employer partnerships, enhancing job opportunities post-graduation.
  • The program ensures high clinical placement rates, fostering practical experience.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$5,467
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
3

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, New York

Why We Selected University at Buffalo:
The University at Buffalo’s CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work emphasizes evidence-based practice with trauma-informed and human rights perspectives. Traditional standing requires 60 credits with 900 field hours over three years, while advanced standing (35 credits, 480 hours in 1.5 years) requires a CSWE-accredited BSW and 3.0 GPA. Students personalize advanced coursework, prepare for clinical licensing, and pursue careers in clinical settings or human rights advocacy. Financial details are available through university resources.
Program Highlights
  • Waived application fees make college accessible for low-income and first-generation students.
  • Tuition waivers reduce financial burdens for students with high financial need or specific backgrounds.
  • Employer and college partnerships offer job placement guarantees, enhancing career prospects.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$11,310
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course61%
4

University of Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky

Why We Selected University of Louisville:
The Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program at the University of Louisville emphasizes social justice, human rights, and trauma-informed care. Students may choose a 60-credit regular program for those without a social work background or a 30-credit advanced standing program for BSW holders. Both include core coursework (45 credits regular, 15 advanced), 6 practicum credits, and 9 elective credits. Diverse career opportunities exist in healthcare, schools, and government, with concentrations and dual degrees available in Mental Health Social Work, School Social Work, and other specialties.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers are available for eligible students, significantly reducing costs.
  • Scholarships offer additional financial support, encouraging academic excellence.
  • Employer partnerships enhance job placement prospects and career opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$13,524
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course58%
5

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

Millersville, Pennsylvania

Why We Selected Millersville University of Pennsylvania:
Millersville University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) program designed for students with an associate degree in human services or social services. This program builds on prior coursework, focusing on social welfare policy, research, and human diversity among other topics. It is CSWE-accredited, ensuring quality education aligned with national standards, and involves completing required social work courses and field experiences. Career paths include roles such as probation officer, mental health worker, and healthcare social worker. The program emphasizes core social work values and prepares students for diverse practice areas. For advanced study, Millersville participates in a collaborative Master of Social Work (MSW) program.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers substantial tuition waivers for both in-state and out-of-state students based on academic merit and financial need.
  • Students benefit from exclusive partnerships with local employers, ensuring high job placement rates upon graduation.
  • Tailored career tracks provide specialized training in high-demand fields, enhancing employability and career advancement opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$9,288
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course47%
6

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Kutztown, Pennsylvania

Why We Selected Kutztown University of Pennsylvania:
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Kutztown University prepares generalist social work professionals. It requires 120 credits (48 in social work) and is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. The four-year program offers an MSW Advanced Standing qualification pathway. Transfer students with an Associate of Arts in Social Work can complete their BSW at Reading Area Community College, balancing work and family through Friday classes. Financial support includes book scholarships and additional aid. Practical internships prepare graduates for social service careers, with admission requiring completion of an Associate of Arts in Social Work including introductory courses.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers offer significant cost reductions for selected students.
  • Out-of-state students can qualify for in-state rates through merit scholarships.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$9,288
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course44%
7

Simmons University

Boston, Massachusetts

Why We Selected Simmons University:
Simmons University’s Social Work programs prepare students for advanced practice. The Master of Social Work (MSW) requires 65 credits, with tracks from 16–40 months. The Advanced Standing MSW (34 credits, 9 months) is for recent BSW graduates. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree (3.0 GPA), experience, and references. Emphasizing human rights, social justice, and clinical skills, graduates pursue roles in healthcare, policy, and agencies. Simmons also offers a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) for entry-level positions and further education. Both programs focus on practical skills and are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers and scholarships offer significant cost savings to qualified students.
  • Unique partnerships with top employers enhance job placement opportunities for graduates.
  • Specialized career tracks focus on emerging industry trends and hands-on training.
School Details
  • AccreditationNECHE
  • Average Tuition$21,384
  • Student/Faculty Ratio9/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course59%
8

The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Why We Selected The University of Alabama:
The University of Alabama offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) with two pathways: the Advanced-Standing Program (BSW required) completed in three semesters and the 60-Credit-Hour Program (non-BSW) taking two years. Students complete 42-60 credit hours and 500 practicum hours. Tuition is $440 per credit hour with scholarships and grants available. Admission requires a completed application, 2.5 GPA in social work courses, and a background check. Graduates pursue diverse roles in hospitals, schools, and community organizations.
Program Highlights
  • Eligible students receive waived application fees at participating Coalition member schools.
  • Tuition waivers significantly reduce or eliminate tuition costs based on financial need or specific qualifications.
  • Institutional partnerships offer tuition discounts or waivers to employees and their families.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$10,780
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course40%
9

Walla Walla University

College Place, Washington

Why We Selected Walla Walla University:
The Doctor of Social Work degree at Walla Walla University enhances experienced social workers’ careers by developing them into educators and leaders. The 52-quarter-credit program includes two on-campus residencies. Applicants need a Master’s in Social Work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program, two years of post-MSW practice experience, and a minimum 3.5 GPA. Financial aid options are available. The program focuses on social work education and leadership, preparing graduates for roles in teaching, administration, and professional leadership while advancing social justice. Applicants must demonstrate commitment to teaching and leadership. The structured program supports students in achieving these goals.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers tuition waivers for students in financial need or with specific backgrounds.
  • Waived fees and application discounts enhance affordability for qualifying students.
  • Employer partnerships often include tuition reimbursement or scholarship opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average Tuition$24,048
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course30%

Shannon Daigle AUTHOR

Shannon Daigle is an education writer with a BA in Journalism & Public Relations from Flagler College. She specializes in creating clear, approachable content that helps students and professionals navigate career paths, degree programs, and essential student resources for college success. Shannon has strong research skills and focuses on breaking down complex topics. She stays current with industry trends to provide readers with relevant and practical information for advancing their educational and professional journeys.

Read More About Shannon Daigle

Adrienne Auclair EDITOR

Adrienne Auclair is an editor with a Bachelor's degree in English and extensive experience in content development, copy editing, and technical writing. They specialize in refining written materials for clarity, accuracy, and consistency, with expertise in line editing, fact-checking, and ensuring adherence to style guides across diverse publications. Adrienne also has experience formatting and designing layouts for digital and print materials, collaborating with writers and designers to produce polished, publication-ready content. Their work spans academic journals, training materials, and anthologies, managing projects from initial drafts through final production.

Read More About Adrienne Auclair