If you are an aspiring social work leader, you could further prepare yourself by earning an advanced degree such as Walden University's Doctor of Social Work with a specialization in Social Work Administration. Learn more about the program here.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What Kind of Program Is It?

    Walden University's Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program with a specialization in Social Work Administration is designed to strengthen your skills for developing programming and providing effective leadership within social services agencies. The Social Work Administration specialization could prepare you to pursue the responsibilities of a supervisor, program manager, or specialist within the industry. You could take advantage of opportunities to study psychological leadership theories as well as planning and management strategies. The program includes a six-day residency, during which you could expand your knowledge in key areas such as social welfare policy development and program implementation.

    What Are the Prerequisites?

    If you are considering the DSW with a specialization in Social Work Administration, you must be prepared to learn best practices and assess the core values of social work. You must also 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?

    The program requires completion of 77 quarter credit hours. The curriculum includes core and specialization courses as well as a research project.

    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
    • Human Services Administration
    • Survey Research Methods
    • Clinical Seminar II
    • Leadership Development
    • Action Research Project
    • Strategic Context of Public Management and Leadership

    What Could I Do After I Graduate?

    Career Options

    After graduation, the acquisition of a wide spectrum of core competencies could bring opportunities in human services administration. You could also seek positions in research or college instruction. Potential job titles could include:

    • Social services agency program director
    • Social welfare institution supervisor
    • Evaluator of social services organization

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