Doctor of Social Work | UMass Global
Source: https://www.umassglobal.edu/academic-programs/doctor-of-social-work
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:17
Doctor of Social Work | UMass Global
Skip to main content
DSW, Doctorate of Social Work
Become an innovative leader in clinical practice, management, teaching, or administration with a Doctorate of Social Work. This UMass Global social work program emphasizes application of knowledge to real-world challenges, increasing your expertise and value.
Request Info
Register for an Info Session
Become a More Effective Practitioner-Scholar and Leader
The UMass Global Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) is a practice doctorate, designed for working professionals seeking to advance their career. With the rapid changes in society due to technology and COVID-19, there is a pressing need for doctoral-level social workers who can lead and innovate within their organizations and communities. This Doctorate of Social Work degree focuses on real-world challenges, such as telehealth and promoting social justice in digital landscapes.
Faster Track, No Residency
: The UMass Global 39-credit DSW program does not require an in-person residency, enabling you to earn your degree more quickly.
Support Throughout Your DSW
: The UMass Global DSW program assigns a faculty mentor for each student and employs a cohort model, so students feel encouraged and supported throughout their academic journey.
At a Glance
Online
39
Credits
$1100/Credit
Help me estimate my cost
Next Start Date
Fall I (Aug 31, 2026)
Program Benefits that Benefit You.
Technology-Driven Curriculum
Through our digital/technical focus, you’ll learn how to teach online, be effective in telehealth clinical practice, and how to use your digital perspective to become social work leaders and entrepreneurs.
Real-World Problem Solving
The capstone project, developed throughout the DSW program, focuses on creating innovative solutions to social problems or conducting program evaluations, rather than engaging in original research.
Flexible Entry
Tailored for working adults, the DSW program offers flexible start dates each January and August, making it easy to begin classes when it best aligns with your career and personal life.
Career Outlook for
Doctor of Social Work
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Data source: Lightcast™ 2026
www.lightcast.io
The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics
data
licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts
Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when
actual
data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.
Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any
program
Courses You Might Take
SOWK 700
Introduction to Doctoral Studies: Becoming a Practitioner-Scholar Leader
3 Credits
Introduction to Doctoral Studies: Becoming a Practitioner-Scholar Leader
SOWK 700
|
3 Credits
This course provides the necessary foundation for success in the doctoral program by emphasizing the role of the practitioner-scholar leader. Learners will develop skills in doctoral-level scholarship, critical thinking, evidence-based practice, digital literacy, and ethical leadership. Learners will refine their professional identities through self-reflection, peer engagement, and skill-building. The course also introduces the capstone project, helping students define their research interests and master digital tools for scholarly and professional communication.
SOWK 703
Advanced Telehealth Clinical Practice with Diverse Populations
3 Credits
Advanced Telehealth Clinical Practice with Diverse Populations
SOWK 703
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 702: Contemporary Theories and Epistemology of Advanced Ethical and Equitable Practice with a “B” or better.
This course explores advanced telehealth clinical practices tailored to diverse populations, focusing on the application of technology in delivering equitable and effective care. Learners analyze the complexities of telehealth implementation including accessibility and ethical and legal frameworks. Learners will develop decolonized and culturally responsive advanced skills for client engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation.
SOWK 705
Social and Global Entrepreneurship to Promote Human Rights and Social Justice
3 Credits
Social and Global Entrepreneurship to Promote Human Rights and Social Justice
SOWK 705
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 704: Research Methodology with a “B” or better.
This course introduces learners to social and global entrepreneurship through the lens of social justice. Learners will apply a human rights framework to address challenges faced by diverse populations. Learners will apply innovative, systems thinking, and adaptive leadership to design programs, services, or policies that create meaningful social impact.
SOWK 706
Teaching in Online Learning Environments: Theories, Methods, and Assessment
3 Credits
Teaching in Online Learning Environments: Theories, Methods, and Assessment
SOWK 706
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 705: Social and Global Entrepreneurship to Promote Human Rights and Social Justice with a “B” or better.
This course examines the theories, methods, and assessment strategies essential for effective teaching in online learning environments within social work education. Learners will engage with contemporary andragogical theories, develop skills in designing and facilitating online courses, and apply evidence-based approaches to assess student performance effectively in digital contexts. Emphasizing equity, accessibility, and learner engagement, the course blends theoretical exploration with practical application to prepare future social work educators to lead inclusive and impactful virtual classrooms.
SOWK 707
Clinical and Program Evaluation
3 Credits
Clinical and Program Evaluation
SOWK 707
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 706: Teaching in Online Learning Environments: Theories, Methods, and Assessment with a “B” or better.
This course prepares doctoral students to design, conduct and interpret clinical and program evaluations across diverse practice settings. Emphasizing evidence-informed decision-making and ethical evaluation, learners will explore evaluation strategies that align with advanced clinical practice, telehealth leadership, online pedagogy, and social innovation. Through applied, real-world projects, learners will develop practical expertise in measuring outcomes, assessing impact, and translating data into actionable strategies for continuous improvement. Special emphasis is placed on evaluation within digital and community-based environments, equipping graduates to lead transformative change in social work practice, education, and organizational development.
SOWK 751
Strategic and Innovative Leadership and Administration across Settings
3 Credits
Strategic and Innovative Leadership and Administration across Settings
SOWK 751
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 730: Teaching in Online Learning Environments: Course Design, Instruction, and Evaluation, or SOWK 731: Telehealth Program Design and Evaluation, or SOWK 732: Design Laboratory for Social and Global Innovation with a “B” or better.
This course equips emerging social work leaders with advanced skills and expertise in strategic planning, decision-making, innovation, and transformative leadership. Designed for application across diverse professional contexts- including education, clinical practice, and social entrepreneurship- students will explore complex organizational challenges and apply evidence-based leadership strategies to enhance service delivery and impact. Through case studies, applied projects, and reflection on prior leadership experiences, students will develop solutions to policy, financial, and operational barriers while advancing equity-centered and sustainable practices.
What is it like going to UMass Global?
Instructor-Led, Session-Based
This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support.
Personalized Support Services
UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.
Employer-Aligned Curriculum
At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.
Instructor-Led, Session-Based
This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support.
Personalized Support Services
UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.
Employer-Aligned Curriculum
At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.
Our Faculty
All Faculty
Jeannine Meza, DSW
Director of DSW Program, Associate Professor of Social Work
Jeannine Meza DSW
Leslie Jaber-Wilson, DSW
Professor of Social Work
Leslie Jaber-Wilson DSW
Ellen Belluomini, PhD
Associate Professor of Social Work
Ellen Belluomini PhD
Admission Requirements
Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:
Completed application
Personal reflective statement (800-1000 words)
3.0 grade point average (GPA)
Current resume showing two years of post-MSW professional social work experience
Official transcripts showing a conferred MSW from a CSWE-accredited program. The CSWE must evaluate international degrees.
Program Start Dates
The program offers two start dates annually—in Fall I and Spring I. Applications are accepted year-round starting February 2026.
Important Deadlines (Fall 2026)
Application Opens: February 2026
Priority Deadline Closes: July 2026
Classes Start: August 31, 2026
WASC Senior College and University Commission
University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Calculate Time and Cost
Ways to Get Started
Request Info
Apply Now
(800) 746–0082
Frequently Asked Questions
The Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) is a professional doctorate focused on innovative leadership, based on real-world research — translating results into solutions in the world, rather than hypothetical outcomes. The DSW is a practice-oriented degree, preparing graduates for leadership roles in social work clinical practice, administration, and in setting policy on a larger level. Many DSW graduates also go on to teach, though often in part-time, adjunct, or practice-focused faculty roles rather than traditional tenure-track positions.
A Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work (Ph.D.) is a research degree focused on generating knowledge and data through original research. Unlike the DSW’s practice-oriented focus, the Ph.D. in Social Work prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, and advanced scholarship.
With the rapid change in society due to technology and the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a need for social workers who have a DSW. Students with this degree typically continue working in clinical settings, creating or managing agencies, and creating or implementing policies on micro and macro levels. Having a DSW adds a level of expertise and knowledge to allow those graduates to move into leadership and advanced practice roles.
Here are a few potential career paths for those with a DSW:
Executive leadership in social service agencies and organizations
Clinical supervision and consultation
Advanced clinical social work practice
Policy analysis and advocacy
Social work program development and evaluation
Teaching and administration in higher education
Bottom line? The Doctorate of Social Work is a versatile degree that can enable you to pursue careers in clinical settings, public health, or public policy with the intent on driving societal change.
The UMass Global DSW program was designed to be completed in two years. There are two factors involved in this — a lower credit hour requirement and no summer residency requirement (however, students must attend all six sessions, year-round).
UMass Global’s capstone is designed to deliver tangible impact in the field, preparing graduates for advanced practice, policy, and leadership, not just academia. Students are assigned a faculty mentor and join a cohort, building their own professional community — an approach that has been shown to boost completion rates and post-graduation success. Graduates of UMass Global can move into executive, clinical, and entrepreneurial roles at local, national, and global levels.
Testimonials
The university has made my college experience smoother by providing an academic advisor who helped create a tailored education plan for my needs. Additionally, having a financial advisor to review my financial needs and expectations was invaluable. Open communication with my professors and faculty from other departments played a significant role in my success here.
Cherie C.
Master of Social Work
Pursuing higher education has been one of the most difficult yet rewarding things I have ever done. It has taught me the importance of surrounding myself with like-minded individuals - those on the same journey to not only better themselves but to make a difference in the communities we serve.
Victor C.
Master of Social Work
UMass Global really set the bar high for what a virtual school should be doing for graduate level students by pushing, supporting, and guiding us. I'm so grateful for UMass Global, the instructors and staff, and every peer I've been fortunate enough to meet along the way.
Tina B.
Master of Social Work
An Online Education Built For You
Want More Information about Social Work?
Dig deeper into this helping profession and explore its different career paths.
Social Work Resources
Related Events
All Events
New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) – Information Session
Info Session
New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) – Information Session
Thursday, April 30 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Online
Register
Restorative Justice: A Healing-Centered Approach
Webinar
Restorative Justice: A Healing-Centered Approach
Wednesday, May 13 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Online
Register
Social Work: Education to Empower Every Stage of Your Career
Info Session
Social Work: Education to Empower Every Stage of Your Career
Wednesday, May 13 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Online
Register
Featured Articles
All Articles
Behavioral Science
A Complete Guide to Becoming a Social Worker in California
Behavioral Science
10 Careers You Can Pursue With a Bachelor’s in Social Work
Behavioral Science
Leading Transformative Change in Social Work: Inside UMass Global’s New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW)
Behavioral Science
Social Worker vs. Psychologist: Which Human Services Path Is Right for You? [Quiz]
Skip to main content
DSW, Doctorate of Social Work
Become an innovative leader in clinical practice, management, teaching, or administration with a Doctorate of Social Work. This UMass Global social work program emphasizes application of knowledge to real-world challenges, increasing your expertise and value.
Request Info
Register for an Info Session
Become a More Effective Practitioner-Scholar and Leader
The UMass Global Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) is a practice doctorate, designed for working professionals seeking to advance their career. With the rapid changes in society due to technology and COVID-19, there is a pressing need for doctoral-level social workers who can lead and innovate within their organizations and communities. This Doctorate of Social Work degree focuses on real-world challenges, such as telehealth and promoting social justice in digital landscapes.
Faster Track, No Residency
: The UMass Global 39-credit DSW program does not require an in-person residency, enabling you to earn your degree more quickly.
Support Throughout Your DSW
: The UMass Global DSW program assigns a faculty mentor for each student and employs a cohort model, so students feel encouraged and supported throughout their academic journey.
At a Glance
Online
39
Credits
$1100/Credit
Help me estimate my cost
Next Start Date
Fall I (Aug 31, 2026)
Program Benefits that Benefit You.
Technology-Driven Curriculum
Through our digital/technical focus, you’ll learn how to teach online, be effective in telehealth clinical practice, and how to use your digital perspective to become social work leaders and entrepreneurs.
Real-World Problem Solving
The capstone project, developed throughout the DSW program, focuses on creating innovative solutions to social problems or conducting program evaluations, rather than engaging in original research.
Flexible Entry
Tailored for working adults, the DSW program offers flexible start dates each January and August, making it easy to begin classes when it best aligns with your career and personal life.
Career Outlook for
Doctor of Social Work
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Median Salary
2
Job openings (in the last 12 months)
Top Companies Hiring
Data source: Lightcast™ 2026
www.lightcast.io
The pathway information provided through this website is based partly on U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics
data
licensed by the University of Massachusetts Global from Lightcast. While the University of Massachusetts
Global believes this data to be reliable, some of the data is based on estimates made by Lightcast when
actual
data is unavailable. Those estimates and the corresponding data may need to be corrected.
Change in employment projections 2022 - 2032
Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and updated quarterly
The University of Massachusetts Global does not guarantee a job to graduates upon completion of any
program
Courses You Might Take
SOWK 700
Introduction to Doctoral Studies: Becoming a Practitioner-Scholar Leader
3 Credits
Introduction to Doctoral Studies: Becoming a Practitioner-Scholar Leader
SOWK 700
|
3 Credits
This course provides the necessary foundation for success in the doctoral program by emphasizing the role of the practitioner-scholar leader. Learners will develop skills in doctoral-level scholarship, critical thinking, evidence-based practice, digital literacy, and ethical leadership. Learners will refine their professional identities through self-reflection, peer engagement, and skill-building. The course also introduces the capstone project, helping students define their research interests and master digital tools for scholarly and professional communication.
SOWK 703
Advanced Telehealth Clinical Practice with Diverse Populations
3 Credits
Advanced Telehealth Clinical Practice with Diverse Populations
SOWK 703
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 702: Contemporary Theories and Epistemology of Advanced Ethical and Equitable Practice with a “B” or better.
This course explores advanced telehealth clinical practices tailored to diverse populations, focusing on the application of technology in delivering equitable and effective care. Learners analyze the complexities of telehealth implementation including accessibility and ethical and legal frameworks. Learners will develop decolonized and culturally responsive advanced skills for client engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation.
SOWK 705
Social and Global Entrepreneurship to Promote Human Rights and Social Justice
3 Credits
Social and Global Entrepreneurship to Promote Human Rights and Social Justice
SOWK 705
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 704: Research Methodology with a “B” or better.
This course introduces learners to social and global entrepreneurship through the lens of social justice. Learners will apply a human rights framework to address challenges faced by diverse populations. Learners will apply innovative, systems thinking, and adaptive leadership to design programs, services, or policies that create meaningful social impact.
SOWK 706
Teaching in Online Learning Environments: Theories, Methods, and Assessment
3 Credits
Teaching in Online Learning Environments: Theories, Methods, and Assessment
SOWK 706
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 705: Social and Global Entrepreneurship to Promote Human Rights and Social Justice with a “B” or better.
This course examines the theories, methods, and assessment strategies essential for effective teaching in online learning environments within social work education. Learners will engage with contemporary andragogical theories, develop skills in designing and facilitating online courses, and apply evidence-based approaches to assess student performance effectively in digital contexts. Emphasizing equity, accessibility, and learner engagement, the course blends theoretical exploration with practical application to prepare future social work educators to lead inclusive and impactful virtual classrooms.
SOWK 707
Clinical and Program Evaluation
3 Credits
Clinical and Program Evaluation
SOWK 707
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 706: Teaching in Online Learning Environments: Theories, Methods, and Assessment with a “B” or better.
This course prepares doctoral students to design, conduct and interpret clinical and program evaluations across diverse practice settings. Emphasizing evidence-informed decision-making and ethical evaluation, learners will explore evaluation strategies that align with advanced clinical practice, telehealth leadership, online pedagogy, and social innovation. Through applied, real-world projects, learners will develop practical expertise in measuring outcomes, assessing impact, and translating data into actionable strategies for continuous improvement. Special emphasis is placed on evaluation within digital and community-based environments, equipping graduates to lead transformative change in social work practice, education, and organizational development.
SOWK 751
Strategic and Innovative Leadership and Administration across Settings
3 Credits
Strategic and Innovative Leadership and Administration across Settings
SOWK 751
|
3 Credits
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of SOWK 730: Teaching in Online Learning Environments: Course Design, Instruction, and Evaluation, or SOWK 731: Telehealth Program Design and Evaluation, or SOWK 732: Design Laboratory for Social and Global Innovation with a “B” or better.
This course equips emerging social work leaders with advanced skills and expertise in strategic planning, decision-making, innovation, and transformative leadership. Designed for application across diverse professional contexts- including education, clinical practice, and social entrepreneurship- students will explore complex organizational challenges and apply evidence-based leadership strategies to enhance service delivery and impact. Through case studies, applied projects, and reflection on prior leadership experiences, students will develop solutions to policy, financial, and operational barriers while advancing equity-centered and sustainable practices.
What is it like going to UMass Global?
Instructor-Led, Session-Based
This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support.
Personalized Support Services
UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.
Employer-Aligned Curriculum
At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.
Instructor-Led, Session-Based
This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed — no penalty. Courses include structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and coach interaction, making it ideal for one-on-one coaching support.
Personalized Support Services
UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.
Employer-Aligned Curriculum
At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.
Our Faculty
All Faculty
Jeannine Meza, DSW
Director of DSW Program, Associate Professor of Social Work
Jeannine Meza DSW
Leslie Jaber-Wilson, DSW
Professor of Social Work
Leslie Jaber-Wilson DSW
Ellen Belluomini, PhD
Associate Professor of Social Work
Ellen Belluomini PhD
Admission Requirements
Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process with all required documents, which include:
Completed application
Personal reflective statement (800-1000 words)
3.0 grade point average (GPA)
Current resume showing two years of post-MSW professional social work experience
Official transcripts showing a conferred MSW from a CSWE-accredited program. The CSWE must evaluate international degrees.
Program Start Dates
The program offers two start dates annually—in Fall I and Spring I. Applications are accepted year-round starting February 2026.
Important Deadlines (Fall 2026)
Application Opens: February 2026
Priority Deadline Closes: July 2026
Classes Start: August 31, 2026
WASC Senior College and University Commission
University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Calculate Time and Cost
Ways to Get Started
Request Info
Apply Now
(800) 746–0082
Frequently Asked Questions
The Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) is a professional doctorate focused on innovative leadership, based on real-world research — translating results into solutions in the world, rather than hypothetical outcomes. The DSW is a practice-oriented degree, preparing graduates for leadership roles in social work clinical practice, administration, and in setting policy on a larger level. Many DSW graduates also go on to teach, though often in part-time, adjunct, or practice-focused faculty roles rather than traditional tenure-track positions.
A Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work (Ph.D.) is a research degree focused on generating knowledge and data through original research. Unlike the DSW’s practice-oriented focus, the Ph.D. in Social Work prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, and advanced scholarship.
With the rapid change in society due to technology and the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a need for social workers who have a DSW. Students with this degree typically continue working in clinical settings, creating or managing agencies, and creating or implementing policies on micro and macro levels. Having a DSW adds a level of expertise and knowledge to allow those graduates to move into leadership and advanced practice roles.
Here are a few potential career paths for those with a DSW:
Executive leadership in social service agencies and organizations
Clinical supervision and consultation
Advanced clinical social work practice
Policy analysis and advocacy
Social work program development and evaluation
Teaching and administration in higher education
Bottom line? The Doctorate of Social Work is a versatile degree that can enable you to pursue careers in clinical settings, public health, or public policy with the intent on driving societal change.
The UMass Global DSW program was designed to be completed in two years. There are two factors involved in this — a lower credit hour requirement and no summer residency requirement (however, students must attend all six sessions, year-round).
UMass Global’s capstone is designed to deliver tangible impact in the field, preparing graduates for advanced practice, policy, and leadership, not just academia. Students are assigned a faculty mentor and join a cohort, building their own professional community — an approach that has been shown to boost completion rates and post-graduation success. Graduates of UMass Global can move into executive, clinical, and entrepreneurial roles at local, national, and global levels.
Testimonials
The university has made my college experience smoother by providing an academic advisor who helped create a tailored education plan for my needs. Additionally, having a financial advisor to review my financial needs and expectations was invaluable. Open communication with my professors and faculty from other departments played a significant role in my success here.
Cherie C.
Master of Social Work
Pursuing higher education has been one of the most difficult yet rewarding things I have ever done. It has taught me the importance of surrounding myself with like-minded individuals - those on the same journey to not only better themselves but to make a difference in the communities we serve.
Victor C.
Master of Social Work
UMass Global really set the bar high for what a virtual school should be doing for graduate level students by pushing, supporting, and guiding us. I'm so grateful for UMass Global, the instructors and staff, and every peer I've been fortunate enough to meet along the way.
Tina B.
Master of Social Work
An Online Education Built For You
Want More Information about Social Work?
Dig deeper into this helping profession and explore its different career paths.
Social Work Resources
Related Events
All Events
New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) – Information Session
Info Session
New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) – Information Session
Thursday, April 30 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Online
Register
Restorative Justice: A Healing-Centered Approach
Webinar
Restorative Justice: A Healing-Centered Approach
Wednesday, May 13 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Online
Register
Social Work: Education to Empower Every Stage of Your Career
Info Session
Social Work: Education to Empower Every Stage of Your Career
Wednesday, May 13 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Online
Register
Featured Articles
All Articles
Behavioral Science
A Complete Guide to Becoming a Social Worker in California
Behavioral Science
10 Careers You Can Pursue With a Bachelor’s in Social Work
Behavioral Science
Leading Transformative Change in Social Work: Inside UMass Global’s New Doctorate of Social Work (DSW)
Behavioral Science
Social Worker vs. Psychologist: Which Human Services Path Is Right for You? [Quiz]