Doctor of Social Work Degree Program
Faith-rooted leaders. Research-guided practice. Justice-driven change.
The Doctor of Social Work program (DSW) prepares experienced social work practitioners to become transformational scholar-practitioners and leaders who integrate spirituality, scholarship, and service.
Campbellsville University's Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program is designed for experienced social work professionals ready to advance their leadership, scholarship, and impact in the field. Through advanced study, research, and real-world application, the program prepares scholar-practitioners to address complex individual and systemic challenges, advocate for comprehensive justice, and create meaningful, sustainable change. With a focus on trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice, Christian values, and servant leadership, the DSW program equips graduates to lead, innovate, and make a lasting difference in social work practice, education, policy, and beyond.
Program Overview
Campbellsville University’s Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program prepares experienced social work professionals to become transformational scholar-practitioners and leaders who integrate Christian values, research, and advanced social work practice. Students develop the skills to evaluate research and practice environments critically, address complex individual and systemic challenges, and advance social, economic, racial, and environmental justice through ethical practice, advocacy, and policy engagement. With an emphasis on trauma-informed and culturally responsive practice, innovation, rigorous scholarly inquiry, and servant leadership, the DSW program prepares graduates to strengthen social work education and practice, develop meaningful interventions, and lead sustainable systemic change.
Program Format
The Doctor of Social Work program combines learning with opportunities for meaningful connection and collaboration.
Program experience includes:
- A two-day on-campus orientation at the beginning of the program
- Online coursework
- Synchronous learning opportunities designed to enhance engagement and community
- Three- to four-day summer residencies following Years 1 and 2
- Virtual options for summer residency participation
- Capstone project development and advanced scholarly work
Application Requirements
Ready to apply to the Doctor of Social Work program? Review the required application materials below to prepare your application. All materials must be submitted by May 1 for August admission.
Submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Applicants must hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program located within a regionally accredited institution.
Submit three references using the required reference form. References may not be relatives and should include:
- At least one former academic professor or social work employment supervisor
- At least one person who currently has close interaction with you, such as a current coworker or supervisor
- At least one person who has had close interaction with you within the past three to five years
Submit a current curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé that provides an overview of your academic and professional experience, including:
- Academic history
- Professional social work experience
- Leadership experience
- Research activities
- Service to the profession or community
- Professional accomplishments
Submit a signed Statement of Understanding affirming your support for the contents of the Social Work Professional and Technical Standards. The required form will be provided.
Submit a personal statement using correct APA 7th edition formatting. Your statement should address:
- Your motivation for pursuing a Doctor of Social Work degree and how the degree aligns with your career goals
- Your ability to independently manage complex assignments or projects, including an example
- How you plan to manage the program workload, which averages approximately 15–20 hours per week
- Sources of support that will help you be successful in the program
Important: Submissions containing AI-generated content will not be considered.
Submit a writing sample demonstrating critical thinking and the ability to engage with professional social work literature.
Option 1: Social Work Research Interest
Provide an overview of a social work-related topic that interests you for possible
research purposes, along with a brief review of current literature using three to
five professional sources.
OR
Option 2: Social Work Practice Challenge
Discuss an issue or challenge you have experienced or observed in a social work practice
setting. Address the history of the issue, its current impact, and your thoughts on
possible solutions using three to five professional sources.
The writing sample should follow APA formatting and include a cover page and reference page.
Important: Submissions containing AI-generated content will not be considered.
Applicants should be willing to participate in a virtual interview with the DSW Program Director and/or DSW Admissions Committee if requested during the admissions process.
Let's Connect
Ready to take the next step toward advancing your leadership and impact in social work? Connect with Dr. Anne Adcock, DSW, MSW, CSW, Program Director and Professor, to learn more about the Doctor of Social Work program, admissions requirements, and application process.
You can also take a virtual tour, visit our campuses, or explore more of Campbellsville University as you consider your next step.
Anne Adcock
Doctorate of Social Work Program Director and Professor of Social Work
