Millersville University Doctor of Social Work (DSW) Program

Program Mission

The Millersville University (MU) Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program trains practitioner-scholars to lead and innovate across social work theory, practice, policy, and education. We direct the growth of transformative leaders, trained to utilize a person-in-environment framework, global perspectives, and cutting-edge research to advance a more just and compassionate world. We develop inspirational, ethical change-makers who translate research into action for a more just and compassionate world. 

“The DSW program helped to bolster my teaching and leadership abilities, which has allowed me to become more confident in myself, my knowledge, skills and abilities. ”

- Dr. Karen Hinton-Polite | DSW Alumni

Program Overview 

  • Format: Part-time, 8 semesters
  • Courses: 16 total (2 per semester in fall, spring, and summer)
  • Credits: 48 total credit hours
  • Duration: 3 to 5 years (must complete program within 5 years)
  • Delivery: Primarily via Zoom with one in person weekend residency in August each year, and 2 virtual residencies in January and May.
  • Structure: Cohort model with individualized faculty mentorship
  • Capstone: Original research project culminating in a dissertation defense                         
Review the student handbook https://www.millersville.edu/socialwork/files/dsw-handbook-2024_2025-update.pdf  

Admissions Requirements 

  • Master of Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution 
  • 2 years post-MSW practice experience
  • Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume
  • Complete the graduate school application + send official transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation: 1 academic, 1 professional/work-related, 1 additional
  • Essay: 5 pages empirically supported and using APA (see outline under Application Process)
  • Personal Statement: 3 pages (see outline under Application Process)
  • Technology Requirements: reliable computer with camera and microphone
  • Rolling admission with students entering each Fall. Priority consideration will be made for applications received by March 1.

Apply now https://applygrad.millersville.edu/apply/  

 

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The DSW program educates social workers for leadership positions out in the field and those who want to teach.

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Accreditation

Practice Doctoral Program Accreditation | CSWE

Sample Electives 

  • Global Perspectives 
  • Addictions
  • Children and Youth At-Risk
  • Military Social Work Practice
  • Administration and Supervision
  • Homelessness in the US
  • Sport & Mental Health
  • Social Welfare Policy
  • School Social Work
  • Behavioral Health
  • Health Care
  • Independent Study
  • Other courses in nursing, education, business, and psychology departments

To view courses that are offered, see https://www.millersville.edu/registrar/scheduleandregistration/ 

Tuition & Additional Costs for 2024-2025 

  • PA Residents: $671/credit ($4,026 per semester plus fees)  
  • Non-Residents: $1006/credit ($6036 per semester plus fees)
  • Software provided by Millersville: SPSS and/or NVivo
  • Costs not included in tuition: books, travel and housing for the August residency 

For the information on costs, see https://www.millersville.edu/osa/tuition-fees/grad-costs-current.php  

Graduate Assistantships (GA) 

Coursework/Format 

Students take courses in Leadership, Teaching, Research, Theory, and select 2 electives from hundreds that are available. The program prepares students to complete a dissertation on a topic of their choosing. Most students complete the DSW program in three years, but students can propose 4 or 5 year plans. 

The program has 3 residencies per year with the August residency being face to face. Most students prioritize attending the August residency because they enjoy the personal connections created with the faculty and their peers. The fully online DSW program is located in Lancaster County, PA, which is a short drive from Philadelphia, Baltimore, NYC, Washington DC, Pittsburgh and is easily accessible by Amtrak or flights.  

Employment 

MU alumni are employed as a full-time tenure track assistant professor positions, leadership roles in healthcare, clinical practice, and non-profit management.  

For specific program information, contact the DSW Director:

Dr. Alex Redcay, PhD, LCSW, BCD

Associate Professor, DSW Program Director

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

School of Social Work, Millersville, PA 17551

Alex.Redcay@millersville.edu

Cell: 717-480-0585

Book an Appointment: https://calendly.com/alexredcay

Zoom: https://millersville.zoom.us/my/alexredcay 

For all other inquires please complete this form 

For more information, see the Millersville DSW website:  

https://www.millersville.edu/socialwork/dsw/