The School of Social Work will launch the DSW program in fall 2026, building on the school’s long-established PhD in Social Work and focusing on conducting innovative research for the profession.
Photos: Ed Pecukonis and Samantha Fuld
The University of Maryland School of Social Work (UMSSW) will launch a new Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program in fall 2026.
The DSW is an advanced practice doctorate designed to prepare Master of Social Work (MSW) graduates, who have at least two years of postgraduate practice experience, for leadership roles in academic, agency, and private practice settings. The DSW program builds on UMSSW’s long-established PhD in Social Work and focuses on conducting innovative research for the profession.
“This program will enhance participants’ clinical skills while promoting expertise in classroom teaching and supervising social work students and practitioners,” said Ed Pecukonis, PhD, MSW, LCSW-C, professor of social work and director of the DSW program.
“Earning my DSW transformed how I practice and teach, making me a more effective social worker and a more inclusive educator,” said Samantha Fuld, DSW, MSW, clinical associate professor and associate director of the DSW. “I’m deeply committed to expanding access to doctoral education, and I’m thrilled that our program is built on the principles of universal design, ensuring it’s both cutting-edge and accessible to all.”
“The University of Maryland School of Social Work is thrilled to offer a DSW program that will produce scholar-practitioners who will train the next generations of leaders in social work practice,” said Judy L. Postmus, PhD, ACSW, dean of UMSSW.
Applications opened Oct. 28.