Online Doctorates in Social Work

ARWU Rank:
14

Established: 1740
Country: United States

Online Doctorate Program Name:
Doctorate in Clinical Social Work (DSW)

Residency Requirements: Annual on-campus institute

This DSW prepares social work leaders for advanced clinical practice and research. Mostly online, it includes an annual on-campus institute over 3 years, offering flexibility with key in-person engagement. Students delve into clinical skills, policy analysis, and leadership, guided by Penn’s renowned faculty. Graduates excel in evidence-based practice and advocacy, leveraging the university’s network to drive impactful change in social work and community well-being.

Length: 3 years

Required GPA: 3.0+

Required Master's Degree: Yes

ARWU Rank:
62

Established: 1880
Country: United States

Online Doctorate Program Name:
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Residency Requirements: On-campus immersion weekends

This DSW prepares social work leaders for advanced practice and policy roles. Mostly online, it includes on-campus immersion weekends over 3 years, blending flexibility with intensive learning. Students focus on clinical practice, leadership, and policy, guided by USC’s expert faculty. Graduates lead initiatives, influence policy, and improve communities, leveraging the university’s prestigious resources to advance social work with evidence-based solutions.

Length: 3 years

Required GPA: 3.0+

Required Master's Degree: Yes

ARWU Rank:
 201-300

Established: 1794
Country: United States

Online Doctorate Program Name:
Doctor of Social Work (DSW) in Clinical Practice and Leadership

Residency Requirements: Students will spend one week each summer on the UT Knoxville campus engaged in intensive knowledge and skills development.

The post-MSW/MSSW Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) in clinical practice program is for individuals interested in advancing their clinical knowledge and becoming leaders in clinical practice. Advanced practitioners in social work are research-literate, reflective and professional leaders in their field. They are able to draw on a range of empirical, theoretical and professional sources of knowledge and take the lead on social work policy and practice innovations. The DSW differs from other social work doctorates in that it is a professional practice degree, designed to prepare students for advanced clinical practice and advanced practice leadership. Geared toward working professionals, the DSW is an intensive accelerated program that enables students to satisfy all degree requirements in three years, without career disruption.

Length: 3 Years

Required GPA: 3.0+

Required Master's Degree: Yes