What can you do with a DSW degree? A Doctor of Social Work degree is designed for experienced social work professional
who want to take their career to the next level. The degree is rooted in social work
ethics and values but focuses more on leadership and systemic level program and policy
change than the MSW or BSW. Those with a DSW are well positioned to enter into leadership
roles in organizational settings, become an elected official, teach in higher education,
run their own business, or any combination of these things.
Is there an accreditation for the DSW? The DSW program at California Baptist University is accredited by the WASC Senior
College and University Commission which means this is an accredited degree. The Council
on Social Work Education began offering an optional secondary professional accreditation
for DSW programs in 2025. You can find more information about this here.
How long does the program take to complete? This is a very accelerated program which is usually completed in 24-months, which
is a total of 6 semesters. Students complete semesters consecutively but do have several
short breaks between each semester.
When do classes meet? Classes meet online synchronously (live) twice a week. Students either attend classes
Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday.
Am I required to have work experience to enter the program? In general yes. The Doctor of Social Work degree is designed for experienced practitioners
who have been in the field for some time. Not only is experience necessary to succeed
at this level but it also helps prepare students to identify a specific social problem
and population they are passionate about which will become the focus of their course
of study. Students must also develop and executive an innovative project in partnership
with a local organization. In many cases, students partner with their employer and
leverage their experience in the field and relationships to complete a successful
project.
Do students write a dissertation? Our DSW students complete what’s called a Comprehensive Project which is our form
of a dissertation. Although the rigor and standards of the project are similar to
a traditional dissertation the project is designed as a Continuous Quality Improvement
project which allows students to develop and implement practical solutions to social
problems. The Comprehensive Project takes the whole two years to develop and students
end the program with an extensive written product that is publishable quality and
complete an oral defense of their work.
Can I get licensed with a DSW? The DSW degree is not a clinical degree so those who are interested in a clinical
career should have a master’s degree that prepares them for clinical practice (e.g.
MSW, MFT). Some states will consider a DSW for social work licensure eligibility.
For more information visit the Association of Social Work Boards.
