If you’re a licensed social worker in Texas looking to take the next step in your career, earning a doctoral degree could open the door to leadership, teaching, or advanced clinical practice. This guide compares PhD and DSW options — including key differences, career outcomes, and a list of accredited DSW programs in Texas.
Understanding the Difference Between a PhD and DSW in Social Work
Both the PhD and Doctor of Social Work (DSW) are terminal degrees in the field, but they serve different professional purposes. A PhD in Social Work is typically research-focused, designed for those interested in producing original scholarship, teaching in academia, or influencing social policy through evidence-based research. In contrast, a DSW emphasizes clinical expertise and leadership, equipping experienced practitioners to advance their skills in direct practice, administration, and applied innovation.
The choice between the two often depends on long-term career goals. If you see yourself conducting research, teaching at a university, or publishing studies that shape social work theory and policy, a PhD may be the best fit. If you’re more interested in leading clinical teams, improving service delivery systems, or mentoring future practitioners in real-world settings, a DSW could be the ideal path. Both represent the highest academic achievement in social work — the key is aligning the program with your professional vision.
Why Pursue a Doctoral Degree in Social Work?
Earning a doctoral degree in social work allows experienced practitioners to take on leadership roles and address complex challenges in the profession. Whether you pursue a PhD or a DSW, both degrees represent an opportunity to expand your influence — from clinical settings and community organizations to higher education and research institutions.
Many professionals choose to advance their education for one or more of the following reasons:
- Leadership in clinical or academic settings: Doctoral-level social workers often move into senior administrative or faculty positions, guiding teams, setting organizational strategy, and shaping the next generation of practitioners.
- Expanded teaching and research opportunities: A doctorate qualifies you to teach at the college or university level, supervise graduate students, and contribute to ongoing studies that influence best practices in social work.
- Rising demand for advanced practitioners in Texas: As the state’s population continues to grow and diversify, there is increasing need for leaders who can design, evaluate, and manage effective social service systems.
- Personal and professional growth: Doctoral study encourages critical thinking, deeper self-reflection, and mastery of advanced skills — enabling social workers to create meaningful change at individual, organizational, and systemic levels.
Whether your goal is to advance in clinical practice or contribute to the body of social work knowledge, a doctoral degree can serve as a powerful tool to expand your impact across Texas and beyond.
Doctoral Social Work Programs in Texas (DSW and PhD Options)
Texas offers a growing number of doctoral opportunities for experienced social workers who want to advance their practice, research, or leadership expertise. Both the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Social Work represent the highest academic credentials in the field, but they serve distinct professional purposes.
- DSW programs in Texas focus on advanced clinical practice, organizational leadership, and applied innovation. These programs are typically designed for licensed professionals with several years of experience who wish to enhance their impact in service delivery, administration, or education.
- PhD programs in Texas emphasize research, theory development, and academic scholarship. They prepare graduates for careers in higher education, policy analysis, and research leadership, often with opportunities for funded assistantships and faculty mentorship.
Below are Texas universities offering doctoral-level programs in social work. Each listing includes a placeholder for details such as program format, duration, focus, faculty strengths, and admissions highlights.
Angelo State University – Clinical Social Work D.S.W.
Program Basics
- Degree: Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.) in Clinical Social Work
- Format: Online (synchronous) and in-person options available
- Accreditation/Membership: Member of the Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work (GADE)
- Internship: Internship opportunities available in clinical practice, higher education, or executive-level health and human services administration; placements are coordinated locally when possible
- Capstone: Includes a specialized capstone project
- Additional Components: Includes a teaching practicum under faculty mentorship
Program Highlights
Angelo State University offers the first Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.) program in Texas focused on clinical practice. The program combines academic coursework with practical experience through internships, a capstone project, and a teaching practicum. Courses are offered both in-person and synchronously online, allowing flexibility for working professionals. Students can tailor their degree plan to develop clinical skills across individual, couple, family, and group practice, preparing them for advanced roles in treatment, leadership, or academia.
About the University
Angelo State University is part of the Texas Tech University System and is known for its student-centered approach, strong support services, and commitment to serving West Texas and beyond.
Baylor University – PhD in Social Work
Program Basics
- Degree: Ph.D. in Social Work
- Format: Online (synchronous, real-time video classroom)
- Delivery Model: Classes use high-definition video technology to connect students and faculty in real time
- Cohort Size: 7–10 students admitted every other year
- Funding: Fully funded for up to five years (covers tuition and fees)
Program Highlights
Baylor University’s Ph.D. in Social Work is a selective, fully funded program designed to develop leaders in social work education, research, and service. Delivered primarily through a synchronous online format, the program emphasizes the integration of faith and ethics within the context of social work practice. Students receive intensive preparation in theory development, policy, research, and teaching, with a focus on addressing complex social issues in both academic and applied settings.
About the University
Baylor University is a private Christian university and a Research 1 (R1) institution known for integrating academic excellence with a strong commitment to faith-based values and service.
Our Lady of the Lake University – Online PhD in Social Work
Program Basics
- Degree: Ph.D. in Social Work
- Format: Online with both synchronous and asynchronous components
- Structure: 54 credit hours, four-year cohort model
- Residency: One-week on-campus summer residency in San Antonio, Texas (required annually until proposal defense)
- Capstone Requirement: Dissertation and oral defense required for degree conferral
- Funding: Teaching assistantship opportunities available, offering a $2,500 stipend per course
- Accreditation/Membership: Member of the Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work (GADE)
Program Highlights
Offered through the Worden School of Social Service, the Ph.D. in Social Work at Our Lady of the Lake University is designed to support underrepresented scholars and working professionals. The program prepares students for academic, research, and leadership roles, particularly within minority-serving institutions. Alongside coursework and dissertation research, students participate in annual summer residencies and may gain university-level teaching experience through a paid assistantship. The program places strong emphasis on advancing knowledge to meet the needs of diverse populations.
About the University
Our Lady of the Lake University, located in San Antonio, is a Catholic, Hispanic-serving institution known for its commitment to social justice, community engagement, and support for first-generation college students.
Stephen F. Austin State University – Doctorate Degree in Social Work (DSW)
Program Basics
- Degree: Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.)
- Length: Three-year program
- Credit Hours: 54 total credit hours (45 core, 9 prescribed electives)
- Capstone: Capstone project required; no dissertation
- Focus Areas: Practice, teaching, leadership, and administration
- Funding: Limited financial assistance available
Program Highlights
Stephen F. Austin State University’s D.S.W. program is designed to meet the growing demand for advanced social work professionals in both practice and education. Structured as a three-year, 54-credit curriculum, the program emphasizes applied learning through a capstone project rather than a traditional dissertation. Students engage in coursework covering social work practice, theory, research, policy, and leadership, preparing them for roles in advanced practice or academic settings.
About the University
Stephen F. Austin State University, located in Nacogdoches, Texas, is a member of the University of Texas System and is recognized for its commitment to community engagement and regional service, especially in East Texas.
University of Houston – PhD Program in Social Work
Program Basics
- Degree: Ph.D. in Social Work
- Institution: University of Houston, Graduate College of Social Work
- Focus Areas: Research, scholarship, education, and leadership in social work
- Curriculum Features: Evidence-based curriculum with a strong emphasis on social justice
- Research Training: Includes research internships, grant preparation, and opportunities to publish and present research
- Additional Opportunities: Students manage a peer-reviewed doctoral journal
Program Highlights
The University of Houston’s Ph.D. in Social Work program is designed to prepare future scholars, educators, and leaders in the field. The program offers personalized academic support through small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and hands-on research training. With an emphasis on social justice, students engage in evidence-based scholarship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional development. Opportunities to publish, present at conferences, and work on grants are integral to the program experience.
About the University
The University of Houston is a major public research university located in one of the most diverse metropolitan areas in the United States. It is known for its commitment to innovation, community engagement, and advancing social change through research and education.
University of Texas at Arlington – Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
Program Basics
- Degree: Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.)
- Format: 100% online
- Start Date: First cohort begins Summer 2026 (pending final approval)
- Length: Three years
- Credit Hours: 45
- Focus Areas: Teaching, educational leadership, social work entrepreneurship, program management, supervision, social justice, and self-care
- Cost: Out-of-state residents can save nearly 50% on tuition; Texas residents may qualify for state grants
Program Highlights
The University of Texas at Arlington’s new Doctor of Social Work (D.S.W.) program is designed for experienced social work professionals looking to advance into academic and leadership roles. Offered entirely online, the program emphasizes teaching, educational leadership, and innovation in practice. With a curriculum that incorporates topics like supervision, entrepreneurship, and social justice, students are prepared to mentor the next generation of social workers while leading change within organizations and communities.
About the University
The University of Texas at Arlington is a public research institution known for its commitment to accessible, high-quality education. With a long-standing presence in online learning, UTA serves a diverse student body and is recognized for its innovation and focus on professional advancement.
University of Texas at Austin – Doctoral Program in Social Work
Program Basics
- Degree: Ph.D. in Social Work
- Focus Areas: Research, education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social change
- Training Components: Curriculum includes research methods, pedagogy, theory, and scientific epistemology
- Support: Emphasis on faculty mentoring and advising for research and teaching development
- Community Engagement: Values-based academic community focused on service, advocacy, and leadership
Program Highlights
The University of Texas at Austin’s Ph.D. in Social Work program prepares scholars and educators to lead transformative research and teaching within the discipline. The program emphasizes critical and scientific thinking, interdisciplinary research, and the advancement of social and health equity. Students benefit from personalized mentoring, rigorous academic training, and opportunities for curriculum development, research dissemination, and professional service.
About the University
The University of Texas at Austin is a flagship public research university known for its academic excellence, commitment to social impact, and vibrant intellectual community. It consistently ranks among the top public institutions in the U.S. and fosters innovation across disciplines.
Admissions Overview: DSW vs. PhD
While both doctoral paths in social work require strong academic preparation and a demonstrated commitment to the field, the admissions criteria for DSW and PhD programs in Texas reflect their distinct purposes. DSW programs emphasize professional experience and applied leadership, whereas PhD programs prioritize research potential and scholarly fit.
| Requirement | DSW | PhD |
| Focus | Practice and clinical leadership | Research and academia |
| Format | Often online or hybrid | Mostly in-person |
| MSW required? | Yes | Usually, yes |
| License required? | Often (e.g., LCSW) | Not always |
| GRE required? | Varies by institution | Varies by institution |
| Work experience | Typically 3–5+ years in the field | Less emphasis, more academic focus |
In addition to these general expectations, applicants for both types of programs can expect to submit materials such as:
- A personal statement outlining professional goals and the rationale for pursuing doctoral study
- Letters of recommendation from supervisors or academic mentors
- A writing sample or scholarly work demonstrating analytical and communication skills
For PhD applicants, the match between faculty research interests and the student’s proposed area of study is a critical factor in admission decisions. DSW programs, on the other hand, place greater emphasis on alignment with applied goals, clinical expertise, and leadership experience.
Ultimately, choosing between these doctoral paths should involve not only meeting admissions standards but also finding a program whose mission, mentorship model, and structure support your vision for professional growth.
Career Paths After a Doctorate in Social Work
A doctoral degree in social work—whether a DSW or a PhD—opens new opportunities for leadership, scholarship, and advanced practice. These credentials position professionals to influence policy, shape academic programs, and guide clinical innovation within Texas and beyond.
With a DSW:
Graduates of DSW programs often pursue roles that combine high-level practice with leadership and teaching responsibilities. Common career outcomes include:
- Director of Clinical Services: Oversee clinical programs and ensure the quality and effectiveness of care within agencies or healthcare systems.
- Advanced Practitioner or Supervisor: Provide expert-level clinical supervision, consultation, and mentorship to other social workers or interdisciplinary teams.
- Social Work Faculty (non-research track): Teach practice-focused courses at universities or colleges and contribute to curriculum development.
- Agency or Systems Change Leader: Lead initiatives aimed at improving service delivery, implementing trauma-informed care models, or developing community-based interventions.
With a PhD:
PhD graduates typically move into roles emphasizing research, teaching, and policy development. Their expertise helps drive systemic and academic advancements in the field. Career options include:
- Tenure-Track Professor: Conduct original research, publish scholarly work, and train graduate-level students in theory and methodology.
- Research Director: Lead research teams in universities, government agencies, or nonprofits studying social systems, interventions, or population outcomes.
- Policy Analyst or Government Advisor: Evaluate and design social policies at local, state, or federal levels using evidence-based frameworks.
- Foundation or Nonprofit Strategist: Use research insights to guide funding priorities, program evaluation, and strategic planning for community impact.
Whether you envision leading a clinical department, shaping public policy, or advancing social work education, both doctoral routes provide tools to effect meaningful and sustainable change at the highest levels of the profession.
Tips for Choosing Between a PhD and DSW Program
Selecting the right doctoral path is one of the most important decisions in a social worker’s professional journey. Both the PhD and DSW lead to advanced expertise and leadership opportunities, but the ideal choice depends on your career goals, preferred learning style, and long-term vision for impact.
Here are several key factors to consider as you compare options and social work programs in Texas that fit your needs:
- Match the degree to your end goal: If you want to advance research, shape policy, or teach in a tenure-track role, a PhD program may be the best fit. If your passion lies in clinical practice, agency leadership, or applied teaching, a DSW will better align with those goals.
- Consider location and format: Many DSW programs offer flexible online DSW programs or hybrid options to accommodate working professionals, while PhD programs are more often campus-based and research-intensive.
- Explore funding opportunities: PhD students frequently receive assistantships or tuition waivers in exchange for research or teaching work. DSW students may have fewer funding options but can often continue working full-time while enrolled.
- Review faculty strengths and mentorship: Look for faculty whose expertise aligns with your interests—whether that’s trauma-informed care, clinical innovation, community practice, or social justice research.
- Evaluate experience and licensure requirements: DSW programs typically expect applicants to hold an MSW, an active license (such as the LCSW), and several years of professional experience. PhD programs emphasize academic preparation and research potential over direct practice credentials.
By weighing these factors carefully, you can identify a program that not only advances your education but also supports your broader mission as a social worker—whether that’s transforming practice, expanding knowledge, or leading systemic change in Texas and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are DSW programs available online in Texas?
Yes. Several Texas universities offer flexible or hybrid options for social workers pursuing advanced practice doctorates. Many of these DSW programs in Texas incorporate online coursework designed to accommodate professionals balancing full-time employment and family responsibilities.
What’s the difference between a PhD and a DSW?
A PhD in Social Work is primarily research-oriented, preparing graduates to conduct studies, publish scholarly work, and teach at the university level. The DSW is practice-focused, emphasizing leadership, advanced clinical training, and applied research that can be directly implemented in social service or community settings.
Can I teach at a university with a DSW?
Yes, many DSW graduates hold faculty roles, particularly in practice-based or teaching-focused positions. However, tenure-track research positions typically require a PhD. DSW graduates often serve as instructors or professors of practice, bringing real-world experience to the classroom.
Do I need to be an LCSW to apply for a DSW program?
Most DSW programs require applicants to hold an MSW from a CSWE-accredited institution and have several years of post-master’s experience. Many also prefer or require Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentials, especially for clinically focused programs.
Which is more respected: a PhD or a DSW?
Both degrees are highly respected but serve different purposes. A PhD carries the most academic prestige and is ideal for those pursuing university-level research careers. The DSW is equally valued in professional and clinical settings, signaling mastery of practice, leadership, and applied innovation. The best choice depends on your goals — whether advancing scholarship or transforming practice.
Next Steps
Earning a doctoral degree in social work is a significant commitment — one that can redefine your role in the profession and expand your ability to lead change. As you evaluate DSW programs in Texas and PhD options, consider which aligns best with your personal mission and professional vision.
To move forward:
- Identify programs whose curriculum, faculty, and delivery format match your goals
- Reach out to program directors or admissions advisors for details on requirements and financial aid
- Begin preparing your personal statement, writing sample, and recommendation letters early
- Map out application and funding deadlines to stay on track
A doctoral program represents more than an academic milestone — it’s an opportunity to elevate your practice, contribute to the field’s growth, and strengthen the systems that serve Texas communities.