The pathway to a degree in social work is about as varied and diverse as the job opportunities available to you! Whether you’ve always known you were meant to help others or if you have realized this through life experience, you will find a way to achieve your goal by following these steps.
How do I prepare for a degree in social work?
- Request information from social work programs. This is the road map that will help you navigate social work school. You’ll find out what prerequisites are required for each program, when applications are due, and any additional program requirements. By requesting information from several programs you will be able to find the right school for you.
- Volunteer in your community. Social work is all about reaching out and helping others; nothing will prepare you more than starting now to volunteer! Not only will volunteering prepare you for internships but also help you find what area of social work you want to focus on. Additionally, volunteering shows a level of commitment that may open doors for scholarship or work-study programs. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) offers great suggestions for volunteer opportunities. Keep track of your volunteer hours for applying to programs.
- Maintain contact with volunteer supervisors and professors. Letters of recommendation play a crucial role in program applications. Strong letters of recommendation from those who know you in a volunteer or school setting show you are a great candidate for school.
- Take necessary prerequisites. This is vital when applying for BSW program or a MSW program when changing careers. Common prerequisites include sociology, psychology, and government classes.
What are my social work degree options?
Social work offers a variety of degree options. Consider the type of work you wish to pursue to determine the degree that’s right for you.
- Bachelor’s of Social Work (BSW): This program is the minimum education required to become a social worker. With this degree, you are able to work as a caseworker or a mental health assistant. During your program, you will complete at least 400 hours of fieldwork.
- Master’s of Social Work (MSW): Completing your MSW allows for more job opportunities and advancement by developing necessary skills for clinical assessment and management. Options available at various schools include a traditional campus-based program, online, and part-time programs. Some schools also offer a one year program for students with a BSW from an accredited program.
- Doctorate of Social Work (DSW or PhD): The DSW is geared to social workers seeking more advanced training while the PhD programs prepare candidates for research or teaching.
No matter what degree you ultimately choose to pursue, verify the program you are interested in is accredited using the Council on Social Work Education’s directory of accredited programs.
After completing my social work degree, what’s next?
After completing your social work degree, you must apply for a license in the state you wish to practice. The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) website maintains links to all state boards licensing websites. Additionally, you must pass the proper social work licensing exam. A social worker receiving a clinical social work license or a license to practice independently must also complete supervised practice.
Where will my social work degree take me?
Whatever degree you choose to pursue, you will be among others who seek to help people overcome emotional, mental, and physical challenges, promote social welfare, and champion social and economic justice for all.
With an average median wage of over $50,000 annually and a projected job growth in the U.S. at 13%, pursuing a degree in social work is not just rewarding, but a stable work environment with opportunities to explore.