Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024

Badge for BEST ONLINE DOCTORATE IN SOCIAL WORK (DSW)
By Dave Tomar
Reviewed By Jenn Finley
Published:
Updated:

Busy social service professionals can continue their eduction with a doctorate in social work. We rank the best PhD degree programs in social work.

Key Takeaways

  • There is a growing demand for social workers with advanced knowledge and practical clinical practice skills cultivated in doctoral programs.
  • While options are somewhat limited, students can earn a top-tier Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) online.
  • The best online doctorate in social work will have programmatic and institutional accreditation.

Best Online Social Work PhD Programs

Sort by:
  1. University of Southern California
  2. Bryn Mawr College
  3. University of Kentucky
  4. University of Tennessee
  5. Baylor University
  6. University of Memphis
  7. Our Lady of the Lake University
  1. University of Southern California
  2. Bryn Mawr College
  3. University of Kentucky
  4. University of Tennessee
  5. Baylor University
  6. University of Memphis
  7. Our Lady of the Lake University
  1. University of Kentucky 95%
  2. University of Memphis 95%
  3. University of Tennessee 68%
  4. Baylor University 46%
  5. Bryn Mawr College 31%
  6. University of Southern California 12%
  1. University of Tennessee 18 to 1
  2. University of Kentucky 17 to 1
  3. University of Memphis 17 to 1
  4. Baylor University 15 to 1
  5. Our Lady of the Lake University 11 to 1
  6. University of Southern California 9 to 1
  7. Bryn Mawr College 8 to 1
  1. University of Southern California $64,726
  2. Bryn Mawr College $59,330
  3. Baylor University $51,738
  4. Our Lady of the Lake University $31,124
  5. University of Kentucky $11,496
  6. University of Tennessee $11,332
  7. University of Memphis $8,352
  1. University of Southern California $63,468
  2. Bryn Mawr College $50,730
  3. Baylor University $38,772
  4. Our Lady of the Lake University $17,316
  5. University of Kentucky $12,583
  6. University of Tennessee $11,468
  7. University of Memphis $9,378
  1. Our Lady of the Lake University
  2. University of Memphis
  3. Baylor University
  4. University of Tennessee
  5. University of Kentucky
  6. Bryn Mawr College
  7. University of Southern California
  1. Our Lady of the Lake University
  2. University of Memphis
  3. Baylor University
  4. University of Tennessee
  5. University of Kentucky
  6. Bryn Mawr College
  7. University of Southern California
  1. University of Southern California 12%
  2. Bryn Mawr College 31%
  3. Baylor University 46%
  4. University of Tennessee 68%
  5. University of Memphis 95%
  6. University of Kentucky 95%
  1. Bryn Mawr College 8 to 1
  2. University of Southern California 9 to 1
  3. Our Lady of the Lake University 11 to 1
  4. Baylor University 15 to 1
  5. University of Kentucky 17 to 1
  6. University of Memphis 17 to 1
  7. University of Tennessee 18 to 1
  1. University of Memphis $8,352
  2. University of Tennessee $11,332
  3. University of Kentucky $11,496
  4. Our Lady of the Lake University $31,124
  5. Baylor University $51,738
  6. Bryn Mawr College $59,330
  7. University of Southern California $64,726
  1. University of Memphis $9,378
  2. University of Tennessee $11,468
  3. University of Kentucky $12,583
  4. Our Lady of the Lake University $17,316
  5. Baylor University $38,772
  6. Bryn Mawr College $50,730
  7. University of Southern California $63,468

Featured Programs

There is a growing demand for clinical practice professionals in the social services, mental health support professions, and in education-based areas like curriculum development. Several universities now offer an online Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) to students interested in running their own private practice, providing care in a clinical practice, or otherwise becoming a licensed clinical social worker.

DSW programs often cater to the needs of those already working in the field. This means that students seeking their doctorate must balance existing work and personal responsibilities with a challenging course of education. For many graduate students, online courses and a fully online program provide a way to achieve this balance.

For a look at how these online doctoral programs stack up against traditional on campus programs, check out our look at the Best Social Work Research Universities.

Or find out what your options are with a look at our full List of University Rankings.

 

Otherwise, read on and learn more about how you can complete a clinical social work doctorate program or social work PhD online.

Social worker talking to parents

About the Online Doctorate in Social Work Programs

Quality and credibility are important when it comes to finding an online doctorate in social work degree. The best online social work programs will have proper higher education accreditation:

  • Regional Accreditation: When looking for an online doctoral program, focus on colleges that have been regionally accredited by one of the accrediting organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). This stamp of approval is critical for ensuring the quality and credibility of your online program.

    • To learn more about financial aid, visit the Federal Student Aid website.This site has information about financial aid loans and grants, and repayment info.

  • Programmatic Accreditation: In addition to regional accreditation of the college or university, be sure that you are only considering online doctorate degree programs with programmatic accreditation. Any individual wishing to become a licensed clinical social worker must earn their graduate degree from a program with specialized accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Key Point: The best online doctorate programs in social work will have both institutional and programmatic accreditation.

Four students walking outside

Admission Requirements

Schools that offer online DSW programs have different admission requirements. However, most online doctoral programs will carry the same basic threshold for admission for prospective students, which will include:

  • A completed online application
  • Official undergraduate college transcripts
  • A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
  • GRE scores, MAT scores, or GMAT scores
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal interviews
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Plan of study

Key Point: In most cases, you’ll be eligible to enter a doctoral degree online after earning a master’s degree. However, a few specialized online doctoral and PhD programs may you to enter their program with only a bachelor’s degree and related work experience.

Curriculum and Courses

The curriculum and courses in your social work program will depend on the nature of your degree. Those pursuing a professional practice degree such as a DSW will likely learn practical skills such as how to treat mental health disorders whereas those pursuing a PhD may learn how to conduct scholarly research.

What is the emphasis in an online DSW program?

A DSW program focuses on clinical work in the field, and includes an emphasis in:

  • Clinical practice
  • Applied research
  • Social work theory in practice
  • Management and policy analysis

What is the emphasis in an online PhD program in social work?

A social work PhD program focuses on research and academia, and includes an emphasis in:

  • Academic theory
  • Social work theory
  • Research methods
  • Scholarly research

In either case, the typical components of your online social work doctoral program will likely include:

Foundational Courses

Students who complete DSW programs online will typically complete practical courses in areas like intervention strategies, evidence based practice, financial management, and more. Students who complete the PhD in social work will take courses focusing on areas like social work theoretical perspectives and academic research methods.

Examinations for PhD Candidacy

Online doctoral students pursuing their PhD in social work are typically required to complete examinations to enter into PhD candidacy. This usually occurs after the completion of one to two years of foundational courses in social work.

Dissertation

In most cases, the central component of your doctoral program will be the completion of your dissertation or capstone project. After gaining status as a PhD candidate, students work closely with an advisor or mentor to develop an original research question.

Oral Defense

Upon completion of the written portion of your dissertation, you will be expected to defend your findings. This “oral defense” will typically be conducted by a commission of professors and experts in social work. Some online degree programs may allow you to conduct this defense via teleconferencing.

Key Point: Social work programs vary depending on whether you are pursuing a PhD in social work or DSW.

Man smiling in a park
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The Best Online Social Work Doctorates

The online programs identified here include both online DSW programs for aspiring clinical social workers and online social work PhD program degrees, geared toward students building careers in research, postsecondary education, policy development, and more. Online degrees are ranked based on influence, with weighting for graduation rate and full-time online enrollment.

  1. #1

    University of Southern California

    Los Angeles , CA
    #9 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #16 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #18 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $65K

    Acceptance

    12%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Southern California

    Cost of Degree: $64,666
    Expenses: $20,338
    Starting Salary: $102,090
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Southern California known for?

    University of Southern California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Students pursuing their PhD at USC are in good company. More than 28,000 students—well over half the student population—are pursuing graduate level degrees at the research intensive institution. Indeed, USC is identified among R1: Doctoral Universities, those distinguished for very high research activity. Specialized opportunities include USC’s online Doctorate of Social Work Program (DSW).

    • The University of Southern California is great for students who:

      Plan to pursue career opportunities in the Los Angeles area. Some estimates identify USC as the largest employer in the region as well as a top contributor to the labor market.

    • The University of Southern California might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are seeking a more intimate academic experience. USC is a massive school in an urban environment.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Bryn Mawr College

    Bryn Mawr , PA
    #17 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #20 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1387/31

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Bryn Mawr College

    Cost of Degree: $50,730
    Expenses: $20,050
    Starting Salary: $70,129
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bryn Mawr College known for?

    Bryn Mawr College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Bryn Mawr College is noted for its distinctive online PhD in social work program. Students in its Doctoral Program in Social Work (PhD) will conduct research, develop leadership skills, and prepare for roles in higher education.

    • Bryn Mawr College is great for students who:

      Seek a balance between a beautiful campus and a nearby city. Though Bryn Mawr is in a quiet Pennsylvania suburb, it is only a short train ride from Philadelphia.

    • Bryn Mawr College might not be the best fit for students who:

      Do not prefer to attend an all-girls college. While students can take co-educational courses through partnerships with nearby schools like Swarthmore College and the University of Pennsylvania, the Bryn Mawr campus is all-female.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Kentucky

    Lexington , KY
    #14 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Best Grad Schools in Kentucky 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Kentucky 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1180/24

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Kentucky

    Cost of Degree: $13,946
    Expenses: $20,206
    Starting Salary: $54,389
    Salary after 4 years: $60,349
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Kentucky known for?

    University of Kentucky’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Kentucky is a strong draw for PhD candidates, enjoying classification among R1: Doctoral Universities, institutions noted for their very high level of research activity. Kentucky also holds the distinction of offering numerous top-ranked online doctoral programs such as its Doctor of Social Work online (DSW).

    • University of Kentucky is great for students who:

      Are looking to get involved. Students who attend the University of Kentucky praise the extremely wide variety of clubs, activities, and on-campus events.

    • University of Kentucky might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are looking for a quiet, intimate campus. Students note that Greek life and sporting events are a major part of the culture at this large institution.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    University of Tennessee

    Knoxville , TN
    #1 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    35K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1250/28

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Tennessee

    Cost of Degree: $13,380
    Expenses: $19,414
    Starting Salary: $57,108
    Salary after 4 years: $63,367
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Tennessee known for?

    University of Tennessee’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Tennessee offers an array of online doctoral pathways into advanced clinical practice in social work including its Doctor of Social Work online program (DSW).

    • The University of Tennessee is great for students who:

      Enjoy a party atmosphere. The Greek system and the school’s football program play a major role in shaping the campus culture at the University of Tennessee.

    • The University of Tennessee might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are seeking a more intimate environment. University of Tennessee is a large campus, which can make it challenging to make friends at first.

    Compare school
  5. #5

    Baylor University

    Waco , TX
    #1 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #6 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #10 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $52K

    Acceptance

    46%

    Graduation

    81%

    Student body

    23K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1320/30

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Baylor University

    Cost of Degree: $38,772
    Expenses: $18,433
    Starting Salary: $67,140
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Baylor University known for?

    Baylor University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Baylor University is noted for several accredited online programs, including its research-based online PhD in Social Work. Baylor’s program is unique for its emphasis on the development of leaders and educators, as opposed to clinical practitioners of social work.

    • Baylor University is great for students who:

      Are seeking a beautiful campus with thoughtful architecture. Students describe Baylor’s main campus as warm and welcoming.

    • Baylor University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Have financial constraints. Baylor University is a comparatively costly private institution.

    Compare school
  6. Social worker smiling at old woman
  7. #6

    University of Memphis

    Memphis , TN
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    95%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    25K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/20

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at University of Memphis

    Cost of Degree: $10,908
    Expenses: $18,080
    Starting Salary: $43,511
    Salary after 4 years: $48,279
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Memphis known for?

    University of Memphis’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Memphis is noted for several excellent online social work programs, including its Online Doctorate of Social Work Program (DSW).

    • University of Memphis is great for students who:

      Are looking for a surrounding area with tons of stuff to do. Students note that the Memphis metro area offers many restaurants, shops, nightlife and cultural opportunities.

    • University of Memphis might not be the best fit for students who:

      Are looking for a traditional residential campus. Many students refer to University of Memphis as a commuter school, where many people leave campus on the weekends.

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Our Lady of the Lake University

    San Antonio , TX
    #19 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #3 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates) #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Social Work Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #16 Best Online MBA Programs in Texas
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $31K

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Social Work degree at Our Lady of the Lake University

    Cost of Degree: $18,156
    Starting Salary: $48,861
    What is Our Lady of the Lake University known for?

    Our Lady of the Lake University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Our Lady of the Lake University is noted for its excellent social work programs, including its Online PhD in Social Work.

    • Our Lady of the Lake University is great for students who:

      Enjoy the intimacy of a small campus. Students speak highly of the modest class sizes and the personal attention they receive from their professors.

    • Our Lady of the Lake University might not be the best fit for students who:

      Require a great deal of administrative support. Students note that some of the student support services are not as fast or responsive as desired.

    Compare school
Team of social workers doing inventory
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Social Workers, Mental Health Professionals, and Other Careers for Graduates with an Online Doctorate in Social Work

Accredited online doctorate in social work graduates are generally eligible for top positions in their field. Graduates with a DSW are qualified for positions in:

  • Clinical practice
  • Private practice
  • Administration in clinical setting
  • Policy Development
  • Advocacy

Graduates with a PhD in social work are qualified for positions in:

  • Academia
  • Research
  • Policy
  • Political Science

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top 10% of earners among social workers earned more than $82,000 in 2021.

Working professionals who earn an accredited online doctorate may be eligible to work as:

  • Post-Secondary Teaching Position
  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • Clinical Director
  • Social Justice Organizer
  • Grant Writers for Nonprofit Organization
  • Public Policy Consultant
  • Political Scientist
  • Community Service Manager

Key Points: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, students with a doctorate in social work will earn a higher-than average salary, and are eligible for more leadership opportunities than social workers with a bachelor’s or master’s degree alone.

It may also be possible to complete a PhD in psychology in as little as 12-18 months with an accelerated degree program. Some of the fastest PhD’s in psychology include:

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Professional Organizations for Social Workers

Networking through professional organizations, is one of the top ways to connect with other professionals in your industry. Networking can be a great way to advance in your career. The following organizations are particularly suited for social workers with a DSW or PhD in social work:

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Scholarships for Doctoral Students in Social Work

There are a number of scholarship opportunities social work students pursuing doctoral degrees. Application requirements vary, so applicants should consult the website for further information. Scholarships include:

If keeping the cost of your DSW or PhD in social work as low as possible is important to you, check out our ranking highlighting the most affordable PhD programs in social work in the United States.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here