Doctorate in Social Work Online

100% Online Degree

Doctorate in Social Work

The University of New England is proud to introduce its new online Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) program with an emphasis in Interprofessional Leadership. This specialized CSWE aligned DSW program goes beyond traditional social work education by accentuating the skills and knowledge needed to facilitate effective teamwork and coordination among and between professionals from various disciplines. This doctorate-level program is a comprehensive 45-credit online degree designed for dynamic professionals seeking to advance their expertise and influence in the field of social work. This innovative program offers a flexible, fully online format, allowing you to balance your studies with your professional and personal commitments. The Doctorate in Social Work curriculum emphasizes the development of advanced clinical and leadership skills as well as  interprofessional collaboration, preparing you to address complex social issues and drive systemic change. Through rigorous coursework, interactive learning experiences, and strategic leadership training, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in high-impact roles and lead transformative initiatives in diverse social service settings. With courses delivered fully online and three start dates throughout the year, the program offers the flexibility to accommodate your busy schedule, enabling you to complete the program in two and a half to four years.

Program Highlights:

  • Total Credits: 45
  • Time to Completion: 2.5 to 4 years
  • Course Length: Combination of 7 to 14 week courses
  • Intakes: 3 times throughout the year
  • Delivery: 100% Online
  • Concentrations: Advanced Clinical Practice or Higher Education Administration

UNE’s  fully online, CSWE aligned Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) with an emphasis in Interprofessional Leadership is crafted specifically for dedicated social workers eager to elevate their careers, drive transformative change and hone their leadership skills. Whether you’re an experienced practitioner, a clinical expert, or an educator, this program offers a cutting-edge blend of advanced skills and interprofessional leadership education. Tailored for those who are passionate about clinical skills, policy and advocacy, our curriculum empowers you to tackle complex social issues with innovative research and strategic leadership. Doctorate of Social Work graduates will be equipped to bridge gaps between different professions, foster effective communication, and lead collaborative efforts to enhance the overall well-being of individuals and communities. Graduates will be prepared to play a vital role in promoting integrated care models, drive organizational change, and influence policies that support interdisciplinary approaches to solving societal challenges. Embrace the opportunity to sharpen your expertise and lead effectively across diverse settings while making a meaningful impact on the field of social work.

Apply for your Doctorate in Social Work today and take the next step toward your professional advancement.

Current Application Deadline

January 3, 2025

Spring A Session

Courses begin January 15, 2025

 

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Why Choose the University of New England Online?

Fully Online

Fully Online

Courses are delivered fully online, allowing you to complete coursework around your schedule.

Affordable

Affordable

UNE Online offers some of the most affordable and competitive tuition rates, allowing you to complete your program for less.

Supportive

Supportive

Students have consistent support throughout the program with a personally assigned Enrollment & Retention Counselor. This advocate acts as a resource for all things UNE Online and will be there to guide you from application to graduation!

Flexible Course Options

Flexible Course Options

Students can customize their degree by choosing elective courses based on their professional interests.

Doctorate in Social Work Mission Statement

The mission of the DSW program is to advance the profession of social work by preparing experienced professionals to become visionary leaders, educators, researchers, and administrators who drive social change and promote social justice. Rooted in the values and ethics of the social work profession, our program is dedicated to excellence, diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning.

Doctorate in Social Work Program Concentrations

The online, CSWE aligned Doctorate in Social Work program at UNE Online offers specialized concentrations to cater to your career aspirations and professional interests. The Advanced Clinical Practice concentration focuses on enhancing your clinical skills, enabling you to provide advanced therapeutic interventions and address complex client needs effectively. On the other hand, the Higher Education Administration concentration prepares you for leadership roles within academic institutions, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to manage and innovate within the higher education system. Both concentrations are designed to provide a deep and comprehensive understanding of their respective fields, ensuring you are well-prepared to make a significant impact in your chosen area of focus.

Doctorate in Social Work Program Outcomes

Earning a Doctorate in Social Work from the University of New England Online, CSWE aligned program, provides numerous benefits. You will gain enhanced expertise through advanced clinical and leadership skills, equipping you to address critical social issues effectively. The DSW program opens doors to career advancement, enabling you to pursue higher-level positions in academia, research, and administrative roles. The flexibility of our 100% online format allows you to balance your professional and personal life, fitting your studies around your schedule. Additionally, you will join a community of dedicated professionals, benefiting from the support and guidance of our experienced faculty.

Doctorate in Social Work Admissions

At UNE Online we take a holistic approach to reviewing applications. No GRE is required for admission. Our Doctorate in Social Work draws applicants from diverse backgrounds and a rich variety of professional and academic experiences. Successful students have natural perseverance, an inclination to take on new challenges, and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities. We review applicants in a comprehensive manner, taking into consideration applicants’ previous academic coursework, professional experiences, and their application materials.

For consideration, applicants to the DSW are required to have:

  1. A master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE accredited program.
    *See International Admissions for details regarding the evaluation of international degrees for grade and degree equivalency.
    *Applicants nearing completion of a master’s degree may apply for conditional acceptance pending receipt of a final official transcript evidencing conferral of the degree.

  2. Graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
    *Applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0 may be considered for admission with a statement of the rationale for the GPA and plans for future success.

  3. Two years of clinical experience (preferably post MSW)

  4. Computer with internet connection, including the hardware and software requirements described in our Technical Requirements. Must also possess sufficient computer skills to navigate the internet as all classes are accessed 100% online.

 

Applicants must submit the following materials with their application:

  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Statement of Purpose & Educational Goal. Please provide a 750-1000 word (1-3 pages double spaced) essay that addresses the following prompts:
    • Please summarize your social work experience and why you think a DSW will enhance your overall social work career and future career goals.
    • Please identify which concentration (if any) you will be focusing on and explain how this will enhance your overall social work career.
    • Discuss the area of social work that you will be focusing on as part of your capstone project.
  • Official Graduate Transcript from the school that conferred our MSW degree.

Applications are processed and reviewed upon receipt with rolling admissions three times per year – in Fall, Spring, and Summer. Upon reviewing application materials, applicants may be invited for a virtual interview prior to the admissions decision. Applicants are typically notified of an admission decision up to four weeks following submission of their completed application.

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Doctorate in Social Work Curriculum

The online, CSWE aligned Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) program at UNE Online is meticulously structured to meet the needs of working professionals, offering a flexible and accessible path to advanced education in social work. The 45-credit curriculum is designed to be completed in two and a half to four years, with online courses delivered in both 7-week and 14-week segments and three start dates throughout the year. The program begins with foundational courses such as Preparation for the Doctoral Journey & Scholarly Writing and Policy, Advocacy & Social Justice, followed by advanced topics like Advanced Clinical Theory & Practice and Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Interprofessional Leadership. Students will also engage in rigorous research courses, including Qualitative Research Design and Quantitative & Mixed Methods Research Design, and complete their education with a Doctoral Capstone Project Seminar. Throughout the program, students receive dedicated guidance as they develop ideas for their Doctoral Capstone Project, ensuring they are not left to navigate this significant endeavor alone. From the early stages of conceptualization to the final presentation, faculty mentors and advisors are actively involved, providing invaluable feedback and expertise. This support structure is designed to help students translate their passion into actionable research that can drive real-world change, making the capstone not just a requirement but a transformative culmination of their academic journey.

With our asynchronous course delivery, students can complete their coursework at their own pace, seamlessly integrating their studies into their busy lives. This comprehensive curriculum equips graduates with the advanced clinical and leadership skills necessary to address critical social issues, preparing them for higher-level positions in academia, research, and administrative roles. Our program not only provides a robust academic foundation but also offers the flexibility and support essential for success in the dynamic field of social work.

Sample Curriculum Overview:

Semester 1:

  • Preparation for Doctoral Journey & Scholarly Writing (14 weeks)
  • Policy, Advocacy & Social Justice (7 weeks)

Semester 2:

  • Advanced Clinical Theory & Practice (14 weeks)
  • Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in IP Leadership (7 weeks)

Semester 3:

  • Qualitative Research Design (7 weeks)
  • Ethical Tech Use in Social Work Practice & Leadership (7 weeks)

Semester 4:

  • Quantitative & Mixed Methods Research Design (7 weeks)
  • Social Work & Interprofessional Ethics in Social Work Leadership (7 weeks)

Semester 5:

  • Doctoral Proposal Building & Defense (14 weeks)
  • Interprofessional Leadership in Complex Systems (7 weeks)

Semester 6:

  • Concentration Elective (7 weeks)
  • Concentration Elective (7 weeks)

Semester 7:

  • Doctoral Capstone Project Seminar I (14 weeks)
  • Concentration Elective (7 weeks)

Semester 8:

  • Doctoral Capstone Project Seminar II (14 weeks)

Doctorate in Social Work Tuition and Fees

Tuition for the University of New England Online Doctorate in Social Work is competitive among other schools at $950/credit.* Because all of our courses are delivered 100% online, you will not incur the cost of traveling to campus or relocating to complete your degree.

*Note: Tuition is subject to change. Listed tuition does not include the cost of fees, books, other learning resources, or additional credits, etc. that may be required. While travel will not be required for didactic coursework, travel may be required for completion of the advanced practice residency and components of the doctoral research project.

Cost per
Credit: $950

# of Credits: 45

Typical Cost: $42,750

 

Application Fee (non-refundable)
Free
General Services Fee (per semester, non-refundable for matriculated students)
$80
Tuition (per credit hour)
$950
Malpractice Insurance Fee (annual, non-refundable)
$50
Technology Fee (per semester)
$160
Registration Fee (non-matriculated students per semester)
$30

Faculty

UNE DSW faculty bring a wealth of academic and real-world experience to the online classroom. The faculty are student-centered and committed to providing a rigorous and engaging student experience. Click the link to meet our Social Work team!

 

Student Support & Resources

The College of Professional Studies (CPS) has a robust support team. Each student has access, from the time of application, to specialists who are actively engaged and knowledgeable about the program’s curricula and about specific courses and programs of study. Qualified faculty and/or staff facilitate student progress, and there are multiple opportunities to identify and support those who may experience difficulty in progressing through courses or completing other degree requirements.

FAQ

The program is designed to be completed in 2.5 to 4 years. Taking 2 courses per term allows you to complete in 2.5 years.

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) currently does not accredit Doctorate in Social Work Degrees. However, there is an intent for the CSWE to begin accrediting Doctorate in Social Work programs in 2025.

Yes. The DSW program is delivered fully online.

The DSW does not accept any credit for prior learning or experience.

You may transfer up to 9 credits from another doctoral program. These decisions are made by the program director.

Yes, applications are reviewed holistically as a determination of academic readiness. The admissions committee values previous academic performance as indicated on transcripts and considers it as part of the review process.

No, you must have earned an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program to be accepted into the DSW program. Students who do not currently hold an MSW may consider pursuing UNE innovative and fully online CSWE-accredited MSW program. Click here to learn more.