Online Doctorate of Social Work (DSW)

Advanced practice proficiency for social workers.

Expand your capacity for scholarly inquiry and advanced practice with the University of Kentucky’s online DSW program. The program includes asynchronous courses that focus on addressing contemporary social work challenges while providing flexibility for balancing your professional and personal obligations. UK offers the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state DSW students, making this a highly affordable option. You can select from four distinct focus areas that complement your goals, allowing you to become a visionary leader who promotes human dignity and community well-being through social work.

100% Online Courses

Finish in 2 to 3 Years

Request More Information

Complete this form and we’ll get in touch with information about coursework, admissions, tuition, and more.

Note: All fields required.

Innovative and Specialized DSW Curriculum

UK’s online DSW curriculum offers distinct learning that expands upon your MSW education and practice experience. Expert faculty emphasize advanced practice in your area of concentration, enabling you to maximize your impact as a social worker.

Four Unique Concentrations

Specialize in Social Work Education, Military Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work, or Administrative Leadership.

Virtual Residency Week

Build your doctoral network by engaging with faculty and other scholars during an online residency.

Capstone Project

Your capstone is integrated into your concentration courses, maximizing your ability to examine key social issues in your area of specialization.

Take Online Classes When and Where You Want

The UK College of Social Work offers high-quality coursework in a flexible format that fits your busy life. You can remain in your current community while earning your social work degree online, developing knowledge for fostering positive change locally. Like our students on campus, you’ll learn from world-class faculty who provide the inspiration and guidance necessary to thrive as a social work student and practitioner.

Take Your Social Work Career to a Higher Level

The online DSW program prepares you to lead solutions to significant societal challenges while raising your prospects as a practitioner, educator, or administrator. Attaining a DSW degree creates more economic opportunities, with average annual earnings increasing by more than $20,000.1

Career Paths for DSW Graduates

  • Administrative Leader
  • Executive Director
  • Postsecondary Education Administrator
  • Social Work Educator

About the College of Social Work

UK’s College of Social Work has advanced social work practice for more than 80 years. Our graduates carry this sense of responsibility forward, serving others and supporting positive change in their communities with an understanding of how social justice issues impact lives at every turn.

Other College of Social Work Programs

Explore other programs offered by the UK College of Social Work.

Dedicated Support for Active Military and Veterans

Since 2009, the University of Kentucky has been recognized by Military Times as a Best for Vets school among public universities in the state. In addition to waiving the application fee for veterans, our military support teams can help you determine eligibility and use the variety of programs available to make your out-of-pocket costs as low as possible.

Learn More

Request More Information

Request Info

Sources:

  1. National Association of Social Workers (NASW). “Social Work Salaries.” Retrieved June 20, 2023, from https://www.socialworkers.org/.