Instead of waiting to start your capstone, Walden’s online DSW embeds elements of the capstone throughout your program. With this structured approach built into every course, you’ll make progress every term—with plenty of support along the way.
CSWE-ACCREDITED QUALITY
Choose a university recognized for its excellence in preparing students for advanced social work practice. Walden is one of the first institutions with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
PERSONALIZE YOUR PATH
Select one of three online DSW specializations to align your coursework with your interests and career goals.
BUILD PRACTICAL SKILLS
Sharpen your leadership and teaching skills through immersive learning technologies and online simulations.
Find Your Specializations
Personalize your doctorate at no extra cost. With specializations included in tuition, you can focus your studies on what inspires you most and advance your expertise in the areas that matter to your future.
Program Details
Explore Your Path to Impact
Learn more about Walden’s online DSW program—from the simplified admissions process to potential tuition savings. Choose from multiple specializations designed to help you tailor your studies to your professional interests.
Curriculum and Completion Requirements
Walden's online DSW curriculum covers diverse contemporary theories in social work and the roles and responsibilities of social workers in advanced practice. You’ll also learn to apply research to inform practice, policy, and advocacy.
Featured DSW Courses
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Through this course, students gain a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. Course assignments focus on practical application of writing and critical- thinking skills and promote professional and academic excellence. Major assignments include the preparation of the Professional Development Plan and Program of Study.
In this foundational doctoral course, students are provided with an overview of the ways of knowing diverse contemporary theories in social work and the social sciences. Students will be able to understand how the assumptions of various epistemological paradigms (i.e., ways of knowing) inform research. Students will also explore how theories inform social work practice, policy, and research, and they will discuss the role of the social worker in social issues at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. In addition, there is an emphasis on the delivery of culturally sensitive and ethical services.
This course introduces students to meta-synthesis research. This course will provide an overview and positioning of meta synthesis methodology, including philosophical perspectives and the use of a meta synthesis approach to inform social work policy and practice. Students will explore how meta-synthesis fits within qualitative research designs, particularly under interpretivist paradigms. Students will develop appropriate research aims and questions for interpretive meta synthesis. Key methods and sources for systematic searches for published and unpublished material, evaluation, and appropriate tools for data extraction will be covered. Students will develop knowledge into different perspectives concerning quality appraisal and meta synthesis frameworks. By the end of the course, students will understand the philosophical underpinnings, foundational concepts, goals in advancing practice, steps, and methodological processes that guide meta-synthesis research.
This course prepares students to transform qualitative research into actionable insights for social work practice. Students will learn to critically evaluate qualitative studies, synthesize findings across multiple sources, and apply evidence to real-world challenges in policy, program development, and clinical decision-making. Emphasis is placed on advanced integration techniques such as thematic synthesis and interpretive meta-synthesis, ensuring recommendations are grounded in rigorous analysis. Through applied projects and case-based discussions, learners will develop frameworks for translating qualitative evidence into practical strategies that improve service delivery and client outcomes. The course concludes with students reflecting on their own capstone topic and how they anticipate translating qualitative research into social work practice implications in their final capstone project.
This course examines and applies qualitative interpretive meta-synthesis (QIMS), an advanced method for integrating and interpreting findings from multiple qualitative studies. Students will learn to identify practice-relevant issues, critically analyze, and synthesize research, demonstrate knowledge and skills needed to engage in meta-synthesis research, and create a final project that serves as a basis for the final capstone project. Through interactive modules and a synchronous intensive, students will gain hands-on experience in designing a meta-synthesis study which will prepare them for success in subsequent Capstone courses. Students will develop and present a preliminary plan for their capstone meta-synthesis project, which must receive approval in this course before they advance to the Capstone Project Research sequence.
Admissions
Work one-on-one with an Enrollment Specialist who’ll guide you through every step—from choosing the right program to paying for your education.
Streamlined Admissions Process
Once you decide to pursue your Doctor of Social Work at Walden, take the next step with our straightforward admissions process. We’ve made it easy with:
No application fee
No test scores or essay required
To be considered for this program, you must:
- Currently hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program with 3.0 GPA.
- At least 2 years full time and equivalent practice experience beyond the master’s degree. Resume will be required to document experience.
To apply, please submit your completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
Tuition and Scholarships
We believe you can achieve your goals—and we are here to support you along your journey. Request information to learn more about scholarships and financial aid for those who apply and qualify.
Tuition Breakdown
We know tuition costs are a big consideration when you’re exploring online DSW programs. Walden offers several ways to reduce your total tuition.
Explore these opportunities:
Scholarship and federal/state grants for those who apply and qualify
Alumni tuition savings
Stay Inspired. Stay on Track. Save Money.
Discover progress-based savings that inspire you to stay on track to graduation.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 44 quarter credits | $730 per quarter credit | $32,120* |
| Tuition-Doctoral Capstone | 15 quarter credits | $730 per quarter credit | $10,950 |
| Program Fee† | $185 per quarter | $1,295 | |
| $44,365‡ | |||
Believe & Achieve Scholarship®
| -$3,650 | ||
| Your Tuition | $40,715§ |
*Includes virtual residency
†Assumes 7 quarters
‡Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
§This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt and reflects the minimum time to completion. Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Your actual total program time and costs may vary. Believe & Achieve Scholarship based on current tuition. For additional Believe & Achieve scholarship information, see Grants and Scholarships.
Doctoral Experience
How will I learn?
YOUR DOCTORAL JOURNEY
The path to earning your DSW won’t be easy, but Walden is here to provide support, resources, and encouragement at every stage of your journey.
FOCUS ON YOUR PASSION
Get help choosing a doctoral research topic that reflects your interests. Learn how you can use the findings to create meaningful change.
ACADEMIC RESIDENCY
Broaden your knowledge, engage with peers and faculty, and shape your professional identity during this valuable online DSW learning experience.
Doctoral Capstone
Instead of happening all at once at the end of your online DSW program, elements of the capstone project are integrated directly into your coursework. Get an early start exploring potential topics, researching, and building your doctoral skill set. Progress toward your final capstone project step by step as you move through your program.
Walden’s DSW program is all about helping you make a real difference in your community and your profession. You’ll learn how to turn research and evaluation models into practical tools you can use in your day-to-day work—whether that’s strengthening social work practice, shaping critical policy, or advocating for vulnerable populations. Your guided capstone gives you the chance to dive into practice-focused research, with results you can put to work right away. It’s a powerful way to build the skills you need to critically evaluate problems, design effective solutions, and advancing professional practice.
You’re never on your own—as you progress in your online DSW program capstone project, you’ll be guided by a dedicated mentor who helps you stay on track to successfully complete your project. You’ll also have access to Walden’s robust doctoral support resources including 24/7 technical support, academic writing and research assistance, and our extensive digital library.
Career Opportunities
A Doctor of Social Work degree can help prepare you to lead change in diverse roles and settings.
Child, Family, and School Social Worker
Support the social and emotional well-being of children, families, and students.
Expected growth: 3%1
Estimated annual wage: $40,580–$74,0601
Healthcare Social Worker
Enhance the overall well-being of people facing health-related challenges.
Expected Growth: 8%2
Estimated annual wage: $45,030–$83,4102
Postsecondary Social Work Teachers
Teach courses in social work at the graduate level; conduct research.
Expected Growth: 2%3
Estimated annual wage: $45,370–$98,5703
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2024)
2Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2024)
3Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2024)
No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the (include applicable program) program will obtain a job or will earn the stated salaries. Wage estimates are based on the 10th - 75th percentile.
Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of our DSW program, you will be prepared to:
- Identify social work practice gaps through the use of theory, current research, and best practices.
- Demonstrate the ability to employ a variety of research approaches to understand or address social work practice problems.
- Synthesize research related to social work interventions, social programs, and the social work practice knowledge base.
- Critically evaluate social problems and social work practice gaps from a culturally aware, ethical, and empirically-driven perspective.
- Demonstrate the ability to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders to advocate for social change.
- Demonstrate the ability to collaborate with a variety of stakeholders to advocate for policies and practices that advance the economic and social well-being of culturally diverse clientele.
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge and skill in a specialized area of social work
Doctor of Social Work Program Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes
Walden’s Online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) FAQ
No. To be considered for the Doctor of Social Work program at Walden University, you are required to hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program with 3.0 GPA. You must also have at least two years of full-time and equivalent practice experience beyond the master’s degree.
Yes, as a graduate of our Doctor of Social Work degree program, you may be qualified to teach social work education in higher education settings. Walden offers the Social Work Education specialization within the DSW program to prepare you to effect positive change in the profession as a social work professor or instructor.
Earning your Doctor of Social Work is a bold step forward on your professional path. If you have your MSW and at least three years of full-time and equivalent practice experience beyond the MSW, Walden makes it easier with streamlined admission process that includes no application fee and easy transfer credit. Once admitted to the program, you may earn your degree in as little as 2.5 years through coursework, a doctoral study/project, and one residency.
High-quality social work degree programs offer diverse focus areas or specializations to provide a more direct path toward making a difference in your particular area of interest. When you enroll in Walden University’s Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program, you can choose from three specializations, including:
- Advanced Clinical Practice and Supervision
- Impact Leadership in Social Work Administration
- Social Work Education
The different online DSW specializations can guide where you work and what type of job you might take. And while each specialization centers on a different aspect of the social work field, they share similar strengths including foundational studies, the development of scholarly research skills, practical exercises, and opportunities for field experiences.
Earning an advanced degree in social work, such as a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree, can prepare you for a variety of roles, including medical social worker, depending on your training and experience. Professionals serving in this capacity are critical to our healthcare system, helping patients understand their medical diagnoses and navigate the system so that they get the care and assistance they need. Medical social workers also work closely with doctors and nurses to understand how an illness or disease may affect a patient’s mental or emotional health. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of healthcare social workers is expected to increase 8% by 2034, adding 208,100 new jobs.1
1Source:
If you’re ready for a career devoted to making a difference in people’s lives, social work is a great field—and you have two degrees at the doctoral level from which to choose. To determine which program better aligns with your interests and goals, it’s helpful to look at the differences.
In a PhD program, students focus on advancing their skills as researchers and typically seek careers in academia. Students who choose to pursue their Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree focus more on how research can be applied to social work programs and policies, as well as the key leadership and management skills needed to improve their practice. To summarize, a PhD better prepares you to teach, while a DSW prepares you for a professional career in the field.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in the field of social work is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034.1
This growth is projected to include a variety of roles within the field, and a DSW can help prepare you for many—if not all—of them. These roles include:
- Child, family, and school social worker
- Healthcare social worker
- Postsecondary social work teacher
1Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm#tab-6
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of an online DSW degree program.