DSW vs. Ph.D. in Social Work: What’s the Difference for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Students interested in pursuing advanced academic and research opportunities in social work can choose between taking up a DSW vs Ph.D. The Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work will allow graduates to land various jobs in humanities and social sciences. However, they differ in program structure, research requirements, and career opportunities.

Regardless of the type of doctoral degree program students want to pursue, social work is one of the fastest-growing employment in the United States. That is because demand for social workers is projected to grow by 9% between 2021 and 2031 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023).

That said, we will explore the key differences between DSW and Ph.D. in social work in the following sections. This is to help students determine which degree is the best fit for their academic and career goals.

DSW vs. Ph.D. in Social Work Table of Contents

1. Differences Between DSW and Ph.D. in Social Work for 2025
2. Choosing Between DSW vs Ph.D.
3. What can I do with a DSW vs. Ph.D. in Social Work?
4. DSW vs Ph.D. Application Requirements
5. What are the DSW and Ph.D. in Social Work requirements to graduate?
6. Key Differences Between DSW and PhD Career Paths in Social Work
7. How do doctoral social work degrees influence compensation and market opportunities?
8. What are the advantages of accelerated social work programs?
9. What is the return on investment for a doctoral degree in social work?
10. How do doctoral programs in social work promote diversity and inclusion?
11. How do online doctorate programs in social work impact accessibility and career growth?
12. How do accreditation and quality assurance impact online doctorate programs in social work?
13. How do doctoral programs in social work contribute to macro-level change?
14. How does foundational online education influence doctoral success in social work?
15. Is social work school hard: How do support systems mitigate rigorous doctoral challenges?

Differences Between DSW and Ph.D. in Social Work for 2025

The main difference between DSW vs Ph.D. in social work is the program’s core principles. One focuses on practice, and the other on theory. DSW programs prioritize social work practice, applied research, and supervision, while Ph.D. programs emphasize scholarly and theoretical study and educational courses.

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

The Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) focuses on advanced practice, leadership, and applied research. DSW programs prepare graduates for leadership positions in the field of social work. This includes providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to advance the field by developing and implementing evidence-based practices.

DSW programs typically emphasize the integration of research, policy, and practice. As such, this program may include specialized coursework in advanced clinical training, organizational leadership, community development, and program evaluation.

Graduates of DSW programs may choose to work in different settings, including academia, healthcare, government, and nonprofit organizations. Working in this sector will allow them to use their expertise to improve social services and policies.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Doctor of Philosophy or Ph.D. in Social Work prepares students for academic and research careers. Ph.D. programs typically focus on developing advanced research skills and creating new knowledge in the field of social work.

As such, a Ph.D. program in social work may include coursework in theory development, research methods, and data analysis. This doctoral degree also provides opportunities for students to conduct independent research under the guidance of faculty mentors.

Graduates of Ph.D. programs in social work may pursue careers as postsecondary teachers or field researchers. Doing so will allow them to make significant contributions to advance the field of social work or improve community welfare policies.

Choosing Between DSW vs Ph.D.

For students asking, “what degree do I need to become a social worker?" The answer depends on their personal and professional goals. A DSW may suit those who want to specialize in a particular practice area, while a Ph.D. may be appropriate for those who want to shape the future of social work.

Regardless of the difference between DSW and Ph.D., graduates of these programs can be crucial in promoting social justice and improving people’s lives. Thus, our researchers gathered all the valuable information a student will need when choosing between DSW vs Ph.D.

Focus and Emphasis

One of the significant differences between DSW and Ph.D. is their focus. DSW emphasizes clinical practices and applied research. As such, graduates can be expert clinicians or welfare managers. These careers allow them to use their knowledge and skills in a practical setting.

On the other hand, a Ph.D. in Social Work focuses on social work theory and academic research. This program prepares students to become postsecondary teachers or researchers, enabling them to improve social work policies through research and policy development.

Specializations and Concentrations

Social work students choosing between DSW vs Ph.D. can pick a doctorate based on their preferred specializations. These concentrations will allow them to apply their skills to specific passions and interests.

DSW students can specialize in any of these concentrations:

1. Clinical Practice and Supervision. This focus area has to do with developing clinical skills. It allows students to apply evidence-based practices to complex social work cases.
2. Leadership and Administration. This concentration teaches students how to develop social programs, manage staff, and do high-level advocacy work. This includes leveraging social work practices to address systemic issues.
3. Mental Health and Substance Misuse. This prepares students to work with mental health and substance abuse patients. Thus, social workers with this specialization can work in a hospital, treatment center, or social service organization.

Meanwhile, Ph.D. students can consider these specializations:

1. Teaching Methods and Training. This focus area is suitable for graduate students to want to work within the education sector. It teaches them various teaching methodologies, allowing them to become influential social work professors.
2. Research Methods and Data Analysis. This concentration emphasizes using multiple research methods to acquire and analyze data. It is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a program, develop new knowledge, or improve an existing policy.
3. Social Welfare Policies. This specialization allows students to identify interdisciplinary education around a population or social issue. Also discussed in this area of focus is developing new policies based on people’s needs and improving existing ones to ensure that every participant receives their benefits.

Scholarship and Financial Aid

The tuition and fees for graduate studies are between $19,700 and $26,700 (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022). The cost varies depending on the program, specialization, and the university. Luckily, DSW vs. Ph.D. in social work students can apply for various scholarships and financial aid.

For DSW students, they can look for colleges and universities that offer fully funded DSW programs. Students admitted to a fully funded DSW program get access to full tuition. They may also receive a cash stipend for their on-campus living expenses, depending on the school.

On the other hand, Ph.D. students may reach out to organizations that provide scholarships to graduate students of social work. The Jane B. Aron Doctoral Fellowship coordinates with the National Association for Social Work (NASW) and the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) to provide grants to doctoral fellows. In exchange, the candidates’ dissertations must focus on health policy and practice.

Licensing and Continued Learning

After obtaining their ASW degree or bachelor’s degree in social work, social workers choose to start their journey to get licensed. Not all social work roles require a license to practice. However, it is a common requirement for social workers who work directly with people. Luckily, students choosing between DSW vs Ph.D. can expect the same process for licensing.

The standard path to becoming a licensed social worker is to complete a bachelor’s degree in social work, pursue a master’s degree in social work or an MSW-equivalent program, and complete the fieldwork hours requirement as determined by the state board.

Once completed, students should pass the licensure exam administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) before they can obtain their license to practice. They can then choose to pursue a doctoral degree (be it DSW or Ph.D.) or a certification program to advance their social work practice. Moreover, state boards often require a certain number of continuing education hours as part of the license renewal process.

Aside from choosing between DSW vs Ph.D., there are various continuing education that licensed social workers can pursue. What programs they will pursue will depend on the state and their level of licensure. This can include individual professional activities, formally organized learning events, and professional meetings.

Salary and Career Outlook

More than 700,000 social work jobs are projected to be available between 2021 and 2031 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). Whether graduate students pick between DSW vs Ph.D., pursuing a doctorate will allow them to work in various industries. These include local and state government offices, relief centers, and rehabilitation centers.

Also, the average annual salary of a social worker is at least $50,000 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). It can reach to $74,000 annually for licensed clinical social workers with advanced degrees in social work and decades of experience (Indeed, n.d.). You can compare the types of social workers and salary rates in our social worker 2023 salary guide.

What can I do with a DSW vs. Ph.D. in Social Work?

We wrote in our post on how to become a social worker that most students choose to take on graduate studies to advance their careers as social workers. Completing DSW vs Ph.D. in social work allows graduates to pursue various high-demand careers in healthcare. They can also specialize in specific areas like social work education, social work leadership, or advanced clinical practice. These include focusing on areas like children and family welfare or mental health.

DSW Careers

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Becoming a licensed clinical social worker is suitable for graduate students wanting to pursue a counseling career path. One reason is that this profession allows them to offer emotional and mental health services to patients. Licensed clinical social workers also help people identify their needs. Hence, they can work with people or families in a treatment center or social service organization.

Median salary: $74,040

Social and Community Service Managers

A social and community service manager assesses a participant’s living conditions and makes recommendations based on their best interests. For instance, a community service manager may investigate allegations of child neglect or abuse. Hence, they can decide what actions to take to ensure a child’s safety. This may include locating a foster home, conducting interviews with potential adoptive parents, and providing testimony in court.

Median salary: $74,000

Nonprofit Program Director

A nonprofit program director is responsible for overseeing a charitable organization. A charitable or nonprofit organization offers services to the community, like a shelter for people without homes or a foster care service. As nonprofit program directors, part of their responsibility is to hire staff, devise organizational policies, cooperate with state and federal regulators, and secure funding for the organization.

Median salary: $66,291

Ph.D. in Social Work Career

Postsecondary Teacher

A social work professor teaches and conducts research within the field of social work. They teach undergraduate and graduate courses in social work, develop curricula, advise and mentor students, and engage in scholarly research and writing.

Some postsecondary social work teachers may serve on university committees, supervise students in field placements or internships, and provide consultation and training to organizations and agencies. This is because their role is to prepare the next generation of social workers and advance the understanding and application of social work practice and theory.

Median salary: $79,640

Field Researcher

A field researcher uses various research techniques to generate valuable and relevant data. They may analyze policies, conduct surveys, or interview participants to lead innovative developments in the field of social work. Hence, field researchers are crucial in helping social workers and organizations provide better social welfare services.

Median salary: $73,521

Policy Analyst

A public policy analyst researches and analyzes current policies in the social work field. This is to provide recommendations to amend existing ones or create new policies.

Public policy analysts typically work in the government since they can directly impact local and federal policies. This reflects a statement written in the paper titled “Now Is the Time for a Rights-Based Approach to Social Work Practice," published by the Journal of Human Rights and Social Work.

The paper states that “through a rights-based lens, we see that in many societies, access to healthcare, unemployment benefits, housing, social security, education, etc.—the social and economic rights first promised in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (United Nations 1948)—are actually privileges reserved for some rather than rights guaranteed to all. Shifting the focus from human needs to human rights requires social workers to see their clients’ concerns in larger sociopolitical context and to assess for political issues beyond the standard social or psychiatric ones (McPherson, 2020)."

Median salary: $75,763

DSW vs Ph.D. Application Requirements

Application requirements between DSW vs Ph.D. vary depending on the school. It also differs based on the degree type students want to pursue. To help improve their chances of getting accepted into a DSW or Ph.D. in Social Work program, our research experts collected some of the standard application requirements.

Education

Colleges and universities require aspiring doctorate students to earn a master’s degree in social work. Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable accredited online MSW programs that students can pursue. There are also doctoral programs that admit students with a master’s degree in a relevant field, such as psychology.

Relatively, CSWE accredits bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work. The professional organization does not accredit doctorates in social work, although they launched a pilot program in the fall of 2021 for a professional practice doctoral program accreditation. However, the pilot program is meant to develop accreditation standards and curriculum guidelines for DSW programs only. This is why students must be thorough when searching for DSW vs. Ph.D. in Social Work programs.

Transcript

Applicants must submit a copy of their official transcripts to prove they have completed their undergraduate and master’s studies from an accredited college or university. It is also vital for them to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Some academic institutions may require students to submit their Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) score, which varies by college or university.

Field-related Work Experience

DSW and Ph.D. in Social Work require applicants to have field-related work experience. This entails holding full-time employment and doing volunteer work as a social worker. The number of hours varies depending on the college or university and specialization.

Other Requirements

Regarding application requirements, the difference between DSW and Ph.D. are the recommendations and essays. Students who want to pursue a DSW only need to submit letters of recommendation. This can come from their professors or clinical supervisors.

Meanwhile, students who want to take a Ph.D. in Social Work must submit a resume, recommendation letters, and writing samples. The samples should showcase their research and data analysis skills.

What are the DSW and Ph.D. in Social Work requirements to graduate?

DSW and Ph.D. programs take two to four years to complete. This includes accomplishing 40 to 60 credits worth of coursework. In addition, DSW students must submit a capstone project, while Ph.D. students must submit their dissertations.

A capstone project demonstrates the practical application of advanced knowledge and skills in social work. On the other hand, a dissertation involves original research that can contribute to the body of knowledge in the field. These final projects may take one to four additional years to complete, depending on various factors.

Colleges and universities may also require DSW vs Ph.D. students to complete field education placements. This is to gain practical experience in social work settings like hospitals, schools, or community organizations. Aside from getting advanced education in social work, these programs also prepare students for their preferred career path.

Key Differences Between DSW and PhD Career Paths in Social Work

While both the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) and PhD in Social Work represent the pinnacle of education in the social work field, the paths these degrees offer diverge significantly in terms of focus, career trajectory, and professional goals. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences that can help guide your decision-making process:

1. Professional vs. Academic Focus

• DSW: Focuses on leadership and advanced clinical practice, ideal for those pursuing roles like program directors or clinical supervisors.
• PhD: Emphasizes research, theory development, and teaching, typically leading to careers in academia or policy research.

2. Career Advancements

• DSW: Graduates advance into high-level practice roles, managing teams and directing social service programs.
• PhD: Opens doors to research positions, teaching, and shaping social work policies through scholarly work.

3. Impact on Education

• DSW: Prepares students to teach in practice-oriented programs, focusing on real-world applications.
• PhD: Contributes to social work education by creating new theories and shaping curriculum.

4. Time Commitment

• DSW: Takes 2-3 years and is often pursued while working professionally.
• PhD: Requires 4-6 years and focuses more on full-time study, research, and teaching.

If you're exploring how to become a school social worker, both paths offer opportunities, but the DSW focuses more on practice, while the PhD delves into research and academic roles.

How do doctoral social work degrees influence compensation and market opportunities?

Doctoral qualifications in social work not only validate advanced expertise but also position professionals for roles with enhanced responsibilities and competitive compensation. Graduates with a doctoral degree typically access senior roles in leadership, policy development, and research that align with higher earning potential and improved career trajectories. Evidence-based compensation analysis, including regional variations and industry trends, supports the strategic value of obtaining a doctoral credential. For instance, comprehensive insights can be reviewed in the licensed clinical social worker salary guide, which aids potential candidates in evaluating long-term financial benefits in the evolving job market.

What are the advantages of accelerated social work programs?

Accelerated social work programs are designed to help students complete their education in a shorter timeframe while maintaining rigorous academic standards. These programs cater to professionals aiming to quickly enhance their credentials and career prospects.

Key Advantages of Accelerated Programs:

• Faster Graduation Timeline: Earn your degree in a shorter period, such as a one year social work program online, making it ideal for career changers or those advancing within the field.
• Flexible Learning Options: Many programs offer online or hybrid models to accommodate working professionals.
• Focused Curriculum: Courses often concentrate on core competencies, reducing time spent on electives.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Shorter program lengths can translate to lower tuition and living expenses.
• Career Advancement: Quickly qualify for roles requiring advanced credentials, such as clinical social work or leadership positions.

What is the return on investment for a doctoral degree in social work?

Doctoral education in social work is designed to align advanced analytical skills with evolving industry needs, resulting in sustainable career progression and enhanced leadership opportunities. Graduates typically secure competitive roles that contribute to policy development and community impact. Evaluating long-term outcomes—including salary enhancements, career mobility, and professional credibility—can help prospective candidates measure the true value of their educational investment. In this context, weighing various educational pathways, such as exploring options through the cheapest BSW online, is essential for making an informed decision.

How do doctoral programs in social work promote diversity and inclusion?

Doctoral programs in social work increasingly integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion frameworks to prepare leaders capable of addressing multifaceted social disparities. These programs design curricula that emphasize culturally sensitive research methodologies, community‐engaged projects, and critical policy analyses aimed at dismantling systemic inequities. By collaborating with underrepresented communities and fostering an inclusive academic environment, candidates build the expertise necessary for driving meaningful change in practice settings and policy-making arenas. For further insights into related career pathways, review careers with a masters in social work.

How do online doctorate programs in social work impact accessibility and career growth?

The rise of online education has significantly transformed how students pursue advanced degrees, including Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) and Ph.D. in Social Work programs. Online formats have made these degrees more accessible to diverse populations while maintaining academic rigor. Here's how online programs are shaping accessibility and career prospects:

• Increased Accessibility for Working Professionals. Online DSW and Ph.D. programs cater to students who need flexibility to balance work, family, and education. These programs allow professionals already in the social work field to advance their credentials without pausing their careers. For instance, a working social worker can now earn an advanced degree through part-time online study while applying new skills directly in their current role.
• Geographic Flexibility. Students from rural or underserved areas often face challenges in accessing traditional on-campus programs. Online doctorate programs eliminate the need to relocate, making high-quality education available to a broader audience. This accessibility expands the reach of advanced social work education, particularly in regions where social services are critical but underdeveloped.
• Career Advancement Through Specialized Learning. Online programs often provide specialized tracks tailored to current industry demands, such as trauma-informed care, policy analysis, or community leadership. By completing a concentration aligned with their career goals, students can position themselves as experts in niche areas of social work, enhancing their employability and earning potential.
• Networking in the Digital Age. Contrary to misconceptions, online doctorate programs facilitate robust networking opportunities. Virtual classrooms, discussion forums, and collaborative projects connect students with peers, faculty, and industry professionals globally. These connections can lead to research collaborations, mentorships, and career opportunities.
• Cost-Effectiveness. Many online programs are more affordable than their on-campus counterparts, offering lower tuition rates and eliminating relocation, commuting, and housing costs. This affordability makes it easier for students to pursue an advanced degree without incurring overwhelming debt.
• Challenges of Online Learning. While online programs offer flexibility and accessibility, they also require a high level of self-discipline, time management, and technological proficiency. However, most institutions provide robust support systems, including academic advising, virtual libraries, and tech assistance, to help students succeed.

The advent of online doctorate programs in social work has democratized access to advanced education, empowering more individuals to contribute to the field. Whether aspiring to become a clinical leader or a policy researcher, these programs provide the tools to achieve career aspirations. For those exploring pathways to advanced degrees, you might also consider programs known for being easiest PhD to get as a strategic starting point.

How do accreditation and quality assurance impact online doctorate programs in social work?

Accreditation and quality assurance are critical in verifying that online doctorate programs in social work meet rigorous academic and professional standards. Evaluating these credentials helps ensure that curricula, faculty expertise, and research opportunities are aligned with recognized industry benchmarks while fostering transparent educational practices. In this context, prospective students can better compare program value—balancing cost and quality by, for example, exploring a cheap online doctorate in social work option that does not compromise on established quality standards. This assessment of accreditation and internal review mechanisms supports a well-informed decision-making process for candidates aiming for long-term professional success.

How do doctoral programs in social work contribute to macro-level change?

Doctoral programs in social work integrate advanced research methodologies and critical policy analysis to equip graduates with the skills necessary to drive systemic reform. Through rigorous coursework and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, students learn to evaluate community needs, design sustainable interventions, and advocate for policy improvements. This academic framework not only sharpens leadership and strategic decision-making capabilities but also empowers professionals to influence large-scale social reforms effectively. Engagement in initiatives such as macro social work further reinforces the role of scholarly practice in addressing societal challenges and fostering community resilience.

How does foundational online education influence doctoral success in social work?

Undergraduate studies provide the essential framework for advanced research and leadership in social work. Accredited online programs, such as a social work degree online, deliver a comprehensive curriculum that equips students with critical thinking, evidence-based practice, and community engagement skills. This strong academic foundation enables graduates to navigate the rigorous demands of doctoral coursework and fosters a seamless transition into research-intensive or practice-focused careers without duplicating previously discussed program features.

Is social work school hard: How do support systems mitigate rigorous doctoral challenges?

Doctoral social work programs demand not only advanced academic rigor but also robust support structures to navigate the multifaceted challenges of research, practice, and leadership development. Institutions often integrate tailored mentorship, peer collaboration groups, and dedicated academic advising to help students effectively manage high-stakes coursework and dissertation requirements. Faculty-led research initiatives and networking opportunities further enable candidates to gain practical insights while addressing real-world complexities. For a detailed discussion on academic demands and realistic expectations in advanced social work studies, refer to is social work school hard.

Choosing the Doctorate Program That is Right for You

Social workers devote their careers to helping others. However, they might wonder if any type of social work degree will allow them to do more. This is where choosing between a DSW vs. Ph.D. in Social Work can help.

Both require heavy academic lifting. However, a doctorate in social work allows students to pursue some of the in-demand healthcare careers.

Deciding whether to take DSW vs Ph.D. will depend on their career goals. For students who want to devote their careers to furthering the field of social work, a Ph.D. in social work can be a good choice. Meanwhile, students who wish to become expert clinicians or step into leadership roles can choose DSW.

Key Insights

• Program Focus: DSW programs emphasize advanced social work practice, applied research, and leadership, while Ph.D. programs focus on theoretical research and academic careers.
• Career Pathways: DSW graduates often pursue roles in clinical practice, administration, and community service, whereas Ph.D. graduates typically aim for academic and research positions.
• Specializations: Both DSW and Ph.D. programs offer various specializations, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests like clinical practice, leadership, mental health, or policy development.
• Application Requirements: Admission to both DSW and Ph.D. programs generally requires a master’s degree in social work, field-related work experience, and a minimum GPA, with Ph.D. programs also requiring research-oriented documents like writing samples.
• Graduation Requirements: DSW programs typically require a capstone project, while Ph.D. programs require a dissertation, with both taking two to four years to complete coursework and additional years for final projects.
• Financial Aid: Both DSW and Ph.D. students can access various scholarships and financial aid options, including fully funded programs and specific fellowships.
• Licensing and Continued Learning: Licensing processes are similar for both DSW and Ph.D. graduates, often involving completing a bachelor’s and master’s degree, fieldwork, and passing a licensure exam.
• Salary and Job Outlook: Social work positions are expected to grow by 9% between 2021 and 2031, with advanced degrees leading to higher-paying roles such as licensed clinical social worker, community service manager, and social work professor.

FAQ

1. What is the main difference between a DSW and a Ph.D. in Social Work? The main difference lies in the focus of the programs. A DSW focuses on advanced practice, leadership, and applied research, preparing graduates for clinical and administrative roles. A Ph.D. in Social Work emphasizes theoretical research and academic careers, preparing graduates for roles in academia and research.
2. What are the career prospects for DSW graduates? DSW graduates can pursue various roles, including licensed clinical social worker, social and community service manager, and nonprofit program director. These positions allow them to apply their advanced practice skills and lead social service programs.
3. What are the career prospects for Ph.D. in Social Work graduates? Ph.D. graduates typically pursue academic and research roles, such as postsecondary teacher, field researcher, and policy analyst. These positions focus on advancing social work theory and improving social policies through research.
4. What are the typical application requirements for DSW programs? Applicants need a master’s degree in social work, field-related work experience, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and letters of recommendation. Some programs may also require a personal statement or essay.
5. What are the typical application requirements for Ph.D. in Social Work programs? Applicants need a master’s degree in social work or a related field, field-related work experience, a minimum GPA of 3.0, letters of recommendation, a resume, and writing samples demonstrating research and data analysis skills.
6. What are the graduation requirements for DSW programs? DSW programs typically require completing 40 to 60 credits of coursework and a capstone project demonstrating the practical application of advanced social work knowledge and skills. This process usually takes two to four years.
7. What are the graduation requirements for Ph.D. in Social Work programs? Ph.D. programs require completing 40 to 60 credits of coursework and a dissertation involving original research that contributes to the field of social work. This process can take two to four years for coursework and additional years for the dissertation.
8. What financial aid options are available for DSW and Ph.D. students? Both DSW and Ph.D. students can access scholarships, fellowships, and financial aid programs. Some universities offer fully funded DSW programs, while organizations like the Jane B. Aron Doctoral Fellowship provide grants for Ph.D. students.
9. Do DSW and Ph.D. graduates need a license to practice social work? Yes, most social work roles require a license. The standard path includes completing a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work, fulfilling fieldwork requirements, and passing a licensure exam administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB).
10. How do I choose between a DSW and a Ph.D. in Social Work? Your choice depends on your career goals. If you aim to become an expert clinician or take on leadership roles in social work practice, a DSW is suitable. If you want to focus on academic research and teaching, a Ph.D. in Social Work is the better option. Consider your interests, career aspirations, and the type of work you want to engage in when making your decision.

References:

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Social Workers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes211029.htm
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Social Workers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm
3. Council on Social Work Education (n.d.). Directory of Accredited Programs. Retrieved from https://www.cswe.org/accreditation/about/directory
4. McPherson (2020). “Now is the Time for a Rights-Based Approach to Social Work Practice," Journal of Human Rights and Social Work. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1007/s41134-020-00125-1
5. National Center for Education Statistics (2021). Post Baccalaureate Enrollment. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/chb/postbaccalaureate-enrollment
6. National Center for Education Statistics (2022). Average and Percentiles of Graduate Tuition and Required Fees. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d21/tables/dt21_330.50.asp
7. National Center for Education Statistics (2022). Doctor’s Degrees Conferred by Postsecondary Institutions. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d22/tables/dt22_324.10.asp
8. US Census Bureau (2022). Who is Receiving Social Safety Net Benefits? Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2022/05/who-is-receiving-social-safety-net-benefits.html