Social workers are pivotal in addressing societal issues and supporting individuals and communities, making it a profoundly rewarding profession. For those aspiring to reach the top of their field, an online doctorate in social work prepares graduates for top-tier employment and positions them for higher earning potential.
While the median salary for social workers in the United States is $55,350, those in the top 10% of the profession can earn upwards of $87,300, a figure more attainable with a doctoral degree and relevant work experience.
Typically, completing this degree takes three to five years, with the timeline varying based on whether one pursues the degree part-time or full-time. For the 2020-2021 academic year, the average cost of these degrees was $19,749, representing a significant investment in future career advancement and earnings potential.
How to Choose an Online Doctorate in Social Work Program
Choose your area of study
Choosing your area of study is the first step in selecting the right doctorate program in social work. It helps narrow options and ensures the program aligns with your career goals and interests. Start by identifying what aspects of social work interest you the most and where you envision your career heading.
Potential specializations include clinical practice, social policy, community organization, and administration. Students interested in direct client interaction might lean towards clinical practice, while those aiming to influence systemic change could prefer social policy. Those passionate about driving social change at the community level may focus on community organization. In contrast, goal-oriented, strategic thinkers may excel in administration — preparing for leadership roles in social work organizations.
Research schools and programs
After choosing a specialization, you should thoroughly research potential schools and programs to ensure they align with your academic and career goals. This step is crucial for finding a program that matches your interests and provides the quality of education and resources you’ll need to succeed.
Consider asking the following questions to guide your research:
- What is the program’s curriculum, and how does it support my specialization?
- What are the faculty’s areas of expertise?
- What kind of student support services are available?
- Is the program accredited, and if so, by which accrediting body?
You can find this information by reviewing program websites, attending virtual open houses, and speaking directly to admissions counselors.
Prepare for tests and applications
Once you’ve identified your preferred programs, preparing for the GRE and doctoral applications should be your next priority. Gathering materials like transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement should begin early. Many students benefit from writing a separate personal statement for each school they apply to, as it allows for personalization with each program.
Enrolling in a test prep program can be invaluable for the GRE — offering structured study plans, practice tests, and strategies to improve scores. By taking this step, you can improve test outcomes and make your application even more compelling, reflecting your qualifications and fit for the program.
Select your program
When acceptance letters arrive, you may have a big decision to make. This is an excellent time to revisit your initial criteria — paying attention to what matters the most to you — to select the program that best aligns with your goals and educational needs. Key considerations often include the program’s curriculum, faculty expertise in your specialization, and the support services available. The overall cost of attendance and financial aid opportunities are also critical factors that must be considered.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
To finance your doctoral degree without accruing significant debt, you can explore financial aid options in a strategic order.
First, prioritize scholarships and grants, which do not require repayment, making them the most cost-effective option. Federal loans should be considered next to bridge any financial gaps, as they often offer lower interest rates and more favorable repayment terms than private loans.
Additionally, seeking out assistantships and fellowships can provide funding and professional experience. With these resources, you may even be able to earn your doctorate for free.
Best 50 Accredited Online Doctorate in Social Work Programs
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How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online doctorate in social work degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online doctorate in social work degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From an Online Doctorate in Social Work Program?
An online doctorate in social work program offers advanced training and research opportunities for professionals aiming to reach the height of their careers. Typically completed in three to five years, these programs combine theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing students for leadership roles in clinical, academic, or policy-making settings. Coursework delves into complex issues such as social justice, policy analysis, and advanced clinical practices, providing graduates with the skills to effect positive change in diverse communities.
A cornerstone of the program is the dissertation, a substantial research project that contributes new knowledge to the field of social work. Through this process, candidates demonstrate their ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and present findings addressing critical social work challenges. Upon graduation, students are prepared for careers as university professors, high-level administrators in social service agencies, and policy advisors, among other advanced positions.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online doctorate in social work program
- Advanced Social Work Theory and Practice: Although it may go by a different name, a version of this course is included in most doctoral curriculums. Here, students delve into innovative theories and practices in social work, exploring how these can be applied to solve real-world problems in various settings. Students learn about the latest research methods and how to use them to effect change at individual, community, and policy levels.
- Social Policy Analysis and Development: In this course, students examine formulating, implementing, and evaluating social policies. The course focuses on strategies for advocating and bringing about policy changes that promote social justice and equity, providing students with the tools to influence policy at local, national, and global levels.
- Leadership and Management in Social Work: This course prepares students for leadership roles within social work organizations and communities. Topics include strategic planning, organizational behavior, financial management, and Human Resources, focusing on ethical leadership and effective management practices.
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods: Offering an in-depth look at quantitative and qualitative research methods, this course emphasizes the importance of research design and analysis in social work. Students learn to design studies, collect and analyze data, and interpret findings to inform practice and policy.
What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Social Work Degree?
As healthcare and administrative policies shift to increasingly prioritize the health of individuals and communities, careers in social work see increasing employment demands and opportunities. A doctorate in social work prepares students for advanced and competitive roles with high personal rewards and earning potential.
Graduates from social work doctoral programs work in various roles and settings. Many individuals seek doctoral social work degrees to work in leadership or academic research roles.
Career outlook
- Social worker — Work with individuals, groups, families, or communities to address and improve challenging situations, like substance abuse or unemployment. They may support clients through significant changes and challenges and facilitate resource access. Some work as licensed clinical social workers and can develop and implement treatment plans for mental health or other health needs.
- Median annual salary: $58,380
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 7%
- New jobs projected: 63,800
- Clinical director — Provide administrative and leadership services to departments or facilities to ensure regulatory compliance and effective operation. Oversee staff hiring, collaborate with other healthcare workers, and develop and implement special social work programs.
- Median annual salary: $110,680
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 28%
- New jobs projected: 54,700
- Professor — Prepare and deliver curricula for undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs about social work theories and practices. They may mentor or advise students and often conduct and publish research on social work topics, such as mental health or community development.
- Median annual salary: $84,380 per year
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 8%
- New jobs projected: 118,800
Online Doctorate in Social Work Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online doctorate in social work degree program?
To apply for these programs, start by reviewing the admission requirements, which typically include a master’s degree in social work or a related field, professional experience, and often GRE scores.
Starting early on your application is crucial, as compiling transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE results can be time-consuming. If your program requires GRE scores, consider enrolling in a test prep program to improve your results.
Don’t forget to speak with an admissions counselor before applying, as they can provide valuable insights into program specifics and help tailor your application to better align with the program’s expectations.
How much does an online doctorate in social work degree cost?
The cost of these programs varies by institution, but for the 2020-2021 academic year, the average graduate program tuition was $19,749. While this figure provides a baseline, actual expenses can differ significantly based on the institution’s reputation and program specifics. Online programs often present a cost advantage over in-person counterparts due to savings on commuting, housing, and campus facility fees. However, technology fees for online platforms may apply, and it’s not uncommon for online students to incur additional costs for textbooks and course materials. It’s important to consider these factors and explore financial aid options to determine the overall affordability of your desired program.
How long does it take to earn an online doctorate in social work degree?
Earning an online doctorate in social work usually takes three to five years for full-time students. Part-time students may find their timeline extended due to balancing coursework with professional or personal commitments, resulting in a longer path to completion. The total number of required credits also influences the duration; programs demanding more credits often take longer to finish.
Ultimately, each program’s structure and requirements can significantly impact the overall time needed to earn the degree, so you should carefully consider their commitments and program details when planning your academic journey.
Is a doctorate in social work degree worth it?
Research shows increased earning potential with advanced degrees. For example, individuals with a doctorate degree earn a weekly median salary of $2,109, compared to $1,493 for those with a bachelor’s degree.
A doctorate in social work can also prepare individuals for top-earning roles. For example, the top 10% of social workers earn more than $94,910 annually, and the top-earning 10% of clinical directors earn more than $216,750 yearly.