Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

Our Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program is founded on a trauma-informed approach that acknowledges the widespread impact of trauma on individuals and their behaviors. Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters healing and empowerment.

The DSW degree is specifically designed for MSW practitioners seeking a practice-focused doctoral degree in Trauma-Informed Leadership and Practice. This unique approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique needs and experiences of individuals who have experienced trauma. Our program prioritizes safety, trust, choice, and collaboration in all aspects of service delivery.

Our graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to become experts in trauma-informed clinical practice, program and organizational management. They are also prepared to disseminate practice-based knowledge to both the professional practice community and Schools of Social Work.

Our gold-standard curriculum immerses students in trauma-informed leadership and practice. Our distinguished faculty members conduct cutting-edge practice research, present at international conferences, and even hold elected office. Our student-centered approach ensures that you will be treated as a human being, not just a number, with caring professors and advisors who are dedicated to your success.

Our program offers a variety of opportunities to connect with peers and network with professionals in the field. This includes participation in our DSW Student Association, virtual holiday reception, peer networking group, and in-person DSW Symposium.

The DSW Program’s is guided by five program goals. Graduates are expected to:

1.  Demonstrate expertise in advanced trauma-informed and trauma responsive social work practice.
2. Utilize empirical knowledge to guide practice, service delivery, and social work education.
3. Demonstrate advance competence in social justice advocacy.
4. Demonstrate leadership in human service organizations, social work practice, and policymaking.
5. Develop and disseminate practice relevant knowledge through a variety of channels (scholarship, peer-reviewed conferences, and teaching).

The objective is to build a cadre of advanced social work leaders, practitioners, and educators who are exceptionally educated and skilled in advanced trauma-informed social work leadership and practice.

The DSW students have drawn on three years of knowledge and skill development through the Trauma-Informed Leadership and Practice focus of the curriculum. The result is this compendium of Practice Advances that reflect practice enhancements from clinical protocols to national service delivery. They are submitting their Capstones as formal manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals for publication and dissemination. The students could not do this without the support of their Capstone Review Panels that include their Chairs and Second Readers.

The DSW Student Association, also known as the Doctor of Social Work Student Association, serves as a vital platform at Barry University. With a primary objective of offering governance, programming, and assistance, the organization caters to the specific needs of DSW students. Its mission is to ensure that graduates are equipped to become proficient in trauma-informed clinical practice, program and organizational management. Furthermore, they are encouraged to share their expertise and disseminate practice-based knowledge among the professional practice community and other Schools of Social Work. By providing essential support and fostering a collaborative environment, the DSW Student Association plays a pivotal role in the academic and professional journey of Barry University DSW students.