Doctor of Social Work (DSW) Admissions

UTA’s School of Social Work is thrilled about your interest in the Doctor of Social Work program. This program is designed for experienced professional social workers with a passion for leadership and guiding the next generation of social workers.

Applications for Spring 2027 are now open! The deadline to apply for Spring 2027 is September 15.

Our DSW program accepts the best and brightest students with:

  • an MSW or MSSW from a CSWE accredited institution (International MSWs will be considered if recognized through CSWE’s International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service or covered under a memorandum of understanding with international social work accreditors.)
  • three or more years of post-MSW graduation practice experience

Applicants must also provide:

  • All official transcripts of undergraduate and graduate work 
    • Undergraduate GPA of 3.0+ in the last approximately 60 hours of university level credits
    • Master’s GPA of 3.4+ 
  • Completed Application Form

UTA School of Social Work's DSW program also requests the following application materials: 

  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae or Resume 
  • Statement of Purpose (750 - 1,000 words, APA 7 style) to include:
    • Summary of length, depth, and breadth of social work practice experience, including any teaching experience
    • Rationale for your decision to pursue a DSW
    • Reason for choosing UTA
    • What research question or topic you would like to develop expertise in through your coursework and capstone project
    • Career goals
    • Aptitude for online learning and plans to ensure academic success
  • TOEFL iBT total score if applicable. Applicants whose native language is not English must meet the University's proficiency in English requirement as described in the University Catalog.
  • GRE not required

Need help? Explore our new DSW application guide for step-by-step instructions, screenshots, and FAQs.

Ready to Apply?

Spring 2027 applications due September 15


Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Q&A Sessions

DSW Director Dr. Karen Magruder is offering two live online Q&A sessions for Spring 2027 applicants:

  • Wednesday, August 12 from 6:00pm-7:00pm CST
  • Friday, August 21 from 12:00pm-1:00pm CST
  • Tuesday, September 1 from 6:00pm-7:00pm CST
Register Here