Admission Criteria

Dates and Deadlines

Our next doctoral cohort is set to begin Spring 2023.

The Doctoral Committee is comprised of the 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

Master’s degree in social work from a CSWE accredited program.

Graduate Experience

Three years of post-master's experience is required.

Grade Point Average

A minimum of 3.50.

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

References

Two letters of reference are required. It is strongly suggested that you submit recommendations from colleagues and/or supervisors who know your work and professional performance. 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 mailed directly to the School of Social Work Office of Admissions.

Personal Narrative

For each of the following questions, please write a 250-500 word response. 

1. Describe how your practice experience informs your decision to apply for your DSW at this time. (250-500 words)  
2. What draws you to Barry’s DSW curriculum and program? (250-500 words)   
3. 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)   
4. 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

$60 nonrefundable fee must be paid at the time of application.