2025 CSWE Program Director Academy - Cohort 8
Ends on
CSWE Program Director Academy
Applications open for the 2025 - 2026 Program Director Academy!
The CSWE Program Director Academy is designed to support new program directors with three years or less in the role as they navigate the complexities of social work program administration. This program will provide participants with practical strategies and resources to strengthen their leadership, manage program operations effectively, and connect with fellow leaders and mentors.
Experienced social work administrators will lead sessions on key topics, such as leadership, faculty management, accreditation and assessment, curriculum oversight, student support, and fostering an inclusive and collaborative program culture.
Participants will form connections with fellow program directors from institutions across the country, building a supportive community of peers who are committed to advancing social work education through strong and effective leadership.
Eligibility
- This program is open to baccalaureate, master's, or practice doctorate program directors who have been in their position for 3 or fewer years.
- Applicants must be from a CSWE member to apply. If you have been in your position longer than 3 years and are interested in applying, please contact Education@cswe.org prior to submitting an application.
Programming
The program requires a 1-year commitment (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026) and includes participation in the following:
A Virtual Summer Leadership Institute on July 9, 11, 16 and 18, 2025 (3 hours each day: 1 pm - 4 pm EST).
- This virtual workshop with cohort participants is designed to build and strengthen administrative and leadership capacity with a focus on management competencies and leadership development for the director role.
- National leaders will speak on the following topics related to leading social work programs and leadership development.
- Networking opportunities will be available with other program directors across the country.
A full-day Leadership Development Institute held at the CSWE Annual Program Meeting (APM) on October 23, 2025, in Denver, CO.
Online modules, webinars, and virtual networking opportunities through the CSWE Learning Academy in spring 2026. Participants will apply and integrate core concepts and competencies from the program to initiatives in their home institutions.
Quarterly virtual Check-ins
- Held the following dates from 2:30-3:30pm ET : October 9, 2024; February 19, 2025; and June 25, 2025
- Virtual check-ins will be led by CSWE staff members and invited mentors and provide an opportunity for cohort participants to share resources, engage concerning programmatic concerns, and brainstorm the application of best leadership strategies in their programs.
Program Completion Reception and Certificate Presentation
- Presented at the 2025 APM in Denver, CO on October 23, 2025.
Application
Applicants must submit a completed application and corresponding materials by Monday, April 28, 2025, at 11:59 PM (ET).
Required application materials include:
- a completed online application form;
- a letter of support from dean; and
- a current CV.
Applications will be reviewed by CSWE. A limited number of applicants will be accepted, and decisions will be issued by May 9, 2025.
Program Fees and Expenses
The fee for the 2025–2026 Program Director Academy is $1,500, payable on acceptance into the program. This fee covers expenses related to speakers, course materials, and other items. Tuition fee also covers the registration for the 2025 Leadership Development Institute, but not the 2025 Annual Conference registration. Participants are responsible for any additional fees related to travel to attend other in-person Annual Conference meetings and registration. Once an applicant is selected to participate in the program, the registration fee is due by July 5, 2025. Any additional expenses are the responsibility of the participant or college/school.
If you have questions about the CSWE Program Director Academy, please send an email to Education@cswe.org
If you have technical questions about the form please direct your questions to Submittable's Help Center. For questions regarding the application or program, please email Education@cswe.org.