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Online PhD Degrees in Social Work: Finding Your Program

Ready to take a big step in your social work education and career? If you’re interested in leadership, academia, or policy-making roles, earning a PhD in social work would be an excellent move. STEPS will help you find the best social work PhD programs online, and answer all of your questions about what to expect from coursework to careers.

Author: Shannon Lee
Editor: Kimberly Zaski
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A Closer Look at Online Social Work PhD Programs

Online social work PhD students can fulfill the majority (and sometimes all) of their program requirements online, since PhD programs concentrate on theoretical applications of social work concepts and are intended for individuals who have completed their master’s degree and fieldwork requirements. Designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, online PhDs in social work offer flexibility to balance responsibilities outside of school with studies.

Most programs blend synchronous classes with asynchronous assignments, providing flexibility along with structured online face-to-face education. When choosing a program, see if meeting times work for you, and take a look at residency requirements and research specializations.

Simmons University

The online social work PhD from Simmons University helps experienced practitioners in the field develop scientific research skills that transfer to academia. In addition to traditional coursework, students complete teaching and research practicums and a dissertation. All classes are synchronous on Zoom, so students can benefit from real-time instruction while learning online. If you prefer an on-campus experience, you are welcome on the Simmons campus to engage with faculty and peers, teach courses, and work on research projects.

Duration: Four to six years

Mode: Online

Cost: $1,240/credit

Curriculum:

  • Quantitative Scientific Methods
  • Introduction to Statistics, Data Analysis, and Multiple Variable Statistics
  • Intervention Research
  • Survey Research Methods
  • Qualitative Scientific Methods and Data Analysis
  • Social and Behavioral Theory
  • Policy Analysis in Political, Social and Economic Contexts
  • Integrating Public Policy Issues and Outcomes into Social Work Research
  • Teaching Methodologies, Course Design and Assessment
  • Integrative Seminar

Institute for Clinical Social Work

The Institute for Clinical Social Work’s PhD in Clinical Social Work provides students with remarkable flexibility to earn their degree at their own pace. For full-time students, there’s a three-year program that meets on alternative weeks. For part-time students, there’s a six-year program that meets every Friday afternoon and Saturday mornings. All online classes are synchronous via online video conferencing, so students can interact with their professors and peers live. Classes combine in-depth psychodynamic training with a research-focused dissertation; students can rely on their own clinical work to build their dissertation.

Duration: Three to six years

Mode: Online

Cost: $22,000/year full time | $2,475/course part time

Curriculum:

  • Traditions of Inquiry in the Social Sciences
  • Clinical Practicum
  • Case Conference
  • Developmental Theory
  • Psychodynamic Psychology
  • Beyond the Fifty Minute Hour
  • Perspectives on Trauma and Neuropsychology
  • Clinical Process and Technique
  • Research Methods
  • Perspectives on Attachment, Loss, and Grief
  • Psychodynamic Perspectives on Difference
  • Dissertation Seminar
  • Psychoanalytic Social Theory
  • Advanced Research Seminar

Walden University

The PhD in Social Work from Walden University was designed specifically for working professionals. The program focuses on ethical practice, cultural awareness, and practical impact, weaving an understanding of social change throughout the coursework. Students can choose from specializations in advanced clinical practice and supervision, impact leadership in social work administration, or social work education. No matter the path, students learn to use research, best practices, and theory to address the problems and needs of social groups. Walden students begin focusing on their dissertation from their first course.

Duration: Two and a half to eight years

Mode: Online

Cost: $650/credit

Curriculum:

  • Foundations of Graduate Study
  • Advanced Social Work Theory and Practice
  • Social Work Scholarship
  • Contemporary Issues, Social Change, and Social Policy
  • Program and Practice Evaluation
  • Research Theory, Design, and Methods
  • Quantitative and Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
  • 15 Specialization Credits

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

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

When looking for education beyond a master’s in social work, you’ll have a choice between two degrees: the PhD in Social Work and a Doctor of Social Work. While either one will advance your career, the one you choose depends on your personal goals. A DSW focuses on advancing your social work practice, while a PhD concentrates on research, theory, and educational practices.

PsyDPhD in Psychology
ScopeAcademia, theoretical research, educationSocial work practice, supervision, and applied research
TimelineThree to five yearsTwo to three years
Residency RequirementsIn-person residency sometimes requiredThose who aspire for other aspects of the psychology field beyond clinical work, such as research or teaching.
Dissertation RequirementsDissertation typically requiredPrograms almost always culminate in the writing and defense of a dissertation.
Practical ApplicationProfessor, researcher, leader at social service agencies or in policymaking, clinical services specialistResearch Design and Methodology; Quantitative Analysis; Scientific Cognition

FAQs About Online Social Work PhDs

Are part-time online programs available for PhD social work degrees? What are the admissions requirements?

Yes, online part-time programs are an option for students who can’t fit a full-time program into their busy lives. Part-time study means fewer courses each semester or term and provides the opportunity for more time to complete a dissertation or capstone project. Keep in mind that not all schools offer part-time curriculums, so check before you enroll.

When it comes to admissions, each school has its own standards, but some elements are universal, including earning a bachelor’s in social work or master of social work degree and completing certain prerequisite courses. You may also be asked to submit transcripts, a resume, letters of recommendation, an active social work license, a personal statement and GRE scores.

Are there any on-campus requirements or can I earn my PhD completely online?

In many cases, there are limited on-campus requirements for PhD students. Weekend or week-long in-person intensives require travel to campus to meet with your cohort for hands-on training, classroom discussion and peer networking.

Do you still have to complete a dissertation in online social work PhD programs?

While some schools may permit a capstone project, most require a dissertation as the culminating requirement for social work PhD programs. Additionally, some institutions may require a comprehensive final exam in conjunction with the dissertation or capstone. A motivated student can complete the dissertation in a year, but it’s typical for working students to take longer to finish this step.

How long does it take to get an online PhD in social work?

Full-time social work PhD students can anticipate spending a minimum of three years in the program. During the first year, students concentrate on fundamental and theoretical concepts. In the second year, you’ll explore research methods and application of previously learned concepts. The third year is dedicated to the dissertation or capstone project; part-time students needing additional time to complete their dissertation may take five years or more.

What career options will I have with a PhD in social work?

A PhD in social work can open doors to a wide variety of positions. Most people who pursue a PhD intend to work in research, teaching, and administration. Common jobs include university professor, social work educator, or director of social services at a larger organization.

Online Social Work Degree Curriculum

Though each social work PhD program offers its own curriculum, many social work PhD programs share common core concepts. Here are some of the core courses you’ll encounter:

Advanced Social Work with Diverse Populations

Theories and concepts related to diversity are front and center in this course, including globalization, race theory, social control, domination, oppression, and the impact of immigration. Advocacy strategies, movements for social change, and use of technology in social work are also examined.

Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice

Students look at ethical and legal considerations of social work practice, theories based on client diversity, best practices, and appropriate client treatments that consider the best-known theories and evidence-based practice in the field. Merging research and intervention strategies is a keystone of this course.

Disaster and Crisis Management

Social workers help communities in times of crisis and disaster, both natural and manmade. This course prepares students to respond appropriately with cultural sensitivity and understanding in a variety of crisis scenarios.

Leadership in Social Work

This course focuses on leadership, management, and human resource skills in the context of social work. Personnel, ethical, and practice hurdles are explored to help you run an office or institution smoothly while delivering top-notch client care.

Research Design and Analysis

Research is an important element of any PhD program. In this course, students study the fundamental concepts of research in the context of social work, including applying techniques appropriately, design, sampling, analysis, removing bias, leveraging technology, connecting with appropriate subjects and more.

Top Social Work PhDs Offered Online

With many programs available, it can be challenging to narrow down your options. Our comprehensive list of online social work programs can help with accredited programs in one convenient location. Using this list, you can identify the features most important to you as you consider options and determine the best match.

1

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah

Why We Selected University of Utah:
The University of Utah’s social work programs offer both Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) degrees. The BSW prepares students for generalist practice across various human service settings, emphasizing human behavior, cultural understanding, and social policy. It requires a practicum and can be completed in three to four semesters. The MSW emphasizes clinical social work, mental health, and social justice. It offers an Advanced Standing option for BSW holders, completing in one year with 45 credits, and a Standard option for non-BSW graduates taking two years with 60 credits. Career outcomes include roles in healthcare, policy, and leadership. Financial aid and scholarships are available for both programs.
Program Highlights
  • Iḷisaġvik College offers tuition waivers to local residents and Native Alaskans, reducing financial barriers to education.
  • The program features specialized tuition waivers for North Slope Borough School District employees and elders, enhancing community engagement.
  • Highly tailored tuition waivers are available for specific demographic groups, such as Alaska Native and American Indian students.
School Details
  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average Tuition$6,970
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course66%
2

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, New York

Why We Selected University at Buffalo:
The University at Buffalo offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program preparing students for impactful careers. The traditional standing program requires 60 credit hours and 900 hours of field practicum, taking three years part-time. Admission does not require GRE scores, but applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree. For those with a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), the advanced standing program offers a 35-credit curriculum with 480 hours of field education, completing in 1.5 years. Both tracks emphasize evidence-based practice and trauma-informed care with a focus on social justice. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), supporting licensure and diverse career pathways, and offers financial aid options.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers competitive tuition waivers for low-income students, significantly reducing financial barriers to education.
  • Students can benefit from guaranteed job placements through strong employer partnerships, enhancing post-graduation employment opportunities.
  • Unique to the program, specialized career tracks allow students to tailor their education towards high-demand fields, ensuring relevant skills development.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$11,310
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course61%
3

Morgan State University

Baltimore, Maryland

Why We Selected Morgan State University:
Morgan State University’s Master of Social Work program requires 60 credit hours, including a supervised field practicum totaling 1,740 hours over two consecutive semesters. The program emphasizes advanced practice with urban populations, focusing on ethical decision-making, cultural diversity, and social justice. Graduates develop competencies in ethical behavior, diversity engagement, and human rights advancement. Prospective students can expect university resources for support, must meet specific admissions criteria, and pursue careers such as autonomous practice, leadership in underserved communities, and contributions to social welfare with an emphasis on African-American contributions.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers reduce financial burdens, making education more affordable.
  • Out-of-state fee waivers attract talented students with merit-based incentives.
  • Institutional partnerships offer job placement guarantees and employer connections.
School Details
  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average Tuition$8,190
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course57%
4

University of Missouri-Columbia

Columbia, Missouri

Why We Selected University of Missouri-Columbia:
The University of Missouri-Columbia offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program with two concentrations: Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice and Policy, Planning, and Administration. The program requires 39 credit hours for students with a BSW degree (Advanced Standing) and 60 credit hours for non-BSW holders. Part-time options allow two courses per semester. A 600-hour supervised field practicum is required. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, transcripts, and a personal statement. Financial aid includes scholarships and loans. Graduates pursue careers in clinical practice, policy analysis, program administration, and community advocacy, meeting growing social work demands across diverse settings.
Program Highlights
  • Offers tuition waivers for eligible students, reducing financial barriers.
  • Provides application fee waivers for low-income and special needs students.
  • Partners with employers for tuition reimbursement opportunities.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$9,950
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course62%
5

University of Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky

Why We Selected University of Louisville:
The university of louisville’s Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program is rooted in social justice, human rights, and professional integrity. It offers a 60-credit hour curriculum for those without a BSW, or a 30-credit hour advanced standing program for those with a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program. The program requires completion of core courses, practicum education, and elective hours that can be applied toward concentrations or dual degrees. Career pathways include healthcare, private practice, schools, and government agencies, supporting career advancement and offering dual degree options.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers substantial tuition waivers for high-achieving students, significantly reducing financial barriers to education.
  • Students benefit from strong employer partnerships, ensuring high job placement rates and valuable industry connections upon graduation.
  • Accelerated completion options are available, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner while minimizing education costs.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$13,524
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course58%
6

University of Kansas

Lawrence, Kansas

Why We Selected University of Kansas:
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at the University of Kansas requires 120 credit hours, including 12 practicum hours, preparing students for generalist practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. The curriculum emphasizes effective social work skills through courses in social welfare, behavioral sciences, and electives. Flexible scheduling and regional employer connections enhance career opportunities. Graduates pursue roles in schools, healthcare, and family services or advanced studies, addressing social justice and community advocacy, with specialization options like the Child Welfare Certificate. Financial aid is available.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers substantial tuition waivers based on financial need, significantly reducing educational costs for eligible students.
  • Students benefit from robust employer partnerships that provide internship opportunities and enhance job placement rates post-graduation.
  • Unique specialized career tracks are available, tailored to high-demand industries, ensuring focused skill development and career advancement.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$9,989
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course52%
7

California Baptist University

Riverside, California

Why We Selected California Baptist University:
The Master of Social Work (MSW) program at California Baptist University requires 60 credit units over two years, including foundational courses, generalist requirements, electives, and a 500-hour field practicum. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the program offers year-round applications with financial aid options. Graduates enter a field projected to grow by 7% annually, with entry-level salaries up to $89,000, reflecting its evidence-based training and professional development focus.
Program Highlights
  • One standout feature of the program is its comprehensive tuition waiver options, significantly reducing financial burdens for eligible students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.
  • The school offers accelerated completion pathways, allowing students to finish their degrees faster and enter the workforce sooner, enhancing job prospects.
  • Students benefit from strong employer partnerships that facilitate high clinical placement rates, ensuring valuable real-world experience and robust job placement opportunities after graduation.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$13,590
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course54%
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) program preparing graduates for advanced practice and leadership. Students choose between two pathways: the 42-credit Advanced-Standing Program for those with a CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work, or the 60-credit Program for those without a BSW, completed in two years. Tuition is $440 per credit hour, with scholarships and grants available. Admission requires a completed application, minimum 2.25 GPA, and relevant academic background, with deadlines typically in early December or March. Graduates pursue careers in healthcare, community services, and policy advocacy. Dual degrees with Public Health or Law enhance interdisciplinary expertise.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers significant tuition waivers for out-of-state students achieving specific academic benchmarks, making higher education more accessible.
  • Unique scholarships are available for students pursuing STEM degrees, enhancing affordability while fostering critical skills in high-demand fields.
  • Strong employer partnerships facilitate high job placement rates, connecting students with industry leaders upon graduation for seamless transitions into the workforce.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$10,780
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course40%
9

University of Kentucky

Lexington, Kentucky

Why We Selected University of Kentucky:
The University of Kentucky’s Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program requires 120 credits, prepares students for generalist practice, and can be completed in four years. CSWE-accredited, it requires a 2.5 GPA, specific course grades, and an essay. Students gain practical experience through field placements and can pursue careers in hospitals, schools, and nonprofits. Tuition is $611 per credit hour. Graduates enter a growing job market and may qualify for an accelerated Master’s. The curriculum emphasizes social justice and offers electives for personalized learning.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers substantial tuition waivers for eligible students, enhancing affordability.
  • It provides accelerated completion options, allowing students to finish faster and start careers sooner.
  • Employer partnerships ensure high job placement rates after graduation.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$12,311
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course39%
10

Barry University

Miami, Florida

Why We Selected Barry University:
Barry University’s Master of Social Work program provides a strong foundation in trauma-informed resiliency and clinical practice, along with coursework in policy and leadership. The program requires 63 credits and offers an accelerated format. It includes up to 1000 hours of field education, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge practically. The cost per credit is $599, with financial aid available to eligible students. Graduates can pursue careers in health, mental health, government, and private practice. The curriculum prepares students for advanced licensure in clinical social work practice, emphasizing critical thinking and practical skills in diverse fields.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers competitive tuition waivers for qualified students, reducing financial burdens significantly.
  • Tuition waivers are often combined with scholarships to provide comprehensive financial support for students.
  • The school provides employer partnerships, enhancing job placement opportunities and career advancement prospects.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$17,820
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course35%
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Shannon Lee AUTHOR

Shannon Lee has written thousands of articles in the higher education space over the last 20 years. Many of those articles focus on things she is passionate about, including fire science, homeland security, and legal studies.

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Kimberly Zaski EDITOR

Kimberly Zaski is an award-winning writer, editor, and higher education marketing professional, with more than 30 years promoting lifelong learning, degree programs and educational opportunities for nontraditional students. As a marketing director for the University of Nevada, Reno, she and her team won national awards for writing, advertising, and publication design. Following her 25-year career at UNR, Kimberly spent 8 years as chief membership officer and VP of corporate partnerships for UPCEA, the University Professional and Continuing Education Association, in Washington, DC. Kimberly is a graduate of the University of Nevada’s Reynolds School of Journalism, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees with an emphasis in print, public relations and marketing. She has written and edited hundreds of articles and features, working as a news reporter based in North Lake Tahoe for five years.

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