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Doctor of Social Work 100% Online
DSW Online Degree Overview
UofL's online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) is designed for experienced social workers who seek to become practitioner-scholars in teaching and leadership, as they take on roles such as faculty members in social work programs and program directors, administrators, policy practitioners and other organizational leadership positions within social service organizations.
Rapidly becoming one of the top providers for social work research programs in the country, the Kent School applies current research information in the preparation of its students for effective and impactful work with individuals, families and communities.
The Kent School of Social Work and Family Science has been consistently ranked among the best schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for academic excellence and student support.
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Application Deadlines
We Want You In Our Next Cohort!
Due to high enrollment demand, we encourage all candidates to submit their application as early as possible in order to be considered for the next available term/start. Strong applications submitted after the deadline are considered by the admissions committee on a case-by-case basis and as space (enrollment count) allows.
| Preferred Deadline | Term | Start Date |
| April 30 | Fall | August |
DSW Online Degree Highlights
- Advance from practitioner to expert scholar-practitioner and translate research into action
- Build leadership skills to influence organizations, policy and practice across complex social systems
- Strengthen your ability to evaluate, design and implement evidence-informed interventions
- Apply research to address real-world challenges and advance professional practice
- Learn from leaders in the field and alongside a cohort of professionals fostering dialogue and learning
- Enjoy an online format that supports intellectual intensity without sacrificing career momentum
Ready to lead change at the highest level?
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"The DSW online program helped me build my own leadership skills, find confidence, find my own voice and see what I can do in my own practice."
What is the Difference Between a DSW and a PhD in Social Work?
A Doctorate in Social Work prepares leaders and educators to advance practice within social service or higher education organizations and use data to influence or make informed practice-based decisions. A DSW is ideal for someone who wants to elevate their practice or begin the journey to becoming a faculty member at an institute of higher learning.
A PhD in Social Work is ideal for someone interested in research that advances the field of social work locally, nationally or internationally and uses data to inform the broader professional community. An individual with a PhD may also become a faculty member at an institution of higher education (college or university).
Social Work Job Outlook
Demand for advanced social work professionals continues to rise as communities, organizations and systems respond to increasingly complex social challenges. The social work occupation is expected to grow 10% nationwide by 2033, much faster than the average national occupations growth rate, with a median annual salary of $58,300 and annual 11,694 nationwide job openings (Lightcast.io)
| Job Growth Projection | Median Annual Salary | Yearly Job Openings |
|---|---|---|
| 10% by 2033 | $58,300 | 11,694 |
Gain hands-on experience and become a well-rounded practitioner by completing both a teaching and leadership practicum. To culminate your DSW online program, you will create, complete and defend an original capstone project under the supervision of a faculty mentor and a committee three additional faculty members.
Take the next step with confidence - we are here to support your academic journey, from start to finish!
We hope to see you in class soon!
