For many social workers, earning a Master of Social Work (MSW) and becoming licensed is just the beginning of their professional journey. As their careers evolve, some begin wondering whether a doctoral degree is the right next step.
A Doctor of Social Work (DSW) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work are both terminal degrees, but each serves a different professional purpose. One emphasizes advanced practice and leadership, while the other focuses on research and scholarship.
If you’re exploring doctoral education, understanding the purpose of each degree can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Why More Social Workers Are Considering Doctoral Education
Social work continues to be a growing profession with opportunities throughout healthcare, behavioral health, schools, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private practice. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social workers is projected to grow 6% between 2024 and 2034, faster than the average for all occupations, with approximately 74,000 job openings each year on average during the decade.
As the profession grows, many experienced social workers look for ways to expand their impact beyond direct client care. For some, that means stepping into leadership roles, educating the next generation of social workers, shaping public policy, or conducting research that advances evidence-based practice. As those opportunities grow, so does interest in doctoral education.
Choosing the right doctoral degree starts with understanding where you want your career to go.
Regardless of whether your long-term goal is advanced practice, leadership, or research, every career path begins with a solid professional foundation—including successful licensure. Dr. Dawn Apgar’s social work exam preparation resources have helped thousands of social workers across the country pass the ASWB examinations associated with all levels of licensure.
Start With Your Career Goals
Before comparing programs, think about the work that energizes you most.
Ask yourself questions such as:
- Do you want to continue working directly with clients while taking on greater leadership responsibilities?
- Are you interested in supervising or mentoring other social workers?
- Would you enjoy teaching in a college or university?
- Do you want to conduct research that influences how social work is practiced?
- Are you passionate about improving social policy or shaping programs that serve vulnerable populations?
Your answers can help clarify whether your interests lean toward professional practice or scholarly research.
A DSW is Designed for Advanced Practice and Leadership
A Doctor of Social Work is designed for experienced practitioners who want to strengthen their leadership skills while remaining closely connected to practice.
Rather than focusing primarily on generating new research, DSW programs emphasize applying existing evidence to improve client outcomes, strengthen organizations, and solve complex practice challenges. Coursework often explores leadership, ethics, organizational management, supervision, policy implementation, and evidence-informed decision-making.
Many programs also require a capstone or practice-focused scholarly project that addresses a real-world challenge.
Graduates may pursue roles such as:
- Clinical director
- Social work administrator
- Social and community service manager
- Nonprofit executive
- Advanced practice social worker
For professionals who want to remain closely connected to practice while taking on greater leadership responsibilities, a DSW may be a natural fit.
A Ph.D. Focuses on Research, Scholarship, and Education
A Ph.D. in Social Work is designed for a different professional focus.
These programs prepare social workers who want to expand the profession’s knowledge base through research, teaching, and scholarly inquiry. Students typically receive extensive training in research design, data analysis, theory development, and scientific writing while working closely with faculty mentors.
Graduates often pursue careers in:
- Colleges and universities
- Research centers
- Government agencies
- Policy institutes
- Nonprofit research organizations
Many Ph.D.-prepared social workers divide their time between research, publishing, mentoring students, and teaching future social workers.
If you enjoy asking research questions, analyzing data, and contributing new knowledge to the profession, a Ph.D. may better align with your interests.
Admissions Requirements Vary by Program
Although each institution sets its own admissions requirements, doctoral programs often seek applicants who have demonstrated both academic achievement and professional experience.
Depending on the program, applicants may need to submit:
- A master’s degree in social work or, in some cases, a related discipline
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- A résumé or curriculum vitae
- Relevant professional experience
- A statement of purpose or writing sample
Some schools continue to require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, while many have eliminated that requirement. Because admissions policies continue to evolve, it’s important to review each program’s current requirements before applying.
Beyond admissions requirements, consider program length, residency requirements, faculty expertise, available specializations, and whether the curriculum aligns with your long-term career goals.
Accreditation Has Become Even More Important
One of the most significant recent developments in doctoral social work education involves accreditation.
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is now authorized to accredit Doctor of Social Work programs, following approval by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Practice doctorate programs are now evaluated using national accreditation standards that address curriculum, faculty qualifications, governance, and student outcomes.
As more universities pursue accreditation, prospective students should verify whether a DSW program has achieved CSWE accreditation or is actively pursuing it before enrolling. Choosing an accredited program helps ensure your education meets nationally recognized standards.
Is a Doctoral Degree the Right Next Step?
Not every social worker needs a doctoral degree to build a rewarding career.
Many professionals build rewarding careers with an MSW and clinical licensure alone. However, if you hope to expand your influence through leadership, administration, teaching, research, or policy, a doctoral degree may open additional opportunities.
The decision ultimately comes down to how you want to make an impact.
If your passion lies in improving practice, leading organizations, and mentoring clinicians, a DSW may be the better fit. If you’re motivated by research, teaching, and generating new knowledge that advances the profession, a Ph.D. may be the stronger choice.
Neither degree is inherently “better.” Each serves a different purpose within the social work profession.
Preparing for Your Next Professional Milestone
Whether you’re preparing for your first licensing exam, exploring doctoral education, or looking ahead to new career opportunities, every professional milestone builds on a strong foundation.
Dr. Dawn Apgar, PhD, LSW, ACSW, has helped thousands of social workers across the country pass the ASWB examinations associated with all levels of licensure. Explore her trusted social work exam preparation resources to help build the knowledge, confidence, and foundation for your future career growth.
