Choose a university recognized for its excellence in preparing students for advanced social work practice. Walden is one of only four 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.
PREPARE FOR YOUR CAPSTONE
Build scholarly research and writing proficiency to help you kick off your doctoral capstone project with confidence.
BUILD PRACTICAL SKILLS
Sharpen your leadership and teaching skills through immersive learning technologies and online simulations.
Specializations
Walden’s Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program offers a variety of specializations to help you meet your personal and professional goals.
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.
As a social work scholar-practitioner, it is important to being prepared to serve populations with different lived experiences is important. Understanding the makeup of society, including undercurrents of prejudice and bias that can influence trauma, while being careful not to make broad assumptions about any individual or group, is a crucial skill for a leader in the social work community. In this course, students use historical and current events to consider how policy, systems, and public opinion influence the ability to meet the needs of diverse and marginalized populations. Students examine intersections of identity characteristics and apply contemporary theory to better understand societal manifestations of power, oppression, access, and opportunity. Additionally, students will consider how to apply their knowledge of diversity and multiculturalism to better lead communities, institutions, employees, and agencies in the continuous pursuit of social justice, fairness, and equity.
How can students prepare for ethical leadership in social work practice, administration, and advocacy? In this course, students can enhance their understanding of the responsibility of social workers in advanced practice to foster social change for their community, clients, and profession through practice, policy, and advocacy. Students can use current research to analyze and evaluate policy and identify how community, national, and international issues affect the social work profession. In addition, students examine opportunities to learn how to influence policy as a response to the changing needs of a diverse population. Students also can gain an understanding of how to ethically initiate advocacy and social change processes.
Using models of evaluation derived from social science and social work theory and research, students can learn to apply research in social work to inform practice, future research, policy, and advocacy. Topics include the history and theory underlying program and practice evaluation, approaches to evaluation, selection of appropriate quantitative and/or qualitative models and techniques used to perform the evaluation, strategies for getting gatekeepers to be invested in the development of the research and in the outcomes, demonstration of program effectiveness, and dissemination of results to stakeholders. Students can gain an understanding of how to address dimensions of diversity (race, ethnicity, age, socioeconomic status, sexual identity, gender, etc.) in their program and practice evaluations in an effort to ensure equity and fairness in program delivery and advocacy.
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
Earning your Doctor of Social Work is a bold step forward on your professional path. Walden makes it easier with our streamlined admissions process that includes:
No application fee
Easy credit transfer
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.
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.
Tuition Breakdown
Walden offers tuition savings options that can make your goals more attainable. Discover savings opportunities through:
Tuition savings
Transfer credits
Grants and scholarships
Program Savings
Program Savings
Receive up to a $5,000 grant when you start an eligible doctoral program.
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 58 quarter credits | $665 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $38,570^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20–130† quarter credits | $665 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $13,300–$86,450* | |
| Program Fee | $180 per quarter | $1,620–$5,760* | ||
| Residency Fee | One Residency | $1,420 (virtual) $1,520 (in person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) | $1,420–$1,520 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.5-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $54,910* | $132,300*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
Effective 2/23/26
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 58 quarter credits | $730 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $42,340^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20–130† quarter credits | $730 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $14,600–$94,900* | |
| Program Fee | $185 per quarter | $1,665–$5,920* | ||
| Residency Fee | One Residency | $1,420 (virtual) $1,520 (in person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) | $1,420–$1,520 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.5-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $60,025* | $144,680*+ | |||
| (assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
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.
† Based on a 2.5-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
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.
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 online 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 their degree in as little as 2.5 years through coursework, a doctoral study/project, and one residency.