The Top 3 Things to Consider When Deciding on an Online DSW Program

By Conner Mackowiak | November 25, 2024 | Comments 0 Comment

Choosing the right online Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program can be challenging, but focusing on three key factors can help guide your decision. Read below to see which three factors might help you decide which online DSW program is right for you!

1. Flexibility

As a working professional, you need an online program that aligns with your unique needs. The University of Louisville’s (UofL) online DSW program is designed specifically for busy social workers like you. All coursework and practicums are offered entirely online, with both synchronous and asynchronous classes, giving you the flexibility to balance work, life, and studies.

You won’t have to sacrifice the quality of your education for flexibility. The program is taught by world-class faculty from the Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work and Family Science, part of an R1 research institution and one of Kentucky’s top-ranked social work schools.

2. Practical experience and career growth potential

Many DSW graduates advance into leadership roles within their organizations, and some also take on teaching responsibilities. The UofL online DSW program offers hands-on practicum in teaching and leadership, providing real-world experience to help you grow professionally in whichever direction you choose.

When we say “real-world,” we mean it. The leadership practicum takes place at your place of employment, focusing on the tasks and challenges faced by upper-level administrators—think of it as on-the-job training at the next level.

In the teaching practicum, you will learn by observing Kent School faculty in action and gain experience conducting your own teaching activities under their expert guidance.

While social workers are driven by a desire to help others, it is also important to ensure your educational journey will advance your career and salary potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. social worker employment is expected to grow by 16% from 2016 to 2026, with a median annual salary of $80,790 for postsecondary social work educators (bls.gov).

3. Personal connections and guidance

At UofL, “online” doesn’t mean “alone.” The online DSW program is designed to keep you connected with both your peers and faculty. Cohorts are kept small, so you can easily build personal connections with your classmates, who may later become valuable colleagues.

Kent School faculty are also deeply engaged with each DSW student. In addition to the coursework, you will receive one-on-one guidance during your teaching and leadership practicums. You will learn from acknowledged leaders in the field and receive mentorship as you work on your original capstone project, which showcases your expanded skills and understanding. Capstone projects are closely supervised by a faculty mentor and supported by three additional Kent School faculty members.

Next steps: Hear from graduates and apply

Now that you have considered what makes the UofL online DSW program a great fit for you, it’s time to apply! The deadline to submit your application for the next Fall term is February 1. Learn more about the application requirements here.

Want to hear about the experiences of one of UofL’s online DSW graduates? See Lizzie’s story below!

Nurturing Hope: The Role of Social Workers on Healthcare Teams

By Caitlin Horsley | July 11, 2024 | Comments 0 Comment

Cancer is a word we all fear because at some level we understand its inherent magnitude—when an individual receives a cancer diagnosis their world changes completely. Cancer not only affects the physical health of individuals but also deeply influences their emotional and social well-being. Coping with a cancer diagnosis involves navigating a complex web of challenges. Within the realm of social work, a concentration in psychosocial oncology can equip practitioners with the tools and knowledge to provide comprehensive support to individuals and families facing cancer.

What is Psychosocial Oncology?

Psychosocial oncology is a specialized field within social work that addresses the biological, psychological, social, spiritual, sexual, and cultural aspects of care needed for managing any chronic or life-limiting disease. Professionals in this field understand that cancer and other life-limiting conditions affect more than just the body; it touches every aspect of a person’s life. From diagnosis through survivorship or end-of-life care, oncology social workers offer support to help individuals and families cope with the challenges these diagnoses can present. Here are some crucial roles psychosocial oncology practitioners may play on the healthcare team:

Help weighing decisions regarding treatment and advocating for patients’ rights
Assistance with non-medical, practical issues such as housing, transportation, childcare, and food insecurity
Offer support for emotional issues that can arise such as anxiety, depression, sadness, and worry
Advise and guide individuals on navigating the complexities of interpersonal relationships with their spouse/partner, families, and coworkers
Aid in navigating spiritual concerns like changes in faith or beliefs, ritual or dietary needs, conflicts between beliefs and treatment plans, death, dying, or the afterlife

Is Psychosocial Oncology the Right Career Path for Me?

The psychosocial oncology concentration would be an ideal fit for you if you are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing cancer and are eager to specialize in an area where compassion, empathy and expertise converge to offer comprehensive, psychosocial care. The psychosocial oncology concentration available within the online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program at the University of Louisville (UofL) has existed for 14 years and is the only program of its kind nationally. The courses for the psychosocial oncology concentration at UofL are taught through the lens of cancer treatment, but the knowledge and expertise are transferable to any chronic or life-limiting disease. This concentration focuses on the holistic needs of individuals and families affected by terminal or chronic diseases. Our graduates play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life and promoting resilience in the face of adversity. In the healthcare journey, psychosocial oncology social workers are beacons of support, compassion, and hope.

Here are some of the roles you may be qualified for as a graduate of the online MSSW program with a concentration in psychosocial oncology:

Oncology social worker
Social worker in behavioral health
Counselor
Patient navigator
Palliative care social worker
Hospice social worker

Earn Your MSSW at UofL

UofL’s online master’s in social work focuses on expanding students’ application of methods and decision-making practices that promote social justice and build stronger communities. The psychosocial oncology concentration is one of six concentrations students can pursue when completing our Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited, highly ranked MSSW. The other options are Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Gerontology, Mental Health, Military Social Work, Psychosocial Oncology or School Social Work*. Students who choose the psychosocial concentration can expect to take courses like:

MSSW 647 Psychosocial Practice in Oncology I Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families in Healthcare**
MSSW 648 Psychosocial Practice in Oncology II: Social Work Practice to Promote Health Equity**
MSSW 633 Social Work and Human Sexuality
MSSW 636 Advanced Death and Grief
MSSW 684 Spirituality and Social Work

All social work programs at UofL are offered through the Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work and Family Science (Kent School). Since its founding in 1936, the Kent School has been a catalyst for change with a mission to empower and transform lives. After nearly a decade of preparing students to work in a society with complex social problems and needs, the Kent School has earned its place among the top social work programs. The MSSW is ranked as one of the top programs in the state of Kentucky and is nationally ranked by U.S. News and World Report. Through rigorous academic programs, hands-on practicum experiences, and a supportive learning environment, the Kent School curriculum has been expertly designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become compassionate and capable practitioners.

If psychosocial oncology, or any of the MSSW concentrations, sounds like the right fit for you, request more information on our website to be contacted by a member of our enrollment team.
Are you looking for an undergraduate program? There is a nationally ranked online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) available from the Kent School, and you can read more on our website.

* The school social work concentration is available to Kentucky residents only.

** Required coursework toward the Psychosocial Oncology concentration.

A Personal Investment in Social Work and a Life-Long Mission to Change the World

By admin | May 16, 2018

The Kent School of Social Work at the University of Louisville has a long tradition equipping social work professionals to serve and advocate for vulnerable populations. That’s because we take our chosen field professionally, but also personally. With bachelor’s and master’s in social work programs, we prepare future social workers to make a difference in their community, the society and the world.

Our tradition is carried forward by the outstanding faculty and staff at the Kent School, and our success is a reflection of the many individual successes that our undergraduate and graduate social work students achieve when they go into the world. At the helm of Kent’s online programs are two exquisite professors who combine pedagogy with real world experiences and draw motivation from their own very personal stories.

Dr. Shawnise Miller, Director of UofL’s online Master of Science in Social Work, came to social work by way of a family legacy.

“My grandmother was the director of a local social service agency and from an early age, I spent time at her office. I didn’t go to daycare, I went to work with my grandmother. And even after starting school, I would spend my summer breaks at her office. Watching her help people and their families shaped me greatly.”

It was there she learned that help can come in a variety of forms. “It could be providing direct services like food or financial assistance for rent…or it could be advocating on behalf of someone or even whole groups of people.”

Dr. Miller learned compassion from her grandmother and began to see the professional channels through which she could effectively carry on the family tradition. She stays involved in the field and is a mentor and resource for her students.

In the classroom, Dr. Miller helps students learn concepts and methods within the context of every-day environment challenges. She says, “I love seeing the light bulb moments for my students… and watching them make connections between course materials and real-life situations. That is truly rewarding.”

Dr. Armon Perry, Director of the online Bachelor of Social Work program at UofL, has his own personal story to share:

“I am from Montgomery, Alabama and I grew up in a not-so-nice neighborhood. But, I went to high school in a wealthier part of town and sat in class next to kids who drove nicer cars than any of the adults in my neighborhood. The juxtaposition between what I saw in my neighborhood versus what I saw at school compelled me to think about the ways in which the intersection of people’s race, class, gender, and family of origin shaped their life chances.”

Dr. Perry was the first in his family to attend college. When he first met with an advisor, he shared his desire to change the world, starting with the people he knew. “I told her i wanted to help people like the ones I grew up around, in hopes that they could one day live like the people I went to high school with.”

“My advisor sent me to Beverly Hall, which is where the Social Work Department was located, and I signed up.” Dr. Perry’s contribution to the field extends well beyond the classroom. He is actively involved with the 4 Your Child project — a Kentucky program aimed at helping fathers take more active roles in their children’s lives.

This type of personal investment in the mission of social work drives Dr. Miller and Dr. Perry to in turn educate and empower their students to be a force for change.

At the Kent School of Social Work, we are proud of our tradition and the dedicated faculty who carry that tradition into the 21^st century. Our online bachelor’s and master’s in social work degrees extend the reach of that tradition and leave a legacy of skilled, compassionate social workers set to make a difference at a time when their services are needed more than ever.

Whether you’re just getting started in the field or you want to pursue your master’s, the right education can help you reach new heights in your career and enhance your ability to fight injustice. We hope you’ll join our learning community and you’ll let us join you on your mission to change the world.

Be The Change! UofL Launches Online Bachelor of Social Work Degree

By admin | February 27, 2018

In a time characterized by heightened social activism, growing interest in social justice, and tension surrounding controversial topics like intolerance and economic inequality, the 21^st-century social worker’s role is more important than ever. For those longing to make the world a better place, the University of Louisville and Kent School of Social Work are proud to unveil our 100% online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) starting in fall 2018.

The Bachelor of Social Work prepares students as social work generalists with special attention to issues of social justice. The knowledge and skills gained in the social work program have a broad range of applications in professional settings such as school systems, hospitals, nonprofits, law enforcement, the legal system and government agencies.

Is Social Work a Fit For You?

Think of times of crisis. On the news, you will see first responders, court officials, and lawyers. But less often seen are those important professionals who work in the background supporting those affected. These are the practitioners helping victims cope with tragedy and advocating for those without a voice.

These are social workers – deeply engaged in the most trying issues we face on a daily basis. It’s a role for the strong-hearted, for those who want to spend their career making genuine, tangible changes in the world. If that sounds like you, then social work is worthy of your consideration.

A Primer on the Social Work Industry

“What’s the industry outlook?” you ask.

Great question!

While many complex factors influence the industry, there are a couple significant trends driving much of the demand for social workers.

1) Aging Baby Boomer Population

By 2030, one out of five Americans will be over the age of 65 and it’s estimated the U.S. will need 70,000 social workers who specialize in geriatric care by 2020 – both in-home care and senior living communities. This includes handling cases of age discrimination, loss and end-of-life concerns, substance abuse, depression, and living with physical challenges.

2) Rising Substance Abuse

As the opioid epidemic continues to ravage our towns and cities, there is growing demand for professionals skilled in areas of drug and alcohol addiction counseling. This is in part due to the Affordable Care Act requiring more health insurance plans to cover substance abuse treatment, as well as courts more frequently sentencing participation in a rehabilitation program as opposed to prison.

UofL’s Bachelor of Social Work program offers a Drug and Alcohol Counseling track for students who have been impacted by the struggles associated with addiction and who have a desire help others win their battles with substance abuse.

Employment Outlook as a Social Worker

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Services, employment of social workers is expected to grow 12% by 2024 – the national average across all industries is 7%. The median annual salary in 2016 was $46,890.

About UofL’s Online Bachelor of Social Work

The online Bachelor of Social Work comprises 120-121 credit hours. Admission requirements to the BSW program differ depending on whether you’re entering the bachelor’s program as a Lower Division or Upper Division student. BSW graduates potentially qualify to enter the Master of Science in Social Work program with advanced standing which reduces the graduation requirements by half.

Transfer opportunities are available. Up to 60 credit hours may be transferred from a regionally-accredited 2-year college and up to 90 hours from a 4-year college. Your academic history can prepare you to move directly into the Upper Division curriculum.

Kent School is accepting applications now, so apply today to start making a genuine difference in your community!

“The Kent School of Social Work is dedicated to educating and empowering the next generation of social workers by preparing them to be the change they want to see.” – Armon R. Perry, Ph.D., MSW and BSW Director

About UofL Online Learning

The University of Louisville currently offers online programs in various areas of study for adult learners who are not able to come to a physical campus, but want to earn a college degree or certificate and advance their career.

The University of Louisville is a nationally-recognized, metropolitan research university, with a commitment to the liberal arts and sciences, as well as the intellectual, cultural, and economic development of our diverse community of learners.