Clinical Doctorate of Social Work in NYC (DSW)

The DSW emphasizes advanced clinical practice, applied scholarship, supervision, and leadership in agency and community settings. A PhD is typically research intensive and oriented toward academic research careers. The DSW is ideal for clinicians who want to elevate their impact in practice, policy, supervision, or higher education while remaining grounded in clinical work. Unlike most PhD programs, the DSW does not have dissertation. Instead, students finalized their program with a grand challenge project which is the culminating independent project in the program.

The MSW prepares clinicians for professional practice. The DSW supports the transition from advanced practitioner to clinical leader and scholar. It strengthens theoretical integration, evidence informed decision making, supervision skills, and professional writing. Graduates are positioned for roles such as clinical director, supervisor, consultant, educator, or organizational leader.

The program is designed for the working professional.All classes are conducted in the evenings via a live virtual classroom (zoom) platform. Students can choose to do full-time 4 year or part-time 3-year study. In addition, students receive individualized advisement throughout the program. Faculty mentors work closely with each student to shape their scholarly focus, refine clinical expertise, and develop a meaningful final project aligned with professional goals. This personalized mentorship model ensures that doctoral work is directly connected to each student’s practice setting and career trajectory.

The curriculum supports the development of advanced supervision, consultation, and teaching competencies. Graduates are prepared to mentor clinicians, supervise teams, and pursue adjunct or full time academic teaching opportunities.

No. GRE scores are not required for admission.

Yes. The program is structured for experienced working professionals. Coursework and advisement are designed to integrate with ongoing social work practice. The course work is on a virtual platform either one or two nights a week depending on your curriculum roadmap.

Applicants must hold an MSW from a CSWE accredited program or international equivalent and have a minimum of three years of supervised post MSW clinical experience. Professional licensure is required.

Yes, you can pursue the DSW degree at Wurzweiler from another state. The classes are held via zoom and do not require attendance in-person.

Yes. International applicants are welcome to apply. Applicants whose studies were conducted outside of the U.S. and English-speaking Canada will be required to submit a course-by-course evaluation of their degrees from a NACES evaluator. Applicants who studies in a country where English is not the primary language of instruction will be required to submit the TOEFL or IELTS exam. Visa sponsorship for this program is not provided as classes are not in-person.

Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong academic performance in their MSW program, meaningful post graduate clinical experience, and a clear articulation of advanced professional goals. For a complete list of admissions requirements, please visit the admissions website.

Applicants are automatically considered for scholarships as part of the admissions review process. No additional paperwork is required. If admitted, applicants are notified of their scholarship award directly in their letter.