Requirements and Curriculum

This page provides an overview of the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) curriculum. Please visit the official course catalog for detailed course requirements and sequence information.

Requirements

  • Submit online application to the Office of Graduate Admissions. Meet requirements for admission to the Graduate School.
  • Hold a Master’s degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Applicants from international programs will be reviewed on an individual basis.
  • Have three years of post-MSSW/MSW clinical practice experience.
  • Have a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale for previous graduate work.
  • Have TOEFL scores of at least 550 on the paper test or 80 on the internet-based test or a 6.5 overall band score on the IELTS, if native language is not English.
  • Demonstrable information technology skills.

Requirements and Curriculum for the DSW Program

SOWK 607 – Neuroscience for Clinical Practice

Using a developmental framework, this introductory course will provide an overview of brain structure and function across the lifespan and associations with cumulative risks, adverse childhood experiences, social determinants of health, and enriching environmental experiences. We will review the neurobiological stress response, epigenetics, neurocognitive and affective development, the neural circuitry of various mental health conditions, and the impact of treatment.

SOWK 616 – Advanced EBP for Addictions & Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Examines the biopsychosocial/cultural factors associated with addictive behaviors and co-occurring mental health disorders. Focus is placed on case-conceptualization, assessment, and evidence-based interventions for multiply diagnosed clients.

SOWK 621 – Clinical Leadership, Supervision & Consultation

Designed to develop professional capabilities required for clinical leadership practice in a variety of areas. There is a heavy emphasis on developing practical skills such as teaching and supervision techniques.

SOWK 624 – DSW Research Project I

Selection of a research topic, preparation of a literature review, identification of a research question(s), development of a research proposal, and presentation of an oral defense of the research proposal.