Dear Future Docs,
I’m truly honored and excited to accompany you on this transformational journey. You are joining a vibrant community of practitioner-scholars, and I want to begin by affirming the deep respect I hold for each of you. You bring invaluable professional experience, wisdom, and passion to this work, and I see you not as students alone, but as peers and future leaders in our field.
I’d like to share a bit about myself. I hold a DSW degree, and I say that with pride because I believe deeply in the practice doctorate model and the power of applied scholarship to change systems and lives. My own social work path has been eclectic, spanning aging and long-term care, mental health, environmental justice, and higher education. These experiences shape my commitment to accessible, high-quality online education that bridges the gap between research and real-world impact. I also value balance and self-care, and I strive to model making time for the things I love outside of work, including animals, yoga, hiking, and travel.
This handbook is a resource guide and contains information about our policies, curriculum, and student resources. If your question is not answered here, please contact me for assistance. I can assure you that there are resources, mentors, and fellow students ready to help when you need it. If you are a prospective DSW student, we are excited you are interested and ask that you please visit the DSW Admissions and FAQ pages for more information.
This program was designed with care, collaboration, and intention, to deepen your expertise, support your growth, and prepare you to lead in teaching, practice, and beyond. Whether you dream of inspiring students in the classroom, implementing meaningful change in your organization, or amplifying your voice through scholarship, know that you belong here. Thank you for choosing UTA. We’re lucky to have you, and I can’t wait to see the mark you’ll make.
Rooting for you always,
This handbook is a general information publication only. It is not intended to nor does it contain all regulations that relate to students. The provision of the handbook does not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, between any applicant, student or faculty member and the University of Texas at Arlington, The University of Texas System, or the University of Texas at Arlington School of Social Work. The University reserves the right to withdraw courses at any time, change fees, rules, calendars, curriculum, degree programs, degree requirements, graduation procedures and any other requirements affecting students. Changes will become effective whenever the proper authorities so determine and will apply to both prospective students and those already enrolled.
Students are held individually responsible for complying with all requirements of the rules and regulations of the University and the Board of Regents of the University of Texas System. Failure to read and comply with policies, regulations, and procedures will not exempt students from whatever penalties they may incur.
Admissions and Applications Questions:
Monisa Caldwell
Interim DSW Coordinator
monisa.caldwell@uta.edu