Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
Harold Abel School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
General Social Work specialization
Prepare to lead social service programs, advocate for social justice and public policy changes, and teach the next generation of social workers. This professional doctorate, designed around national social work education guidelines, is one of very few online DSW degree programs. It also features face-to-face learning experiences, including a week-long, intensive dissertation writing retreat and a course that requires participatory research. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, action research, and the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical experience. There is a strong focus on the growing use of technology to expand the reach or effectiveness of social service programs, build awareness of important social issues, and enhance professional development. People who choose this specialization are often pursuing leadership, faculty, or research positions in government, higher education, and social service organizations.
Dissertation Writer's Retreat: A week-long, intensive writing experience that supports advanced doctoral learners in completing their dissertation. Learn more about the Dissertation Writer's Retreat.
Residency requirements: One Dissertation Writer’s Retreat
As part of your program, you will attend 1 Dissertation Writer’s Retreat in addition to your online courses.
- The retreat offers:
- 5 days of uninterrupted writing time in a distraction-free environment
- 1-to-1 support from writing faculty, librarians, IRB specialists, and research methodologists
- Valuable feedback and inspiration from faculty and peers
What is the cost to attend?
The price for each Dissertation Writer's Retreat is included in your quarterly tuition, but doesn't include costs for travel or hotel accommodations. You'll be responsible for making your hotel reservations and travel arrangements.
- Call an enrollment counselor at 1.888.227.3552 to learn more
Required Courses (each course 6 quarter credits unless noted)
All courses taken in sequence:
- DSW8002 - Advanced Knowledge of Social Work
- DSW8120 - Contemporary Issues in Social Work*
- DSW8130 - Leadership in Social Work*
- DSW8140 - Technology in Social Work*
- DSW8150 - Methods of Inquiry in Action Research*
- DSW8160 - Applying Action Research*
- DWR8001 - Professional Dissertation Writer's Retreat - non-credit*+
- DSW9920 - Action Research Dissertation Courseroom* - non-credit
- DSW9921 - Action Research Dissertation 1* - 5 quarter credits
- DSW9922 - Action Research Dissertation 2* - 5 quarter credits
- DSW9923 - Action Research Dissertation 3* - 5 quarter credits
- DSW9924 - Action Research Dissertation 4* - 5 quarter credits
Elective Courses
Choose four or five courses (learners must choose the number of elective courses that will fulfill the 18 quarter credit requirement):
- HS6001 - Practicum 1: Short-Term Supervised Field Experience OR
- Choose any 7000 - 8000 level graduate courses.
Review of this program is pending in TN.
Admission to the General Social Work specialization requires learners to complete and submit the Cohort Auto-Registration Form.
+Learners are responsible for the cost of their travel, accommodations, food, and other expenses associated with this course.
* This course has a prerequisite. Contact an enrollment counselor for more information.
Course Descriptions
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Learning & Career Outcomes
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