Doctoral degrees in social work are meant for seasoned professionals. The degree goes in depth into policy analysis and research. Studies are focused on qualitative and quantitative analysis methodology.
People who apply to the program are expected to have a very strong academic record.
A DSW stands for Doctorate of Social Work. A Ph.D. stands for "Doctorate of Philosophy." Other than that there is no difference. Some institutions prefer to use one term over the other.
A Doctorate degree will take two to four years to complete. This is after a master's degree is obtained, which takes one to two years in itself. Like other doctorate programs it requires a dissertation. A dissertation is essentially a book length report that is the product of an extensive research project taken on by the student himself.
Holders of a Doctorate in Social Work are typically experienced professionals who use their degree to teach at the graduate or post graduate level. They also work in Departments of Social Work within government positions. They can start their own agencies or social work practice too.
Not every school offers a doctorate program in social work. There are online programs as well as brick-and-mortar programs.