Walden’s commitment to positive social change is woven throughout the program’s coursework. Focusing on ethical practice, cultural awareness, and practical impact, you’ll prepare to address social challenges and advocate for diverse communities.
BUILD PRACTICAL SKILLS
Immersive learning technologies and online simulations empower you to sharpen your skills for real-life social work scenarios.
PREPARE FOR YOUR DISSERTATION EARLY
Starting with the first course, you’ll be focused on your dissertation topic and the tools you need to proceed with confidence.
BE SUPPORTED AT EACH STEP
The Walden Doctoral Degree Coach® helps you find the right support when you need it and stay on track throughout your journey.
EASY APPLICATION
Walden has streamlined the online social work PhD program admissions process. When you’re ready to apply, you’ll pay no application fee—and you won’t have to write an essay.
TRANSFER CREDITS
You’ve invested your time. You’ve gained experience. Transferring credit can save you time and money on your PhD in Social Work program.
SAVE ON TUITION
As part of our commitment to reducing barriers to higher education, Walden offers many options to lower the cost of your PhD in social work online program.
Doctoral Experience
How will I learn?
YOUR DOCTORAL JOURNEY
The path to your doctorate won’t be easy, but Walden is here to provide support, resources, and encouragement at every stage of your journey.
DOCTORAL DEGREE COACH®
Map and track your doctoral program milestones, meet weekly targets, connect with faculty, and find support with this personalized digital resource.
ACADEMIC RESIDENCIES
Broaden your knowledge, engage with peers and faculty, and shape your professional identity during this valuable doctoral learning experience.
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Social Work Teacher
Teach courses in social work at the graduate level; conduct research.
Expected growth: 4%1
Estimated annual wage: $46,790–$96,6701
Social and Community Service Manager
Coordinate and supervise programs and organizations that support public well-being.
Expected growth: 8%2
Estimated annual wage: $48,880–$98,7402
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
2Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Job outlook | Estimated wage (as of May 2023)
No guarantee is made that a person who enrolls in the PhD in Social Work 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 Walden’s online PhD in Social Work program, you will be prepared to:
Utilize current research, best practices, and theory to promote prevention and intervention strategies that address social problems and needs of social groups.
Employ various research and statistical tools to gather data used to address the etiology and dynamics of social problems and social needs.
Evaluate the role of research and evaluation in social work in improving social interventions and advancing theory development.
Critically evaluate the history of social work, its mission, and its core values.
Promote social change by collaborating with leaders, agencies, and universities to advocate for policies and programs that advance the economic and social well-being of culturally diverse clientele.
Assess the role of diversity in characterizing and shaping the human experience.
Apply ethical decision-making and practices in social work.
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PhD in Social Work FAQs
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 2023–2033.1 This growth is projected to include a variety of positions within a variety of industries. Those who graduate from an online social work PhD program often pursue careers in research and academia; however, there are many options available to professionals who obtain this degree, including:
- Postsecondary social work education
- Community and social services management
1Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
While both degree paths can help prepare you for a career devoted to making a difference in people’s lives, it’s helpful to look closer to determine which program better aligns with your interests and goals. If you’re looking to pursue a career in academia, a PhD in Social Work program allows you to focus on advancing your skills as a researcher and educator. If you would like to focus more on how research can be applied to social work programs and policies, as well as gain key leadership and management skills needed to improve your practice, a DSW program is the better choice. Put simply, a PhD can better prepare you to teach, whereas a DSW can prepare you to make an impact in the field.
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has designated March as National Professional Social Work Month, a celebration that highlights the important contributions of social workers. Social work professionals make a meaningful impact on nearly every aspect of society as advocates for the vulnerable and underserved. Dr. Barbara Solomon, namesake of Walden University’s Barbara Solomon School of Social Work, exemplifies this tradition of service. A longtime Walden University board member and respected leader in the field, Dr. Solomon is recognized by the NASW as a Social Work Pioneer and is an inductee in the California Social Work Hall of Distinction. Walden is proud to count Dr. Solomon as a member of our community and celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of our social work students and alumni.
Furthering your education is often a good idea, but it’s important to find a degree program that aligns with your personal and professional goals. If you’re looking to pursue a social work career that centers on conducting research and/or teaching, then a PhD in Social Work is the best choice for you. Walden’s PhD program is designed to give you skills and knowledge that can be applied to a career in academia immediately, whether as a scholar, researcher, or university professor. Whether you want to work in the public or private sector, a PhD in Social Work from Walden can prepare you to make a difference wherever you go.
Completion time for this program varies by student, particularly related to how long it takes to write your dissertation. Students can finish this program in as little as two and a half years but have eight years to complete their degree should they need more time to finish their dissertation.