Value added by the doctorate of social work: professional satisfaction, scholarly leadership, and practice-informed research. Issue 8 (17th November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bradley, Samuel Lewis; Gold, Sheila Korones; Hansel, Tonya Cross
• Is Part Of: Social work education. Volume 41:Issue 8(2022)
• Page Start: 1592
• Page End: 1600
• Publication Date: 2022-11-17
• Subjects: Doctorate of social work -- social work education -- practice doctorate -- research -- graduates -- DSW student experience -- United States -- doctoral education -- leadership -- practice informed research; Social work education -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Social workers -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 361.0071141
• DOI: 10.1080/02615479.2021.1913112
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0261-5479

Abstract

ABSTRACT: As social work doctoral programs are undergoing a substantive shift, in the United States, more institutions of higher education are trending towards a resurgence of a doctorate of social work degree (DSW). However, little attention has been given to the experiences of DSW students. The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to explore why students choose DSW education, professional aspirations, and intended contributions to the field of social work. Findings suggest that 85% of participants noted flexibility as a key selling point and that perceived value added includes professional satisfaction, scholarly leadership, and practice-informed research. The DSW offers the added value of producing seasoned clinical professionals who become highly trained in theory, policy, and research.