A on campus or online degree in social work (BSW) is the most common requirement to becoming a social worker. In small social services agencies, however, it may be possible to snag an entry level position with a psychology or sociology degree.
A master’s degree in social work (MSW) at an accredited college may be required for an advanced position. It’s also usually required for jobs in health and school settings and clinical work.
A master’s degree in social work (MSW) at an accredited college may be required for an advanced position. It’s also usually required for jobs in health and school settings and clinical work.
Related Social Worker Programs
What does a social worker do?
If you have a strong desire to help improve the lives of human beings, then consider the benefits of social work as a profession. Social workers help people by assisting them with living. This means helping them solve issues in their everyday life including family, personal and relationship problems.
Social workers are also called on to help clients involved in domestic abuse, substance abuse or social problems like inadequate housing or unemployment.
The duties of a social worker can also include research, advocating for improved social services or being asked to assist in policy development.
What kind of education does a social worker need?
A social worker’s education can include distance learning or online degree programs to obtain a master’s or doctorate degree in social work.
Bachelor’s degree programs prepare the graduate for jobs like a caseworker, mental health assistant or a residential counselor. Some of the courses you might take include:
• Social work values and ethics
• Social and economic justice
• Culturally diverse clientele
• Research methods
Further education will focus more on your specialty which might be medical and public health, mental health and substance abuse, administration, research or policymaking.
How much does a social worker earn?
Bureau of Labor Statistics suggest that median annual salaries for social workers are at around $46.650.
Where can a social worker find employment?
Social workers can find positions in teaching, research and consulting. Some social workers go into private practice and provide psychotherapy where needed in schools or in their office. To go into private practice a master’s degree plus a period of supervised work in the field is necessary.