social work phd programs in texas

Online Application

Online application.

The PhD in Social Work Program requires admission to both The University of Texas at Austin  Graduate School  and the Steve Hicks School of Social Work. A single, online application is required to apply to both.

Step-by-step instructions

• Obtain an electronic ID (EID) from The University of Texas at Austin.
• Access the online application (EID required).
• A Statement of Purpose (instructions and prompt available in the online application.
• A copy of a publication or other academic writing sample that is representative of your writing and critical thinking skills.
• 3 letters of reference, submitted electronically by the writer of the reference. When completing the online application, you will be given the opportunity to list the name, position, organization and email address for recommenders. Emails will be sent to them with instructions.
• A copy of your most recent curriculum vitae.
• A non-refundable application fee. See information about fees, payment methods and waivers.
• Official transcripts, including a transcript demonstrating completion of an undergraduate or graduate level statistics course with a grade of B or higher. See information about valid transcripts and how to submit them.
• International applicants from countries with a primary language other than English should request an official copy of TOEFL or TOEFL-iBT scores be sent electronically to the Office of Graduate Admissions

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Steve hicks school of social work, for more information, facilities for graduate work, areas of study, graduate studies committee, master of science in social work, doctor of philosophy, professional liability insurance.

Master of Science in Social Work Doctor of Philosophy

Campus address: School of Social Work Building (SSW) 2.222, phone (512) 471-5457, fax (512) 471-9600; campus mail code: D3500

Mailing address: The University of Texas at Austin, School of Social Work, 1925 San Jacinto Boulevard Stop D3500, Austin TX 78712

E-mail: [email protected]

URL: http://socialwork.utexas.edu/

The School of Social Work Building houses classrooms, faculty and administrative offices, and a student lounge. The building also houses the school’s Learning Resource Center, which contains computer and video laboratories and reading rooms; the center provides an extensive reference library of social work–related journals and other materials.

The school offers students several other services and resources, including the Office of Academic Affairs, which coordinates advising, registration, and other academic matters. Career planning is available through the DiNitto Center for Career Services. The Office of the Associate Dean for Research administers faculty-conducted research in such areas as substance use and mental health; child welfare; cultural diversity; domestic and community violence; gerontology; families, children, and youth; social work education; organizational structures; restorative justice; health; health disparities; and behavioral health.

The Steve Hicks School of Social Work offers graduate study leading to the Master of Science in Social Work and the Doctor of Philosophy with a major in social work.

The Master of Science in Social Work program prepares students for advanced social work practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities, as well as for policy-related and administrative positions. Two areas of concentration are available: clinical social work or administration and policy practice.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree prepares students to be academicians and researchers.  Students pursuing this degree design their own areas of study based on their academic and research interests.

The following faculty members served on the Graduate Studies Committee (GSC) in the spring 2023 semester.

The GSC Committee list was not available at publication time; please check directly with the department for an up-to-date list.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for admission to this degree program should have a general liberal arts education with a broad range of studies in the behavioral sciences. All applicants must have completed at least one college-level statistics course that includes inferential applications.

Applicants with a Bachelor of Social Work degree from a school accredited by the Council on Social Work Education may be admitted into a modified program of study.

Applicants to the doctoral degree program must have a master’s degree from an accredited school of social work, or a master's degree in a related discipline with extensive experience in human services. Preference is given to individuals with research experience and at least two years of professional experience beyond the master’s degree.

Professional liability insurance is required and a criminal background check may be required of all students enrolled in field placement or internship courses. The insurance policy must cover the duration of the course, beginning on or before the first regular class period.

• Degree Requirements

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2023-2024 General Information Catalog

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Clinical Social Work D.S.W.

• Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.) in Clinical Social Work

Develop advanced clinical practice skills in our unique program that is the first D.S.W. offered in Texas. 

In our wide-ranging clinical social work doctoral program, you can tailor your degree plan to build individual, couples, family and group practice skills, taking advantage of the capstone project and internships for comprehensive learning and hands-on experience. You can also complete your degree on campus or 100% online.

This degree equips you with advanced knowledge, skills and abilities to assess, diagnose and treat mental, emotional and behavioral disorders, conditions and addictions in adults, adolescents and children. You will also be prepared for higher education and leadership opportunities.

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Contact Information

Our D.S.W. in Clinical Social Work degree is a MEMBER of the Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work (GADE).

CSWE’s Board of Accreditation (CSWE-BOA) is currently piloting the accreditation of professional practice doctoral programs. Although there are currently no CSWE-BOA accredited professional practice doctoral programs, in June 2020, CSWE-BOA approved and adopted the Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work . The D.S.W. Program in Clinical Social Work at Angelo State University has adopted the Accreditation Standards for Professional Practice Doctoral Programs in Social Work and is prepared to undergo accreditation once it becomes available. For information about professional practice doctoral program accreditation and the current pilot, please visit the Council on Social Work Education website .

Program Details

Admission requirements, degree plan and courses, d.s.w. in clinical social work.

• Admission Requirements
• Degree Plan
• D.S.W. Student Handbook

Course Descriptions

• Social Work Graduate Courses

All the faculty for the D.S.W. program hold doctoral degrees and are licensed clinical social workers.

Our faculty are also dedicated to delivering the best possible learning experience, whether it’s on campus or online. Plus, our small class sizes mean you get the individual attention you deserve.

Paying for College

Tuition & Fees We don’t sacrifice quality for affordability. Angelo State is committed to helping you achieve your educational goals will as little debt as possible.

ASU Distinguished Graduate Scholarships Earn our premier graduate scholarship based on your highest degree GPA. Once you are admitted to an ASU graduate program, you will automatically be considered. No application is necessary.

General Scholarships We offer over 600 different types of scholarships. You can apply for both our general scholarships and degree-specific scholarships with one application.

What Can You Do With a D.S.W. Degree?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment for mental health and substance abuse social workers is projected to grow by 18% over the next 10 years.

Additionally, the Health Resources and Service Administration reports that while many social workers are trained at the master’s degree level, a 30% increase in the number of master’s and doctoral-level social workers will be needed to meet the demand by 2030.

Our D.S.W. program prepares you to meet the needs of the community you serve as a licensed clinical social worker.

• <blockquote class="quote-block--simple"> <p> “The social work professors are amazing and will do anything for their students.”</p> <p class="blockquote-author"><strong><a href="/iamangelo/felicia.php">Felicia Garcia</a></strong>, Class of 2023, Social Work</p> </blockquote>
• <blockquote class="quote-block--simple"> <p> “It’s amazing how they designed the D.S.W. program. This is a clear path from B.S.W. to M.S.W. to D.S.W. It opens the door for other students to come here, and it’s a one-stop shop.”</p> <p class="blockquote-author"><strong><a href="/iamangelo/felicia.php">Felicia Garcia</a></strong>, Class of 2023, Social Work</p> </blockquote>

Why Earn My D.S.W. Degree at Angelo State?

Extensive Internship Program

Our on-campus students can take advantage of a wide array of clinical internship opportunities with local and area agencies and practitioners. We also contract for internship opportunities for our online students in their home areas. Internships in social work higher education can be completed on campus as adjunct ASU faculty members.

Teaching Practicum

In addition to internships and the capstone project, you will participate in a Teaching Practicum that gives you even more valuable first-hand experience. You will be paid a Teaching Assistant (TA) stipend as you teach social work courses, either on campus or online, under the mentorship of our doctoral-degree faculty.

We’re here to help.

Contact the Program Director

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Committed to Your Success

Whether you’re pursuing a master’s degree, doctoral degree or certificate/certification, you have access to all the services in our College of Graduate Studies and Research . You’ll find information and resources for everything from registering for classes and writing a thesis – to available graduate/teaching assistantships and graduate research opportunities.

If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.

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University Catalog

Social work - graduate programs.

• MSW Program Goals

Goal 1: The MSW Program prepares students to practice effectively and ethically with the full range of social systems, emphasizing evidence-informed practice, a strengths approach, diversity, social justice, empowerment, and a critical thinking perspective.

Goal 2: The MSW program prepares students who understand the global and organizational contexts of social work practice and who are prepared to assume the responsibility for leadership positions, as well as engaging in life long-learning.

Goal 3: The MSW Program prepares students, by valuing social work history and the integration of social work knowledge, to understand professional social work and to be prepared for advanced level concentration in either:

Concentration 1: Direct Practice with a specialization in one of four areas, including:

• Children and Families 
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Concentration 2: Community and Administrative Practice .

• MSW Program Objectives

Upon graduation from the MSW Program, students will demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen concentration and specialty across in each of the nine Competencies developed by the Council on Social Work Education, as indicated below.

• Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior

Social workers understand the value base of the profession and its ethical standards, as well as relevant laws and regulations that may impact practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Social workers understand frameworks of ethical decision-making and how to apply principles of critical thinking to those frameworks in practice, research, and policy arenas. Social workers recognize personal values and the distinction between personal and professional values. They also understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions influence their professional judgment and behavior. Social workers understand the profession’s history, its mission, and the roles and responsibilities of the profession. Social workers also understand the role of other professions when engaged in inter-professional teams. Social workers recognize the importance of life-long learning and are committed to continually updating their skills to ensure they are relevant and effective. Social workers also understand emerging forms of technology and the ethical use of technology in social work practice. Social workers:

• make ethical decisions by applying the standards of the NASW Code of Ethics, relevant laws and regulations, models for ethical decision-making, ethical conduct of research, and additional codes of ethics as appropriate to context;
• use reflection and self-regulation to manage personal values and maintain professionalism in practice situations;
• demonstrate professional demeanor in behavior; appearance; and oral, written, and electronic communication;
• use technology ethically and appropriately to facilitate practice outcomes; and
• use supervision and consultation to guide professional judgment and behavior.
• Competency 2: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice

Social workers understand how diversity and difference characterize and shape the human experience and are critical to the formation of identity. The dimensions of diversity are understood as the intersectionality of multiple factors including but not limited to age, class, color, culture, disability and ability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, immigration status, marital status, political ideology, race, religion/spirituality, sex, sexual orientation, and tribal sovereign status. Social workers understand that, as a consequence of difference, a person’s life experiences may include oppression, poverty, marginalization, and alienation as well as privilege, power, and acclaim. Social workers also understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and recognize the extent to which a culture’s structures and values, including social, economic, political, and cultural exclusions, may oppress, marginalize, alienate, or create privilege and power. Social workers:

• apply and communicate understanding of the importance of diversity and difference in shaping life experiences in practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels;
• present themselves as learners and engage clients and constituencies as experts of their own experience; and
• apply self-awareness and self-regulation to manage the influence of personal biases and values in working with diverse clients and constituencies.
• Competency 3: Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice

Social workers understand that every person regardless of position in society has fundamental human rights such as freedom, safety, privacy, an adequate standard of living, health care, and education. Social workers understand the global interconnections of oppression and human rights violations, and are

knowledgeable about theories of human need and social justice and strategies to promote social and economic justice and human rights. Social workers understand strategies designed to eliminate oppressive structural barriers to ensure that social goods, rights, and responsibilities are distributed equitably and that civil, political, environmental, economic, social, and cultural human rights are protected. Social workers:

• apply their understanding of social, economic, and environmental justice to advocate for human rights at the individual and system levels; and
• engage in practices that advance social, economic, and environmental justice.
• Competency 4: Engage In Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice

Social workers understand quantitative and qualitative research methods and their respective roles in advancing a science of social work and in evaluating their practice. Social workers know the principles of logic, scientific inquiry, and culturally informed and ethical approaches to building knowledge. Social workers understand that evidence that informs practice derives from multi-disciplinary sources and multiple ways of knowing. They also understand the processes for translating research findings into effective practice. Social workers:

• use practice experience and theory to inform scientific inquiry and research;
• apply critical thinking to engage in analysis of quantitative and qualitative research methods and research findings; and
• use and translate research evidence to inform and improve practice, policy, and service delivery.
• Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice

Social workers understand that human rights and social justice, as well as social welfare and services, are mediated by policy and its implementation at the federal, state, and local levels. Social workers understand the history and current structures of social policies and services, the role of policy in service delivery, and the role of practice in policy development. Social workers understand their role in policy development and implementation within their practice settings at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels and they actively engage in policy practice to effect change within those settings. Social workers recognize and understand the historical, social, cultural, economic, organizational, environmental, and global influences that affect social policy. They are also knowledgeable about policy formulation, analysis, implementation, and evaluation. Social workers:

• identify social policy at the local, state, and federal level that impacts well-being, service delivery, and access to social services;
• assess how social welfare and economic policies impact the delivery of and access to social services;
• apply critical thinking to analyze, formulate, and advocate for policies that advance human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice.
• Competency 6: Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities

Social workers understand that engagement is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers value the importance of human relationships. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and

apply this knowledge to facilitate engagement with clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand strategies to engage diverse clients and constituencies to advance practice effectiveness.

Social workers understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions may impact their ability to effectively engage with diverse clients and constituencies. Social workers value principles of relationship-building and inter-professional collaboration to facilitate engagement with clients, constituencies, and other professionals as appropriate. Social workers:

• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks to engage with clients and constituencies; and
• use empathy, reflection, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage diverse clients and constituencies.
• Competency 7: Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities

Social workers understand that assessment is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in the assessment of diverse clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand methods of assessment with diverse clients and constituencies to advance practice effectiveness. Social workers recognize the implications of the larger practice context in the assessment process and value the importance of inter-professional collaboration in this process. Social workers understand how their personal experiences and affective reactions may affect their assessment and decision-making. Social workers:

• collect and organize data, and apply critical thinking to interpret information from clients and constituencies;
• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the analysis of assessment data from clients and constituencies;
• develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives based on the critical assessment of strengths, needs, and challenges within clients and constituencies; and
• select appropriate intervention strategies based on the assessment, research knowledge, and values and preferences of clients and constituencies.
• Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities

Social workers understand that intervention is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers are knowledgeable about evidence-informed interventions to achieve the goals of clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge to effectively intervene with clients and constituencies. Social workers understand methods of identifying, analyzing and implementing evidence- informed interventions to achieve client and constituency goals. Social workers value the importance of inter-professional teamwork and communication in interventions, recognizing that beneficial outcomes may require interdisciplinary, inter-professional, and inter-organizational collaboration. Social workers:

• critically choose and implement interventions to achieve practice goals and enhance capacities of clients and constituencies;
• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in interventions with clients and constituencies;
• use inter-professional collaboration as appropriate to achieve beneficial practice outcomes;
• negotiate, mediate, and advocate with and on behalf of diverse clients and constituencies; and
• facilitate effective transitions and endings that advance mutually agreed-on goals.

Competency 9: Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities

Social workers understand that evaluation is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with, and on behalf of, diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. Social workers recognize the importance of evaluating processes and outcomes to advance practice, policy, and service delivery effectiveness. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and the social environment, critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in evaluating outcomes. Social workers understand qualitative and quantitate methods for evaluating outcomes and practice effectiveness. Social workers:

• select and use appropriate methods for evaluation of outcomes;
• apply knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the evaluation of outcomes;
• critically analyze, monitor, and evaluate intervention and program processes and outcomes; and
• apply evaluation findings to improve practice effectiveness at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
• Apply critical thinking skills within the context of professional social work practice.
• Understand the value base of the profession and its ethical standards and principles, and practice accordingly.
• Practice without discrimination and with respect, knowledge, and skills related to clients’ age, class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, family structure, gender, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation.
• Understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and apply strategies of advocacy and social change that advance social and economic justice.
• Understand and interpret the history of the social work profession and its contemporary structures and issues.
• Apply the knowledge and skills of generalist social work practice with systems of all sizes.
• Use theoretical frameworks supported by empirical evidence to understand individual development and behavior across the life span and the interactions among individuals and between individuals and families, groups, organizations, and communities.
• Analyze, formulate, and influence social policies.
• Evaluate research studies, apply research findings to practice, and evaluate their own practice interventions.
• Use communication skills differentially across client populations, colleagues, and communities.
• Use supervision and consultation appropriate to social work practice.
• Function within the structure of organizations and service delivery systems and seek necessary organizational change.
• Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work Program Goals

The mission of the PhD program is to prepare competent scholars to advance knowledge and scholarship, pursue excellence, and provide leadership and service and to promote social and economic justice and cultural competence with diverse populations.

The program builds on the premise that social welfare must be scientifically and theoretically based and continually responsive to changing local and global societal needs.

The primary goal of the program is to prepare scholars to advance knowledge development and dissemination for the profession of social work. The program seeks to provide students with an opportunity to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field and the profession in order to provide more effective and efficient services in social welfare and qualify for leadership positions in teaching, research, and administration. Graduates of the program are expected to make a significant contribution to the profession of social work through continued research, scholarship, teaching and service.

• Ph.D. Program Objectives

Upon completion of the Ph.D. Program students will display competency in:

• Theory and theory development.
• Knowledge and skills in research methods and data analysis.
• Theory, research, and policy as applied to a specialty practice area.
• Understanding and commitment to the underlying values, ethics, and social and economic justice perspectives in the scientific inquiry in social work.
• Theory and research as applied to social work practice, policy and social work education.
• Admission Requirements

Please contact the MSW Admissions Office ( [email protected] ) to obtain the complete application checklist and information concerning specific application deadlines. Applicants may also visit the MSW Admissions webpage for more information ( http://www.uta.edu/ssw/academics/msw/admissions ). Students are admitted to the MSW program for Fall or Spring semester with the exception of students that qualify for advanced standing with their undergraduate social work degree. Advanced Standing students can be admitted for a fall, spring or summer semester. The admissions process is the same for all MSW programs, including the Distance Education Cohorts.

*Please note that the School of Social Work’s deadline for application is different from the published deadlines of the Graduate School.

Admission to the Master of Social Work Program

There are two methods for application to the MSW Program:  the Quick Admissions Process, and the Traditional Admissions Process.

Quick Admissions

This process awards the bachelor-level applicant who has earned a 3.0 or better GPA in the last 60 hours of her/his undergraduate degree program a head start by requiring only a two-step process. In step 1, the applicant submits the online Apply Texas Application (applytexas.org). In step 2, the applicant must submit all official transcripts to the Office of Admissions, Records, and Registration. Once all transcripts have been received and evaluated, students whose GPA is 3.0 or better are generally admitted to the Master of Social Work Program.

Advanced Standing students applying for Quick Admission should follow the same process described above and identify themselves as having earned (or will earn by enrollment) the BSW. The BSW degree is verified by the Office of Admissions, Records, and Registration, and included with other application materials. Advanced Standing status is only granted to individuals who have graduated within the past 6 years from a BSW degree program accredited by CSWE with a 3.0 or better GPA in their last 60 hours. The same evaluation criteria are used for applicants seeking admission to the Advanced Standing MSW program. 

Traditional Admissions

In the second admission method, applicants deemed ineligible for Quick Admission to the MSW program (based on the 3.0 GPA requirement) will be considered via the Traditional Admission Process for the traditional program only. Traditional Admission includes, but is not limited to the satisfactory presence of the following six qualifications:

• Possession of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university or its equivalent, with a satisfactory GPA of 2.7 or higher.
• Submission of three letters of reference indicating professional or academic promise.
• Submission of narrative essay of three double-spaced pages or less that responds to the following prompt:  Social work practice is often classified as either micro or macro.  Explain what is meant by micro practice and macro practice, and why addressing both micro and macro issues is essential to effective social work practice.  Use three outside sources to support your statement and include complete citations for each.
• Submission of GRE test scores.
• For applicants whose native language is not English:  Submission of satisfactory scores on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the TOEFL examination.*

* Applicants must submit a score of at least  6.5 on the IELTS, or a minimum TOEFL iBT total score of 79 with sectional scores that meet or exceed the following:

• 22 for the writing section
• 21 for the speaking section
• 20 for the reading section
• 16 for the listening section

Transfer of Credit

Transfer credits for graduate level social work courses may, at the discretion of the Director of Graduate Programs, be accepted by the School of Social Work from comparable coursework taken and passed with a grade of ‘B’ or better at another Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program within the last six years. Transfer credits for graduate level course work in related fields may, at the discretion of the Director of Graduate Programs, be accepted by the School of Social Work if comparable to required coursework for the MSW; such courses must have been taken and passed with a grade of ‘B’ or better within the last six years. Students will be expected to provide syllabi for review. 

Financial Aid

Scholarships are awarded annually and administered by the School of Social Work. For information about scholarships available through the School of Social Work, please visit  https://www.uta.edu/ssw/student-resources/scholarships .

A limited number of traineeships are available through the Center for Child Welfare's Title IV-E Program .

Graduate Fellowships

Candidates for fellowship awards must have a GPA of 3.0 in their last 60 undergraduate credit hours and in any graduate credit hours, and must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 hours in both long semesters to retain their fellowships.

• Degree Requirements

The MSW curriculum provides students with a generalist perspective in the foundation curriculum and allows students to specialize in one of five practice areas through the advanced curriculum.   Students must complete required foundation courses prior to taking most advanced courses. Students in the advanced curriculum select a concentration area:  Direct Practice or Community and Administrative Practice.  Direct Practice students also select a specialty within their concentration: Children and Families, Health, Aging, or Mental Health and Substance Abuse. 

The program leading to the degree of Master of Social Work degree requires the completion of 61 semester hours of graduate work including class and field instruction, as well as thesis or integrative seminar (non-thesis option).

In addition to the general graduate admission requirements of the University, each graduate student in the social work program must:

• maintain at least a B (3.0) overall GPA in all coursework;
• demonstrate suitability for professional social work practice; and,
• demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers and the Code of Conduct published by the Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners.

 The Professional Standards Committee will monitor and examine potential violations of ethical violations or lack of professional behavior.

Advanced Standing

An applicant meeting all regular admissions requirements who has graduated from an accredited undergraduate program in social work within the previous six years will be considered for advanced standing status in the graduate program provided the student graduated with a GPA of 3.0 or better in their last 60 hours of coursework. Foundation coursework will be waived for students who are granted advanced standing status.

Credit Hour Waivers

An applicant meeting all regular admissions requirements who has completed graduate coursework at an accredited master’s program in social work within the previous six years may be able to receive credit hour waivers for comparable courses, provided that the grades in those courses are B or better. Students may receive course waivers for more than 23 credit hours, but only 23 hours may be applied to the 61-hour MSW degree.  Waivers will be granted on a case-by-case basis contingent upon evaluation of transcripts, syllabi, and any other required supporting information. 

• Certificates in Leadership

Students pursuing an MSW in the Direct Practice concentration may elect to add a Certificate in Leadership. There are four Leadership Certificates available: Administrative, Community, Organizational, and Policy Leadership. These 9-hour certificates prepares students with knowledge in the respective area of social work macro practice that will enhance their ability to assume leadership positions in social service agencies. 

• Dual Degree Programs 

Students in social work may participate in dual degree programs whereby they can earn a Master of Social Work and another Master's in an area of their choosing including:

• City and Regional Planning,
• Public Administration,
• Urban Affairs,
• Criminology and Criminal Justice, 
• Sociology, 
• Business Administration,
• Public Health, or
• Master of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with Higher Education Emphasis

By participating in a dual degree program, students can apply some semester hours jointly to meet the requirements of both degrees, thus reducing the total number of hours which would be required to earn both degrees separately. The number of hours which may be jointly applied ranges from 6 to 18 hours, subject to the approval of the Academic Advisors or Graduate Advisors from both programs.

To participate in the dual degree program, students must apply separately to each program and must submit a separate Program of Work for each degree. Those interested in a dual degree program should consult the appropriate Graduate Advisor(s) for further information on course requirements though dual degree overview documents are available on the School of Social Work's Dual Degrees webpage .

• MSW Programs - Distance Education Programs

UT Arlington Fort Worth Center MSW Cohort Program

The UT Arlington School of Social Work offers an MSW Degree with a Concentration in Direct Practice that includes a specialization in Children and Families with a Certificate in Administration through our Fort Worth Center location. This program prepares students to work directly with families and children while also acquiring knowledge in administration that will enhance their ability to assume leadership and administrative positions in social service agencies.

Classes will be offered twice each week in the evening (scheduling may be subject to change during the summer semester as well as the intersessions). The program of work for the degree is scheduled to be completed in 2 years. A new cohort of students will be admitted to the MSW program at the UTA Fort Worth Center every fall.

Students applying to this program must meet all regular admissions requirements. The application process is the same as for students applying to the traditional MSW program.

MSW Program Options

The MSW program offers many different degree plans to meet the diverse needs of graduate students.  Students may elect to enter a cohort degree program, in which they will take courses with the same group of peers each semester.  Cohort degree programs are offered fully online, fully face to face, and in a hybrid format.  The MSW Online Program offers full-time and part-time online cohorts that start in the Fall and Spring semesters.  All classes in the MSW Online Program are online, though students are required to complete field practicums, which is the only face to face requirement.  For students who need more flexibility from semester to semester, a non-cohort degree plan is available, which allows students to select their courses each semester in accordance with their needs and interests, and with the guidance of an MSW Academic Advisor.

UT Arlington / Lubbock Christian University Cooperative MSW Program

The UT Arlington School of Social Work in conjunction with LCU offers an Advanced Standing MSW Degree with a Concentration in Direct Practice that includes a specialization in Children and Families.

This program is designed the needs of students in the Lubbock area. Students applying to this program can expect to complete the required courses both on the LCU campus and online through UT Arlington.

Students applying to this program must meet all regular admissions requirements. An applicant meeting all regular admissions requirements who has graduated from an accredited undergraduate program in social work and meets the Advanced Standing criteria will be eligible for this program. 

To be considered for admission to the Ph.D. program, an applicant must have:

• Master's Degree in Social Work
• Applicants who do not have a Master's Degree in Social Work are expected to have work or volunteer experience in human services and complete an introductory social work course and diversity course prior to beginning the program.
• ​Undergraduate GPA of 3.0 minimum, on the last 60 hours as calculated by the Office of Admissions, Records, and Registration
• Masters GPA of 3.4 minimum as calculated by the Office of Admissions, Records, and Registration.
• A Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score that evidences an ability to do satisfactory graduate work.
• Curriculum Vitae which outlines (1) work and volunteer experiences in human services; (2) participation in professional organizations and conferences; and (3) publications, if applicable.
• Statement of academic goals consistent with the goals of the Social Work PhD Program goals.
• Professional writing sample that provides evidence of the applicant's writing skills and critical thinking skills.
• Three letters of recommendation, preferably from persons holding Ph.D. degrees, addressing applicant's skills in the areas of analytical thinking and writing skills.
• If English is not the applicant's first language, a minimum TOEFL iBT total score of 90 with a writing sectional score of at least  23 must be submitted.
• An interview will be conducted with applicants meeting the basic admission criteria above.

An application for admission, transcripts of previous academic work and Graduate Record Examination  scores must be submitted to Graduate Admissions. An additional separate application and supporting materials must be sent to the Graduate Advisor, Ph.D. in Social Work Program.

• PhD Degree Requirements

The program leading to the degree Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work covers nine semesters (three years) of full-time study and requires the completion of 48 semester hours of graduate work including coursework, a qualifying examination, a comprehensive specialty examination and a dissertation. Students and their faculty supervisory committee together develop a plan of study geared to the students’ interests. Included in this plan are a set of required and elective courses in which students pursue their specialized interests.

• 18 hours of Core coursework.
• The core coursework qualifying examination must be satisfactorily completed before progressing in the program.
• Six hours of Research Practicum.
• Six hours electives selected from relevant graduate courses offered outside the School of Social Work.
• Upon completion of 36 hours of required or elective coursework, the specialty comprehensive examination is taken prior to application for candidacy and registration for dissertation.
• Three hours of dissertation tutorial taken upon successful completion of comprehensive specialty examination.
• Nine total hours of dissertation must be taken for a student to graduate.

Successful completion of both the core qualifying examination and the comprehensive specialty examination in the area of study to advance the student to candidacy at which time he or she devotes time to the completion of the dissertation. The last step before the degree is awarded is the successful final defense of the dissertation.

Doctoral students must demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers and the Code of Ethics as currently published by the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners.

•  PhD Part-Time Program

A PhD Social Work part-time program is forthcoming.

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Doctor of Social Work Programs in Texas

1-4 of 4 results

Steve Hicks School of Social Work

Austin, TX •

University of Texas - Austin •

Graduate School

University of Texas - Austin ,

Graduate School ,

AUSTIN, TX ,

Diana R. Garland School of Social Work

Baylor University Graduate School •

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   3 reviews

Alum: I enjoyed the program itself and how it was structured. However a situation occurred that was not handled well and had I known that was how the school would react I would not have attend the program. ... Read 3 reviews

Blue checkmark.

Baylor University Graduate School ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I enjoyed the program itself and how it was structured. However a situation occurred that was not handled well and had I known that was how the school would react I would not have attend the program. .

Read 3 reviews.

Graduate College of Social Work - University of Houston

Houston, TX •

University of Houston •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   3 reviews

Current Master's student: The academic program is rather good at the University of Houston. I have three social work classes and they are robust and full of great information. The choices of classes at UH is very good and allows students to follow their academic path and find classes that fit their program. The advisors at UH are on top of things and are always able and willing to help. I would honestly say that UH is a great place for academics! ... Read 3 reviews

University of Houston ,

HOUSTON, TX ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The academic program is rather good at the University of Houston. I have three social work classes and they are robust and full of great information. The choices of classes at UH is very good and... .

Houston Christian University School of Nursing and Allied Health

Houston Christian University •

Graduate School •

HOUSTON, TX

Archie W. Dunham College of Business

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2

Houston Christian University College of Education and Behavioral Sciences

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   10

University of Texas - Arlington School of Social Work

Arlington, TX •

University of Texas - Arlington •

• • Rating 3.33 out of 5   18 reviews

Master's Student: The University overall is alright; I enjoy its investment in mental health care. However, I wish the staff was more helpful and looked for answers rather than expecting students to figure it out independently. ... Read 18 reviews

University of Texas - Arlington ,

ARLINGTON, TX ,

18 Niche users give it an average review of 3.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The University overall is alright; I enjoy its investment in mental health care. However, I wish the staff was more helpful and looked for answers rather than expecting students to figure it out... .

Read 18 reviews.

University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work

University of Pittsburgh •

PITTSBURGH, PA

• • Rating 3.9 out of 5   10

Concordia University - Texas

• • Rating 4.84 out of 5   19

Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship

University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley •

EDINBURG, TX

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Doctorate Degree in Social Work (DSW)

Doctorate in social work program.

The School of Social Work is now accepting applications for the DSW Program for Spring 2024 semester. The application deadline is November 20, 2023 .  Please contact us at the School of Social Work at 936.468.4020 or email [email protected] , if you have any questions about the DSW Program.

The social work field is growing significantly, and the need for qualified social work professionals is rising due to the increasing number of social problems facing the global community. The field is predicted to grow by almost 19% by 2028. The DSW program will serve to mitigate the shortage of practitioners and social work educators by providing a degree that focuses on advanced theoretical, pedagogical and practical applications in the social work field. 

The DSW program consists of a three-year curriculum and 54 semester credit hours – 45 credit hours of core curriculum courses and nine credit hours of prescribed electives. Instruction focuses on assessment and application of social work perspectives, behavioral and social science theories, research methods, social work education, critical analysis and assessment of social problems, social welfare policy, and knowledge development in a substantive research area of interest.

Students will take a variety of social work practice, research, policy and leadership development courses. The DSW focuses on practice, teaching, leadership and administration. A dissertation is not required. Limited financial assistance is available.

Core Courses

The core curriculum is comprised of 45 credit hours. The courses focus on the history and philosophy of social welfare and the profession, social welfare policy, social work perspectives, behavioral and social science theories, research methods, statistics, social work education, leadership, and professional development.

Prescribed Elective Courses

The prescribed elective courses consist of nine credit hours and offer students subject-specific content to develop an area of interest that complements the curriculum and supports the capstone project. Courses must be approved by the student’s advisor, add to the student’s educational objectives and relate to the student’s capstone project.

Capstone Project

The capstone project is the culminating academic event for students in the DSW program. The project is designed to model the process by which advanced practitioners develop, demonstrate and communicate a coherent area of expertise. 

There are five capstone choices available. Other areas may be considered following consultation and approval from the DSW director.

• Research project with primary or secondary data
• Program development
• Training module development
• Policy development
• Theoretical or conceptual framework development

Application Process

• The student will meet requirements for admission to the SFA graduate school.
• The student will hold a master's degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council of Social Work Education. Applicants from international programs will be reviewed on an individual basis.
• The student will have three years of post-MSSW/MSW practice experience.
• The student will have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for previous graduate work.
• The student will complete a statement of interest and purpose.
• The student will provide a writing sample.
• The student will provide three reference letters from colleagues and supervisors in a field related to social work.
• The student will participate in an applicant interview.

Program Goals

• Prepare students to become a social work educator
• Prepare professional social workers who will embody ethical and professional behavior
• Prepare professional social workers who will demonstrate critical thinking skills 
• Prepare professional social workers to engage diversity and difference
• Prepare professional social workers to advance human rights and social, economic and environmental justice
• Prepare professional social workers to identify as a scholar practitioner
• Prepare professional social workers to identify as a leader in the field
• Prepare professional social workers to demonstrate collegiality and stewardship

View Degree Maps and Course Descriptions

School of Social Work Dr. Emmerentie Oliphant, DSW director 936.468.2291 [email protected]  

420 E. Starr Avenue

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 6104, SFA Station Nacogdoches, Texas 75962

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Ph.D. In Social Work Admissions

Thank you for your interest in applying for the PhD Program in Social Work at the University of Texas at Arlington. The deadline to apply to the program for Fall 2024 has now passed.

Helpful Links and Contact Information

All new PhD students start in the fall semesters only.   We only have a full-time PhD program at this time.   Full-time PhD students receive funding for three years through a combination of tuition payment, fellowship awards and stipends for graduate assistants and graduate teaching assistants. See FAQs  for more information. School of Social Work PhD Admissions requirements can be found on the following website:

For additional information contact the School of Social Work’s Admissions Office at 817-272-1044 or email [email protected]

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Poco Kernsmith , PhD Professor and PhD Program Director [email protected]

Monisa Caldwell Administrative Assistant I 817-272-3921 [email protected]

Questions About School of Social Work Admissions?

Get information about School of Social Work Academic Programs, Admissions Requirements, Complete Future Student Interest Form, and more.

Address School of Social Work Box 19129 501 W. Mitchell Street Arlington, TX 76019-0129

Phone (Local): 817-272-3181 | (Toll Free): 866-272-3181 Fax : 817-272-5229

The School of Social Work Admissions office is located in Suite 203 in the Social Work and Smart Hospital Building (501 W. Mitchell Street, Arlington, TX 76019).

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Dual Degree Programs

Several collaborative degree programs are available that enrich the options and opportunities available to our students. Dual degree programs allow students to earn two degrees in less time than it would take to complete them sequentially. Students interested in this option must be admitted separately to each of the programs and admission to one has no official bearing on admission to the other. Since admission to two programs is required, interested persons are encouraged to begin their application process early. In addition, it is recommended that students plan to complete the dual degree options as a full-time student.

Options for dual degrees include:

University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work and the Hobby Center for Public Policy offer a concurrent degree program that prepares students for professional practice in social welfare policy arenas. This concurrent degree program enables students to pair the quantitative and ethics-oriented approach to policy analysis offered by the MPP program with the substantive policy and practical training in health and human service-related domains offered by the MSW program.

Students must apply and be admitted separately by each program. All students must apply to the second program no later than the end of their first year in the first program. It will take approximately three years of full-time study to complete the coursework for both degrees.

Both programs require an internship component. The internship requirement for both programs can be met through completion of the required field practicum hours through the GCSW. Students pursuing this concurrent degree are eligible to apply to participate in the Graduate College of Social Work’s Austin Legislative Internship Program .

Learn more about the MPP Program

Applicants without a master’s degree in social work, or with a master’s degree in another field, may pursue a program of study that leads to both the MSW and the PhD degrees. Students are prepared to teach, participate in research, and hold high level positions in administration upon graduation from the dual program. Applicants must submit separate applications and fees to both programs.

Upon acceptance into this full-time program, it will take approximately 3 1⁄2 years to complete the dual MSW/PhD coursework with up to an additional two (2) years allotted for completion of the doctoral dissertation. The GRE is not required for either program. It is preferred that MSW/PhD dual degree students spend their first year focused on MSW coursework. The second year combines courses from both programs, with the remaining 2+ years exclusively in PhD coursework.

Sample degree plan can be found here .

Learn more about the Doctoral Program

University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work and the C.T. Bauer College of Business offer a concurrent degree program that enables students to prepare for a career in which knowledge and skills in both social work and business administration are critical. Examples include nonprofit management, organizational development, and employee assistance programs.

Upon acceptance, enrollment in both the MSW program at the Graduate College of Social Work and the MBA program at the C.T. Bauer College of Business should occur within a period of one calendar year. The GRE is not required for the MSW program, but the MBA requires either GRE or GMAT test scores be submitted. It will take approximately three years of full-time study to complete the coursework for both degrees. It is preferred that the student spend their first year focused on MSW coursework, with the last two years being spent in both programs.

Learn more about the MBA Program

The University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work and the University of Texas School of Public Health offer a concurrent degree program that enables students to prepare for careers in which knowledge and skills in both social work and public health are critical. Examples include policy analysis, hospital administration and research.

Upon acceptance, enrollment in both the MSW program at the Graduate College of Social Work and the MPH program at the UT School of Public Health should occur within a period of one calendar year. The GRE is not required for the MSW program and is optional for the MPH. It will take approximately three years of full-time study to complete the coursework for both degrees.

Learn more about the MPH Program

The Graduate College of Social Work and the Law Center at the University of Houston offer a concurrent degree program that prepares students for professional practice in arenas where law and social work intersect and complement each other. Examples include public services, health and mental health care systems, services to children and families, and the political arena. This program enables students to finish both degrees in a shorter time than if they were pursued separately.

Applicants must be admitted separately to each of the degree programs and admission to one has no official bearing on admission to the other. The GRE is not required for the MSW program, but LSAT or GRE scores are required for the JD program.

Learn more about the JD Program

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Master of Social Work Program

Msw mission.

To develop advanced-level social workers with practice, advocacy, and research skills, who act with integrity and are equipped to address diverse needs across the lifespan in a multicultural society.

The Master of Social Work degree program at the Texas State University School of Social Work is an exciting opportunity for college-degreed people who are interested in pursuing a career based around improving society. Our MSW degree program is built on a liberal arts perspective. Our graduates perform extremely well on state licensing exams and have found employment across a wide variety of service delivery fields.

The Texas State University School of Social Work offers the MSW program both on-campus and online. These degree offerings, regardless of delivery method, utilize the same textbooks and curricula and are taught by core faculty. The School of Social work also offers interesting electives in specific topics, such as health care, diversity, international social work, gerontology, spirituality, adventure therapy, work with veterans, and others.

Texas State University's Master of Social Work program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, and our graduates are eligible for state licensure.

For more information about graduate programs, visit The Graduate College at Texas State University.

MSW Program Inquiry:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 512-245-2592

Doctorate in Social Work Degrees: Search the Best DSW Programs for You

Are you a licensed social worker interested in advancing your career in administration, policy advocacy, advanced clinical practice, or college-level teaching? Earning a doctorate in social work may be the right move for you.

Explore these rankings to help you choose the right Ph.D. or DSW program for your personal and professional needs. Our degree guide explains what to look for when comparing different doctoral programs in social work, and what you can do with your degree after graduation.

Key Factors for Selecting a Doctorate in Social Work Program

What should you look for when choosing the best Ph.D. or DSW program for you? Before enrolling in any program, investigate several options, noting the program’s academic reputation, curriculum requirements and available specializations, and faculty areas of expertise.

Accreditation

Consider social work programs offered by schools with regional accreditation from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. While the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) currently only accredits BSW and MSW programs, the CSWE’s Commission on Accreditation has begun a DSW pilot accreditation program.

Specializations

If you want to work in a particular area of social work, look for DSW or Ph.D. programs that offer specializations or concentration paths that align with your interests and career goals.

Faculty Research Areas

The best colleges and universities hire faculty with strong research reputations who bring their expertise into the classroom. When comparing doctoral programs, check out faculty profiles to find out about their research interests and publications.

Featured Online Social Work Degrees

The best doctorate in social work programs.

Our rankings of the best schools for doctoral degrees make it easier for you to see how one program differs from another. You can compare curriculum, learning formats, costs, and other factors that matter most to you.

We use a data-driven methodology to determine the best bachelor’s in social work programs based on four primary factors: academic quality, overall cost, reputation, and accessibility.

University of California-Los Angeles

For over a century, the University of California-Los Angeles has garnered a reputation for academic excellence. UCLA boasts 16 Nobel Laureates, 15 MacArthur Fellows, 11 National Medal of Science winners, and two Pulitzer Prize winners among its faculty.

The Ph.D. in social welfare, offered by the Luskin School of Public Affairs, integrates personalized instruction and applied research with an interdisciplinary focus. Coursework includes nursing, public health, psychology, and sociology. Most applicants hold an MSW degree, but the program accepts students with a master’s in related fields, such as public policy or sociology.

Full-time students enroll in 12 units each quarter, completing two years of coursework prior to their dissertation research. Students can complete the program in four years.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Established in 1795, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the oldest public university in the nation. The university enrolls over 35,000 students in 95 bachelor’s, 104 master’s, and 65 doctoral degrees.

The Ph.D. in social work, organized around the theme of social intervention, comprises nine core courses, a professional development seminar, a teaching seminar/practicum, a dissertation seminar, and additional electives. Students must complete 45 credits prior to beginning their doctoral dissertation.

Applicants for the doctorate in social work need an MSW from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and two years of work experience in human services. A master’s in a related field may also be considered.

University of California-Berkeley

One of the most prestigious public universities in the nation, the University of California-Berkeley , offers over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate courses through over 300 degree programs.

Berkeley’s top-ranked Ph.D. in social welfare admits students who have completed a master’s in social work or social welfare, or a comparable degree in a related field. The doctorate takes a minimum of three years to complete, including two years of full-time coursework and one year for the dissertation.

The social welfare Ph.D. provides doctoral students with a generous financial package that includes tuition, health insurance, and an allowance for living expenses, funded jointly through fellowships and salary as a graduate student instructor or researcher.

Florida State University

Based in Florida’s capital city of Tallahassee, Florida State University administers close to 300 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including a doctorate in social work.

FSU’s Ph.D. in social work emphasizes hands-on training in research and teaching. The curriculum comprises core methods and theory courses, specialized social work research methods courses, statistics courses, and cognates taken outside of the social work department related to the student’s areas of interest. Students typically complete the program in 4-5 years.

Admission requirements include an MSW from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and GRE scores taken within the previous five years.

University of Chicago

The University of Chicago in Hyde Park ranks among the top U.S. and global research institutions. The Crown Family School, one of the nation’s first schools of social work, has played a seminal role defining the profession.

The Ph.D. in social work requires a minimum of 15 courses, including one on the history of social work, five on statistics and research methods, and nine additional courses that include three taken in other departments. Students take 4-5 years to complete their degree.

Admission to the Ph.D. program is highly selective. Of the approximately 100 applications received annually, the program admits only eight students. Enrollees receive a substantial financial aid package that includes a stipend, health insurance, tuition, and fees.

University of Georgia

Established over 235 years ago in Athens, Georgia, the University of Georgia is the state’s oldest institution of higher education.

The 60-credit Ph.D. in social work provides students with an interdisciplinary curriculum and certificate opportunities in gerontology, women’s studies, qualitative studies, quantitative methods, and nonprofit management and leadership. The program supports students with four years of financial assistance through teaching and research assistantships.

The Ph.D. program admits MSW-holders who have at least two years of post-MSW professional experience, an overall 3.0 undergraduate GPA, and a 3.5 MSW GPA. Applicants must submit GRE scores from within the last five years.

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Consistently ranked among the top U.S. public universities, the University of Washington-Seattle Campus receives more federal research funding than any other public university. The campus hosts a student population of close to 30,000.

The Ph.D. in social welfare focuses on prevention/intervention research that addresses topics in health/mental health, promotion and disparities, aging, child and adolescent services, family-based practice, interpersonal violence, substance abuse, income distribution, and issues related to gender, communities of color and other underrepresented groups. An optional statistics track provides students with advanced quantitative training relevant to their areas of specialization.

The program offers four years of financial support, including teaching or research assistantships or fellowships, tuition, and health benefits.

The University of Texas at Austin

Established in 1883, the University of Texas at Austin has grown into a leading research university. As the main campus for the University of Texas system, UT Austin supports 52,000 students and 3,000 teaching faculty across 18 colleges and schools.

The Ph.D. in social work offers an interdisciplinary approach to the field with an emphasis on advanced research methodology and statistics. Minimum requirements for admission include an MSW from a Council on Social Work Education-accredited or related field and extensive experience in human services. Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or above in upper-division undergraduate courses and in any completed graduate work.

University of South Florida

A relatively young university founded in 1956, Tampa Bay’s University of South Florida enrolls over 50,000 students across 13 colleges.

Based in the College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, the Ph.D. in social work emphasizes five topic areas that reflect the strengths of the college and the forecasted direction of the profession. These five areas cover societal change and innovation, global issues, health, behavioral health, and leadership and business.

Admission is typically limited to individuals who hold an MSW from a Council on Social Work Education-accredited program or international equivalent, with an overall 3.5 GPA. Applicants without an MSW may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Florida International University

Florida International University is a public research university in Miami, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees to over 56,000 students. The university emphasizes research as a major component in its mission.

The Ph.D. in social welfare boasts one of the fastest completion rates and highest retention rates among U.S. social work doctoral programs. Students typically complete the program in as little as three years.

Admission to the program is selective. Requirements include an MSW from a Council on Social Work Education-accredited school of social work or a master’s in a closely related field, at least a 3.0 undergraduate GPA and a 3.5 graduate GPA, and GRE scores. Preference is given to applicants with prior social work experience.

Advantages of Earning a Doctorate in Social Work

If you are already working as a licensed social worker, you may wonder why you should invest the time and money into earning a doctorate in social work. Today, the need for highly trained social workers in advanced practice and leadership roles has never been greater, and earning a Ph.D. or DSW comes with many advantages.

Salary Potential

A doctoral degree expands your career opportunities in administrative roles, with salaries significantly higher than master’s-level positions. According to a report from the National Association of Social Workers , DSWs earn $20-$25,000 more than MSWs.

Opportunities in Academia

The increased enrollment in social work programs has resulted in the need for more social work educators to train the next generation of professionals. Most college-level teaching positions in social work require a doctorate. Postsecondary social work teachers employed at colleges, universities, or professional schools earn an annual average salary of over $78,000 a year.

Increased Credibility

As the most advanced practice-focused degree in the field, a doctorate provides you with a high level of expertise and the credibility to address complex social work issues, formulate social policy, and bring about social change. A doctorate in social work establishes you as a “thought leader” and critical thinker with the insight and skills to make significant contributions to the field.

How to Apply to a Doctorate in Social Work Program

Required application materials for DSW or Ph.D. programs vary by institution. Most often, schools request official transcripts, 2-3 letters of recommendation from teachers and supervisors, and a current resume. Be prepared to submit a personal essay outlining why you are seeking the degree, what you hope to accomplish with it, and why you have chosen to apply to this program.

Admission requirements also vary by program. In general, applicants must hold a master’s in social work from a CSWE-accredited program and at least two years of post-MSW practice experience. Some programs may admit individuals who have earned a graduate degree in a related field, such as counseling or psychology.

The best DSW programs look for candidates with strong undergraduate academic records, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA. A growing number of programs no longer require GRE scores for admission.

What Can I Do with a Doctorate Degree in Social Work?

A doctorate provides a respected credential to advance in clinical practice and to move into leadership positions. Doctorate-level graduates find employment in social service agencies, educational organizations, nonprofits, and governmental agencies. This degree can prepare graduates to take on administrative and managerial roles at the macro level; developing and implementing organizational policy; and supervising, teaching, and guiding clinical practitioners.

Employment prospects in social work remain strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 9% increase in social work positions between 2021 and 2031, exceeding the national average for all occupations.

When considering whether to pursue a DSW, keep in mind that educational attainment impacts salaries in almost all professions. According to a 2021 BLS report , doctoral degree-holders make $400 a week more than individuals with only a bachelor’s degree. Social workers with a DSW can expect to earn the highest salaries in the field.

Your Next Career Path: Is a Doctorate in Social Work Right for Me?

Earning a DSW or Ph.D. in social work can lead to significant professional advancement, but keep in mind that the expanded career opportunities and higher salaries also come with increased responsibilities. When choosing a DSW program, evaluate how the curriculum can help you acquire the skills needed to achieve your professional goals.

Does the program offer specializations and electives that reflect your interests? Does it prepare you to move into a leadership role in your organization or conduct research that informs policy change? Will you get the training needed to teach, supervise, and mentor the next generation of social work practitioners?

Besides the academic preparation you receive in a doctoral program, you must develop the needed “soft skills” to take on these new roles and obligations, such as perseverance, perceptiveness, and listening skills.

Frequently Asked Questions About Doctorate in Social Work Programs

What is the difference between a dsw and phd.

The DSW focuses on advanced training for clinical practice, leadership, and applied research for policy advocacy and professional practice. The Ph.D. emphasizes theoretical and methodological perspectives and research to build knowledge in the field.

How long does it take to get a DSW?

Earning your doctorate in social work takes 3-5 years, depending on whether you enroll full or part time. Some programs offer accelerated two-year options.

Can you complete DSW or Ph.D. in social work online?

Yes, though students enrolled in an online DSW or Ph.D. will need to attend local fieldwork. See our roundup of online Ph.D. in social work programs to learn more.

Where do DSW graduates work?

DSW graduates pursue careers as social work administrators, community or social service managers, policy analysts, educators, and nonprofit directors. They work in a variety of settings, including social service agencies, healthcare facilities, schools, and government offices.

Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.

Take the next step toward your future in social work.

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