Category: Online Student Resources

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

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

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! 

 

First Generation Student Success: Tiffany Rapier’s Success Story

First Generation Student Success: Tiffany Rapier’s Success Story

Tiffany Rapier of Corbin, KY, is a mother of 7 and an online student. She is also a first-generation college student completing her education in what’s known as an Education Desert, or an area with limited access to colleges or universities.

First-generation college students often face unique challenges that can significantly impact their ability to pursue higher education, especially those living in education deserts. Many of these students lack the familial experience to navigate the complexities of higher education, such as understanding financial aid, selecting courses or managing academic expectations. For those in education deserts, the absence of nearby institutions compounds the problem, limiting their access to in-person support systems, networking opportunities and academic resources. However, the rise of online learning offers a crucial lifeline. 

Online education allows these students to access quality degree programs without the need to relocate or commute long distances. Flexible schedules, diverse course offerings and the ability to balance work and study make it a viable option for those who might otherwise struggle to find the time or resources to attend a traditional campus-based program. Through online learning, first-generation students in remote areas can overcome geographic and logistical barriers, gaining the education and skills necessary to pursue their career goals. 

Take a few moments to watch Tiffany’s powerful story below, and see how she was able to complete both her BS and MS in Criminal Justice through UofL’s online programs!  

Click the links to learn more about our 100% online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Master of Science in Criminal Justice 

New Program Alert: Online Master of Science in Physiology

New Program Alert: Online Master of Science in Physiology

UofL Online is excited to announce the launch of our newest program, the online Master of Science in Physiology (MS Phys)! This fully online degree offers students the opportunity to delve deep into the complexities of human physiology while providing the flexibility to learn at their own pace. 

The MS in Physiology is designed for individuals looking to advance their careers in healthcare, research or education. With a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as cellular physiology, neurophysiology and exercise physiology, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in a variety of professional settings. Students will also be better prepared for a terminal degree in the medical field!  

The MS in Physiology program director, Robert Brainard, PhD, emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “Health Science-related careers continue to expand at an accelerated pace. Our program provides a path toward admission into health-professions schools and employment in higher-paying medical-related positions.” 

Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to pursue further education, such as medical or doctoral programs, or to take on roles in clinical settings, laboratory research, or health education. The online format ensures that students can balance their studies with work or personal commitments, making it an accessible choice for many. 

Elevate your education and expand your career opportunities in the dynamic field of physiology. Click here to learn more about the program and how to apply!  

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: BS IN OLL STUDENT FROM ALASKA SHARES HER STORY

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: BS IN OLL STUDENT FROM ALASKA SHARES HER STORY

More than 3,875 miles away from Louisville, KY, Jen Hankins is heading toward the finish line, diligently working to complete her online courses at the University of Louisville (UofL) in preparation for graduating in May 2025. From beautiful Alaska, Jen is pursuing UofL’s online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning (BS OLL) degree, taking advantage of a top UofL program from almost 4,000 miles away. This is her story.

When Jen decided to return to college after a 28-year hiatus, her lifelong dream of obtaining her bachelor’s degree was the goal. While she was not sure which degree to pursue or which school to attend, she recalled her time spent with her husband in Fort Knox, and her love for the state of Kentucky as well as the Louisville area. Plus, her former brother and sister-in-law were professors years ago at UofL – in the College of Business and School of Nursing, respectively – and they spoke highly of UofL.

Since she loved the area and had relatives who taught at UofL, Jen enrolled in two classes and rediscovered her love for learning, and proceeded to enroll in the online BS OLL program. When we asked her about her experience, Jen stated, “The coursework is comprehensive and is highly relevant to my current professional role as a Corporate Paralegal, where I support the many entities my organization owns, and maintain compliance while providing support to the General and Deputy Counsel and Corporate HR department. What I learn today, I apply on the job tomorrow.”

Jen has not only reignited her passion for learning but has also discovered a community of support. She shared, “While interacting with many of my professors, Dr. Thomas Teague has been incredibly inspiring by fostering a learning environment with a sense of community, showing that he cares, encouraging engagement among classmates, and providing a safe space to collaborate. I have seen firsthand how this sense of community has created a cycle of interconnectedness and support among students. Dr. Teague also provided immense inspiration each week and just when I needed it most. His attentiveness to students is precisely what adult learners need to remain motivated to press on to the finish line.”

Jen’s lifelong goal of graduating is around the corner, and she already has plans of pursuing graduate school next. She credited English Department instructor Steve Smith as he reminded her that, “Completing the degree wasn’t just checking a box on a life goal but rather one that should be continued.” 

As Jen prepares for graduation, she notes, “I am a better person for having pursued UofL’s OLL program. Through the coursework and a critical thinking approach to organizational challenges, I have sharpened my skills and added robust experience to my professional tool bag.”

Thank you, Jen, for sharing your story. Best of luck as you approach graduation in May 2025!

You can learn more about UofL’s online OLL program here