Doctor of Social Work Social Work courses
Social Work coursework overview
Coursework tailored to your learning preferences
- Capella sets the deadlines
- Weekly online interactions
- Learn on your time
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Planning for your degree
- total quarter credits: 71
- Quarter length: 10 weeks
- Course length: 10 weeks
- Break: 3 weeks between quarters
Social Work course requirements
- Core 14 courses
- Residencies 2 courses
- Capstone 3 courses
Example program course sequence
This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. In GuidedPath, the number of courses you take in a quarter and time it takes to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.
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SWK8010
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practice: Integrating Technology and Teaching in Academic and Agency Settings
4 quarter credits
Students in this DSW first course develop their roles as future leaders and educators in the social work field. Students analyze theories of adult learning for the purpose of teaching in academia and creating professional development trainings in agencies. Students also evaluate technology tools used in leader/educator roles and apply the NASW code of ethics and standards for technology to course content. For DSW students only. Must be taken during the student's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
SWK8015
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practice: Theoretical Perspectives
4 quarter credits
Students in this course assess the role of theory in social work practice at the micro, mezzo, macro, and meta levels. Students critically appraise selected theories, perspectives, and models for relevance and evaluate the strengths and barriers regarding their application to practice. Through critical self-reflection, students identify with specific theoretical orientations, as well as demonstrate recognition and respect for others' theoretical orientations. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7010 or SWK8010.
4 quarter credits
SWK8025
Required Course Leadership and Management in Complex Social Systems
4 quarter credits
Students in this course examine and integrate an understanding of leadership principles, skills, and applications in organizational or academic environments. Students appraise and articulate the importance of ethical competency within a leadership context as well as a complex, global society. Students investigate issues they may encounter in the field and determine how to address them through the practice of social work leadership. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): PSL7010 or SWK8010; completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8015.
4 quarter credits
SWK8020
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practice: Disaster and Crisis Management
4 quarter credits
Students in this course analyze the various roles social workers take during disasters and crises (natural and man-made). Students assess how social workers must respond in an ethical and organized way to address the high and increasing number of events on the micro, mezzo, macro, and meta levels, based on theoretical models and best practices. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8025.
4 quarter credits
SWK8035
Required Course Advanced Social Work Policy and Practice
4 quarter credits
In this course, students develop the ability to advocate for and create public policy, and evaluate how it impacts individuals, families, groups, and the community. Students assess ethical concerns; policy analysis; advocacy strategies, including cross-system collaboration; and use of needs assessments. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8025 or SWK8020.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7860
Required Course Survey of Research Methods
4 quarter credits
Learners read critically and evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners become educated consumers and creators of research. Additionally, learners use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest.
4 quarter credits
SWK8030
Required Course Grant Writing and Administration
4 quarter credits
Students in this course develop skills for the identification, writing, management, and evaluation of grants. Applying grant writing skills as social work leaders, students create mission and vision statements, develop logic models, plan budgets, and analyze evaluation plans. Students also assess how social workers in settings including academia, agency administration, and community development create funding sources, ethically manage and administer the funds, and evaluate the proposed outcomes. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent enrollment in PSL7860 or RSCH7860.
4 quarter credits
SWK8045
Required Course Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice 1
4 quarter credits
Students 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. Students 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, students use research to examine cutting edge and emerging intervention strategies. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7860 or RSCH7860; SWK8025, SWK8035.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7864
Required Course Quantitative Design and Analysis
4 quarter credits
Learners gain an understanding of the logic, computation, and interpretation of statistics, with an emphasis on decision-making skills in the research process and on the application and interpretation of statistical results. Learners utilize the statistical program JASP to practice running and interpreting statistical analyses.
4 quarter credits
SWK8055
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practice in Complex Systems
4 quarter credits
In this course, students examine concepts and theories through the lenses of complex systems, globalization, and the impact of technology. Students evaluate systems as entities of social control and domination in order to develop advocacy strategies for meaningful system changes. Students also assess the impact of globalization and immigration on vulnerable populations and human needs, along with strategies to address these issues, including the use of technology to advance welfare and well-being for all. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8045.
4 quarter credits
PSL-V8926
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Topic Development
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners apply writing, research, and critical thinking skills by identifying a problem, developing project questions, and finalizing a project topic that is appropriate for the program. Learners use evidence to support the selection of theories, problems, and questions to guide further refinement of their topic. Learners establish an appropriate topic area, preliminary project design, and begin development of a literature review. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through a project topic framework. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. For DEM, DPA, DSW, PhD in Criminal Justice and PhD in Emergency Management learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7864 or RSCH7864 or PSL8122. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
3 quarter credits
SWK8065
Required Course Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice 2
4 quarter credits
In this course, students strengthen and apply their knowledge of 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. Students also identify practice model(s) and apply them for client treatment as well as for supervision, with a focus on families and groups. In addition, students appraise the development of new theoretical paradigms in the age of technology. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL-R8941 or PSL-V8926; SWK8055.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7868
Required Course Qualitative Design and Analysis
4 quarter credits
Learners investigate essential concepts and methods for conducting qualitative research. Learners engage in hands-on practice with qualitative research techniques, focusing on the appropriate applications, strengths, and limitations of various qualitative approaches, sampling methods, and analysis strategies. Throughout the course, learners develop an understanding of ethical considerations, particularly when researching vulnerable and diverse populations, and strategies to protect human subjects. Learners also examine the alignment of qualitative approaches with sampling and analysis approaches to ensure rigor and produce meaningful insights. Prerequisite: PhD in Psychology learners must have completed RSCH7020
4 quarter credits
SWK8075
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practitioner as a Leader of Social Change
4 quarter credits
Students in this course articulate their individual leadership philosophies, styles, skills, and approaches to effective leadership. Students evaluate policy, practice, programs, and the use of technology at all levels in the social work field, while evaluating social change strategies and approaches. Students 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. Students create an individual plan for their continued self-development as leaders in the field of social work. In addition, students demonstrate knowledge of lobbying, advocacy strategies, program evaluation, and ethical issues and concerns. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7868 or RSCH7868; SWK8065.
4 quarter credits
Required Course Choose a Research Course - Required Course
4 quarter credits
PSL-V8927
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Framework Development
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners apply advanced research and writing skills through the development of a detailed project framework based on work in prior residencies. Learners develop a project framework that includes methodological and/or research design, sampling or participant recruitment plan, intervention plan (if applicable), strategies for data collection, analysis, and outcomes of the project. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through an assessment of the project framework, which is finalized once the learner enters the advanced doctoral stage of the program. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. Learners must complete Track 3 prior to beginning the comprehensive examination phase of the program. For DPA, DSW, PhD in Criminal Justice and PhD in Emergency Management learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSL8130 or PSL8140; PSL-V8926, completion of or concurrent registration in PSL8110 or PSL8120 or PSL8124 or RSCH7868.
3 quarter credits
PSL9971
Doctoral Capstone Doctoral Capstone
3 quarter credits
This course provides learners with resources, guidance, and support as they fulfill the required milestones toward completion of a doctoral capstone. Learners apply scholarly research within a particular professional context to advance their knowledge in the practice of the profession and solve organizational, institutional, or community concerns. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. DPA learners must register for this course a minimum of four times to fulfill their program requirements. DSW learners must register for this course a minimum of three times to fulfill their program requirements. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: Completion of all required and elective coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
3 quarter credits
PSL9971
Doctoral Capstone Doctoral Capstone
3 quarter credits
This course provides learners with resources, guidance, and support as they fulfill the required milestones toward completion of a doctoral capstone. Learners apply scholarly research within a particular professional context to advance their knowledge in the practice of the profession and solve organizational, institutional, or community concerns. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. DPA learners must register for this course a minimum of four times to fulfill their program requirements. DSW learners must register for this course a minimum of three times to fulfill their program requirements. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: Completion of all required and elective coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
3 quarter credits
PSL9971
Doctoral Capstone Doctoral Capstone
3 quarter credits
This course provides learners with resources, guidance, and support as they fulfill the required milestones toward completion of a doctoral capstone. Learners apply scholarly research within a particular professional context to advance their knowledge in the practice of the profession and solve organizational, institutional, or community concerns. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. DPA learners must register for this course a minimum of four times to fulfill their program requirements. DSW learners must register for this course a minimum of three times to fulfill their program requirements. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: Completion of all required and elective coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
3 quarter credits
Total
At least 71 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Core course requirements
Complete at least 56 quarter credits.
Show all descriptions
SWK8015
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practice: Theoretical Perspectives
4 quarter credits
Students in this course assess the role of theory in social work practice at the micro, mezzo, macro, and meta levels. Students critically appraise selected theories, perspectives, and models for relevance and evaluate the strengths and barriers regarding their application to practice. Through critical self-reflection, students identify with specific theoretical orientations, as well as demonstrate recognition and respect for others' theoretical orientations. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7010 or SWK8010.
4 quarter credits
SWK8045
Required Course Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice 1
4 quarter credits
Students 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. Students 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, students use research to examine cutting edge and emerging intervention strategies. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7860 or RSCH7860; SWK8025, SWK8035.
4 quarter credits
SWK8055
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practice in Complex Systems
4 quarter credits
In this course, students examine concepts and theories through the lenses of complex systems, globalization, and the impact of technology. Students evaluate systems as entities of social control and domination in order to develop advocacy strategies for meaningful system changes. Students also assess the impact of globalization and immigration on vulnerable populations and human needs, along with strategies to address these issues, including the use of technology to advance welfare and well-being for all. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8045.
4 quarter credits
SWK8065
Required Course Clinical Theories of Social Work Practice 2
4 quarter credits
In this course, students strengthen and apply their knowledge of 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. Students also identify practice model(s) and apply them for client treatment as well as for supervision, with a focus on families and groups. In addition, students appraise the development of new theoretical paradigms in the age of technology. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL-R8941 or PSL-V8926; SWK8055.
4 quarter credits
SWK8075
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practitioner as a Leader of Social Change
4 quarter credits
Students in this course articulate their individual leadership philosophies, styles, skills, and approaches to effective leadership. Students evaluate policy, practice, programs, and the use of technology at all levels in the social work field, while evaluating social change strategies and approaches. Students 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. Students create an individual plan for their continued self-development as leaders in the field of social work. In addition, students demonstrate knowledge of lobbying, advocacy strategies, program evaluation, and ethical issues and concerns. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7868 or RSCH7868; SWK8065.
4 quarter credits
SWK8020
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practice: Disaster and Crisis Management
4 quarter credits
Students in this course analyze the various roles social workers take during disasters and crises (natural and man-made). Students assess how social workers must respond in an ethical and organized way to address the high and increasing number of events on the micro, mezzo, macro, and meta levels, based on theoretical models and best practices. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8025.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7860
Required Course Survey of Research Methods
4 quarter credits
Learners read critically and evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners become educated consumers and creators of research. Additionally, learners use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest.
4 quarter credits
SWK8010
Required Course Advanced Social Work Practice: Integrating Technology and Teaching in Academic and Agency Settings
4 quarter credits
Students in this DSW first course develop their roles as future leaders and educators in the social work field. Students analyze theories of adult learning for the purpose of teaching in academia and creating professional development trainings in agencies. Students also evaluate technology tools used in leader/educator roles and apply the NASW code of ethics and standards for technology to course content. For DSW students only. Must be taken during the student's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer or credit for prior learning.
4 quarter credits
PSL8130
Required Course Action Research for Public Service Leadership
4 quarter credits
In this course, learners attain a conceptual understanding of action research methods in public service leadership. Upon successful completion of this course, learners are able to evaluate research methodologies, analyze an action research study, and prepare an action research plan. Prerequisite(s): PSL7868 or RSCH7868 or DSW8160.
4 quarter credits
PSL8140
Required Course Program Evaluation for Public Service Leadership
4 quarter credits
Learners in this course gain knowledge and skills in different types of program evaluation, including needs assessment, formative and summative research, process evaluation, and the design and use of logic model monitoring of outputs and outcomes. Learners build and apply practical experience through the design of a conceptual framework and a logic model, as well as the development of indicators and an evaluation plan to measure impact. Prerequisite(s): PSL7868 or RSCH7868 or DSW8160.
4 quarter credits
SWK8025
Required Course Leadership and Management in Complex Social Systems
4 quarter credits
Students in this course examine and integrate an understanding of leadership principles, skills, and applications in organizational or academic environments. Students appraise and articulate the importance of ethical competency within a leadership context as well as a complex, global society. Students investigate issues they may encounter in the field and determine how to address them through the practice of social work leadership. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): PSL7010 or SWK8010; completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8015.
4 quarter credits
SWK8035
Required Course Advanced Social Work Policy and Practice
4 quarter credits
In this course, students develop the ability to advocate for and create public policy, and evaluate how it impacts individuals, families, groups, and the community. Students assess ethical concerns; policy analysis; advocacy strategies, including cross-system collaboration; and use of needs assessments. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in SWK8025 or SWK8020.
4 quarter credits
SWK8030
Required Course Grant Writing and Administration
4 quarter credits
Students in this course develop skills for the identification, writing, management, and evaluation of grants. Applying grant writing skills as social work leaders, students create mission and vision statements, develop logic models, plan budgets, and analyze evaluation plans. Students also assess how social workers in settings including academia, agency administration, and community development create funding sources, ethically manage and administer the funds, and evaluate the proposed outcomes. For DSW students only. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent enrollment in PSL7860 or RSCH7860.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7864
Required Course Quantitative Design and Analysis
4 quarter credits
Learners gain an understanding of the logic, computation, and interpretation of statistics, with an emphasis on decision-making skills in the research process and on the application and interpretation of statistical results. Learners utilize the statistical program JASP to practice running and interpreting statistical analyses.
4 quarter credits
RSCH7868
Required Course Qualitative Design and Analysis
4 quarter credits
Learners investigate essential concepts and methods for conducting qualitative research. Learners engage in hands-on practice with qualitative research techniques, focusing on the appropriate applications, strengths, and limitations of various qualitative approaches, sampling methods, and analysis strategies. Throughout the course, learners develop an understanding of ethical considerations, particularly when researching vulnerable and diverse populations, and strategies to protect human subjects. Learners also examine the alignment of qualitative approaches with sampling and analysis approaches to ensure rigor and produce meaningful insights. Prerequisite: PhD in Psychology learners must have completed RSCH7020
4 quarter credits
Total
At least 71 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Residency course requirements
Complete at least 6 quarter credits.
Show all descriptions
PSL-V8927
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Framework Development
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners apply advanced research and writing skills through the development of a detailed project framework based on work in prior residencies. Learners develop a project framework that includes methodological and/or research design, sampling or participant recruitment plan, intervention plan (if applicable), strategies for data collection, analysis, and outcomes of the project. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through an assessment of the project framework, which is finalized once the learner enters the advanced doctoral stage of the program. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. Learners must complete Track 3 prior to beginning the comprehensive examination phase of the program. For DPA, DSW, PhD in Criminal Justice and PhD in Emergency Management learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): PSL8130 or PSL8140; PSL-V8926, completion of or concurrent registration in PSL8110 or PSL8120 or PSL8124 or RSCH7868.
3 quarter credits
PSL-V8926
Residency Doctoral Project Development - Topic Development
3 quarter credits
In this ten-week virtual residency, learners apply writing, research, and critical thinking skills by identifying a problem, developing project questions, and finalizing a project topic that is appropriate for the program. Learners use evidence to support the selection of theories, problems, and questions to guide further refinement of their topic. Learners establish an appropriate topic area, preliminary project design, and begin development of a literature review. Further development of the doctoral project is determined through a project topic framework. This residency includes required synchronous sessions. For DEM, DPA, DSW, PhD in Criminal Justice and PhD in Emergency Management learners only. Grading for this course is S/NS. Prerequisite(s): Completion of or concurrent registration in PSL7864 or RSCH7864 or PSL8122. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer.
3 quarter credits
Total
At least 71 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
Capstone course requirements
Complete at least 9 quarter credits. You must enroll in the capstone course a minimum of four times. If you require more time to complete your capstone, you have the option to enroll in additional sessions.
Show all descriptions
PSL9971
Doctoral Capstone Doctoral Capstone
3 quarter credits
This course provides learners with resources, guidance, and support as they fulfill the required milestones toward completion of a doctoral capstone. Learners apply scholarly research within a particular professional context to advance their knowledge in the practice of the profession and solve organizational, institutional, or community concerns. Special permission is required for registration. Grading for this course is S/NS. DPA learners must register for this course a minimum of four times to fulfill their program requirements. DSW learners must register for this course a minimum of three times to fulfill their program requirements. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite: Completion of all required and elective coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
3 quarter credits
Total
At least 71 quarter credits
One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.
Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.
What can I expect in the courseroom?
Each unit consists of readings, discussions and other activities you will be expected to complete throughout the week. Most deadlines for coursework occur on Thursdays and/or Sundays but may vary by program and course. In each course, you will receive a detailed scoring guide that describes expectations for every graded assignment.
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How will I be graded?
Grades are based on your participation in weekly reading discussions and completion of assignments, based on criteria outlined in the rubric. You will also be assessed on your ability to demonstrate an understanding of expected outcomes for your program or specialization. These outcomes are based on the needs and performance standards of your field or discipline.