Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program with a specialization in Policy Practice is designed to look at the philosophy of social welfare and social work. You will find opportunities to increase your clinical skills as you explore social work and its relationship to contemporary society. The Policy Practice specialization is designed to prepare you to pursue roles in which you could be responsible for social policymaking and analysis. Through your studies, you will have the opportunity to develop the necessary competencies to advance social welfare programs for the benefit of communities. You could also study the correlation between public policy and federal, state, and local laws. You are required to complete a residency component at one of several locations throughout the U.S., but the remainder of the program can be completed online.

What Are the Prerequisites?

If you're interested in pursuing a DSW with a specialization in Policy Practice, you should aspire to manage nonprofit or public organizations at the highest levels. You should have great leadership capabilities, and you must possess a Master of Social Work. As an applicant to Walden University's programs, you should be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent; you may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Course Requirements?

This program requires completion of 77 quarter credit hours. In addition to core and specialization courses, you will be required to complete a research project and to take part in a clinical seminar.

Course Requirements

• Foundations of Graduate Study
• Advanced Social Work Theory and Practice
• History and Development of Social Work
• Clinical Seminar I
• Contemporary Issues, Social Change, and Social Policy
• Program and Practice Evaluation
• Action Research Methods in Social Work
• Diversity and Multiculturalism
• Public Policy Analysis
• Survey Research Methods
• Clinical Seminar II
• Strategic Planning: Collaboration, Cooperation, and Coordination
• Action Research Project
• Fundamentals of Law and Public Policy

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Options

After graduation, you may have the knowledge and credentials to pursue leadership positions within the field. You might begin your career as a practitioner in settings such as government agencies, mental health facilities, or educational institutions. Potential job titles could include:

• Public administrator
• Program director of a social services agency
• Policy analyst
• Social work organization evaluator
• Social welfare agency supervisor

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.