The Doctoral Committee evaluates each applicant based on the criteria below. The Doctoral Committee is comprised of the DSW Program Director and doctoral faculty. Criteria employed in determining admission include evidence of achievement in previous academic programs, increased competency in professional performance, knowledge of critical issues associated with an area of professional interest, and the potential for contributions to the knowledge of the profession through research, leadership, scholarly writing, and professional education.
Degree Requirements
Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE accredited program.
Graduate Experience
Two years of post-master's social work experience is required.
Grade Point Average
A minimum of 3.50 GPA.
Note: Applicants with a grade point average between 3.3 and 3.49 may be considered on an individual basis if credentials are otherwise exceptionally strong.
Transcript
An academic transcript from the college/university where you received your MSW is required. Scanned student copies or unofficial transcripts are NOT accepted. If you previously attended Barry University then you DO NOT need to submit your Barry transcript; however, any and all other transcripts must be submitted.
All official transcripts should be emailed to: myapplicationdocs@barry.edu
Recommendation Letters
Two recommendation letters are required. It is strongly suggested that you submit recommendations from supervisors and/or former professors and/or colleagues who know your work and professional experience. Recommenders should comment on the following skills sets: intellectual capacity to engage in scholarly activities, skill in written communication, skill in verbal communication, achievement in previous academic programs, awareness of critical professional issues, potential for contributing to the profession, potential for providing leadership in his/her chosen field.
Official letters of reference must be submitted on organizational letterhead and submitted through the application system. Alternatively, letters can be emailed by recommenders directly to myapplicationdocs@barry.edu or mailed to the Social Work Office of Admissions.
Personal Narrative
Applicants must submit a response of 250-500 words to each of the four prompts below (1000-2000 words total).
- Describe how your practice experience informs your decision to apply for your DSW at this time. (250-500 words)
- What draws you to Barry’s DSW curriculum and program? (250-500 words)
- DSW students often have to balance matriculation in a rigorous program with full-time employment and other responsibilities. Describe your plan to manage the multiple responsibilities you may have with your successful matriculation in the DSW Program. (250-500 words)
- What would be your career goal(s) if you received your DSW from Barry? (250-500 words)
Resume
Please submit your most recent resume. Include all post-secondary schools attended and your grade point average (GPA) for each institution, employment history, publications, conference presentations, awards/grants received, professional licenses, and membership in professional organizations.
All materials must be submitted in English, and any foreign documents must be accompanied by official English translations.
Test Scores
GRE scores are not required.
Application Form
Online applications required.
Application Fee
$30 nonrefundable fee must be paid at the time of application.
Non-Discriminatory Admissions Process
To meet the Council on Social Work Education's (CSWE) Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) 4.1.1, the program's admissions policies emphasize equity and inclusivity, ensuring that underrepresented, historically marginalized, and currently oppressed groups have fair access to educational opportunities. The admissions process actively seeks to reduce barriers by offering accessible application formats, holistic review procedures, and flexible criteria that value diverse experiences and perspectives. The program may also engage in targeted outreach to these groups, ensuring that they are aware of opportunities and support systems available within the institution.
By prioritizing these populations, the program demonstrates a commitment to addressing historical and current inequities, reflecting its mission to build a diverse and socially aware student body. Furthermore, the program evaluates its admissions policies regularly to ensure that they align with ongoing equity and inclusion efforts, remaining responsive to evolving community needs and social justice priorities.