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DSW
Doctor of Social Work
Develop advanced, real-world social work leadership skills and get ready for a management role with the online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program from Capella University. Designed to meet guidelines established by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), this program prepares you to take on the responsibilities of a leader, advanced practitioner, or educator in the field of social work.
At a glance
- Online
- 14 Courses
- 2 Virtual Residencies
- Capstone
With Capella Tuition Cap, you won't pay more than $45,000* in tuition costs for your degree.
*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.
Explore DSW courses
- This degree requires a total of 71 quarter credits
- You’ll need to complete 14 core courses, two virtual residencies and one capstone
Show all descriptions
SWK8015
Advanced Social Work Practice: Theoretical Perspectives
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course assess the role of theory in social work practice at the micro, mezzo, macro, and meta levels. Learners critically appraise selected theories, perspectives, and models for relevance and evaluate the strengths and barriers regarding their application to practice. Through critical self-reflection, learners identify with specific theoretical orientations, as well as demonstrate recognition and respect for others' theoretical orientations. For DSW learners only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7010 or SWK8010.
4 quarter credits
SWK8025
Leadership and Management in Complex Social Systems
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course examine and integrate an understanding of leadership principles, skills, and applications in organizational or academic environments. Learners appraise and articulate the importance of ethical competency within a leadership context as well as a complex, global society. Learners investigate issues they may encounter in the field and determine how to address them through the practice of social work leadership. For DSW learners only. Prerequisite(s): PSL7010 or SWK8010; completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8015.
4 quarter credits
SWK8035
Advanced Social Work Policy and Practice
4 quarter credits
In this course, learners develop the ability to advocate for and create public policy, and evaluate how it impacts individuals, families, groups, and the community. Learners assess ethical concerns; policy analysis; advocacy strategies, including cross-system collaboration; and use of needs assessments. For DSW learners only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8025 or SWK8020.
4 quarter credits
SWK8045
Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice 1
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course analyze clinical theories of social work based on ethical considerations, client differences, and best practice as defined by the integration of practice wisdom and scientific knowledge, to ensure proper fit between clients' needs and intervention. Learners also evaluate practice model(s) for client treatment with a focus on individuals and couples, and begin to apply this knowledge to supervision of colleagues. In addition, learners use research to examine cutting edge and emerging intervention strategies. For DSW learners only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7860 or RSCH7860; SWK8025, SWK8035.
4 quarter credits
SWK8075
Advanced Social Work Practitioner as a Leader of Social Change
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course articulate their individual leadership philosophies, styles, skills, and approaches to effective leadership. Learners evaluate policy, practice, programs, and the use of technology at all levels in the social work field, while evaluating social change strategies and approaches. Learners identify the use of self as they develop professional skills of influence and mobilization for change to better advocate for client groups at all levels. Learners create an individual plan for their continued self-development as leaders in the field of social work. In addition, learners demonstrate knowledge of lobbying, advocacy strategies, program evaluation, and ethical issues and concerns. For DSW learners only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7868 or RSCH7868; SWK8065.
4 quarter credits
What you'll learn
The curriculum for this program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, advanced practice, and the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Students engage in online coursework and conduct either an action research study or program evaluation.
On successful completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Advocate for social justice and policy change for the betterment of humanity
- Act ethically and professionally within the field of social work
- Effectively communicate to a variety of audiences in multiple formats
- Provide leadership that promotes sustainable change in social service programs and practicing to improve the quality of the field social work
- Apply theory, knowledge, and research and developing innovative approaches to social issues
- Use technology to further advance practice within the field of social work
- Build awareness of the implications of civic issues in global societies
How much does the DSW cost?
The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.
GuidedPath
A more structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.
- Based on the quarter system; 1–2 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term
$1,020 per credit, $4,385 quarterly tuition max, 62 coursework credits, 0 transfer credits
Tuition breakdown
Program Phases
Coursework
$1,020 Per quarter credit
62 coursework credits
Coursework
What is coursework?$1,020
Capstone
$3,060 Per quarter
Most students spend one third to one half of their program working on their capstone; others may take longer
Capstone
What is capstone?$3,060
Per quarter
Most students spend one third to one half of their program working on their capstone; others may take longer
Professional doctorate research seminar
—
Included in program costs; travel, lodging, meals and other expenses not included
Professional doctorate research seminar
—
Included in program costs; travel, lodging, meals and other expenses not included
Other Costs
Resource kit
$175 Per quarter
Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials
Resource kit
$175
Per quarter
Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials
Application fee
$0 no application fee
Application fee
$0
no application fee
Total Tuition Cap
Capella Tuition Cap
$45,000 Total tuition
- Pay no more than $45,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Available to all students who start now through July 7, 2025
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
Capella Tuition Cap
What is the Capella Tuition Cap?$45,000
Total tuition
- Pay no more than $45,000 in total tuition for your degree*
- Available to all students who start now through July 7, 2025
*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.
Tuition and program length are unique to you
Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:
- The program specialization you choose
- Scholarships and finances
- Prior coursework
- Transfer credits
- Employer and/or military benefits
- Number of quarters spent working on capstone
- Complexity of your capstone
- Academic performance
- School/work/life balance
- Unexpected life events
About cost scenarios
The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2025–26 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 6, 2025. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel and food expenses.
To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.
Cost scenarios
Completes capstone in 3 quartersComplete each milestone at the pace of the fastest 25% of students. |
|
|---|---|
| Coursework: $1,020/credit 11 quarters |
$48,315.00 |
| Capstone: $3,060/quarter 3 quarters |
$9,180.00 |
| Subtotal
|
$57,495.00 |
| Est. Savings with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$-12,495.00 |
| Est. subtotal with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$45,000.00 |
| Resource kit fee: $175 11 quarters |
$1,925.00 |
| Application fee: $0 no application fee |
$0 |
|
Est. Total with Capella Tuition Cap* 14 quarters |
$46,925.00 |
Completes capstone in 4 quartersComplete each milestone at the pace of the median 50% of students. |
|
|---|---|
| Coursework: $1,020/credit 11 quarters |
$48,315.00 |
| Capstone: $3,060/quarter 4 quarters |
$12,240.00 |
| Subtotal
|
$60,555.00 |
| Est. Savings with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$-15,555.00 |
| Est. subtotal with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$45,000.00 |
| Resource kit fee: $175 11 quarters |
$1,925.00 |
| Application fee: $0 one-time fee |
$0 |
|
Est. Total with Capella Tuition Cap* 15 quarters |
$46,925.00 |
Completes capstone in 7 quartersComplete each milestone at the pace of the slowest 75% of students. |
|
|---|---|
| Coursework: $1,020/credit 11 quarters |
$48,315.00 |
| Capstone: $3,060/quarter 7 quarters |
$21,420.00 |
| Subtotal
|
$69,735.00 |
| Est. Savings with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$-24,735.00 |
| Est. subtotal with Capella Tuition Cap*
|
$45,000.00 |
| Resource kit fee: $175 11 quarters |
$1,925.00 |
| Application fee: $0 no application fee |
$0 |
|
Est. Total with Capella Tuition Cap* 18 quarters |
$46,925.00 |
*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details. Capella Tuition Cap is available to students who start now through July 7, 2025.
Get the details
Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees?
Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are more ways to save than you might think.
Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our accreditations and recognitions.
What are the DSW admission requirements?
Applicants must provide the following information for admission to Capella programs and specializations:
- A master’s degree in social work from an institution accredited by the CSWE.
- Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
International Student Requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
What support does Capella offer online students?
Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.
Articles and resources
Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.
The difference between a PhD in social work and Doctor of Social Work
The differences between a PhD in social work and a DSW come down to how each degree can help expand your knowledge and expertise in the field.
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What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.
What can you do with a DSW degree?
Your education can help you reach your professional and personal goals. Here are some of the jobs and employment settings to consider with a Doctor of Social Work degree.
Related job titles to explore*
- Adjunct instructor
- Assistant/associate/full professor
- Case manager
- Director of social work
- Social worker
- Supervisory social worker
Employment settings to explore*
- Colleges, universities and professional schools
- Community colleges
- Executive offices
- General medical and surgical hospitals
- Individual and family services
- Miscellaneous ambulatory healthcare services
- Nursing care facilities (skilled nursing facilities)
- Offices of mental health practitioners (except physicians)
- Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers
*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications, and/or other designations along with a degree. Educational and professional requirements for faculty positions vary widely by employer. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase, or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.