Lead with Purpose. Transform Systems. Advance Social Work.
 
Unlock your potential with our Doctor of Social Work (DSW)—a professional doctorate designed for experienced social workers ready to lead in academic, clinical, and organizational settings. Offered in a flexible, three-year part-time format, this program allows you to maintain your career while advancing your expertise in ethical leadership, research translation, and advanced social work practice.  Specialize in university teaching or leadership and management, and become a compassionate, research-informed agent of change. With a curriculum grounded in social justice, policy implementation, and evidence-based practice, you’ll be prepared to shape the future of social work through innovation and impact.

Why Choose Our Program?

Career Prospects

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social workers is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. Approximately 67,300 job openings are projected each year, driven by retirements and the growing need for social services in healthcare, education, and community organizations [1].

Competitive Salaries

Social workers with advanced credentials, such as a DSW, often qualify for higher-paying roles in leadership, policy, and academia. According to BLS data, “Social Workers, All Other”—a category that includes those in specialized or leadership roles—earned a median annual wage of $63,770, with the top 25% earning $87,730 or more, and those in federal government roles earning up to $94,260 annually [2].

Program Highlights

• Flexible Format: All courses are delivered online in a cohort model, allowing you to balance work, life, and study. 
• Residency Experience: A five-day, in-person residency kicks off each summer term, fostering deep connections and immersive learning. 
• Capstone Project: A four-semester, faculty-advised capstone allows you to address a real-world challenge in your area of focus. 
• Externship: A 240-hour, self-designed externship with a mentor in your chosen field enhances your leadership and applied skills. 
• First in New England: Southern’s DSW program is the first of its kind in the region, setting a new standard for doctoral social work education.

Diverse Career Opportunities

• University Faculty or Lecturer in Social Work 
• Director of Social Work Programs or Services 
• Clinical Supervisor or Practice Leader 
• Policy Analyst or Advocate 
• Organizational Consultant 
• Nonprofit Executive or Program Director 
• Researcher in Applied Social Work Practice 

Join a community of visionary professionals committed to advancing equity, ethics, and excellence in social work. Your journey to leading systemic change starts here.
[1]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Social Workers
[2]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Social Workers, All Other

Next Steps
     

     
Contact Us
     
SocialWorkGrad@SouthernCT.edu

College of Health and Human Services

Department of Social Work

Application Requirements

Application Submission
Application Fee
Official Transcripts
Essay
Two Letters of Recommendation

Essay Prompt

The essay prompt for the DSW program changes each year.  The current essay prompt is found here.

Capstone Requirement

Capstone Project

Cost of Program

Use our Paying for College Calculator to estimate the cost of your program.

Virtual Tour

Discover Your Future with Our Virtual Campus Tour!

Are you ready to explore the possibilities? Our virtual campus tour offers a unique opportunity to experience our vibrant community from the comfort of your home. Dive into interactive 360-degree views of our state-of-the-art facilities, picturesque grounds, and dynamic learning environments.

Join us and see firsthand why our institution is the perfect place to start your graduate journey. Whether you're interested in cutting-edge research or a supportive and inclusive community, our virtual tour has it all.