January 2026 University Catalog

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

School of Public Service and Education

The Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree program, designed around national social work education guidelines, focuses on leadership, advanced practitioner skills, and technology. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, advanced practice, and the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Students engage in online coursework and conduct either an action research study or program evaluation. Successful graduates of this degree program are prepared to pursue positions as leaders, advanced practitioners, and educators in the social work field. This program is not designed or intended to meet licensure requirements for any licensed profession.

All courses taken in a prescribed sequence.

Course NumberCourse TitleCredits
SWK8010Advanced Social Work Practice: Integrating Technology and Teaching in Academic and Agency Settings

4

PSL8130Action Research for Public Service Leadership

4

RSCH7860Survey of Research Methods

4

RSCH7864Quantitative Design and Analysis

4

RSCH7868Qualitative Design and Analysis

4

SWK8015Advanced Social Work Practice: Theoretical Perspectives

4

SWK8020Advanced Social Work Practice: Disaster and Crisis Management

4

SWK8025Leadership and Management in Complex Social Systems

4

SWK8030Grant Writing and Administration

4

SWK8035Advanced Social Work Policy and Practice

4

SWK8045Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice 1

4

SWK8055Advanced Social Work Practice in Complex Systems

4

SWK8065Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice 2

4

SWK8075Advanced Social Work Practitioner as a Leader of Social Change

4

RSCH-V8925Doctoral Project Development - Topic Ideation

3

RSCH-V8926Doctoral Project Development - Topic Development

3

Upon completion of all required coursework, students must register for PSL9971 a minimum of three times to fulfill their program requirements.

Course NumberCourse TitleCredits
PSL9971Doctoral Capstone

3

Total

At least 71 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Students who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.