Practice Doctorate Accreditation Standards

2025 Accreditation Standards for Practice Doctorate Social Work Programs

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is pleased to announce the approval and release of the 2025 Accreditation Standards for Practice Doctorate Social Work Programs. The accreditation standards were developed and approved by the Board of Accreditation (BOA) on February 6, 2025.

2025 Practice Doctorate Accreditation Standards
2025 Practice Doctorate Accreditation Toolkit

Temporary Waiver Available for AS D4.2.4(b) | Program Director Qualifications

As of June 2025, the BOA offers an optional legacy waiver to the accreditation standard pertaining to program director qualifications [Accreditation Standard D4.2.4(b)]. If approved, this waiver permits practice doctorate programs to retain a current program director with alternative qualifications. 

Complete and submit the Legacy Waiver Request Form to Katie Gibson-Ledl, Director of Accreditation Services, at [email protected].

Implementation Timeline

As of August 1, 2025: all practice doctorate programs seeking accreditation via traditional pathway or temporary alternative pathway will use the 2025 Accreditation Standards for Practice Doctorate Social Work Programs for the duration of the candidacy process. 

As of July 1, 2027: All accredited practice doctorate programs are expected to operate under the 2025 Accreditation Standards for Practice Doctorate Social Work Programs.

Social Work Education Continuum

Practice Doctorate Social Work Degrees form part of the Social Work Education Continuum.