The DSW: From Skeptic to Convert

Abstract

The author traces the history of the original DSW degree in relation to the Ph.D. which was viewed as the more respected, rigorous, and traditional degree, essentially replacing the DSW in social work doctoral programs. Following the trend of practice doctorates in the health care field, beginning with the Psy.D. in Psychology, the DSW as a practice–oriented doctoral degree reemerged in 2007 and programs have been proliferating at a rate of approximately one per year. Initially a skeptic, through exposure in various capacities, the author came to appreciate the important gap that advanced practitioners–scholars trained in DSW programs can fill in teaching practice–related coursework in BSW and MSW programs.