career in social work and education

Social Work Careers Guide: A Comprehensive Guide to Career Paths in Social Work

Written by Rebecca Munday Last Updated: May 2023

When most people think of social workers, they envision them helping children find foster or adoptive homes. Yet, that’s only one of the rewarding social work careers you can choose if you want to help and advocate for people.

Social workers care for children, but they also care for veterans, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions. Find out more about all the careers you can pursue with a degree in social work.

Social Work Careers by Degree Level

The career opportunities you can pursue in social work depend on your degree. Most roles, such as a child and family social worker or a healthcare social worker, require a master’s degree in social (MSW) . Yet, you can pursue an entry-level position, such as a case manager or community outreach worker with a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) .

What Do Social Workers Do?

Social workers help individuals, families, and communities through difficult, stressful, and sometimes even crisis situations. Some of the situations they help clients with include domestic or child abuse, illness or disability, poverty or unemployment, mental health conditions, and the loss of a loved one.

Social workers provide advice, create programs, connect their clients with resources, and follow up with their clients to make sure they’re managing or improving their circumstances. Clinical social workers may also diagnose and treat mental health conditions with counseling or psychotherapy. They work in hospitals, governments, schools, correctional facilities, or other social service programs.

Responsibilities for social workers vary by work setting, but some duties across settings include:

• Maintaining case files and records
• Researching and advocating for community resources such as childcare and healthcare
• Helping prevent and respond to crisis situations such as abuse or mental health emergencies
• Monitoring client situations and following up to make sure they improve
• Assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health conditions with psychotherapy services

Featured Online Master’s in Social Work Programs

Why pursue a career in social work.

Individuals interested in a meaningful, people-centered profession should consider a career in social work. Social workers help others for a living. They serve at-risk or underserved individuals, communities, and organizations. Social workers help those in need achieve their goals, access social services, and identify treatment options. The career paths for social workers are diverse and can be rewarding.

Some of the advantages to pursuing a career in social work include:

• The ability to positively impact individuals, families, and communities through counseling and connecting them to resources
• A variety of populations to work with, including veterans, older adults, people with chronic health conditions
• A career advocating for positive change in policy and communities
• Strong projected employment growth over the next decade

Because social workers must complete continuing education credits to renew their state license, the career requires a commitment to a lifetime of learning. Many states require social workers to fulfill continuing education requirements in subjects like ethics, domestic violence, and suicide prevention. Social workers must remain up-to-date on current developments in the field.

Where Can I Work as a Social Worker?

Most social workers work in the government or individual and family services. More than 29% of social workers work in either local or state government. Many of these social workers help families make sure their children grow up in a safe and healthy home. They find foster homes for them and work with families to create and execute a plan to reunite the family. If that cannot happen, social workers create a plan for adoption.

Social workers also commonly work in hospitals and other healthcare settings. In these settings, they facilitate communication between the patient, the family, and the healthcare team in a variety of ways. They also help in the continuity of care when a patient is discharged and assess the patient’s emotional responses to diagnosis and treatment.

Source: BLS

Population Types

Social workers help diverse populations ranging from individuals to entire communities. The list below does not represent a complete list of careers in social work but provides a sampling of communities that social workers typically serve.

Although some social workers specialize in one population or issue, they should understand how to provide care and advocate for a wide spectrum of clients. Social workers should understand, prepare for, and express willingness to help anyone in need.

• Infants/Children: Social workers may advocate for children in foster care programs, help children experiencing neglect or abuse, and support children going through an adoption process. They may also work with infants with developmental, behavioral, or emotional disorders. Many professionals work in schools, adoption agencies, and government organizations.
• Adolescents: Adolescents can have a variety of emotional, situational, developmental, and behavioral issues. Some may live in violent or impoverished households, while others experience depression, substance misuse, or criminal behavior. Whatever the case, social workers help at-risk adolescents overcome their obstacles. They ensure adolescents complete their education and find a safe place to live.
• Families: Many social workers help families in crisis. These families may face problems with substance use, physical violence, extreme financial stress, trauma, unemployment, or homelessness. Social workers help families locate services necessary to restore a safe and supportive setting. They connect families to counseling, job training, and mental health and substance use services.
• Couples: Social workers who help couples typically intervene during a crisis or dilemma. They may help couples seeking a divorce, repairing problems in their relationship, pursuing adoption, or struggling with mental health issues. While their role usually involves therapy, they may also help couples access additional services.
• People Experiencing Homeless: Social workers help homeless people locate shelters, find affordable housing, apply for jobs, and access treatment for any mental health or behavioral conditions. They may work in a homeless shelter or for a nonprofit that addresses the greater issue of homelessness.
• Chronic Health Conditions: Social workers help those with chronic health conditions manage their day-to-day life. They make sure their clients can access healthcare and manage their finances. Social workers also monitor for signs of depression or other mental conditions. They may support family members and caregivers.
• Geriatrics : Social workers who assist older clients typically work in hospitals, hospice centers, nursing homes, mental health clinics, or community centers. They may also meet with clients in their homes. These social workers help their clients with financial, medical, emotional, and social problems. They monitor for signs of abuse, neglect, and depression. They may also help clients find jobs or access medical services.

How to Become a Social Worker

Although the process of becoming a social worker varies from state to state, all social workers must complete a few fundamental steps. The first step is earning a social work degree. Jobs for social work graduates may include clinical social work or nonclinical social work, depending on their degree and license.

While some states allow social workers to earn a license with only a bachelor’s in social work (BSW), most states require social workers to hold a master’s in social work (MSW). All clinical social workers in the U.S. must hold an MSW. A BSW typically requires four years of school, and an MSW requires an additional two years. Most MSW programs require an internship, fellowship, or fieldwork component, allowing candidates to acquire hands-on experience before applying for licensure in their state.

In order to legally practice within each state, all social workers must first earn a social work license . The licensure process varies depending on the state , as do the types of licenses available. Social workers should research and understand the licensure requirements for the state where they hope to work.

To earn a license, social workers typically complete an application, pay a fee, and pass an Association of Social Work Boards exam . The exams consist of 170 multiple-choice questions and cost between $230 and $260. Clinical and independent practice licenses typically require two or more years of supervised professional experience.

How Much Do Social Workers Make?

Social workers make an average salary of $59,440 per year, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics . Social workers with doctoral degrees could earn up to $20,000 more than MSW-degree holders, according to limited data from Payscale as of May 2023 .

Licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) earn a higher average salary because of their increased experience and authority. LCSWs are licensed to practice individual clinical care. They can diagnose and treat mental health conditions and connect clients to the necessary services to improve their situation. According to Payscale data from May 2023, LCSWs make a median salary of $63,000 annually.

Find out the average salary for popular social work careers such as case manager and child and family social work in the table below.

Sources: BLS and Payscale

Source: Payscale

Frequently Asked Questions About Social Work Careers

What is the career path of a social worker.

A social worker’s career path may include getting a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field like psychology, finding an entry-level position, earning a master’s degree in social work, becoming licensed in their state, and finding a role in generalist or clinical social work. Some social workers should expect to complete post-degree supervised experience depending on their license and state.

What are the highest-paying jobs in social work?

Some of the highest-paying jobs in social work include behavior analysts, policy analysts, licensed clinical social workers, and healthcare social workers. Healthcare social workers, policy analysts, and licensed clinical social workers make an average of about $63,000 annually. Behavior analysts make an average of more than $68,000 annually. According to data from BLS, government, healthcare, and education offer higher-than-average salaries for social workers.

How can I advance my career in social work?

Social workers can advance their careers by obtaining relevant experience and earning advanced degrees. A master’s in social work opens up more doors than a bachelor’s degree. Social workers with a master’s can conduct clinical work and run private practices. For individuals who hold a doctorate in social work, job possibilities include high-level administrative positions and university professorships.

What careers are like social work?

The most closely related careers to social work are counseling, psychology, and psychiatry. Clinical social workers and clinical psychologists both use the DSM-5 to help diagnose, assess, and treat patients. Other careers with similar responsibilities include mental health or psychiatric nurses, corrections or probation officers, university professors, or non-profit directors.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

Explore the Profession

Choose the Profession

Loan Forgiveness

NASW Center for Workforce Studies

Malpractice Risk

Credentials and Certifications

HelpStartsHere.org

To be a social worker, one must have a degree in social work from a college or university program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The undergraduate degree is the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). Graduate degrees include the Master of Social Work (MSW) and the Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) or PhD. An MSW is required to provide therapy.

Degree programs involve classroom study as well as practical field experience. The bachelor’s degree prepares graduates for generalist entry-level work, whereas the master’s degree is for more advanced clinical practice. A DSW or PhD is useful for doing research or teaching at the university level.  For information about accredited schools of social work, visit the Social Work Portal , you can search schools of social work from A to Z, by city, or by state.

Financing Your Postsecondary Education

There are many options available to you when financing your education. It is important to educate yourself.  Start with the U.S. Department of Education , specifically learn about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid .  Look for scholarships and grants and obtain information from multiple private lending institutions. Also, loan forgiveness can be applied for at both the federal and state levels.

Best Social Work Degrees & Career Options

The 25 Most Popular Paths for Social Work Careers In The United States

The most popular Social Work career options include a range of roles for Social Workers with a BSW, MSW, and also doctorate degree. Available jobs for social workers are abundant. Social Work is both a growing profession and a diverse field. Could a social work career be right for you? If you’re considering a career in social work, take a look at the following questions. 

• Do you enjoy helping people and have a deep concern for people’s general wellbeing? 
• Is justice and equity your passion? 
• Are you a resilient person with a lot of emotional fortitude? 
• Do you have strong communication skills? 
• Can you handle a job that involves a lot of paperwork? 

If you answered “yes” to most of the questions above, then you may be built for a career in social work. At its core, social work is a career for people who want to help people . It concerns itself with groups, families, and communities, and it focuses on building a more just and equitable world. Social work is also a form of advocacy. Social workers go to bat for their clients, fighting for things like disability pay, erasing mental health stigmas, and preventing child abuse . 

When thinking about potential social work careers, it helps to see some examples. Below is a list of specific social work career options, arranged by the education level they require. Note that some careers will have overlapping titles and responsibilities. For example, a licensed clinical social worker may also be a medical social worker or a child and family social worker. 

Below are some Social Work career paths presented in alphabetical order and by degree level.

Popular Jobs for Social Workers With a BSW

There are many entry-level jobs for social workers with a Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) degree. Details of the top 10 to 15 career opportunities for social workers are below.

1. Behavioral Management Aide

A behavioral management aide works with a behavioral specialist, which is a social worker who helps people modify or eliminate harmful behaviors. These behaviors may include hitting, throwing tantrums, and similar things that can cause emotional or bodily harm. 

Behavioral management aides often observe the client’s harmful behavior, identify the stimuli that trigger the behavior, and work with behavioral specialists to find alternate behaviors and healthy coping mechanisms. Most behavioral management aides work with children, though some may work with adults. Often, mental health social workers work in schools or in mental health practice. 

Skills May Include:

• in person field education
• skills support family members
• help with counseling services
• help with substance abuse
• help with mental illness
• some school social workers help with substance abuse and mental illness

Salary Expectation: On average, health care social workers earn $39,540 per year.  The higher End of pay for health care social workers is with a master of social work.

2. Case Management Aide

For some social workers, the best careers in social work involve assisting others. Maybe they don’t feel comfortable in the spotlight, or maybe social workers just have exceptional organizational skills. In any case, many of these social workers find success as case management aides. 

A case management aide works as a type of assistant to another social worker. For example, social workers may work with a school social worker or child welfare specialist and help manage specific cases. Case management aides must have strong organization skills since a large part of their job involves managing paperwork. They also help manage intake, and they may perform initial meetings with clients to help put those clients at ease and explain the case management process. 

Essentially, case management aides do a lot of behind-the-scenes work while case managers themselves do the front-and-center work. Case managers come to rely on their case management aides because aides help them avoid getting bogged down as they work on a case. Aides are essential because social workers help cases move forward more quickly for faster results.  A Case Management Aide is one of the best jobs for social workers with a BSW.

Salary Expectation: The average yearly salary for a case management aide is $39,600. The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

3. Community Outreach Worker

Now, for those who are comfortable with the spotlight, another one of the best jobs for social workers may involve community outreach. Community outreach careers put social workers in front of people, as social workers handle a lot of communication with the public. 

Community outreach workers act as a liaison between an organization and the community that the organization serves. These workers may give talks and provide education on their organizations. In addition, social workers might also identify and reach out to people who could use the organization’s services. Communicating with people and groups is an essential part of this job. Therefore, community outreach workers must have good people skills and communication skills. In addition, this job requires workers to also be well-versed in their organization’s services, since they often have to answer questions. 

Often, community outreach workers work for nonprofit organizations that include mental health social workers. The type of nonprofit varies, so outreach workers can look for nonprofits that align with their passions. 

Salary Expectation: The average salary for community outreach workers is $59,000, but that salary varies depending on the type of organization one works for.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

4. Eligibility Worker

A lot of people need assistance with finances, housing, and similar basics. However, not everyone who needs help knows how to get that help. Many aren’t even aware that social workers may qualify for assistance. 

Enter eligibility workers. Eligibility workers generally work for governments at the state, local, or even federal level. Typically, these jobs involve working with people who are seeking government assistance with housing, finances, and more. Explaining the programs for which a client may be eligible and determining a client’s eligibility are regular duties. In addition, social workers may also reach out to potential eligible clients. 

Eligibility workers require a deep sense of compassion as well as organizational skills. Social workers must also be very knowledgeable about various government assistance programs. 

Salary Expectation: An eligibility worker can earn, on average , between $29,000 and $57,000 per year. The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

5. Human Services Specialist

A human services specialist is a type of eligibility worker who makes sure that clients understand which services they may qualify for. They also help clients apply for those services, often walking them through the application process. Social workers take a hands-on approach to their work, and social workers work closely with their clients to make sure that those clients get exactly what social workers need. 

Human services specialists work with programs like SNAP, disability pay, child welfare, and more. They provide guidance and answer questions about these programs, and social workers stay in contact with clients to make sure that those clients get what social workers need. 

Human services specialists work in a wide array of workplaces, including state agencies, nonprofit organizations, residential care facilities, and more.

Salary Expectation: Human services specialists make an average of $35,060 per year.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

6. Juvenile Court Liaison

A juvenile court liaison does a lot of work within the juvenile court system. Social workers only work in juvenile courts, not courts that deal with adult cases. It’s also important to note that social workers work for the court itself, not for attorneys, plaintiffs, or defendants. They do, however, often communicate with various parties involved in certain cases. They also go over paperwork and records, helping to keep information organized and up to date. 

As a result, juvenile court liaisons require a variety of skills. They need organizational skills to keep court records and other documents as organized as possible. They also need great communication skills, as social workers spend a lot of time talking to people in their jobs. 

Salary Expectation: Juvenile court liaisons make just over $41,000 per year, on average.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

7. Probation Officer

Jobs for social workers are also available in criminal justice. Probation officers are social workers who work within the justice system by helping people who have been convicted of a crime. 

Instead of going to prison, some offenders are put on probation, or a provisional period that requires good behavior and some other conditions. Provided that they don’t violate the conditions of their probation, these offenders can avoid jail time altogether. For many courts and offenders, especially first-time offenders, probation provides the ideal compromise. 

However, somebody has to make sure that the offender meets all of the conditions of their parole. Should the offender violate those conditions, social workers may receive a harsher sentence, so supervision can help ensure that social workers stay on the right path. That’s where probation officers, or parole officers, come into the picture. 

Probation officers help supervise and communicate with these offenders to make sure social workers fulfill the conditions of their probation. They communicate regularly with the offender. They may keep an eye on their client’s location, conduct drug tests, and interview parolee family members. Probation officers may also testify in court about the parolee telling the judge whether or not the parolee has kept up with the terms of their probation. 

Additionally, probation officers deal with paperwork, so social workers must have solid organizational skills. They should also have good people skills. 

Salary Expectation: According to the bureau of labor statistics, Probation officers make about $60,250 on average per year.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

8. Rehabilitation Case Worker

Rehabilitation caseworkers help disabled people get back into the workforce after periods of unemployment. A client’s disability may be physical or mental, and it may be caused by an injury or pre-existing condition. A rehabilitation caseworker will assess the client’s skills, abilities, and limitations. 

From there, they’ll recommend potential career paths and help the client work toward those career paths. As a result, the client may gain a sense of empowerment and reclaim their individuality. With help from a rehabilitation caseworker, clients can also gain more financial security and stability. 

Salary Expectation: Rehabilitation caseworkers make $38,950 to $63,790 per year.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

MSW Popular Social Work Career Options

Once a Social Worker has a master’s degree social workers can earn a higher salary and there are many new MSW jobs and career opportunities .

9. Child and Family Social Worker

Child and family social workers provide assistance and advocacy in cases that involve children and their families. They have a long list of potential responsibilities, and those responsibilities may vary from one case to another. Those responsibilities may include: 

• Working with at-risk children 
• Staying up to date on a particular child’s wellbeing 
• Connecting families to services social workers may need 
• Assisting in child welfare investigations 
• Helping to place children in foster or adoptive homes 
• Assisting with family reunification when appropriate 
• Assisting with the adoption and/or fostering process 

Child and family social workers often have their own offices, but social workers also do a lot of travel, so social workers need a certain amount of flexibility. They should also have good people skills, especially with children. They need empathy, but social workers also need self-regulation skills so social workers don’t overwhelm themselves in the face of tough situations. Because social workers maintain case files and take notes, social workers should also have excellent organization skills. 

Salary Expectation: According to the bureau of labor statistics, the average salary for mid-level child and family social workers is $50,820.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

10. Child Welfare Worker

A child welfare worker is similar to a child and family social worker. In fact, many people use the two terms interchangeably. However, “child welfare worker” is a broader term. A child and family social worker may be considered a type of child welfare worker. 

Child welfare workers tend to work with government agencies. They may intervene in cases of abuse and neglect. They may also conduct home assessments to see if children should be removed from an environment. Child welfare workers maintain paperwork on their cases. Overall, social workers need many of the same skills and strengths as child and family social workers, including a high tolerance for stress, a passion for child advocacy, and strong communication skills with children. 

Salary Expectation: Child welfare workers make about $44,380 annually.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

11. Therapist or Counselor

A therapist or counselor listens to people, coaches them, and helps them live their lives in a healthy way while coping with mental health issues. It’s an ideal choice for a mental health social worker. They can help people manage mental illnesses, stressful situations, career challenges, or day-to-day life. They generally meet with their clients on a regular basis, like once a week or once a month, depending on the severity of the client’s struggles. 

Counselors are somewhat different from therapists. While therapists generally work on a long-term basis, counselors may work with clients on a short-term basis and focus on specific mental health issues. Neither therapists nor counselors are psychiatrists. Psychiatrists have medical training and can therefore prescribe medication. Therapists and counselors have psychological training, but social workers don’t have the medical training that would allow them to write prescriptions. In some cases, however, social workers can recommend that a patient pursues medication with their primary care doctor. 

Therapists and counselors can use specific methods such as talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, etc. Some use a combination of methods, tailoring their approach to the client. 

Salary Expectation: On average, therapists and counselors make about $46,273 annually, but salaries can vary depending on specialization, workplace, and other factors.   The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

12. Social Worker

Some social workers have specific titles, but other clinical social workers are just called clinical social workers. If they’re clinical social workers, social workers may provide counseling, just like therapists and counselors do. Broadly speaking, social workers meet with clients to help assess their needs and goals, maintaining case files in the process. They advocate for the wellbeing of those clients, and social workers may work with other professionals in that client’s life to create a comprehensive wellbeing plan. 

Social workers may also refer their clients to other professionals as necessary. Some clinical social workers provide crisis intervention. 

Salary Expectation: Social workers make an average of $50,470 per year.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

13. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Worker

Mental health and substance abuse social workers help clients who have mental health issues, trauma, or addictions. Often, their clients deal with more than one issue at once. For instance, a person’s trauma may fuel their depression and anxiety, which may contribute to an addiction. Mental health social workers should be prepared to deal with a number of complex struggles, and social workers should meet those struggles with compassion and understanding. 

These social workers can be found in a variety of settings, including healthcare facilities and counseling centers. They may be counselors themselves, or social workers may be case managers. 

Salary Expectation: Mental health and substance abuse social workers make about $42,650 per year.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

14. School Social Worker

School social workers can help If a child’s basic needs are unmet, that child likely won’t perform well academically. A child may have academic struggles, but their basic needs and well-being should always come first. That’s where school social workers come in. 

School social workers advocate for students. They may also counsel them in mental health, behavioral health, and academic habits. These professionals can help children succeed both as students and as individuals. School social workers can also work closely with schools administrators, teachers, and parents to find the best solutions for specific children, and social workers may recommend further treatment outside of school. 

Salary Expectation: School social workers make just over $49,000 per year on average .  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

15. Medical Social Worker

A less recognized but still very important form of social work is Medical Social Work. These social workers generally work in hospitals and other medical care facilities. Social workers work with patients and their families, helping their clients weigh their options and make the best decisions for themselves and their loved ones. For example, a medical social worker can help a patient navigate their care options after they’re discharged from a hospital. 

Salary Expectation: Medical social workers make just over $65,500 annually, on average.  The higher End of pay for social workers is with a master of social work.

16. Social Work Supervisor

Social work supervision is a leadership position. It involves supervising social workers who may be at the beginning stages of their own careers. For example, a social work supervisor may supervise counselors or counseling students. Social work supervisors may also manage teams of staff members. 

Therefore, social work supervisors need field experience as well as education, which means that it can take a long time to obtain such a career. Still, the time and effort can be worth it, as many social work supervisors find their work deeply rewarding. 

Salary Expectation: Social work supervisors make an average of $47,980 per year. 

17. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Licensed clinical social workers generally work as counselors. Social workers help people navigate mental health struggles, tough circumstances, traumas, and transitions. Social workers can also be case managers or part of a research team. Licensed clinical social workers take a social work approach to treating clients, whereas a psychologist might take a different approach, such as a behavioral approach. Licensed clinical social workers may also focus on their clients’ strengths, helping clients leverage their own strengths to take control of difficult situations. The minimum education needed is an LCSW master’s degree .

Salary Expectation: Licensed clinical social workers make between $40,740 and $70,660 per year. 

18. Behavior Analyst

A mental health social worker or behavior analysts work with people, often children, with mental health and behavioral struggles. They work with information gathered by behavioral management aides to develop and implement treatment plans. Social workers may also work with the individual’s teachers, family members, and school counselors to increase the treatment plan effectiveness. Behavior analysts can help clients reduce behaviors that may harm themselves and others. For example, a client who hits others when excited may be redirected to shake his hands instead. 

It’s important to note, however, that there is some controversy surrounding behavioral analysts’ work, especially in Applied Behavioral Analysis, which is a therapy that many behavior analysts use. A lot of autistic adults, many of whom have been through ABA therapy, criticize the practice for addressing behaviors instead of the mental health struggles that cause those behaviors. Many also claim that the goal of ABA is to make autistic people appear more “normal” from a neurotypical perspective (e.g. eliminating stimming), instead of accepting that autistic people may simply have different needs. Potential behavior analysts should keep these criticisms in mind as social workers and community health workers start their careers. 

Salary Expectation: Behavior analysts make an average of $62,434 annually. 

19. Healthcare Social Worker

Healthcare social workers help people navigate their healthcare needs, helping patients and their families connect to the right resources and support. Social workers provide counseling relating to various treatment options, and they may refer clients to specific healthcare programs. At the same time, healthcare social workers can advocate on behalf of their client’s best interests and rights. 

Healthcare social workers and community health workers can also coordinate complex healthcare services, including both inpatient and outpatient services. For example, they may help their clients arrange home health services. Social workers can also help clients rent or buy medical equipment. 

Healthcare social work has sub-categories. For instance, a medical social worker can be considered a type of healthcare social worker. 

Salary Expectation: Healthcare social workers make an average of $57,000 annually. 

20. Campaign Director, Fundraising, Public Awareness

Social workers can also work as campaign directors, fundraising spokespeople, and public advocates. Though a campaign director does not have to be a social worker, campaign directors who are social workers can make a big difference in social work-related public policy. 

Campaign directors may work with a political candidate to advance that candidate’s campaign strategy. Social workers may also promote specific projects or initiatives. From a social worker’s perspective, those projects may include fundraising for child advocacy projects, promoting disability rights legislation, or working with a candidate who promotes these concerns. 

Additionally, Campaign Directors may hire and oversee team members, so social workers need excellent leadership skills. They also need to be adept in communication, organizing, problem-solving, and tenacity. In some cases, they may also need to be comfortable in the spotlight. 

Salary Expectation: Campaign directors make an average of $54,810 per year. 

DSW or PhD Popular Social Work Career Options

Jobs for Social Workers with a doctoral degree are typically in higher education or in advanced counseling roles.

21. Psychologist

A psychologist is similar to a therapist or counselor, and many people use these terms interchangeably. However, a psychology career requires a Ph.D., while a counseling or therapy career requires a master’s degree. As a result of their high educational level, psychologists are more qualified than other therapists to accept patients with severe forms of mental illness and trauma. They’re also more qualified to provide diagnoses for these illnesses. 

Psychologists, like therapists and counselors, may specialize in their areas of expertise. Some psychologists, for instance, may work primarily with patients who have ADHD, helping them manage their daily lives and responsibilities. Others may specialize in addiction help. 

Salary Expectation: Being more educated than other therapists, psychologists can also charge more for their services. As a result, social workers make an average of $79,000 per year. 

22. Professor

A professor can come from virtually any academic discipline. Professors of social work teach social work courses in colleges or universities. These jobs can get demanding. Social workers require teaching skills on top of social work skills. Professors must create lesson plans, keep up with grading, work effectively within a college or university system, and teach in a way that keeps students engaged. 

Salary Expectation: The national average pay for professors is $92,000. That said, there is a difference between a professor and an instructor. An instructor may also teach in a college or university, but they may have less specialized expertise and may not be on a tenured track. As a result, they will earn less money than a professor. 

23. Behavior Supervisor

A behavior supervisor is similar to a clinical supervisor. They supervise behavior analysts and ABA practitioners, offering help and guidance in their practice. They may also oversee behavioral health clinics or the behavioral aspects of mental health clinics. Behavioral supervisors are also important when it comes to compliance. They ensure that their workplaces maintain compliance and run effectively. 

Salary Expectation: Behavior supervisors  make over $87,000 per year on average. 

24. Executive Director, Social Services Organizations

Executive directors take on a major leadership role in social services organizations. As a result, they have a lot of responsibilities, including the following: 

• Creating and organizing programs 
• Ensuring program implementation 
• Organizing teams 
• Communicating with the public about the organization 
• Researching and organizing data 
• Identifying people who may require services 

Those responsibilities can vary. A lot of the work depends on the organization. Executive directors generally oversee social services organizations, including private companies, nonprofits, and government agencies.

Jobs may be found in government agencies, private practices, rehabilitation centers, community organizations to provide counseling services, social services organizations, various online social work programs, in person field education, and social service programs,

Salary Expectation: Salary varies based on the type of workplace, but executive directors make an average of $72,900. 

25. Child Welfare Researcher

A child welfare researcher is a type of academic researcher, and academic researchers usually work for universities. They research their specialty topics and conduct studies. They identify problems and explore potential solutions by gathering and testing data. Sometimes, they may help students do their own research. 

A researcher’s work can create big changes, especially after their research gets published. The research informs the public and professionals about problems and solutions. Child welfare researchers in particular can make a big difference in the world of child welfare, helping to ensure that systems run humanely and effectively. 

Jobs may be found in government agencies, private practices, rehabilitation centers, community organizations, social services organizations, various online social work programs, in person field education, and social service programs,

Salary Expectation: Child welfare researchers can make over $79,765 per year. 

How Do I Choose a Social Work Job or Career?

Different social work careers require different types of education. Social workers range in education levels, from bachelor’s degrees all the way up to doctorates. The more educated a social worker becomes, the more they can specialize in their career. 

So, how do you choose the right career and education for yourself? And what are some of the best social work careers? With so many potential options, that choice can get difficult. There are more social work career options than many people realize, so a degree in social work can lead down many possible pathways. 

The question of which careers are the best social work careers is subjective. Each social worker will find fulfillment in different areas, and what works for one person may not work for another. Start by thinking about your passions. For example, do you have a passion for working with children? Reducing the stigma around mental healthcare? Fighting for disability rights? Start with your passion, and look for careers that will let you work with that passion. 

Many Jobs For Social Workers Are Achieved By Education Level

Once you’ve looked into some career options, consider the educational requirements for those careers. Different careers require different degrees. Are you able to push toward a doctorate degree right now, or is it more realistic for you to stop at a bachelor’s degree? A doctorate degree will cost more time and money, but doctorate-level careers pay more than careers that require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. 

Next, weigh the pros and cons of the different commitment levels as you explore specific career options. Look up typical job descriptions, time commitments, and other factors that could impact your career choice. 

Salary may also play a big part in your decision. Consider where you live or where you plan to live. What is the cost of living there? Will you need a high-paying career to make ends meet? The best social work careers for you will be careers that pay a livable wage. 

Interim Jobs For Social Workers

Finally, keep in mind that you might also choose an interim career while you complete your education. For example, you might start your career as a juvenile court liaison after earning a bachelor’s degree, even as you pursue more advanced education in child psychology. A master’s or doctorate degree may not be reachable right now. However, you might explore that option in the future. Meanwhile, your interim career can help you save money for further education. 

A Specialization Is Essential For Graduate Level Jobs For Social Workers

Selecting your career concentration is perhaps the most essential part of your Master of Social Work process. Universities offer a diverse spectrum of custom MSW tracks. These specializations focus your skill growth for certain subfield professions. The Department of Labor reports that America’s 682,100 social workers specialize in wide-ranging niches with fast 10-year growth of 14 to 20 percent apiece.

All social work careers share the common thread of improving people’s lives. However, most MSW-level jobs prioritize assisting unique populations facing setbacks and barriers. The NASW reports that there are now 50+ organizations for social workers interested in different practice types. For instance, the National Association of Perinatal Social Workers was started in 1974 to support members in maternal health.

Your Career In Social Work

There are lots of specific jobs and career options that fall under the social work umbrella. Each social work career has different duties and responsibilities. For example, probation officers are social workers. So are psychologists. You can pursue a career that fits within your strengths and ideals. 

• 25 Best Online LCSW Programs
• 50 Best Accredited Social Work Degree Campus Programs
• Top Accredited MSW Campus Degree Programs
• Best CSWE Accredited Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
• Top 5 Careers for Aspiring Social Workers
• Social Work Grants, Scholarships and Loans
• Is a Degree in Social Work Worth it?
• What are Jobs in Foster Care and Child Welfare?

Essential Guide to the Top Careers in Social Work

• Share on Facebook
• Follow us on LinkedIn
• Share on Pinterest
• Share via Email

Unlocking the Path to Rewarding Social Work Careers

Are you on the quest for a fulfilling career that allows you to make a significant impact on the world while enjoying a comfortable living? If this resonates with you, then social work might just be your calling.

Social workers, often driven by a deep sense of purpose, dedicate themselves to creating spaces for healing, advocating for social justice, and bringing families together. Not only does this profession offer a high level of job satisfaction, but it also provides ample opportunities for career advancement.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , most social workers earn an annual salary of around $55,000, with top-tier positions offering up to $83,000 — a compelling advantage for those motivated by the desire to do good.

In this guide, we will delve into the promising prospects of the top careers in the field of social work. Additionally, we will provide you with invaluable tips on how to kickstart your social work journey so you can begin making a difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals, groups, and communities.

Diverse Settings for Social Work

Social workers play a vital role in various aspects of community life, offering their expertise and services to ensure that individuals and their families receive the support they need, precisely when they need it, from the best available resources. As a result, these professionals find meaningful employment in a variety of settings, including:

• Social workers in mental health clinics provide crucial counseling and support to individuals dealing with mental health challenges, creating a safe space for healing.
• In the education sector, social workers work closely with students, parents, and educators to address social, academic, and psychological issues that may affect a child’s well-being.
• Social workers in child welfare agencies focus on ensuring the welfare of children and families, often intervening in cases of neglect or abuse.
• Healthcare social workers play a critical role in helping patients navigate the healthcare system, offering guidance, and addressing barriers to accessing medical care.
• Social workers at settlement houses provide vital services to support and empower local residents, making these community centers hubs of community well-being.
• Social workers engaged with community development corporations focus on enhancing the well-being of residents in specific neighborhoods, typically through economic development and social programs.
• Some social workers decide to establish private practices, offering counseling and therapy services to individuals and families in need.

Promising Social Work Jobs

Social work can open doors to a wide variety of lucrative opportunities in various specialties — especially for graduates who hold a master’s degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , job opportunities in social work are expected to grow by 9% through 2031, significantly faster than the national average for all other occupations. Here are four common careers in social work along with their average salaries:

• These professionals provide patients with essential information and counseling to promote health, prevent diseases, and address barriers to accessing healthcare.
• Social work case managers work closely with clients to assess their needs, facilitate access to necessary programs and services, and oversee the progress of each case.
• These social workers provide essential social services and assistance aimed at improving the social, academic, and psychological functioning of children and their families.
• Professionals in this field assess and treat individuals facing mental, emotional, or substance abuse issues.

Thriving Social Work Industries

Social workers operate across various industries, engaging in research, advocating for improved services, designing systems, and shaping new policies. While most work in office settings, they may also visit clients and collaborate with colleagues, community specialists, or support workers. Here are four promising industries where social workers excel:

• In this sector, social workers address healthcare, behavioral health, criminal justice, social services, and child welfare issues. Professionals in this industry earn an average annual salary of $61,190.
• Social workers in ambulatory healthcare services assess patient and family needs, focusing on the impact and understanding of illness and treatment options. They earn an annual salary of approximately $58,700.
• In state government roles, social workers serve as program analysts, eligibility workers, community outreach workers, and program administrators. Their annual salary averages around $48,090.
• These professionals act as liaisons between families, children, schools, courts, protective services, and doctors, providing crucial support to children facing poverty, abuse, or disabilities. Their average annual salary is approximately $46,640.

7 Tips for Succeeding in Social Work

Whether you are considering a career in social work or are already enrolled in an academic program, here are some valuable tips and best practices to help you thrive in the field:

• Participate in community service projects to help others while gaining experience that can bolster your college applications.
• Internships at relevant organizations help build your skill set and gain valuable knowledge and experience to enhance your resume.
• To qualify for the bachelor’s examination offered by the Association of Social Work Boards and apply for licensing, you need to earn an accredited degree .
• Earn experience in the field through your academic program to gain familiarity with social welfare, human behavior, substance abuse counseling, and mental health awareness.
• Licensing verifies your education and experience, allowing you to use the social worker title and practice in your state.
• Build connections by attending industry events or conducting informational interviews to meet professionals who can provide insights and assist with job placement.
• Tailor your resume for your desired position to highlight the alignment between your experience and the job description. Practice your interview skills to boost your confidence and prepare for potential questions.

The UC Online Advantage

If you seek a career that offers meaning, action, satisfaction, and a range of professional options, social work could be the perfect fit. At the University of Cincinnati Online, we are committed to helping you gain real-world experience that sets you apart from the competition and prepares you for success in the field.

Our Bachelor of Social Work program equips you with the knowledge and experience needed to launch a rewarding career as a community social worker. This program is ideal for students with a 2-year associate degree in pre-social work. With multiple start dates available, you can begin working towards your degree on your own schedule.

Ready to learn more? Explore our online program to discover how you can achieve your goals with a social work degree from the University of Cincinnati Online. Take the first step towards advancing your career by starting your application today .

Sign up for updates from UC Online

• Name * First Last
• Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
• Notice of Non-Discrimination
• Privacy Policy
• Clery and HEOA Notice
• eAccessibility Concerns

© 2024 University of Cincinnati Online Copyright Information

• Skip to main content
• Skip to main navigation
• Meet Founding Dean Dr. Diana R. Garland
• Equity & Inclusion
• GSSW Antiracism Statement
• Message from the Dean
• Program Evaluation
• The Waco Area
• Board of Advocates
• Faculty Directory
• Staff Directory
• Adjunct Directory
• Faculty/Staff
• Baylor BSW 5th Year Program - BSW to MSW
• BSW Course Descriptions
• BSW Special Course Offerings/Electives
• Financial Aid
• BSW Field Education
• Civic Interfaith Studies Minor
• Gerontology Minor
• Poverty Studies and Social Justice Minor
• Why the Garland School?
• Advanced Standing Requirements
• Standard Requirements
• Transfer Student Requirements
• Residential MSW Tuition & Fees
• Financial Aid Explained
• Financing your degree
• AmeriCorps Partnership
• City Year Partnership
• MSW Curriculum
• MSW Specializations
• MSW Joint Degrees
• MSW Field Education
• MSW Inquiry Form
• Field Education
• Inquiry Form
• Admissions Events
• Research activities
• Active research grants
• Ongoing research and projects
• Center for Church & Community Impact (C3i)
• Congregational Social Work Initiative
• Celebrating Culture and Diversity
• Gerontology Initiative
• GML Scholarship Program
• Apply to the Program
• GML Alumni Updates
• GML Digital Brochure
• Trauma Initiative
• The Writings of Alan Keith-Lucas
• 2021 Gil Taylor Behavioral Health Symposium
• 2020 Gil Taylor Behavioral Health Symposium
• Career Services
• Continuing Education
• Post a Job Opportunity
• Social Work Job Listings
• Community Connection Magazine
• Resources, Events, and Traditions
• Request Info
• Make a Gift

The Guide to Launching Your Career in Social Work:

How an msw makes it possible.

Starting a career is full of different thoughts and emotions: Will I like the work? Will I find it fulfilling? Challenging? Will it live up to my expectations? Am I prepared for this career?

Chances are, you have chosen a career in social work because of your deep-seated passion for helping people. As you probably know from your time in undergraduate studies, your practicum placement experiences, your volunteer work, and your other encounters with the social work profession, social work requires dedication, empathy, and an unwavering desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

To ensure a successful career in social work, these professionals need each of these traits, as well as a strong educational background and extensive hands-on experience both in and outside of the classroom. A Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is the best possible training for future social work professionals.

In this digital resource, we explore the difference between a graduate and undergraduate social work degree and the value and return-on-investment an MSW offers. We will also explore the career outlook for this profession and take a look at both a short-term and long-term career plan for those who want to launch a career as a social work professional. If your goal is to begin a career in social work, this guide offers you everything you need to get started!  

• What’s the Difference Between an MSW and a BSW?

Your Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree is an excellent foundation for social work practice, client relationships, and professional success. However, to truly stand out in the profession and gain the skills and experience necessary to become a leader and make a significant impact in the profession — a master’s degree is needed.

Although the subject matter is the same, there are s everal differences between a bachelor’s and master's degree program . Here are four areas in which a master’s degree offers you a competitive edge.

More advanced specialized coursework

A bachelor’s degree in social work is designed to cover generalized introductory principles of social work. In an undergraduate program, students must fulfill the university’s core coursework requirements, in addition to several introductory social work courses and electives.

At the master’s level students take specialized practice courses, which challenge them to dive deeper into their discipline.

Specialize in one area

Undergraduate students receive one, maybe two classes within specialized areas, but because of the breadth of information that must be conveyed there is not an opportunity to go into depth. 

During a master’s degree program students are able to focus on their specialization and concentration of choice. Graduate students work with faculty and professors to become experts in their particular field of social work and develop highly specialized skills that will serve them in their professional practice.

For more information about the Clinical Practice Specialization ,  please watch this video .

For more information about the Community Practice Specialization ,  please watch this video.

Additional time in a practicum

Social work students receive hands-on training in a practicum.

Students in an MSW program double the number of field hours they participate in over the course of their education and are exposed to more advanced specialized settings. This additional training is invaluable in professional practice.

Smaller classes

(aka more personalized attention and guidance from professors)

Some of the classes during your undergraduate degree were probably full lecture halls, packed with 100 plus students. Other courses had 30-40 students in them. 

In a master’s program, class sizes are generally much smaller with between 10-20 students. This means that you have more face-time with professors and are more likely to receive individualized guidance during your degree. 

• What’s the Value of an MSW?

The profession of social work is about relationships. It is about making a concrete difference in the lives of those you help. If you want the greatest success rates and the best possible chance of saving the life of the individual you are working with — you can’t just wing it.

You need training, experience, and tools. An MSW provides you with the expertise you need to confidently face hard problems every day and resolve them using scientifically developed and tested methods, along with your innate empathy for others.

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum needed to begin a career in social work practice. Beyond the increase in pay, job opportunities, and career promotion potential, those who have earned their graduate degree in social work are also better equipped to meet the needs of those they serve and experience greater job satisfaction because of it.

It is hard to put a value on this type of training, but experienced social workers recognize it every day when it helps them to do their job well. Read on to learn what returns you can expect to see from investing in your graduate education.

Read Now: Pursuing your MSW is a significant investment, so is it worth it?

The Return On Investment of an MSW

Returning to school for a graduate degree is like any other investment, you should evaluate if the return you will get is worth your time, energy, and money. While this is a personal decision and affects everyone differently depending on your career goals, it is well documented that a bachelor’s degree is becoming akin to a high school diploma . This means employers are increasingly seeking out those with graduate degrees.

With a Master of Social Work degree, here are a few of the many returns you will receive on your degree investment:

In-depth training — With additional advanced coursework and extra practicum hours, a graduate degree provides you with the training you need to successfully manage your caseload and help your clients.

Advanced levels of licensure — You can become licensed to practice with only your BSW, but three levels of advanced licensure * are available to those who earn a master’s degree. This additional training and demonstration of expertise add value to your degree.

More and better job opportunities —  An advanced degree opens you up to numerous additional job opportunities and will also set you apart from your competition when you apply for those jobs.

Higher salary — On average, those who hold an MSW earn $13,000 more per year than those who hold a BSW.

Greater job security — With additional education, training, practicum experience, and subject-matter expertise, when budget cuts come, your value stands out and you are less likely to be let go.

Discover What Do social workers Do

Social workers fill many different roles and responsibilities. Explore this unique and multifaceted discipline with endless career opportunities.

• Career Outlook: A Comprehensive Look at Jobs in Social Work

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the social work profession is projected to grow much faster than average (12 percent increase) between 2020-2030. Over 100,000 new jobs are expected to be added to the already large number of social workers in the United States.

Within specific social work sectors, there are even higher projected increases in the number of jobs. The BLS projects that the following areas of practice will experience the greatest growth in the coming years:

In 2020, the median pay for social workers was $51,760, however, the salary ranges for social work professionals vary depending on the industry. Here are the industry medians for five different social work sectors :

Graduates of an MSW program, especially those holding licenses, are eligible for the top-earning positions within various social work areas. Aside from the most common areas of social work practice (child, family and school, healthcare, mental health, and substance abuse) the following other sectors offer competitive wages to those with graduate experience :

3 Reasons Why Now Is a Great Time to Choose the Social Work Profession

There are many reasons to choose the social work profession. Often, their personal stories and motivations for entering the profession are what make social workers the best at their jobs. It is their passion for justice, equality, dignity, and health for all that moves them to face hard situations with courage and push through difficult circumstances to find a resolution.

Society is in need of competent, passionate social workers. Social workers are instrumental in solving problems such as the growing number of adults in prison and the large volume of cases being handled by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services relating to child abuse and neglect.

Here are three reasons NOW is a great time to be a social worker.

A growing number of jobs means job security . With 715,600 jobs reported in 2020 by the BLS and more than 100,000 jobs projected to be added in the coming decade, the job market for social work professionals is growing to meet the needs of society. The social work profession already has a low unemployment rate, at 2.3 percent, but earning an MSW will contribute to your job security by making you an experienced and sought after candidate.

The intersection of technology and social work practice offers a fascinating future . Like all other industries, the prevalence of cutting-edge technology is forcing each discipline to respond. Not only is it important to look at the impact of technology in the life of the client, but an exciting emerging discipline is the convergence of social work practice and evidence-based methods affected by technology . Leaders in this area are asking — how can technology be used to help solve problems within systems and the problems of specific clients?

People need help, now . As of 2018, 38.1 percent of Americans lived below the poverty line. The wealth gap in the US has become so egregious that the richest 5 percent of Americans own two-thirds of the wealth. In any given year, approximately 20 percent of the US population is affected by mental illness. 11.4 million individuals misused prescription opioids and 2.1 had a use disorder . People need help and they need it now. Trained social work professionals are in the best position to help these vulnerable populations.

Your Short-term and Long-term Career Plan

What kind of careers can you expect with a graduate degree in social work?

What are the most common jobs for social workers right out of grad school?

What jobs can I work toward throughout my professional career?

These are three of the most common questions graduate students ask about their career trajectory. Here is a quick look at the types of first, mid-level, and late-career social work jobs you could hold.

Mid-Level Career

Late career.

Right out of graduate school, first-time social workers are eager to jump into practice and begin working with clients. Professionals are able to dive into their specializations and put into practice the skills they have been honing throughout their studies.

• Common Careers Include — Group Home Worker, Substance Abuse Counselor, Mental Health Worker, Program Coordinators or Directors

Average Entry-Level Salary — $47,721 (September 2021)

Mid-way into your social work career, professionals can expect to be juggling large caseloads and often found in management positions within their organization. They are frequently engaged in furthering education for their specialization to maintain their qualifications and advance their career.  

• Common Careers Include — Clinical Social Worker, Medical Social Worker, Social Work Supervisor, Adolescent Case Manager

Average Mid-Level Salary —  $54,805 (September 2021)

At this stage in their career, professionals with decades of social work experience earn managerial or senior case-officer status . These jobs remove them from day-to-day interactions with clients and require them to make high-level decisions, assigning subordinates to cases and overseeing entire operations.  

• Common Careers Include — Case Load Manager, Director of Community Outreach, Chair - Department of Social Work, Regional Coordinator of Social Services

Average Late-Career Salary — $61,949 (September 2021)

Subscribe to Blog

For more information about the career outlook for social workers and up-to-date trends in the industry, subscribe to our blog, Advocacy in Action, today!  

• How to Land a Job As a Social Work Professional

Finding a job is usually as much about who you know as it is what you know. Throughout your graduate degree program, it is important to build and maintain professional relationships with professors, instructors, faculty, and anyone else you connect with in the industry. When you graduate and it comes time to search for a job, these professional relationships and connections will offer you a launching point for your search.

Networking is the practice of connecting with other individuals over common or shared interests and passions. Frequently, professional networking is how students find their first, or subsequent, job out of college. A great place to network is at events such as lectures, seminars, symposiums, continuing education opportunities, and conferences put on by social work organizations. Organizations like the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) frequently host both national and regional events.

For more information on networking events specifically in Texas, check out NASW’s Texas chapter .

Networking is not the only way to find a job. In addition to searching through online listings and setting up informational interviews, you can join professional associations . Popular associations include the National Association of Social Workers ( NASW ), the Council on Social Work Education ( CSWE ), and the School Social Work Association of America ( SSWAA ). These associations offer you resources, events, and furthering education opportunities that will help you in your job search. You can also look for a professional association that is dedicated to your specific area of work.

Resources to Help You Stay Up-to-Date

In addition to joining a professional organization and networking, you should also stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the industry. Continuing your education, in both formal and informal ways, will help you in your professional practice. Here are a few online publications and resources for social work professionals:

• Advocacy in Action
• Stuck on Social Work
• Social Work Career
• Social Work Helper
• Social Justice Solutions

Newsletters

• Social Work Today
• Baylor’s Master of Social Work Program

At the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work at Baylor University, we believe that social work is about service and justice, healing and restoration, and the dignity of each individual. We strive to train and equip social work professionals to evaluate, diagnose, treat, and support the needs of their clients through the ethical integration of faith and practice. We have built an evidence-based, research-centered program that encourages students to dive into social work practice, through practicum experiences and classes led by expert faculty with years of experience in the profession.  

Explore another Resource

 If you want to learn more about the Master of Social Work degree at Baylor University, explore our comprehensive digital resource, Master of Social Work — The MBA of the Helping Professions .

Practicums Available Through Baylor University

Practicums are arguably one of the most important pieces of your social work degree program and professional preparation. At the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work, we have a department specifically dedicated to helping our students with their practicums.  

Our team has a process for placing students in internships, which takes into consideration the students interests and the best possible fit. Our team is dedicated to making this process a unique and valuable experience for each student. Every student enrolled in the MSW program will work directly with a dedicated practicum supervisor and liaison throughout their practicum experience.

Watch Now: View our recorded session to hear from our Practicum Team about our unique internship process and how you can secure a high-quality placement.

When compared to other schools, Baylor offers the best options for practicum placements.  To ensure this, Baylor provides continuous training for all of our practicum sites and maintains close connections to ensure a quality placement for every student.

Check out this list of field placement opportunities . It is not an all-inclusive list, but it does provide a small sample size of the agencies we currently work with or have worked with in the past. If you would like more information about additional field placement opportunities or a specific opportunity within Baylor’s surrounding community — please reach out and ask us!

Request more Information

If you're interested in learning more about the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work and the programs we have to offer, we invite you to reach out to our team!

How One Baylor Alumnus Began His Career in Social Work — An Interview with Zeke Morgan

Where are you from? Where and what did you study during your undergraduate years?

I am originally from Keller, TX. I got my B.S. in Psychology at Abilene Christian University. I originally chose psychology because I wanted to be a behavioral analyst for the FBI. I realized that wasn’t what I wanted to do the summer before my senior year, so I went scrambling for post-grad plans.

What initially sparked your interest in social work?

I took Introduction to Social Work the fall of my senior year as an easy elective, but very quickly fell in love with the variety of professional possibilities available with a single degree. Since I was looking for post-grad plans, I began looking at what I could do with an MSW and really became passionate about the idea of bridging community development with real estate development, especially in the realm of downtown development. When I found out Baylor had a joint MSW/MBA program it seemed like a great way to be able to “speak the language” of both the non-profit organizations and the businesses trying to make it in the downtowns of America.

Did you encounter any challenges or fears when deciding to launch your career in social work?

How did you hear about the msw program at baylor and what specific features attracted you to this program when you were looking at graduate schools, what did you enjoy most about the program at baylor.

One of the best parts of my time in the program is the lifelong friendships that I have developed. In addition to the friends I made during the program, I have also been connected with so many alumni in the Waco area after graduation. There is an immediate understanding and camaraderie that is rooted in common experiences, projects, and conversations that the MSW program offers.

Describe your experience searching for, applying for, and pursuing a job in social work. What aspects of your education specifically assisted you in this process?

I spent most of my time looking for jobs in the private sector because I thought I wanted to make a lot of money. While I would still love to make a lot of money, I realized that many of the jobs that I was applying to were not going to make me happy and did not hold purpose for me. It was through a conversation with an MSW alum, that I started to look at local non-profit jobs. I actually found my current job through the GSSW’s job board. I was looking for the “perfect” job, instead of looking for the job that I was perfect for. Finding a job is hard, but it is worth the time and effort to find the right one.

Tell us about your first job as a social worker. How did it compare to your expectations?

The thing that is sometimes hard to understand about grad school, is that it teaches you transferable skills. That means that the first few months of any job involves a lot of on-the-job training — which took me by surprise. It was only after feeling slightly overwhelmed that I looked back and saw that a lot of the skills that I was being taught, were the very same skills that I had learned, just dressed a little differently. Even though I grew tired of the self-reflection and logs in grad school, it was only when I took the time to do that in my job that I found my strengths and understood what I had actually learned. Once I came to that realization, my job became a lot easier and I began to see the places where I could immediately contribute.

What are your career dreams or plans? How has the MSW program at Baylor helped prepare you for your future?

As someone who is a big-time planner, it feels weird to say that right now I don’t have any concrete career dreams or plans. I’ve recognized that I want to create and build solid, healthy communities, but that can look like several different things. Mainly, I want to continue to put myself in new experiences to learn and grow, and what I do for work is only a small part of that. The MSW program helped me realize that no matter what is on your plate, the deadlines you have, or how slow/fast your to-do list is growing, there are people and community to be built outside of that. Your job can contribute to this sense of community and personal growth, but it doesn’t have to. Don’t let your job define you or what you can contribute to those that you love.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Download this resource.

Would you like a copy of this digital resource — The Guide to Launching Your Career in Social Work for later? We invite you to download your own version and share it with your friends and family! 

• Connect with Us

When starting a new career, it is important to make a plan and identify all the resources you need to realize your goal. Launching a career can often leave us with lots of questions, but we hope this guide will answer some of those and assist you as you begin your career as a social worker. If you have any other questions, we invite you to contact us and let us help you jump start your career in this noble profession. We are excited to hear from you!

• Start Your Journey

Your desire to do good through helping others is a gift worth sharing. Because of people like you, individuals and communities in our world who are struggling are able to find hope and support. To be the best possible advocate that you can be, it is important to arm yourself with the best education and tools. At Baylor University, our Master of Social Work degree is grounded in research, supported by expert faculty, and flexible enough for the busiest working professional.

The resources offered through one of our degree programs will help you to become the most effective advocate you can be for those you wish to serve. We can’t wait to meet you and help you get started on your path to bettering the world.

Free premium Resource

• Field Placements Available Through Baylor University
• An Interview with Zeke Morgan

How To Apply 101 Digital Guide

Relieve some of the stress that comes with applying to grad school. Familiarize yourself with the residential MSW application deadlines. requirements, and process to prepare your most competitive application.

• APPLY ONLINE
• INITIATIVES

• #BaylorLights
• About Baylor
• Anonymous Reporting
• Give to Baylor
• Mental Health Resources
• Pro Futuris
• Social Media
• Baylor Libraries
• College of Arts & Sciences
• Diana R. Garland School of Social Work
• George W. Truett Theological Seminary
• Graduate School
• Hankamer School of Business
• Honors College
• Louise Herrington School of Nursing
• Research at Baylor University
• Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences
• School of Education
• School of Engineering & Computer Science
• School of Music
• More Academics
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Baylor Law School
• Social Work Graduate Programs
• Online Graduate Professional Education
• Virtual Tour
• Visit Campus
• Human Resources
• Marketing and Communications
• Office of General Counsel
• Office of the President
• Office of the Provost
• Operations, Finance & Administration
• Senior Administration
• Student Life
• University Advancement
• Alumni & Friends
• Faculty & Staff
• Prospective Faculty & Staff
• Prospective Students

DIANA R. GARLAND SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK

• Diana R. Garland School of Social Work 811 Washington Ave Waco, TX 76701
• 254.710.6400

Copyright © Baylor® University . All rights reserved. Legal Disclosures . Baylor University • Waco, Texas 76798 • 1-800-229-5678

CAREER PATHWAYS

Looking for the perfect job? Explore our Career Guides!

How to Become a Social Worker

By Alyciah Beavers

Published: March 29, 2024

Embarking on the social worker career path is a transformative journey that intertwines compassion, advocacy, and resilience. At the intersection of empathy and action, social workers serve as beacons of support in individuals’ darkest moments, fostering positive change in communities and individual lives. In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to kickstart your career as a social worker, covering everything from education to hands-on advice for diving into this rewarding and influential profession.

Career Summary

Social worker salary.

A social worker’s salary can fluctuate significantly depending on factors like geographic location, educational background, years in the field, specialty area, and employer.

However, here is the most likely range :

• Entry Salary (US$46k)
• Median Salary (US$58k)
• Executive Salary (US$81k)

The annual mean wage for all occupations is $61,900 . Therefore, the median salary of a social worker is slightly lower than the national average for all occupations.

Social Worker Job Description

A social worker provides support and assistance to individuals and families facing challenges, ranging from emotional and mental health struggles to financial and social issues. They collaborate with various agencies, advocate for their clients’ rights, and connect them with resources and interventions to improve their well-being and overall life circumstances.

Social Worker Career Progression

• Entry-Level Social Worker / Junior Social Worker: You assist in conducting assessments, creating care plans, and providing support to individuals and families in need.
• Case Manager: They work closely with clients to assess their needs, develop individualized care plans, and connect them with appropriate services and resources.
• Supervisor / Team Leader: Team leaders oversee a group of social workers by providing guidance, support, and direction to their team members.
• Program Coordinator / Manager: Program coordinators plan, implement, and evaluate program activities, manage staff, and ensure that program goals are achieved effectively.
• Director of Social Services: These are responsible for managing and coordinating social work programs within an organization. They aim to develop strategic plans, allocate resources, collaborate with other departments, and ensure services align with the organization’s mission.
• Executive Director / Chief Social Work Officer: The highest-ranking social work provides leadership, vision, and strategic direction for an entire social service agency or department.

• Social workers have the opportunity to directly improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities.
• It is an opportunity to create meaningful relationships and build strong connections with their clients.
• It is a chance to advocate for those who may not have a voice and empower individuals to access resources, services, and opportunities they might not access alone.
• It offers you a chance to have the flexibility to work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
• Social workers constantly deal with clients facing incredibly challenging and distressing situations, such as abuse and addiction. Witnessing and empathizing with their pain and struggles takes an emotional toll on them, leading to burnout.
• It has a high workload with paperwork, administrative tasks, and a never-ending stream of client needs.
• There are limited resources in that social workers might work within organizations or agencies.
• There are unpredictable working environments that lead to a lack of stability and a sense of unpredictability in their work environment.

Useful Social Worker Skills

• Active Listening
• Great Communication Skills
• Cultural Competence
• Problem-Solving Skills

Popular Social Work Specialties

• Clinical Social Work
• Child and Family Social Work
• Criminal Justice Social Work
• International Social Work
• Hospice and Palliative Care Social Work

Becoming a social worker means diving deep into understanding people and aiming to make a positive difference. Just as artists shape clay, future social workers shape lives with care and empathy. The steps to this career are rooted in education and hands-on experience, all driven by a commitment to helping others. Let’s explore these steps, each one building towards a kinder and more understanding society.

Do I need a Degree to Become a Social Worker?

Yes, all states require potential candidates looking for social work licensure to hold a bachelor’s degree in social work , a master’s, or both. However, the requirements vary from state to state. Therefore, find a state guide to determine what other conditions you need before getting into this career.

Here’s a general overview:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW): Many entry-level positions in social work, particularly in non-clinical roles, may require a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. A BSW program provides a foundational understanding of social work principles and practices.
• Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW): For more advanced and specialized roles, such as clinical social work or positions in healthcare settings, a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is often required. An MSW program delves deeper into social work theory, research, and practice. It’s a common requirement for obtaining a clinical license and for more responsible roles.
• Doctoral Degree (Ph.D. or DSW): Some social workers pursue a doctoral degree in social work (Ph.D. or Doctor of Social Work, DSW) to engage in research, teaching, policy development, or advanced clinical practice. A doctoral degree is not typically required for most social work positions, but it can open doors to leadership and academia.

Why Is It Important To Get A Degree In Social Work?

If you’re looking to become a social worker, obtaining a degree in Social Work is crucial.

Here is why:

• It offers professional competence such that you will have a strong foundation in the field’s theories, practices, and ethical standards. This equips you with the necessary skills to work effectively with individuals, families, groups, and communities facing various social challenges.
• Social work involves dealing with sensitive and complex situations . Formal education in social work helps you develop a deep understanding of ethical considerations and professional boundaries. This knowledge is essential to ensure the well-being and dignity of your clients.
• The program offers clinical social work, child welfare, healthcare, mental health, and more specializations . These specializations allow you to focus on specific areas of interest and develop expertise in addressing particular social issues.
• In many states, practicing as a social worker requires a degree and subsequent licensure or certification . This legal requirement ensures that individuals working in the field meet specific educational and ethical standards, providing trust and accountability to clients and the community.
• While some entry-level positions in social work might be available to individuals without a degree, having a formal education significantly enhances your social worker career path . Many advanced positions, including supervisory and management, typically require a degree.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Degree In Social Work?

The time it takes to earn a degree in social work can vary based on several factors, including the level of degree you’re pursuing and whether you’re studying full-time or part-time.

Here are the general time frames for different types of social work degrees:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW): A BSW takes around four years to complete if pursued full-time. This includes completing general education requirements, core social work courses, and fieldwork or internships.
• Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW): An MSW usually takes around two years to complete if pursued full-time. Some programs offer advanced standing options for students who already hold a BSW, which can shorten the duration to around one year. MSW programs include more specialized coursework and often require significant supervised fieldwork.
• Doctoral Degree in Social Work (DSW or Ph.D.): A Doctoral degree in social work can take 3 to 5 years or more to complete , depending on the specific program and the student’s pace. These programs involve extensive research and coursework and often require the completion of a dissertation or other significant research project.

How Much Does It Cost To Study Social Work At University?

The cost of studying social work at a university can vary widely depending on several factors, including the state you’re studying in, whether you’re an international student or a domestic student, the specific university you choose, and the level of education you’re pursuing such as undergraduate or graduate.

In the United States, for example, the undergraduate fee for social work programs is $9,757 for in-state students and $26,358 for out-of-state students. On the other hand, the tuition and fees for a social work master’s program are $13,800 in public universities, whereas private universities charge $36,300.

You might get discounts and fellowships from the National Association of Social Work and other organizations. On top of tuition, you’ll also need to consider the cost of textbooks, supplies, housing, and other living expenses.

It’s important to research specific universities and programs to get accurate and up-to-date information on tuition and other associated costs. Many universities provide this information on their websites or through their admissions offices.

Can I Become A Social Worker Through Online Education?

Yes, it is possible to become a social worker through online education. Still, the specific requirements and regulations may vary depending on your location and the institution offering the online program. Social work is a field that often requires a combination of academic coursework, supervised fieldwork, and licensing or certification.

What Are Some Web Resources To Learn Skills To Become A Social Worker?

There are several web resources to learn skills to become a social worker. These resources offer courses, articles, videos, and other materials that cover various aspects of social work practice, theory, and ethics.

Here are some reputable web resources to consider:

• Social Work Helper : It is an online community and resource hub for social workers with articles, news, and information.
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW) : The NASW website provides resources, publications, and webinars on various social work topics. They also have a continuing education section for professionals looking to enhance their skills.
• Social Work Today : An online magazine that features articles, news, and insights about the social work profession, including best practices, case studies, and career advice.
• The New Social Worker Online : This website features articles, blogs, and resources specifically targeted towards social work students and professionals.
• Social Work Podcast : Offers a series of podcast episodes on various social work topics, including interviews with experts, case discussions, and practical advice.
• Clinical Social Work Association (CSWA): It focuses on clinical social work and provides resources for those in the field.
• Council on Social Work Education (CSWE): The site provides information on accredited social work programs and student resources.

Social Worker 101 – Basic Training for Helping Professionals 

This course offers essential insights and concise knowledge for entry-level professionals in support positions within the social work field, equipping them with fundamental concepts crucial for effective collaboration and performance in their roles.

Practical Experience

Practical experience as a social worker offers a profound and enriching journey of positively impacting individuals and communities. Engaging in direct client interactions, collaborating with fellow professionals, and liaising with organizations exemplify a social worker’s multifaceted responsibilities. Through these experiences, social workers witness the resilience of the human spirit and play a pivotal role in empowering individuals to overcome adversity and fostering lasting change.

What Are Internship Opportunities For A Social Worker?

Internship opportunities for social workers span various sectors, each reflecting the diverse roles these professionals can take on in their careers.

For those inclined towards the healthcare sector, clinical social work internships provide hands-on experience in hospitals, clinics, or mental health centers, offering therapy, counseling, and support to individuals grappling with mental health, substance abuse, or medical issues. Similarly, medical social work internships, also within healthcare, hone the skills needed to guide patients and families through the multifaceted challenges posed by medical conditions.

The realm of child welfare is another avenue, where interns typically ally with child protective services, foster care, or adoption agencies. Here, they get a firsthand look at ensuring the safety and well-being of children by assisting caseworkers in home visits and assessments. Similarly, school social work internships allow budding social workers to immerse themselves in educational settings, collaborating with students, teachers, and parents to navigate academic and behavioral challenges.

Community development internships pivot towards community-focused initiatives, like combating poverty or homelessness. Interns in this sector collaborate with nonprofits, government agencies, or community centers to foster change. Then there’s the criminal justice system, where internships might place social workers within correctional facilities or probation offices, emphasizing the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals post-incarceration.

For those looking at care for the elderly, geriatric social work internships present a foray into settings like nursing homes or hospice organizations, concentrating on counseling, resources, and end-of-life care. Meanwhile, advocacy and policy internships beckon those passionate about systemic change, placing them in the heart of social justice organizations or government agencies, where they engage in research, policy analysis, and community outreach.

Lastly, the world stage is open to interns through international social work opportunities with NGOs, humanitarian bodies, or development agencies, addressing global challenges in poverty, health, and social justice.

What Skills Will I Learn As A Social Worker?

As a social worker, you will acquire diverse skills to effectively assist individuals, families, and communities in addressing various social and emotional challenges. These skills are essential for providing support, advocating for change, and improving the well-being of your clients.

Here are some of the critical skills you can expect to learn as a social worker:

• Communication Skills: Effective communication is at the heart of the social worker career path. You’ll learn how to actively listen, ask probing questions, convey information clearly, and build rapport and understanding with your clients.
• Empathy and Compassion: Developing the ability to understand and share the feelings of others is crucial. You’ll learn to approach your clients with genuine kindness and compassion, helping them feel understood and valued.
• Assessment and Problem-Solving: Social workers are trained to assess their clients’ needs, strengths, and challenges. You’ll learn how to analyze complex situations, identify problems, and develop strategies for addressing them.
• Crisis Intervention: Social workers often deal with individuals facing domestic violence, substance abuse, homelessness, or mental health emergencies. You’ll learn how to respond effectively in high-stress situations and provide immediate support.
• Case Management: Organizing and coordinating client resources is a significant aspect of social work. You’ll learn how to develop and implement comprehensive case management plans to meet your client’s needs.
• Advocacy Skills: Social workers advocate for the rights and well-being of their clients. You’ll learn how to navigate systems and institutions to secure necessary services, benefits, and support and to raise awareness about social issues.
• Cultural Competence: In a diverse society, it’s essential to understand and respect different cultures, beliefs, and backgrounds. You’ll learn to work effectively with people from various cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Boundary Setting: Maintaining professional boundaries is crucial to ensure ethical practice. You’ll learn how to establish appropriate limits while supporting clients.
• Documentation and Record Keeping: Social workers must maintain accurate and detailed records of their interactions with clients. You’ll learn how to document information in a way that supports ethical and practical practice.
• Collaboration: Social workers often work as part of multidisciplinary teams. You’ll learn how to collaborate with colleagues, other professionals, and community organizations to provide comprehensive care to clients.
• Conflict Resolution: Social work involves navigating conflicts and disagreements that may arise among clients, families, or within the community. You’ll develop skills to mediate and resolve disputes constructively.
• Ethical Decision-Making: Social workers adhere to a strict code of ethics. You’ll learn how to make ethical decisions and navigate complex situations while upholding the highest standards of professional conduct.

What is the Work-Life Balance of a Social Worker?

The work-life balance of a social worker can vary depending on several factors, including the specific job role, work environment, client caseload, and personal preferences.

Social workers can work in diverse settings, each with its demands on work-life balance. For example, those working in hospitals might have more demanding schedules due to the nature of healthcare, while those in non-profit organizations might have more regular hours. Also, social work often involves responding to emergencies and crises, which might require social workers to be on-call or work irregular hours. Balancing these unexpected demands with personal time can be challenging.

Social work can be emotionally demanding due to the nature of the issues and challenges clients face. This emotional toll can sometimes spill over into personal life, requiring self-care and boundary-setting strategies. However, many social work organizations and agencies recognize the importance of work-life balance for their employees. They might offer resources, support, and policies to promote well-being and prevent burnout.

What’s the Career Outlook for Social Workers?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the social worker job outlook will grow to 9% between 2021 and 2031 . This rate is much faster than for other occupations. Around 74,700 job openings will be within the same duration to replace retired people or those switching careers.

What are the Job Opportunities for a Social Worker?

Social workers have diverse job opportunities, reflecting the wide range of services they provide and the populations they serve.

Here are some of the primary job roles and settings available to social workers:

• Clinical Social Worker: Often employed in healthcare settings, these professionals diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They provide individual, group, or family therapy and devise intervention strategies.
• Child Welfare Case Worker: Working primarily with child protective services, foster care, or adoption agencies, they ensure the safety and well-being of children. They assess family situations, conduct home visits, and can play roles in adoption or foster care placements.
• School Social Worker: Based in educational settings, they assist students with academic, behavioral, and social challenges. Collaborating with teachers, parents, and school administrators, they often provide counseling and devise strategies to enhance a student’s school experience.
• Medical Social Worker: Found in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, they support patients and families navigating medical challenges. They connect patients with resources, provide counseling, and help with discharge planning.
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Worker: Working in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or outpatient clinics, these social workers support individuals battling substance abuse, addiction, or mental health issues.
• Geriatric Social Worker: Concentrating on the elderly, they work in settings like nursing homes, community senior centers, and assisted living facilities. They address issues like end-of-life planning, healthcare management, and guardianship.
• Hospice Social Worker: Working with terminally ill patients and their families, they provide emotional support, counseling, and resources to help navigate end-of-life decisions.
• Criminal Justice and Corrections Social Worker: Based in correctional facilities, probation and parole agencies, or courts, they aid in rehabilitation, parole planning, and reentry into society after incarceration.
• Policy Analyst and Advocate: In governmental or non-governmental organizations, they research and promote policies that create systemic change. They may also lobby for laws and regulations that support vulnerable populations.
• Community Outreach Coordinator: Often associated with non-profits or community organizations, they develop and implement programs aimed at community betterment, such as combating homelessness or promoting mental health awareness.
• International Social Worker: Working with global agencies, NGOs, or humanitarian organizations, they address international challenges related to poverty, health crises, human rights, and social justice.

This list is not exhaustive, as the field of social work is ever-evolving, with emerging needs creating new roles and opportunities. Social workers have the flexibility to shift between these areas throughout their careers, based on interests and expertise.

What Type of Companies Hire a Social Worker?

Various companies and organizations hire social workers in multiple industries, as their skills are valuable for addressing the social, emotional, and psychological needs of individuals, families, and communities.

Some types of companies that commonly hire social workers include:

• Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers often employ social workers to help patients and their families cope with medical conditions, navigate healthcare systems, and access necessary support services.
• Mental Health Centers: Mental health clinics, psychiatric hospitals, and counseling centers hire social workers to provide therapy, counseling, and support to individuals with mental health issues.
• Schools and Educational Institutions: Schools often have social workers to assist students, parents, and teachers address academic, social, and emotional challenges.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Many nonprofits focus on social issues such as poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, and child welfare. Social workers are crucial in providing services and advocacy to vulnerable populations.
• Government Agencies: Social workers are employed by various local, state, and federal government agencies. They work in child protective services, adult protective services, public health departments, and correctional facilities.
• Child and Family Services: Agencies that focus on child welfare, adoption, foster care, and family support often hire social workers to assess and assist families in crisis.
• Substance Abuse and Addiction Treatment Centers: Social workers are vital in helping individuals and families affected by substance abuse or addiction access treatment, support, and recovery services.
• Elderly Care and Hospice: Social workers provide emotional support and guidance to the elderly and their families in settings such as assisted living facilities and hospice care.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many companies have EAPs to support employees facing personal or work-related challenges. Social workers can provide counseling and referral services through these programs.
• Criminal Justice System: Social workers work within the criminal justice system to support individuals in probation, parole, and correctional settings, as well as to help reintegrate former inmates into society.
• International and Humanitarian Organizations: Social workers can find opportunities in organizations focusing on international development, refugee resettlement, and humanitarian aid.
• Research and Policy Organizations: Social workers contribute to research, policy analysis, and advocacy on social issues, helping to shape policies and programs that address societal challenges.

Should I Become a Social Worker?

The decision to become a social worker is deeply personal. It can be an advantageous and impactful career choice if you’re passionate about helping others, have the necessary social worker skills, and are prepared for the role’s challenges.

Speaking with practicing social workers, educators, or career advisors is also a good idea to gain more insights into the profession and help you make an informed decision. There is always a lot to learn about this field but look at your long-term goals to see if this career aligns with what you want in the future.

Free Personality Tests & Career Finders

Try our free online tools to learn more about yourself and find the perfect career.

Careers Related to Social Worker

• Community Health Worker
• Healthcare Social Worker
• Mental Health Counselor
• School Counselor
• Social and Community Service Manager

About the Author

Read more articles by Alyciah Beavers

Continue Reading

What is a UX Designer and How to Become One

What is a machine learning engineer and how to become one, what is a ui designer and how to become one, what is an seo specialist and how to become one, what is a recruiter and how to become one, what is a project manager and how to become one, what is a front-end developer and how to become one, what is a product manager and how to become one.

Social Services Careers – Jobs, Salaries & Education Requirements

Blake huggins.

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated January 4, 2024

thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Aspiring social workers and counselors can launch careers in social services, empowering them to make an impact through advocacy and clinical practice.

Social services workers use their advanced interpersonal skills and clinical knowledge to connect clients with the necessary resources to increase their quality of life. Social workers and counselors play a vital role in helping people maintain their well-being during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Empathetic and advocacy-minded individuals make great candidates for social services careers, including roles in social work , psychology, or corrections. This guide examines each profession, explores job outlook and salary data, and considers social worker vs. counselor similarities and differences.

Is Social Services the Right Career for Me?

Social services work revolves around a shared set of values and combines insights from cognitive science, advocacy, psychotherapy, and public policy. While most programs cultivate the hard skills you need to succeed, it's important to assess your interests to see if they align with the tenets of social services.

You Might Enjoy a Social Services Career if You:

• Enjoy interacting with diverse groups of people and possess a strong sense of respect and self-awareness.
• Understand boundaries and empathize with each client's current state.
• Are a clear and effective communicator and active listener.
• Excel at working independently when necessary and can easily manage your time.
• Possess a lot of patience and are committed to ethical action.
• Enjoy advocating on behalf of the vulnerable and inspire others to do the same.

Featured Online Social Work Programs

Types of social service careers.

Degree-seekers and aspiring professionals interested in social services can pursue career paths in psychology , healthcare, counseling, and social work. The information below details some of the most prominent professions in this field, along with their education requirements. Some of these occupations may require licensure or certification, which vary by field and state.

— Social and Human Service Assistant

Degree Required: Certificate or associate

People in this entry-level role usually work under the direction of psychologists or social workers. They help connect clients with services and assist in implementing concrete tasks within treatment plans. Depending on their specialties or employers, these assistants may work with children and families, veterans, immigrants, the formerly incarcerated, and people with disabilities or mental illnesses. Most assistants work full-time in offices, hospitals, or clinics.

— Mental Health Counselor

Degree Required: Bachelor's

Mental health counselors support the cognitive and emotional well-being of their clients by offering clinical guidance and recommending coping strategies. They work with groups and individuals, often focusing on specific populations or conditions, including children and families, aging, stress, or addiction. Some mental health counselors have bachelor's degrees , but most hold master's degrees in counseling or related fields.

— Probation Officer or Correctional Treatment Specialist

These criminal justice professionals coordinate rehabilitation efforts for legal offenders, including individuals in custody or on probation. They connect clients with social services programs, like job training or group counseling, and report progress to court officials. These professionals may conduct drug screenings or provide substance abuse counseling. They typically work full time in office settings, with extended on-call hours.

— Health Education Specialist or Community Health Worker

Community health workers promote healthy behaviors and communicate with healthcare providers on behalf of residents. They collect data, identify useful programs, and implement them to scale. Health education specialists fulfill similar roles while focusing on education and learning. They manage health education programs that inform the public and promote healthy living.

— Social and Community Service Manager

These social services professionals manage and coordinate community outreach programs. They usually work for nonprofits or local government agencies and focus on services tailored to specific populations or issues, such as children and the elderly or homelessness and hunger. Community service managers evaluate existing programs and gather data to measure program success. Depending on the role, some may manage budgets or secure funding.

— Addiction/Substance Abuse Counselor

Degree Required: Bachelor's or master's

Assistance and substance abuse counselors offer assistance to individuals with substance abuse or addiction challenges. In addition to providing advice and behavioral insight, they also develop treatment plans and administer preventative care. In therapy sessions, these professionals identify strategies that help their clients navigate adjustments and other challenges. Addiction and substance abuse counselors work full time in private practice and other care facilities.

— Marriage and Family Therapist

Degree Required: Master's

Marriage and family therapists combine insights from cognitive science and psychotherapy. They work with couples and families in individual and group sessions. These therapists help clients process their emotional needs as they manage relationship problems, respond to crises, and navigate difficult situations. To become a therapist in this field, each student needs a master's degree and a state-issued license.

— Rehabilitation Counselor

Government agencies, healthcare providers, and social assistance organizations often employ rehabilitation counselors. These behavioral specialists enjoy a broad scope of practice, assisting people with mental, physical, emotional, and developmental challenges. They administer skills assessments and develop treatment plans to increase employability or independent living, often collaborating with and making referrals to other health professionals.

— Clinical Social Worker

Social workers with clinical qualifications can work in medical facilities , psychiatric centers , and private practice. While other social work roles only require a bachelor's degree , clinical social workers need master's degrees . The clinical credential allows them to make diagnoses, develop treatment plans, and build specialized skills and interventions. Clinical social workers perform psychotherapy and connect clients with community programs that meet their needs.

— School and Career Counselors and Advisor

These counselors help their clients build the academic and vocational skills they need to succeed. They identify social barriers or behavioral challenges and offer advice to help clients overcome their issues. School counselors work with teachers, families, and other school staff to enhance learning and increase educational outcomes. In nonprofits and social assistance organizations, career counselors help job-seekers select viable professions and develop achievable goals.

— Psychologist

Degree Required: Doctoral (Ph.D., Psy.D., or Ed.D.)

Psychologists can work in counseling or psychotherapy, but most of their work involves scientific study. They examine the emotional, cognitive, and underlying social factors that motivate human behavior. These professionals work independently or within larger organizations. They often conduct experiments that add new knowledge to the field.

— Psychiatrist

Degree Required: Medical degree (MD or DO)

Psychiatrists are physicians who focus on the realm of behavioral health. They combine medical science with psychological practice and offer care to patients dealing with mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. Psychiatrists often rely on counseling or talk therapy techniques, but unlike traditional therapists , they can prescribe medications to treat chemical imbalances and other mental health conditions.

Social Worker vs. Counselor vs. Psychologist

Social workers , counselors, and psychologists share similarities, despite differences in scope and approach. Like social workers and counselors, psychologists can work in clinical contexts, but many fulfill roles in research-based settings.

What about social workers vs. counselors? Social workers provide counseling , but not all counselors perform social work. Social workers draw on a broader skill set that includes case management and crisis intervention, in addition to counseling. Most counselors focus on specialized psychotherapy services. Finally, a counselor can work with a bachelor's degree ; a social worker needs a master's degree in social work and licensure to practice.

Social Service Job Salaries and Projected Growth

Most social workers and related professionals enjoy above-average pay — in some cases, much more than the median annual wage nationwide. Aspiring clinicians, counselors, and social service managers can also benefit from a positive job outlook overall, due to aging demographics and increases in local demand.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Social Service Career Skills

Social workers, counselors, and other social services professionals need a combination of hard and soft skills. Hard skills are the technical competencies specific to given roles and developed through formal training. Soft skills are more versatile and difficult to quantify. Most learners cultivate them through practical experience over time.

Social Service Skills

Soft skills.

• Cultural competence
• Social perceptiveness
• Creative problem-solving
• Persuasion and cooperation
• Adaptability and flexibility

Hard Skills

• Research and service coordination
• Counseling and interviewing
• Vocational rehabilitation
• Case management
• Program evaluation

Common Questions About Social Services Careers

Can i be a counselor with a master's in social work.

Yes, graduates with MSWs can become counselors. Some positions, such as school counselor, may require additional training or certification.

Is an LCSW a Therapist?

Yes. In addition to providing therapy, licensed clinical social workers intervene in crises and connect clients with critical public benefits.

What Is the Difference Between an LCSW and an LPC?

Clinical social workers enjoy a broader scope of practice. Most licensed professional counselors focus solely on psychotherapy, while LCSWs draw on wider social service resources to promote health and well-being.

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Private Practice?

The cost of maintaining a private practice depends on location and the size of your business. According to some estimates , 35% of revenue should go to overhead costs.

Do Counselors Make More Than Social Workers?

Yes -- but only for specific roles. As of 2020, social workers earned a lower median annual salary than school and career counselors, for example, but still earned more than substance abuse and rehabilitation counselors.

How Do I Become an MHC?

Mental health counselors need state-issued licenses. Eligibility criteria and education requirements vary by state. Some states call for only a bachelor's degree, while others may require a master's degree.

Blake Huggins is a Boston-based writer and researcher with roots in north Texas and southern Oklahoma. He holds degrees in religion and philosophy and writes widely on higher education, healthcare, and the humanities broadly conceived. He earned a PhD from Boston University and has taught college courses in philosophy, writing, and composition.

Reviewed by: Melissa Russiano, LCSW, LISW

Melissa Russiano is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in private practice who has organically developed a specialty working with helping professionals. Russiano has a proven track record helping professionals avoid burnout by holding clinicians accountable through laughter, tears, blunt (yet very supportive) feedback, and quirky analogies that are grounded in solid theoretical research. Russiano practices solely in a virtual setting in the states of California, Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. In addition, Russiano is a professor, teaching in a graduate program through Simmons University online.

Header Image Credit: FatCamera | Getty Images

Learn more, do more.

More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge., popular with our students..

Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

All-in on social work

When Dr. Kay Gresham, LCSW, commits to something, she is all-in.

During a recent interview, she sports a T-shirt that she created for her team at Fort Valley State University, where she directs the bachelor of social work program. The shirt reads SOCIAL WORK across the front, with the FVSU mascot’s face replacing the O in social . The shirt is a good introduction to Gresham’s commitment to both Fort Valley State University and the social work profession. “I put the school’s mascot, the Bobcat, but I added my sorority mascot, as well,” she says. Sure enough, at the bottom of the shirt is an elephant, the mascot of Delta Sigma Theta.

“I’ve done travel social work, I’ve worked with the military, I’ve had contracts to work in corrections,” Gresham says. Now, as a social work educator, Gresham is preparing students for their own varied social work careers.

She came to FVSU, a public, historically Black university in Georgia, after a former supervisee contacted her about joining the faculty. “When I interviewed [at FVSU], I just really felt like I belonged — like this is where I needed to be, this is what I needed to do,” Gresham says.

Gresham grew up about 150 miles from Fort Valley, in Augusta, Georgia. Her parents instilled their own commitment to serving their community into their children. Gresham’s oldest brother is a social worker, and several other siblings work in public service professions. Gresham says her mother, in particular, “put a mark on all of her children in terms of our need and our desire to help others.”

I want my students to be proud to be social workers and to say, 'I am a professional social worker.' — Kay Gresham, Ph.D., LCSW

Gresham was so confident about her choice of social work as a career that she went straight through the BSW and MSW programs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. “I knew that was the thing to do,” she says. With her MSW in hand, she returned to Georgia, working in case management and mental health in the early years of her career. “I was searching for something, though,” Gresham says. She was driven to find a position that let her use her social work knowledge and skills and be surrounded by social work peers. She found that opportunity working in military family advocacy at Fort Gordon, an US Army base in Augusta now called Fort Eisenhower.

“That was the place where I developed into a real social worker,” Gresham says. “It was such a rewarding experience, to be able to sit and have conversations with social workers about assessment and about treatment options, about doing groups.” Gresham cites her employer’s commitment to providing training as another key factor in her professional growth during that time. “It was an environment in which I was given the opportunity to attend any trainings; there was no limit on how much education I could receive as a social worker.”

Her work at Fort Gordon was followed by earning a Ph.D. in social work and social welfare from Clark Atlanta University, becoming licensed as an LCSW in Georgia (and six other states), founding an agency, offering clinical supervision, and working stints as a travel social worker and as an adjunct professor for several social work programs.

Supervision was her first experience mentoring other social workers, something she continues to do through her teaching at FVSU. She is quick to emphasize that whether she’s working as a supervisor or an educator, she’s still driven to learn. “I feel like I can learn from everybody,” she says. “There are times when there are people that I have mentored or I’ve been their clinical supervisor, and if they’re doing something significant, I can learn from them. The roles reverse because I don’t ever want to feel like I know it all, or that you always have to come to me. I can learn from you, as well.”

She has high praise for the commitment and focus of her social work students at FVSU. “I’m encountering students that are more focused, more knowledgeable. They know exactly what they want to do,” Gresham says. “The students I’m encountering, they are very specific in terms of the area of practice they want to pursue and the reasons why. That level of intensity in terms of the field? I don’t think it existed [when I was a student], but it exists now.”

Gresham wants those students to ground their careers in a thorough understanding of the social work profession. “I think we also need to make sure that we teach students the history of social work, how we came about — that’s essential,” she says. “I’m teaching a class now in social welfare policy, and that is extremely important, just to understand, how did we get to where we are today?”

Gresham has no idea who recommended her to serve on the Georgia Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. “I just randomly received an email saying, ‘It has come to our attention that you might be interested in serving on the licensing board in Georgia,'” she recalls. So, she added social work regulation to her long and varied career.

Her term on the board ended in 2023, but volunteering as a regulator has expanded her perspective on the social work profession. “I want there to be a marriage between social work education and regulation,” she says, “so that we can come together because in the long run, it’s going to protect the people that we have to serve.”

“It goes back to our core social work values of service, social justice, dignity and worth of the person, respect for all human beings,” Gresham says. “I want [my students] to be proud to be social workers and to say, ‘I am a professional social worker.'”

Gresham’s pride in and commitment to her profession is evident. “I just feel like my social work training has led me to where I am today,” she says. “I’m just all-in when it comes to social work.”

Post-Master’s Career Progression of Social Workers

A developmental perspective.

• Dawn Apgar Seton Hall University, NJ
• Katherine Dolan

Social work is one of the fastest growing professions in the nation with an expected job growth of 9% by the end of the decade and more than 62,888 Masters of Social Work (MSW) students in the United States in 2021 (BLS, 2022; CSWE, 2023). The receipt of a graduate social work degree represents an important milestone, often accompanied by entry into professional practice. While much is written about formal social work education, scholarly literature has far fewer articles about the work life of social workers after graduation. This article presents social work career progression from a developmental perspective, an approach that has historically been used to examine the life course of clients. Typical tasks or “milestones” in early, middle, and later stages of clinical or direct practice careers are discussed. Adapting life course theory to examine the professional evolution of social workers is beneficial as it helps illuminate the typical stressors facing practitioners after completing their formal education. Understanding potential career opportunities and issues may help those entering social work to better socialize into the profession and transition from one stage to the next by anticipating what lies ahead. Using a developmental perspective to professionalization is also appropriate as, like in the life course, opportunities for growth should be ongoing and lifelong. Early, middle, and later career opportunities and challenges are identified within the three pillars of social work – regulation, education, and practice. Policy reforms to enhance social work licensure portability, life-long learning in the form of continuing education, and self-care practices will assist social workers to thrive in all career stages.

Amso, D., Salhi, C., & Badre, D. (2019). The relationship between cognitive enrichment and cognitive control: A systematic investigation of environmental influences on development through socioeconomic status. Developmental Psychobiology, 61(2), 159-178.

Apgar, D. (2022). Social work licensure portability: A necessity in a post-COVID-19 world. Social Work, 67(4), 381-390.

Ashcroft, R., Sur, D., Greenblatt, A., & Donahue, P. (2022). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social workers at the frontline: A survey of Canadian social workers. British Journal of Social Work, 52(3), 1724-1746.

Association of Social Work Boards [ASWB]. (2021). Compare License Requirements. Author.

ASWB. (2022). 2022 ASWB exam pass rate analysis: Final report. Author.

Austin, M., Dal Santo, T., & Lewis, D. (2012). Boundary-crossing careers of senior human service administrators: A cross-case analysis. Administration in Social Work, 36(2), 109-132.

Bates, N., Immins, T., Parker, J., Keen, S., Rutter, L., Brown, K., & Zsigo, S. (2010). Baptism of fire: The first year in the life of a newly qualified social worker. Social Work Education, 29(2), 152-170.

Bogo, M. (2006). Field instruction in social work. Clinical Supervisor, 24(1-2), 163-193.

Borders, L. D., Glosoff, H. L., Welfare, L. E., Hays, D. G., DeKruyf, L., Fernando, D. M., & Page, B. (2014). Best practices in clinical supervision: Evolution of a counseling specialty. Clinical Supervisor, 33(1), 26-44.

Brooks, A., & Clunis, T. (2007). Where to now? Race and ethnicity in workplace learning and development research: 1980-2005. Human Resource Development Quarterly, 18(2), 229-251.

Burghardt, S. (2013). Macro-practice for the 21st century: Bridging the macro-micro divide (2nd ed.). Sage.

Burghardt, S. (2021). The end of social work. Cognella Academic.

Bureau of Labor Statistics [BLS]. (2022, September 8). Occupational outlook handbook - Social worker. Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections.

Burke, C. (2012, December 11). Newly qualified social workers have no time for training, study finds. The Guardian.

Carnahan, B., Dunlap, S., & White, D. (2016, October). Exploring social work continuing education. Social Work Today.

Carpenter, J., Shardlow, S. M., Patsios, D., & Wood, M. (2015). Developing the confidence and competence of newly qualified child and family social workers in England: Outcomes of a national programme. British Journal of Social Work, 45(1), 153-176.

Chen, J., & Crown, D. (2019). The gender pay gap in academia: Evidence from The Ohio State University. American Journal of Agricultural Economics, 101(5), 1337-1352.

Choi, M., Koo, J., & Fortune, A. (2021). Predictors of job satisfaction among new MSWs: The role of organizational factors. Journal of Social Service Research, 47(4), 458-472.

Cleveland, M., Warhurst, A., & Legood, A. (2019). Experiencing resilience through the eyes of early career social workers. British Journal of Social Work, 49(6), 1434-1451.

Council on Social Work Education [CSWE]. (n.d.). Minority fellowship program (MFP) - Doctoral students. Author.

CSWE. (2021). 2020 statistics on social work education in the United States. Author.

CSWE. (2022). 2022 Educational policy and accreditation standards for baccalaureate and master’s social work programs. Author.

CSWE. (2023). 2021 statistics on social work education in the United States. Author.

Curtis, L., Moriarty, J., & Netten, A. (2010). The expected working life of a social worker. British Journal of Social Work, 40(5), 1628-1643.

Davis, T., Radohl, T., Humphrey, K., & Benorden, M. (2021). Participation in social work membership organizations: Opportunities and challenges in a changing society. Journal of Policy Practice & Research, 2, 40-53.

Diaconu, M., Racovita, L., Muñoz, D., & Faubert, S. (2020). Social work educators’ perceived barriers to teaching with technology: The impact on preparing students to work with younger clients. Social Work Education, 39(6), 785-812.

Doerwald, F., Zacher, H., Van Yperen, N., & Scheibe, S. (2021). Generativity at work: A meta-analysis. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 125, 1-18.

Erikson, E. (1994). Identity and the life cycle. WW Norton.

Finn, J., & Molloy, J. (2021). Advanced integrated practice: Bridging the micro-macro divide in social work pedagogy and practice. Social Work Education, 40(2), 174-189.

Forgey, M., & Ortega-Williams, A. (2016). Effectively teaching social work practice online: Moving beyond can to how. Advances in Social Work, 17(1), 59-77.

Gettings, P., & Anderson, L. (2018). Applying a life course perspective to retirement: A literature review and research agenda for communication scholars. Annals of the International Communication Association, 42(3), 224-241.

Ghose, T., Ali, S., & Keo-Meier, B. (2018). Diversity in social work doctoral programs: Mapping the road ahead. Research on Social Work Practice, 28(3), 265-271.

Glassburn, S. L. (2020). Where’s the roadmap? The transition from student to professional for new Master of Social Work graduates. Qualitative Social Work, 19(1), 142-148.

Globerman, J., & Bogo, M. (2003). Changing times: Understanding social workers’ motivation to be field instructors. Social Work, 48(1), 65-73.

Grant, L. & Kinman, G. (2014). Emotional resilience in the helping professions and how it can be enhanced. Health and Social Care Education, 3(1), 23-34.

Gustavson, K., McConnell, M., & Morris, R. (2020). Making the career transition from child welfare to adult & aging services: A learning case. Human Service Organizations: Management, Leadership & Governance, 44(3), 294-303.

Henretta, J. (2003). The life-course perspective on work and retirement. In R. Settersten (Ed.), Invitation to the life course (pp. 85-106). Routledge.

Hitchcock, L., & Marquart, M. (2023). Adjunct teaching in social work education: Practical information for using your MSW in higher education. Clinical Social Work Journal, 2023, 1-10.

Hochman, Y., Segev, E., & Shai, O. (2022). Do you know the imposter syndrome? Professional identity among early-career social workers. Social Work Education, 2023, 1-17.

Hutchinson, E. (2018). Dimensions of human behavior (6th ed.). Sage.

Keziah, L. (2014). Social work salary information. National Association of Social Workers: North Carolina Chapter. https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.naswnc.org/resource/resmgr/SW_Salaries_Fact_Sheet.pdf

Kim, J. J. (2022). Racial disparities in social workers’ licensing rates. Research on Social Work Practice, 32(4), 374-387.

Knepper, L., Deyo, D., Sweetland, K., Tiezzi, J., & Mena, A. (2022, November). License to work: A national study of burdens from occupational licensing (3rd ed.). Institute for Justice. https://ij-org-re.s3.amazonaws.com/ijdevsitestage/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/LTW3-11-22-2022.pdf

Kourgiantakis, T., Sewell, K., & Bogo, M. (2019). The importance of feedback in preparing social work students for field education. Clinical Social Work Journal, 47, 124-133.

Kurzman, P. (1976). Private practice as a social work function. Social Work, 21(5), 363-368. http://www.jstor.org/stable/23711833

Levinson, D. J. (1986). A conception of adult development. American Psychologist, 41(1), 3-13.

McCarthy, L., Siegel, J., & Ware, O. (2022). Supporting social work field instructors: Empowerment as a strategy for preventing burnout. Journal of Social Work, 22(5), 1153-1169.

McFadden, P., Moriarty, J., Schröder, H., Gillen, P., Manthorpe, G., & Mallett, J. (2020). Growing older in social work: Perspective on systems of support to extend working lives—Findings from a UK survey. British Journal of Social Work, 50(2), 405-426.

Monahan, M. (2016). The challenges and benefits of becoming a licensed social worker. The New Social Worker.

National Association of Social Workers [NASW]. (n.d.). NASW history. NASW Foundation. https://www.naswfoundation.org/Our-Work/The-NASW-Legacy-Project/NASW-History

NASW. (2011). Social workers in private practice: Occupational profile. NASW Center for Workforce Studies and Social Work Practice.

NASW. (2021a). Code of ethics. Author.

NASW. (2021b). Social work profession awarded federal grant to develop interstate licensure compact. Author.

Nelson, G., Monson, M., & Adibifar, K. (2020). The gig economy comes to academia: Job satisfaction among adjunct faculty. Cogent Education, 7(1), 1-18.

New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs [NJDCA]. (2022, October 19). New Jersey Administrative Code Chapter 44G State Board of Social Work Examiners. Author.

O’Donoghue, K., & Engelbrecht, L. (2021). The Routledge international handbook of social work supervision (1st ed.). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429285943

Ong, A., Bergeman, C., & Boker, S. (2009). Resilience comes of age: Defining features in later adulthood. Journal of Personality, 77(6), 1777-1804.

Ostadhashemi, L., Arshi, M., Khalvati, M., Eghlima, M., & Khankeh, H. (2019). Social workers’ resilience: Preventing burnout and compassion fatigue in pediatric oncology. International Journal of Cancer Management, 12(7), 1-7.

Padín, P., Verde-Diego, C., Fernández Arias, T., & González-Rodríguez, R. (2021). Burnout in health social work: An international systematic review (2000-2020. European Journal of Social Work, 24(6), 1051-1065.

Proctor, E. (2017). The pursuit of quality for social work practice: Three generations and counting. Journal of the Society for Social Work and Research, 8(3), 335-353.

Reamer, F. (2015). Risk management in social work: Preventing professional malpractice, liability, and disciplinary action. Columbia University Press.

Roby, E., & Scott, R. (2022). Exploring the impact of parental education, ethnicity and context on parent and child mental-state language. Cognitive Development, 62, 1-63.

Runell, L. (2020). Becoming a social work professional after incarceration. Journal of Social Work, 20(3), 307-320.

Salsberg, E., Quigley, L., Mehfound, N., Acquaviva, K., Wyche, K., & Sliwa, S. (2017, October). Profile of the social work workforce. The George Washington University Health Workforce Institute.

Salsberg, E., Quigley, L., Acquaviva, K., Wyche, K., & Sliwa, S. (2018, April). Results of the nationwide survey of 2017 social work graduates. The George Washington University Health Workforce Institute.

Salsberg, E., Quigley, L., Richwine, C., Sliwa, S., Acquaviva, K., & Wyche, K. (2020, August). The social work profession: Findings from three years of surveys of new social workers. George Washington University Health Workforce Institute.

Segev, E., Hochman, Y., & Shai, O. (2022). Thrown into the water: Early-career social worker’s job challenges and time management coping strategies. British Journal of Social Work, 52(8), 4836-4852.

Senreich, E., & Dale, T. (2021). Racial and age disparities in licensing rates among a sample of urban MSW graduates. Social Work, 66(1), 19-28.

Slocum, J., & Cron, W. (1985). Job attitudes and performance during three career stages. Journal of Vocational Behavior, 26(2), 126-145.

Southern Regional Education Board [SREB]. (n.d.). SREB-state doctoral scholars program. Author.

Spivak, L., Melnyk, Z., & Spivak, D. (2021). Factors of social work students’ professional identity significance during professional training. Revista Romaneasca Pentru Educatie Multidimensionala, 13(3), 333-349.

Stamm, K., Lin, L., & Christidis, P. (2017, September). Career stages of health service psychologists: Special analysis of the 2015 APA Survey of Psychology Health Service Providers. American Psychological Association Center for Workforce Studies. American Psychological Association.

Super, D. E. (1990). A life-span, life-space, approach to career development. In D. Brown & L. Brooks (Eds.), Career choice and development (pp. 197-261). Jossey-Bass.

Tham, P., & Lynch, D. (2020). Standing at the fish counter instead? Newly educated social workers’ reflections on their first years in practice. European Journal of Social Work, 24(3), 541-553.

Thyer, B. (2019). Predatory doctoral programs: Warnings for social workers. Journal of Social Work Education, 55(1), 5-10.

United States Department of Education. (2022, August 2023). Thanks to temporary changes, U.S. Department of Education announces public service loan forgiveness surpasses $10 billion in debt relief. Author.

Urwin, J. (2017). Imposter phenomena and experience levels in social work: An initial investigation. British Journal of Social Work, 48(5), 1432-1446.

Voll, I., Baremn Tysnes, I., & Larson, A. K. (2022). The challenges of combining ‘knowing-that’ and ‘knowing-how’ in social work education and professional practice in the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration. European Journal of Social Work, 25(4), 708-719.

Wermeling, L. (2013). Why social workers leave the profession: Understanding the profession and workforce. Administration in Social Work, 37(4), 329-339.

Wilkins, D., Lynch, A., & Antonopoulou, V. (2018). A golden thread? The relationship between supervision, practice, and family engagement in child and family social work. Child & Family Social Work. 23(3), 494-503.

Womack, B., & Shi, J. (2022). Socio-economic status, educational debt, and career choices of social work students in the Southeast United States. Social Work Education, 42(1), 127-144.

Zhou, S. (2022). Social workers’ challenges in transitioning from frontline to supervisory role. Human Service Organizations: Management, Leadership & Governance, 46(1), 67-81.

Copyright (c) 2024 Dawn Apgar, Katherine Dolan

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License .

Make a Submission

Information.

• For Readers
• For Authors
• For Librarians

Current Issue

Advances in Social Work ISSN: 1527-8565 eISSN: 2331-4125

Land Acknowledgement. We acknowledge the Indiana University School of Social Work is located on the ancestral lands of Indigenous Peoples from time immemorial. Indiana is the traditional lands of Potawatomi, Illini, Miami, Kickapoo, Lenape/Delaware, Wea, Piankashaw, Shawnee, Nanticoke, and Wyandot. We are dedicated to amplifying Indigenous voices and perspectives, improving community relationships, correcting the narratives, and making the Indiana University School of Social Work supportive and inclusive places for Native and Indigenous students, faculty, and staff. With humility and respect, we at Indiana University School of Social Work recognize and honor all Indigenous Peoples, their histories, their political rights and sovereignty and their sacred ties to the land and waters.

• JEE Main 2024
• MHT CET 2024
• JEE Advanced 2024
• BITSAT 2024
• View All Engineering Exams
• Colleges Accepting B.Tech Applications
• Top Engineering Colleges in India
• Engineering Colleges in India
• Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• Engineering Colleges Accepting JEE Main
• Top IITs in India
• Top NITs in India
• Top IIITs in India
• JEE Main College Predictor
• JEE Main Rank Predictor
• MHT CET College Predictor
• AP EAMCET College Predictor
• GATE College Predictor
• KCET College Predictor
• JEE Advanced College Predictor
• View All College Predictors
• JEE Main Question Paper
• JEE Main Cutoff
• JEE Main Answer Key
• JEE Main Result
• Download E-Books and Sample Papers
• Compare Colleges
• B.Tech College Applications
• JEE Advanced Registration

Quick links

• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Aeronautical Engineering
• Information Technology
• Electronic Engineering

B.Tech Companion Use Now Your one-stop Counselling package for JEE Main, JEE Advanced and BITSAT

• MAH MBA CET Exam
• View All Management Exams

Colleges & Courses

• MBA College Admissions
• MBA Colleges in India
• Top IIMs Colleges in India
• Top Online MBA Colleges in India
• MBA Colleges Accepting XAT Score
• BBA Colleges in India
• XAT College Predictor 2024
• SNAP College Predictor
• NMAT College Predictor
• MAT College Predictor 2024
• CMAT College Predictor 2024
• CAT Percentile Predictor 2023
• CAT 2023 College Predictor
• CMAT 2024 Registration
• TS ICET 2024 Registration
• CMAT Exam Date 2024
• MAH MBA CET Cutoff 2024
• Download Helpful Ebooks
• List of Popular Branches
• QnA - Get answers to your doubts
• IIM Fees Structure
• LSAT India 2024
• Colleges Accepting Admissions
• Top Law Colleges in India
• Law College Accepting CLAT Score
• List of Law Colleges in India
• Top Law Colleges in Delhi
• Top Law Collages in Indore
• Top Law Colleges in Chandigarh
• Top Law Collages in Lucknow

Predictors & E-Books

• CLAT College Predictor
• MHCET Law ( 5 Year L.L.B) College Predictor
• AILET College Predictor
• Sample Papers
• Compare Law Collages
• Careers360 Youtube Channel
• CLAT Syllabus 2025
• CLAT Previous Year Question Paper
• AIBE 18 Result 2023

Engineering Preparation

• Knockout JEE Main 2024
• Test Series JEE Main 2024
• JEE Main 2024 Rank Booster

Medical Preparation

• Knockout NEET 2024
• Test Series NEET 2024
• Rank Booster NEET 2024

Online Courses

• JEE Main One Month Course
• NEET One Month Course
• IBSAT Free Mock Tests
• IIT JEE Foundation Course
• Knockout BITSAT 2024
• Career Guidance Tool
• IPU CET BJMC
• JMI Mass Communication Entrance Exam
• IIMC Entrance Exam
• Media & Journalism colleges in Delhi
• Media & Journalism colleges in Bangalore
• Media & Journalism colleges in Mumbai
• List of Media & Journalism Colleges in India
• Free Ebooks
• Free Sample Papers
• NID DAT Exam
• Pearl Academy Exam
• Design Colleges in India
• Fashion Design Colleges in Bangalore
• Fashion Design Colleges in Mumbai
• Fashion Design Colleges in Pune
• Fashion Design Colleges in Delhi
• Fashion Design Colleges in Hyderabad
• Fashion Design Colleges in India
• Top Design Colleges in India

Animation Courses

• Animation Courses in India
• Animation Courses in Bangalore
• Animation Courses in Mumbai
• Animation Courses in Pune
• Animation Courses in Chennai
• Animation Courses in Hyderabad
• Free Design E-books
• List of Branches
• Careers360 Youtube channel
• NIFT College Predictor
• UCEED College Predictor
• NID DAT College Predictor
• AIIMS Nursing
• Top Medical Colleges in India
• Top Medical Colleges in India accepting NEET Score
• Medical Colleges accepting NEET
• List of Medical Colleges in India
• List of AIIMS Colleges In India
• Medical Colleges in Maharashtra
• Medical Colleges in India Accepting NEET PG
• NEET College Predictor
• NEET PG College Predictor
• NEET MDS College Predictor
• DNB CET College Predictor
• DNB PDCET College Predictor
• NEET Application Form 2024
• NEET PG Application Form 2024
• NEET Cut off
• NEET Online Preparation
• Download Helpful E-books

NEET Companion Use Now Your one-stop Counselling package for NEET, AIIMS and JIPMER

• CUET PG 2024
• IGNOU B.Ed Admission 2024
• DU Admission
• UP B.Ed JEE 2024
• DDU Entrance Exam
• IIT JAM 2024
• IGNOU Online Admission 2024
• Universities in India
• Top Universities in India 2024
• Top Colleges in India
• Top Universities in Uttar Pradesh 2024
• Top Universities in Bihar
• Top Universities in Madhya Pradesh 2024
• Top Universities in Tamil Nadu 2024
• Central Universities in India

Upcoming Events

• CUET PG Admit Card 2024
• IGNOU Date Sheet
• CUET Mock Test 2024
• CUET Application Form 2024
• CUET PG Syllabus 2024
• CUET Participating Universities 2024
• CUET Previous Year Question Paper
• CUET Syllabus 2024 for Science Students
• E-Books and Sample Papers
• CUET Exam Pattern 2024
• CUET Exam Date 2024
• CUET Syllabus 2024
• IGNOU Exam Form 2024
• IGNOU Result
• CUET PG Courses 2024
• IT Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• IT Colleges in Uttar Pradesh
• MCA Colleges in India
• BCA Colleges in India

Quick Links

• Information Technology Courses
• Programming Courses
• Web Development Courses
• Data Analytics Courses
• Big Data Analytics Courses

Top Streams

• IT & Software Certification Courses
• Engineering and Architecture Certification Courses
• Programming And Development Certification Courses
• Business and Management Certification Courses
• Marketing Certification Courses
• Health and Fitness Certification Courses
• Design Certification Courses

Specializations

• Digital Marketing Certification Courses
• Cyber Security Certification Courses
• Artificial Intelligence Certification Courses
• Business Analytics Certification Courses
• Data Science Certification Courses
• Cloud Computing Certification Courses
• Machine Learning Certification Courses
• View All Certification Courses
• UG Degree Courses
• PG Degree Courses
• Short Term Courses
• Free Courses
• Online Degrees and Diplomas
• Compare Courses

Top Providers

• Coursera Courses
• Udemy Courses
• Edx Courses
• Swayam Courses
• upGrad Courses
• Simplilearn Courses
• Great Learning Courses
• NCHMCT JEE 2024
• Mah BHMCT CET
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Delhi
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Hyderabad
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Mumbai
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Maharashtra
• B.Sc Hotel Management
• Hotel Management
• Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering Technology

Diploma Colleges

• Top Diploma Colleges in Maharashtra
• RUHS Pharmacy Admission Test
• Top Pharmacy Colleges in India
• Pharmacy Colleges in Pune
• Pharmacy Colleges in Mumbai
• Colleges Accepting GPAT Score
• Pharmacy Colleges in Lucknow
• List of Pharmacy Colleges in Nagpur
• GPAT Result
• GPAT 2024 Admit Card
• GPAT Question Papers
• CA Intermediate
• CA Foundation
• CS Executive
• CS Professional
• Difference between CA and CS
• Difference between CA and CMA
• CA Full form
• CMA Full form
• CS Full form
• CA Salary In India

Top Courses & Careers

• Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
• Master of Commerce (M.Com)
• Company Secretary
• Cost Accountant
• Charted Accountant
• Credit Manager
• Financial Advisor
• Top Commerce Colleges in India
• Top Government Commerce Colleges in India
• Top Private Commerce Colleges in India
• Top M.Com Colleges in Mumbai
• Top B.Com Colleges in India
• UPSC IAS 2024
• SSC CGL 2024
• IBPS RRB 2024
• NDA Application Form 2024
• UPSC IAS Application Form 2024
• CDS Application Form 2024
• CTET Admit card 2024
• HP TET Result 2023
• SSC GD Constable Admit Card 2024
• UPTET Notification 2024
• SBI Clerk Result 2024
• Previous Year Sample Papers
• Free Competition E-books
• Sarkari Result
• QnA- Get your doubts answered
• UPSC Previous Year Sample Papers
• CTET Previous Year Sample Papers
• SBI Clerk Previous Year Sample Papers
• NDA Previous Year Sample Papers

Other Exams

• SSC CHSL 2024
• UP PCS 2024
• UGC NET 2024
• RRB NTPC 2024
• IBPS PO 2024
• IBPS Clerk 2024
• IBPS SO 2024
• Top University in USA
• Top University in Canada
• Top University in Ireland
• Top Universities in UK
• Top Universities in Australia
• Best MBA Colleges in Abroad
• Business Management Studies Colleges

Top Countries

• Study in USA
• Study in UK
• Study in Canada
• Study in Australia
• Study in Ireland
• Study in Germany
• Study in China
• Study in Europe

Student Visas

• Student Visa Canada
• Student Visa UK
• Student Visa USA
• Student Visa Australia
• Student Visa Germany
• Student Visa New Zealand
• Student Visa Ireland
• CBSE Class 10th
• CBSE Class 12th
• UP Board 10th
• UP Board 12th
• Bihar Board 10th
• Bihar Board 12th
• Top Schools in India
• Top Schools in Delhi
• Top Schools in Mumbai
• Top Schools in Chennai
• Top Schools in Hyderabad
• Top Schools in Kolkata
• Top Schools in Pune
• Top Schools in Bangalore

Products & Resources

• JEE Main Knockout April
• NCERT Notes
• NCERT Syllabus
• NCERT Books
• RD Sharma Solutions
• Navodaya Vidyalaya Admission 2024-25
• NCERT Solutions
• NCERT Solutions for Class 12
• NCERT Solutions for Class 11
• NCERT solutions for Class 10
• NCERT solutions for Class 9
• NCERT solutions for Class 8
• NCERT Solutions for Class 7
• NCHMCT JEE 2022
• Christ University BHM
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in India
• Top Hospitality & Tourism Colleges in Delhi
• Top Government Hospitality & Tourism Colleges in Hyderabad
• Top Hospitality & Tourism Colleges in Mumbai
• NCHM JEE College Predictor
• NEET Companion Buy Now
• B.Tech Companion Buy Now

Popular Searches

• CAT Percentile Predictor
• CAT Score Vs Percentile

• Social Worker

How to Become a Social Worker

• #Humanitarian
• #Welfare Worker
• Career Types
• Work Environment
• How to become
• Skills and Traits
• Certifications/Internship

Who is a Social Worker?

The happiest people I know are those who lose themselves in the service of others - Gordon B. Hinckley

In career as social worker, individuals contribute to the welfare of society. A social worker is a professional possessing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work. A Social worker's main job is to support needy people or underprivileged communities. A social worker in India is an expert who tries to improve general well-being and assist in addressing both fundamental and complex issues of individuals and communities. Social worker jobs include interacting with a variety of groups of individuals, focusing a special emphasis on the disadvantaged, oppressed, and poor. 

Social workers in India don’t just work for the rights of the people but also aim at making the world a better place to live by making the people aware of environmental change and other such problems. Students can study B.A. Social Work , Master of Social Work to opt for social work in India. Here, in this article, we have discussed about social worker vacancy, what a social worker does, the social worker course, the role of social worker, the social worker career path

Social Worker in a Nutshell

The social worker career has contended with passion, compassion, and empathy. Individuals who opt for a career as social worker are required to work to make the lives of needy and underprivileged individuals, families, and groups easy and worthy. Social work careers involve facilitating education to underprivileged children and teaching skills to people to make them independent and generate employment. Individuals who opt for a career as social worker provide support in dealing with problems related to social issues such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education.

Quick Facts for Social Worker

Male, Female, Others

A career as social worker provides opportunities to everyone irrespective of gender. There is not any biasedness in the name of gender. The career is suitable for anyone who wants to contribute to the welfare of society.

A career as social worker may suit candidates with several kinds of special needs. The social worker's job demands agility, patience, and good stamina to help people and provide them with essential facilities that he or she can not afford. 

Table of Contents for Social Worker

What is the role of social worker.

Here, in this section, we have discussed what does a social worker do? Individuals who opt for a career as a social worker work with various groups of people to ensure their help in the best possible way. Social workers in India work with old as well as newly born infants. Social worker jobs include serving each stratum of people without differentiating their race, caste, or culture.

A Career as a social worker may require you to work in various types of workplaces such as hospitals, clinics, other healthcare facilities, old age homes, disaster management departments, NGOs (non-government organizations), the education sector and other places. Social workers in India may work at the federal, state, or local levels. They work for people from various groups. The role of a social worker is to treat an infant or provide support to an older person.

They are trained to do the work as public servants in government agencies, community centres, hospitals, mental health clinics, schools, and career centres. Social care centres are tremendously increasing in various corners of the world as demand for social workers is also increasing.

Developing solutions

A social worker identifies people and communities in need of help. He or she makes strategies and develops solutions to support underprivileged communities and other groups.

A social worker assesses clients' needs, situations, strengths, and support networks to determine their goals. A social worker assesses their emotional, mental, and physical disorders. A social worker provides help to make them independent.  

A social worker is responsible for providing help to his or her clients. He or she ensures that their clients are comfortable in adjusting to changes in their lives. A social worker plays a role in the support system in coping up with the challenges of their lives, such as illness, divorce, or unemployment.

A social worker researches various social issues. He or she refers and advocates for community resources, such as food stamps, childcare, and healthcare to assist and improve a client's well-being.

Intervention

A social worker intervenes in the cases of child abuse and mental health emergencies. They provide the necessary support to such victims or patients and help them recover.

A social worker follows up with his or her clients to ensure that their situations have improved and necessary requirements are met. He or she visits them to ensure that they have got adequate support to become independent.

Documentation

A social worker is also involved in the paperwork that involves documentation of the treatment of his or her clients. He or she maintains case files and records.

Psychotherapy services

A social worker is often the graduate of psychology or studies the subject. A social worker also provides psychotherapy services. It helps patients to recover with mental disorders, emotional challenges, and psychiatric disorders.

Types of a Social Worker

We have described the various types of a social worker or the careers related to them in this section.

Child and Family Social Worker:  The child and family social workers work for social causes related to children and needy families. A child and family social worker works to provide assistance to needy families for housing or other services. He or she intervenes when young children are forced to work or in case of child labour. Individuals in the social worker career path rescue the child in danger or who are being abused. Some social workers arrange adoptions, foster families, or reunite families. 

School Social Worker: A school social worker works with teachers, parents, and school administrators to ensure improvement in students. Social workers in India make strategies, and design programmes to improve the learning abilities of students and increase their interest in studies.

Healthcare Social Worker: A healthcare social worker provides guidance to weak and sick people diagnosed with diseases and other health problems. Social workers in India make necessary adjustments for patients related to their lifestyle, housing, or healthcare. They help people while they are hospitalized till they get recovered and come back home. They help doctors to understand how a certain disease or therapy has affected the emotional and mental health of the patient.

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Worker: Mental health and substance abuse social workers help patients affected by mental health such as anxiety, or depression disorders. Social workers in India also help patients with addiction. Individuals in the social worker career path provide information and services on call. 

Also read:  Career as a counsellor

What is the workplace/work environment of Social Worker like?

A social worker works to provide help and assistance to needy and underprivileged individuals, families, communities, and other groups. Individuals who opt for a career as social worker work with patients and their families to understand the emotional, mental psychological environment. He or she has individuals who are overcoming or recovering from emotional, mental, or physical disabilities to be independent and get employed. A careers as social worker requires one to make them learn the skills that ensure employment opportunities. Individuals in the social worker career path often stay involved with paperwork to document the treatment given to patients. 

A social worker works with various groups of people and communities. The social worker has to be organized and possesses strong interpersonal skills. A social worker advocates for the patients and provides resources to help the patients in learning or function as normal individuals. A professional social worker either possesses a bachelor’s degree in social work or a master’s degree in social work.

Does Social Worker require travelling?

In a career as social worker, traveling needs are depended on the organization they work for. In a career as social worker, individuals may require to visit community homes or other places where needy and underprivileged groups of society stay.

Employment Shifts

No, the career as social worker does not fall into a certain shift. A social worker's job involves providing help to needy and underprivileged communities and other groups. Individuals who opt for a career as social worker identify if someone requires immediate help and is required to be rescued. He or she provides support and rescues them at any time of need.

Employment Nature

Contractual, permanent.

In a career as social worker, the nature of employment depends on the organization he or she works with. Social workers in India work on both a contractual and permanent basis.

There is no specific workplace for social workers. Public and private institutions, schools, medical centres, non-governmental organizations, hospitals, clinics, and other organizations.

Presence in Geographical Area

Semi-urban, urban.

If you want to opt for careers in social care then urban and semi-urban areas are flourished with alluring opportunities for social workers. In urban and semi-urban areas people understand the need for social workers and their contribution to society. Unlike, rural areas where people are less aware of social workers. The NPOs and NGOs get donations as financial support from people to provide their services in urban and semi-urban areas.

Time Pressure

In a career as social worker, the employees are required to work under a lot of time pressure. Their job is filled with a variety of work. Social workers in India are required to work under adverse conditions. Social work is considered one of the hardest and most selfless jobs. It requires patience and dedication to go through an arduous working environment and odd hours.

Overtime Details

Working overtime is not something new in jobs social care organizations offer. Individuals who opt for a career as social worker work with NGOs, government and private agencies, healthcare facilities, hospitals, clinics, schools, and other organizations. Quite often, he or she is required to work for long hours resulting in overtime.

Weekly Hours of Work

Min 45 hours.

There is not any fixed shift for social workers. Individuals who opt for a career as social workers work full time and if required they may work at night. Social workers in India also provide services through phone calls. Individuals working for social services are employed by NGOs, government and private agencies, healthcare facilities, hospitals, clinics, schools, and other organizations.

How to become a Social Worker?

Steps to become a social worker.

This section of the article explores how to become a Social Worker in India, shedding light on the educational path and qualifications required. From the essential degrees in social work to the passion for community service, discover the key steps to embark on a fulfilling journey as a social worker in the Indian context.

Identify the Skills

Enrol in formal education, pursue specialisation/certification courses, build a portfolio, look for internship/job opportunities, begin a career.

Develop a diverse set of social worker skills to navigate the multifaceted role in India, fostering positive change in the lives of those in need. Here are some of the social worker skills for your reference:

Communication

Cultural Competence

Problem Solving

Critical Thinking

Organizational Skills

Ethical Judgment

To qualify as a Social Worker in India, aspiring individuals typically pursue formal education through a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work or related fields. Common bachelor's programs include BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) or B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) Social Work , while M.S.W. (Master of Social Work)  is a popular choice for postgraduate studies. 

Entrance exams like NET (National Eligibility Test) or university-specific tests are often required for admission to master's programmes. These formal educational paths provide the necessary social worker qualifications and eligibility for individuals aspiring to embark on a career in social work.

To enhance your Social Worker qualifications in India, consider pursuing specialised certification courses after completing a bachelor's or master's degree in social work or a related field. These programmes provide focused knowledge on specific areas such as child welfare, healthcare, or mental health, augmenting the core skills needed for effective social work. 

Undertaking such certifications not only deepens expertise but also demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning, enriching one's capabilities as a social worker. This strategic approach further enhances social worker eligibility and opens doors to diverse and impactful career opportunities in the field.

Building a portfolio is crucial for aspiring individuals eyeing a career in social work in India. Include academic achievements as a social worker. Crafting a robust portfolio enhances your professional image and increases your chances of making a meaningful contribution in the field.

To kickstart your journey as a social worker in India, actively seek internships or job opportunities to gain practical experience in the field. Engaging in real-world scenarios will not only enhance your understanding of social worker roles and responsibilities but also allow you to apply and refine the essential skills needed for effective advocacy and support. Look for positions that align with your passion and interest, providing valuable exposure to diverse communities and social issues.

The final step of how to become a social worker in India involves actively seeking employment opportunities aligned with your passion and qualifications. Explore roles in social service organizations, government agencies, or NGOs, applying your acquired skills to make a meaningful impact. Network with professionals in the field, attend job fairs, and consider internships to gain practical experience. 

Keep abreast of social issues, and continue professional development through workshops and training, ensuring a fulfilling and impactful career as a social worker in India. Discovering how to become a social worker in India culminates in taking proactive steps towards a rewarding and impactful professional journey.

What are the skills and qualities required to become a/an Social Worker?

• Communication skills
• Problem Solving Ability
• Interpersonal skills
• Organising skills
• Emotional Stability

There are several social work jobs in India that require specific inbuilt set of skills. We have provided below the major skills for a social worker career. Here, we have discussed how to become a social worker.

Communication Skills : Individuals who opt for a career as social workers require communicating with their clients in a warm way so they could open up about the challenges of their lives and seek help by expressing what they need without hesitating. 

Emotional Stability : In a career as a social worker, individuals often work with those people who are going through an emotional breakdown or having some personal issues causing an increase in stress levels and emotional anxieties. Developing n emotional relationship with clients is necessary to further help them and guide them. The relationship with clients should contend with passion, compassion, and empathy. 

Interpersonal Management : Individuals who opt for a career as a social worker work with people from different groups. He or she requires strong interpersonal skills to communicate with them and develop strong and healthy relationships.

Organizational Skill s : Social workers in India have to be organized as they have to work with multiple clients and do paperwork that involves documentation of their treatment or what kind of help is provided to them. 

Problem-Solving Ability : Social workers are required to come up with effective solutions to the problems of their clients and relieve them.

Which certifications and internships can be helpful in becoming Social Worker?

We have provided below certification courses that aspiring individuals may opt to find and acquire numerous opportunities for careers in social care. These certifications help in upgrading skills and knowledge. 

Development of Assistive technology for persons with Disabilities

BES 123: Learning and Teaching 

Internship Availability

In order to have a better understanding of a social worker career, it is always important to go for an internship. No matter how many practical learning experiences your college or university provides, you will get real-world experience by working with a company or an organization. In order to acquire jobs in social care organizations one has to undergo an internship. An internship gives you insights into the industry and answers several questions relevant to how to become a social worker. The candidates can go through numerous recruitment websites and apply for internships. 

Internships are essential for learning and developing skills required in the industry. Candidates can directly apply for internships through the official websites of organizations. Glassdoor, Indeed, Internshala, and Letsintern, are popular recruiting websites. Entry-level social work jobs to assist the social worker. He or she attends the treatment team meeting with clients and obtains information. He or she assists in completing forms and other paperwork.

What is the job outlook for Social Worker?

A career as social worker was earlier considered a philanthropic activity. But nowadays it has emerged as the most demanding profession in India. There are vast opportunities in the field of social work across the world. There are also various NGOs working in India facilitating people of needy and underprivileged societies. MAD (Make A Difference) is an NGO working to provide equal opportunities to the youth of economically weaker sections. There are also NGOs such as Nanhi Kali and Smile Foundation working to provide education to underprivileged children. The demand for a career in social work is arising rapidly. 

Social workers work with NGOs, government and private agencies, community settings, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and other related organizations. Social workers are employed in government and private companies as well. They work in the positions of administrative, management, and policy planning.

Frequently Asked Questions for Social Worker

Que. what is the average salary of the social worker in india.

The average salary of a social worker in India is Rs. two lakhs to Rs. three lakh per annum.

Que. What is the average fee of a master’s in social work?

The average fee of master’s in social work ranges from Rs.10 thousand to Rs.60 thousand per annum.

Que. Is UNICEF an NGO?

No, UNICEF is a part of the United Nations. UNICEF is known as the United Nations Children’s Fund. It is an international organization. UNICEF is not an NGO but it is an NPO. NGO is a Non-Government Organization whereas NPO is Non-Profit Organizations.  

Que. Is the license required to work as a professional social worker?

Yes, a license is required to work as a professional social worker. The candidates are required to complete a bachelor of social work to apply for a license. For an advanced license, a master of social work is required. To obtain a license, candidates are required to qualify the Association of Social Work Board (ASWB) exam.

Que. What are the top institutes to purse education in order to become a social worker?

Here are some of the top institutes Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara , Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi , Christ University, Bangalore , Integral University, Lucknow  and  Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh .

Que. What does it take to be a social worker?

To become a social worker, one needs a strong commitment to social justice, empathy, and excellent communication skills to advocate for and support individuals and communities facing challenges.

Que. What degree is best for a social worker?

A bachelor's or master's degree in social work is ideal for aspiring social workers, providing comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to address diverse social issues effectively.

Que. What qualifications do you need to be a social?

In India, aspiring social workers typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in social work, sociology, or a related field, along with a passion for community service and a commitment to making a positive impact.

Que. What are the 7 roles of a social worker?

The seven key roles of a social worker include advocate, counselor, mediator, educator, researcher, facilitator, and community organizer, encompassing a broad range of responsibilities to enhance the well-being of individuals and communities.

You might also be interested in

Account manager job description & roles and responsi....

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of account manager, alon...

Social Media Manager Job Description & Roles and Res...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of social media manager,...

Sales Manager Job Description & Roles and Responsibi...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of sales manager, along ...

Product Manager Job Description & Roles and Responsi...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of product manager, alon...

Human Resource Manager Job Description & Roles and R...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of human resource manage...

Graphic Designer Job Description & Roles and Respons...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of graphic designer, alo...

Project Manager Job Description & Roles and Responsi...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of project manager, alon...

Business Development Executive (BDE) & Roles and Res...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of business development ...

Data Analyst Job Description & Roles and Responsibil...

Find out about the job description, roles, and responsibilities of Data Analyst, along ...

Teacher Job Description & Roles and Responsibilities

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of teacher, along with t...

Business Development Manager Job Description & Roles...

Retail manager job description & roles and responsib....

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of retail manager, along...

Production Manager Job Description & Roles and Respo...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of production manager, a...

Financial Analyst Job Description & Roles and Respon...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of financial analyst, al...

Content Writer Job Description & Roles and Responsib...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of content writer, along...

Accountant Job Description & Roles and Responsibilities

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of accountant, along wit...

Business Analyst Job Description & Roles and Respons...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of business analyst, alo...

Career Options for Maths Students: UG & PG Degree Co...

Check out the best Career Options for Maths Students. The article majorly describes the...

Marketing Executive Job Description & Roles and Resp...

Find out about the job description, roles, and responsibilities of Marketing Executives...

High Salary Government Jobs After 12th - Check Eligi...

The following article will give you insights into some of the best high salary governme...

Loco Pilot Salary in India - Per Month, After 10 Yea...

Learn about Loco Pilot Salary in India. Know more details like loco pilot salary per mo...

Merchant Navy Salary in India - After 12th, Per Mont...

Learn about Merchant Navy Salary in India - Check the Salary of Merchant navy after 12t...

Top 10 Highest Paid Jobs in India in Commerce Field ...

Find out the Top 10 Highest Paid Jobs in India in Commerce Field. Check what are the sk...

Best Career Options After 12th PCM For Girl - Eligib...

Career options after 12th PCM - this article gives an insight into what are the best ca...

Part time Jobs After 12th Commerce - Expected Salary...

Get information on Part-time Jobs After 12th Commerce. The article also gives informati...

Career Options After 12th Commerce with Maths

Career options after 12th Commerce with Maths - This article will discuss the best care...

How to become a Medical Representative

Know How to become a Medical Representative. Check what are the skills, educational qua...

Career Options After BTech

Check out the best Career Options After BTech. Find what are the skills, job roles, edu...

Top 6 Highest Paying Jobs in Commerce Without Math

Find out the Top 6 Highest Paying Jobs in Commerce Without Math. Read complete article ...

Engineer Salary in India - Per Month, Top Cities, Co...

Learn about Engineer Salary in India. The article also gives information on salary base...

How to Become an IT Consultant - Courses, Jobs, Aver...

Learn How to Become an IT Consultant. Check IT courses, Job, Salary and more details here.

How to Work in Information Technology

Learn How to Work in Information Technology. What are the education qualification skill...

Software Developer Salary in India - Per Month, Base...

Software Developer Salary in India - Check the salary of a software developer per month...

Career Scope After B.Pharma and M.Pharma

The article gives information on Career scope After B Pharma & M Pharma including avera...

How To Study Pharmacy Abroad

Learn How To Study Pharmacy Abroad. Check what are educational qualification, skills re...

​​Career Options After 12th Arts - Courses With High...

Check out the best ​​career options after 12th arts with highest salary.

Career Options in Law in India - Average Salary, Edu...

Learn about some of the best careers option after law and average salary. see what educ...

Different Types of Jobs in Information Technology

Check out the Different Types of Jobs in Information Technology including skills, quali...

HR Salary in India (Fresher & Experienced) - How to ...

Check out the HR salary in India. Know what are the skills, education qualification req...

Low Risk Careers in Engineering Domain in the Age of...

Check the careers that are low risk careers in automation or what can be the benefits o...

Top Highest Paying Engineering Jobs - Skills, Educat...

Find out the Top Highest Paying Engineering Jobs. Check what are the skills, educationa...

MBA in Pharmaceutical Management

Do MBA in Pharmaceutical Management? Know the educational qualification, skills, roles ...

How to become an Information Technology Manager: Ski...

Know How to become an Information Technology Manager. Check out the skills, education q...

Low Risk Careers in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism ...

Check the Low risk Careers list in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism industry in the Age ...

Types of Pharmacy Courses After 12th

Check what are the types of Pharmacy Courses After 12th. Know the educational qualifica...

Best Career Option In Pharma Industry For Life Science

Learn about the best Career Options In Pharma Industry For Life Science. Check out the ...

Web Designer Salary in India (For Freshers & Experie...

Learn about the web designer average salary, job profiles, skills required, education q...

Career Options After MBA in Marketing: Highest Payin...

Find out the best Career Options After MBA in Marketing. Check what are the education q...

Top Highest Paying Tech Jobs: Skills, Average Salary

Find out the Top Highest Paying Tech Jobs in India for fresher and experience. Check wh...

SEO Salary in India: SEO Manager, SEO Executive, SEO...

Learn about the SEO Salary in India. Find what are the skills, educational qualificatio...

IoT Engineer Salary in India

Check out the IoT Engineer Salary in India. Find what is role and responsibilities, sal...

Data Analyst Salary in India for Fresher & Experienced

The article gives insights on Data Analyst Salary in India. The article also gives inf...

Business Analyst Salary in India for Fresher & Exper...

Learn about the Business Analyst Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. Find out ...

Career Options in Sociology: 9 Top Career Opportunit...

Find out the Career Options in Sociology. Check what are the educational qualification,...

Career Options After MBA: Qualification, Jobs, Avg. ...

Learn about the various Career Options After MBA. The article also gives information on...

Top 10 Engineering Jobs - Highest Paying Jobs In India

Check out some of the most popular engineering jobs in India. Check what are the qualif...

Career Outlook for Full Stack Developers

The article gives a brief Career Outlook for Full Stack Developers. The article also li...

5 Steps To Finding The Right Career For You

Learn all about useful tips to help you identify the skills you have and the training y...

Low Risk Career in Medical Domain in the Era of Arti...

The article gives information on some of the low-risk career options in the medicine fi...

Demanding Careers in Construction Industry - Jobs, S...

Learn all about some of the demanding careers in the construction Industry. The article...

What can I do with a Pharmacy Degree

Know what to do after getting a degree in pharmacy. The article gives information on jo...

Top Remote Jobs - List of Best Work From Home Companies

Check out the best remote jobs available in India. The article also gives information o...

Popular Careers in Management in India - Average Salary

Learn all about various types of managers that come under management , their salaries a...

Big Data Engineer Salary - How Much Can You Expect A...

The article gives information on salaries of Big Data Engineers in India. The article a...

Social Media Marketing Salary in India: SEO Manager ...

Learn about Social Media Marketing Salary in India. The article also gives information ...

Reasons to Pursue Information Technology Careers

Check out some reasons why you should pursue careers in information technology. Know the

Average Business Management Salary in India [For Fre...

Find out the Average Business Management Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. C...

Best Paying Jobs in Information Technology

Get brief information on some of the best paying Jobs in IT. The article also gives inf...

Product Designer Salary in India [For Freshers & Exp...

Find out the Product Designer Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. Check what a...

Doctor Salary in India - Per Month, Specialisation, ...

Air hostess salary in india - based on company & roles.

Air Hostess Salary In India - Air hostesses are also known as flight attendants or stew...

Aeronautical Engineer Salary in India - Per Month, E...

Aeronautical Engineer Salary in India - Aeronautical engineers design and construct aer...

Top 5 Tech Careers Of The Future

Check out the Top 5 Tech Careers Of The Future. Know the careers options, skills, educa...

Top 5 Highest Paid Freelancing Jobs in India

The article gives information on 5 Highest Paid Freelancing Jobs in India. Check out th...

Site Reliability Engineer: Job Responsibilities, Sal...

Learn all about Site Reliability Engineer's job roles and responsibilities. The article...

How to Become Frontend Developer - Skills, Education...

Find How to become Frontend Developer in India. Check what are the skills, educational ...

Management Consultant Salary in India

Check out the Management Consultant Salary in India. Check education qualification, ski...

Top 7 Career Options in Law In India: Job Opportunit...

Find out the Top 7 Career Options in Law In India. Check out the job opportunities, ski...

Top Career Options in Law in India

Find out the Top Career Options in Law including job roles and their salary in India, R...

How to Become Freelance Designer

Check How to become Freelance Designer. Check out the steps to become freelance designer.

Popular IT Careers in India - Highest Paying Jobs

Check out the Popular IT Careers in India. See what are the highest paying jobs, educat...

What Can You Do with an IT Degree

What Can You Do with an IT Degree? Know what are the skills, education qualification re...

Python Developer Salary in India: Skills, Job Roles

Find out the Python Developer Salary in India. Check what are the educational qualifica...

How to Become a PHP Developer - Skills, Education, S...

Know How to become a PHP Developer in India. See what are the skills, educational quali...

Average Product Manager Salary in India for Fresher ...

Learn all about the Average Product Manager Salary in India for fresher and experience....

Project Manager Salary in India - Average Salary for...

Learn about the Project Manager Salary in India. Check what are the skills, educational...

Cloud Architect Salary in India - Skills, Qualificat...

Learn all about Cloud Architect Salary in India. Learn what are the skills required, qu...

Career Options After Computer Engineering: Courses, ...

Learn all about Career Options After Computer Engineering. Check what are the skills, e...

Supply Chain Manager Salary in India - Skills, Quali...

Learn about the Supply Chain Manager Salary in India. The article also gives informatio...

Top Highest Paying Science Jobs in India

Find out the Top Highest Paying Science Jobs in India. Check what are the education qua...

React JS Developer Salary in India: Types, Job Marke...

Learn all about the salary of a React JS Developer. The article also gives information ...

Android Developer Salary in India : Based on Locatio...

The article gives information on Android Developer Salary. Additionally, it also gives ...

How to Become an Animator After 12th

Learn how to become an animator. The article also gives information on skills, educatio...

How to become an RPA Developer: Skills, Salary, Job ...

Learn all about how to become an RPA Developer. The article also gives information on s...

Average Computer Science Salary in India - Job Role,...

Find the Average Computer Science Salary in India. Know the job role, skills, education...

Top 6 Interesting Career Options in Psychology in India

Check out the Top 6 Interesting Career Options in Psychology in India. Find what are th...

Javascript Developer Salary in India for Fresher & E...

Check out the Javascript Developer Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. Read co...

AI Engineer Salary In US, India, Canada - Jobs, Resp...

Check out the AI Engineer Salary In US India Canada. Find roles and responsibilities, j...

DBA Salary in India - Skills, Qualification, Careers...

Find out the DBA Salary in India. Check what are the skills, qualification, careers pro...

AWS Salary in India [For Freshers & Experienced]

Learn all about AWS Salary in India For Freshers & Experienced. The article also gives ...

Cloud Engineer Salary in India - Skills, Qualificati...

Learn all about Cloud Engineer Salary in India. Check what are the skills, educational ...

Journalism and Mass Communication Salary in India

Check out Journalism and Mass Communication Salary in India. Find what are the skills, ...

Best IT Courses After 12th

Check out the Best IT Courses After 12th. Know the IT jobs, skills, education qualifica...

Top 5 Factors for Career Options in India

Carefully considering the following factors when weighing your career path options can ...

Full Stack Developer Salary in India : Skills, Caree...

Learn all about the Full Stack Developer Salary in India. The article also gives inform...

Salary for M.Sc IT Graduates: Highest Paying Job Rol...

Check out the Salary for M.Sc IT Graduates: Highest Paying Job Roles for M.Sc IT. Know ...

Software Architect Salary in India for Fresher & Exp...

Check out the Software Architect Salary in India. Know what are the skills required, qu...

Fun and Interesting Career Options in India

Check out the Fun and Interesting Career Options in India. Check out the diploma and qu...

How to Become a Marine Engineer After 12th

Check How to become a Marine Engineer after 12th. What are the skills, educational qual...

Career in Digital Marketing: Skills, Advantages & Di...

Check out the Career in Digital Marketing, Find What are the skills, advantages and dis...

Bank Jobs After 12th - Check Eligibility & Expected ...

Learn all about Bank Jobs after 12th. The article also gives information on some of the...

Best Government Jobs For Commerce Students - Salary,...

Learn all about some of the top Government Jobs that students who are from commerce bac...

SSC Jobs After 12th - Check Eligibility, Exams, Exp...

The following article will give you important information on SSC jobs after 12th

Top Govt Jobs After 12th - Check Post Name, Exam, El...

Top Govt Jobs After 12th - Check out the various government jobs available to students ...

Railway Jobs After 12th - Check Eligibility, Top Exa...

The following article will give you information about the Indian railway jobs after 12th.

Salesforce Developer Salary in India For Fresher & E...

Check out the Salesforce Developer Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. Read co...

Salary of Pharmacist: Region Wise, Specialization Wi...

Check out the Salary of Pharmacist. Know what is the qualification, skills required and...

How to Become UI/UX Designer - Skills, Career Prospe...

Check how to become UI/UX Designer including skills, career prospects, average salary a...

Ethical Hacker Salary for Fresher & Experienced : In...

Check out the Ethical Hacker Salary in India, USA, Canada, UAE, Singapore, Australia. C...

Average Corporate Lawyer Salary in India

Learn about the average Corporate Lawyer Salary in India. The article also gives inform...

MBA Salary in USA (By Industry): Types of MBA, Fact...

Find out MBA Salary in USA by their industry. Check out the factors, types of MBA, qual...

Software Engineering Salary in India [Average & High...

Check out the average salary of software engineer in India. Check what are the educatio...

Cyber Security Salary in India For Freshers & Experi...

Learn all about Cyber Security Salary in India for fresher and experienced. Check what ...

What to do After MCA - Careers & Scope, Average Salary

Learn about the best careers option after MCA. See scope, job profile, average salary a...

Web Developer Salary in India [For Freshers & Experi...

Learn all about the Web Developer Salary in India For Freshers and Experienced. Know wh...

Salary of MCA Graduates: Based on Various Specialisa...

Check out the salary of MCA graduates based on the specialisation and job roles. know m...

Digital Marketing Salary in India – Average to Highest

Find out the Digital Marketing Salary in India. Check job profiles, skills, educational...

Java Developer Salary in India [For Freshers & Exper...

Check out the Java Developer Salary in India in 2022 For Freshers & Experienced. Read c...

What does an Engineer do? - Job Roles, Salary

Find out the What does an Engineer do. Check out the job roles and their average salary...

How do I get a job in the Pharmaceutical Industry?

Know How do I get a job in Pharmaceutical Industry. Read more details here.

Machine Learning Salary in India (Fresher & Experien...

Find out the Machine Learning Salary in India. Check what are the skills, education qua...

6 Top Career Options After BBA: What to do After BBA?

Learn about the best career option or job opportunities after BBA Course. The article a...

Service Delivery Manager: Job Description, Skills Re...

Learn all about Service Delivery Manager jobs in India. The article gives information o...

Career Opportunities in Artificial Intelligence

Find out the various Career Opportunities in Artificial Intelligence. Check out the ski...

DevOps Engineer Salary in India [For Fresher & Exper...

Learn all about the DevOps Engineer Salary in India for Freshers & Experienced. Find wh...

Which is the Best Career Option to Choose in Today T...

There are multiple factors that you need to consider while choosing your career options...

What to do After BMM - Best Careers Option After BMM

What to do After BMM? Here is the list of best career options available in BMM includin...

Career Options After MA: What To Do After MA

Check out the list of Career Options After MA. Here you can find what to do, how you ca...

Career after Polytechnic, Courses, Job Opportunities...

Get information on some of the Careers after Polytechnic. The articles gives informatio...

Which Are The Best Career Options In India

This article will give students an insight into the best career options for a future in...

Career Options After BMS: What to do After BMS

Learn all about Career Options After BMS. Check job opportunities, salary, educational ...

How to Become a Management Consultant - Jobs, Skills...

Learn How to Become a Management Consultant, Check what are the skills, educational qua...

Career Options in Commerce with Mathematics After 12...

Learn all about some of the best career options in Commerce with Maths after 12. The ar...

How to Become a Dentist After 12th

Learn how to become a dentist after 12th. The article also gives information on the ski...

Astronomy Courses After 12th - Check Eligibility, D...

The article talks about different astronomy courses after class 12th, eligibility, dura...

Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Psychology in India

Looking for Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Psychology in India? Find out the list of bes...

Types of Marketing Jobs and Salary

Find out types of Marketing Jobs and their average salary in India for fresher and expe...

Career Options After M.Sc: What To Do After M.Sc

Check out the best Career Options After MSc. Find the job role, responsibilities, salar...

Average Nursing Salary in India - Job Profile, Scope...

Check out the average Nursing salary in India. Here you can find what are the education...

How to become a Successful Vlogger

Learn how to become a successful Vlogger. The article also gives information on types ...

Investment Banker Salary in India {Beginners & Exper...

Learn all about Investment banker salary in India for beginners and experienced. See wh...

Scope Of DPharma In India and abroad

Check out the Scope Of Pharm. D In India and abroad including eligibility criteria, ski...

Career Path of IAS Officer - Training, Responsibilit...

Check out the career path of an IAS officer. Find what are the responsibilities, salary...

Jobs After 10th - Eligibility, Exam Names, Job Sector

Learn all about various jobs that students can pursue after completing their class 10th...

Top IT Jobs in Demand for Future

Learn all about the top IT Jobs in Demand for future. The article also gives informatio...

Is Marketing a Most Stressful Career?

Learn all about how to deal with stress, especially if you are working in the field of ...

Which Engineering Branch is Best For Future - Job Ro...

Learn all about which Engineering branch is best for future. The article also gives inf...

7 Best Career Options after BA: What to do After BA?

Check out the 7 Best Career Options after BA that you can opt for and pursue after your...

Artificial Intelligence Salary in India {Beginners &...

Find out the Artificial Intelligence Salary in India. What are the skills, education qu...

5 Career Options in Pharmaceutical Industry

Know the 5 Career Options in Pharmaceutical Industry including roles and responsibiliti...

How to Become a Salesforce Developer: Skills, Job Ro...

Learn about how to Become a Salesforce Developer? Also Find out the steps to become sal...

Unique Career Options After 12th - Check Eligibility...

Learn all about some unique career options after 12th. The article gives information on...

12 Best Career Options after M.Com in 2024 - What to...

Learn about 12 Best Career Options after MCom. Find what to do, education qualification...

Career after ITI, Courses, Job Opportunities

Career after ITI - Check out career options after engineering and non engineering ITI c...

Best Professions In The World

The following article gives an insight into the best professions in the world.

Top 15 Highest Paying Jobs in Finance in India

Find out the list of Top 15 Highest Paying Jobs in Finance in India. Check various job ...

BCA Salary In India: Top Job Roles & Career Opportun...

Check out the Salary of BCA Graduate. Find various job roles and careers opportunities,...

Career Options In Physical Education - Scope, Salary...

This article gives an insight into what physical education is and what are various care...

How to join Indian Navy after 12th - Check Eligibili...

How to join Indian Navy after 12th - Check out the intends to give you information on h...

10 Best Career Option for Science Students After 12th

Find out the 10 Best Career Option for Science Students After 12th. Check out the job r...

Most In Demand jobs for the Future : Best Future Car...

Find out the Most In Demand jobs for the Future. Here is list of best careers options i...

Commerce Scope After 12th - Check Career Options, Co...

The following article gives a perspective about the vast scope after studying Commerce ...

How To Live Alone: 9 Ways To Live Alone Happily

How To Live Alone - The article gives information on different ways one can learn how t...

How to Become a Judge in India After LLB

Find out How to become a Judge in India after LLB. what is procedure, skills required t...

Careers In Art And Design - Check Career Options, Sa...

Careers options in art and design - this article gives information on best and top care...

Career Planning - Check Effective Tips For Career Pl...

The following article gives an insight about what is career planning and how it differs...

Career Guidance After 12th: Check Popular Colleges, ...

Career Guidance After 12th - The following article gives an insight into career guidan...

Highest Paying Jobs In The World - Check Eligibility...

This article gives an overview of some of the highest paying jobs in the world.

Career Options After 12th Commerce - Eligibility & E...

Career Options After 12th Commerce - The following article gives a detailed analysis of...

Career Option After 10th - Eligibility, Salary, Govt...

Jobs after 10th - this article provides an insight into the best career options after 1...

Career Options After 12th Science - Eligibility & Ex...

Career Options After 12th Science- This article speaks about different career options a...

Career Options After 12th Science PCM - Check Educat...

This article will give you insights into the career options for class 12th PCM, eligibi...

Part Time Jobs After 10th - Data Entry, Content Writ...

Find here the list of top part time jobs after 10th pass that students can pursue and m...

Commerce with Maths Scope - Check List of Top Career...

Commerce with Maths Scope - The following article gives a perspective about the vast sc...

What Is A Career? - A Complete Guide

This article will give readers a detailed insight into what is a career and some of its...

How to Become a Pilot After 12th Commerce - Step By ...

The article explores ways on how those who are from commerce background can become pilo...

Career Options After 12th Commerce Without Maths

This article gives information on various career options after 12th Commerce without Ma...

PCMC Career Options - Expected Salary, Eligibility

This article gives an insight into the courses after 12th science pcmc that are offered...

Career Options After 12th Science PCB - Check Top Re...

This article gives information on career options after 12th Science PCB, for giving a b...

Career Options After 12th Science PCMB - Eligibility...

Career Options After 12th Science PCMB - The following article gives an insight into th...

How to Join ISRO after 12th - A Complete Guide

How to Join ISRO after 12th - This article presents you with a step-by-step guide on ho...

How To Join Indian Navy After 10th - Check Post, Eli...

Learn about how to join the Indian Navy after class 10th. The article gives information...

How to join Indian air force after 12th - Check Sele...

How to join Indian air force after 12th - The following article gives an insight into t...

Career Options After 12th Arts/Humanities - Check Ed...

Learn all about career options after class 12th. The article also gives information abo...

Highest Salary Jobs In India Per Month

Discover some of the highest paid jobs in India. The article has given average monthly ...

Career Opportunity After MBA - Scope, Specialisation...

Check out the list of Career Opportunity After MBA including job roles, skills required...

Job Oriented Courses After 12th - Check Eligibility,...

The following article will give you insights into the best job oriented courses after 1...

Diverse Career Paths You Can Pursue At The Indian Pa...

In this article, Careers360 discusses various job profiles available in the Indian Parl...

Why Are Soft Skills Important For Career Development?

Know what are soft skills and why they are important for career development.

NIRF Placement Report: Pharma Grads Prefer Higher Ed...

Do all pharma graduates take up placements? Or is there an equal percentage that pursue...

Search Engine Optimisation: Pursue These Internships...

Here is the list of top paid in-office and work-from-home SEO internships offered by va...

Navigating Career Options and Salaries For Artists W...

Know the best career options with salary for an artist who loves to paint and has a pas...

8 Non-Athletic Careers For Those Who Love Sports

Explores the top 8 lucrative career opportunities who love sports but not a sports person.

Top Careers That Have Withstood Complete Automation

Here, we explore a compilation of careers in various sectors that not only resist the a...

These 6 Careers In Law Can Never Be Automated

Despite being heavily reliant on artificial intelligence, these are the 6 law careers t...

Real Estate: These Are The Top 10 Diverse And Lucrat...

Here are some of the top 10 most diverse and lucrative careers available to people in r...

Careers In The Entertainment That Are Not Acting Yet...

Apart from acting, know what are the other promising career options that are available ...

Dos And Don’ts: How Can Fresh Recruits Make The Most...

Here are some important dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind in your first job.

Career Avenues For Those Who Have Good Conversationa...

Know what are the Careers options available for those who have good speaking skills.

Do’s And Don’ts To Follow During An Internship

Know what are the certain Do's and Don'ts that you should follow during an internship.

Careers Opportunities In Wildlife And Environment Co...

Know the scope and career opportunities and scope in wildlife and environment conservat...

Office Appraisals: Are 360 Degree Performance Assess...

In this article we discuss the 360-degree performance assessment. Read to know the adva...

What Are The Career Opportunities For Maths Enthusia...

In this article discussed career opportunities where you can leverage your mathematical...

आईएएस वेतन 2024 (IAS Salary 2024 in Hindi) - पोस्ट वा...

आईएएस वेतन 2024 (IAS Salary 2024) - आईएएस का वेतन, पद के अनुसार वेतनमान, मूल वेतन, ग्रेड...

Public and Private Sector Employment: Things You Sho...

Here are some things you should know about public and private sector employment.

Freelancing: Why Is It Popular In Certain Industries?

Know the reasons why people prefer freelancing over working for someone else.

Japanese Work Culture: Lessons You Must Adopt For Ca...

Japan, known for its unique approach to work and life, has a well-kept secret for profe...

Ghostwriting: A Good Career Option For Writers

Ghostwriting Jobs - this article explores valuable insights into ghostwriting and expla...

Psychologist vs Psychiatrist: What Is The Difference...

Know the differences in Psychologists and Psychiatrists and their roles, qualifications...

Discover The Scope And Career Opportunities In Radio...

Know the vast scope and career opportunities available in the field of radiology.

Career Transitions: How To Crossover From Being An E...

Know how you can transition from an employee to an entrepreneur using these essential t...

13 Highest Paying Jobs in Pharmaceutical Industry

Check out the list of Highest paying jobs in Pharmaceutical Industry. know the jobs and...

Sports Engineering: Where Technology Meets Passion F...

Know what Is the career path for a Sports Engineer? And what does it take to become one?

The Art Of Networking: How To Build A Professional N...

This article about the art of building professional relationships shortly after graduat...

Personality Assessments: Why Is It Crucial During Ca...

Why Personality Assessments Is Crucial During Career Counseling? - this article about t...

Here’s Why Careers In Anthropology Can Never Be Auto...

This article explains why careers in anthropology can never be automated, highlighting ...

What Do Students Learn In Industrial Visits?

Know why industrial visits are so important for students and how they can benefit from ...

How Networking Portals Can Land You Better Job Oppor...

In this article, we will discuss how online platforms like LinkedIn can prove to be hel...

Career Opportunities In Sustainable Agriculture

Check out the some of the promising career opportunities available in sustainable agric...

Career Opportunities For Those Pursuing MSc Statistics

Check out the lucrative and promising career opportunities available to those who are p...

Extroverts, Thrive In Your Element And Explore These...

In this article, we have discussed top seven careers perfectly suited for extroverts. F...

What Can A Senior Colleague Teach You At Your First ...

What Can a Senior Colleague Teach You at Your First Job? - In this article, Careers360 ...

Explore These Diverse Careers In Food Technology

Explore the opportunities that await aspiring professionals in the field of food techno...

Careers After Pursuing A Bachelor’s In Physical And ...

Check the various career options after pursuing a bachelor’s degree in physical and hea...

Here’s Why Careers In Psychology Can Never Be Fully ...

In this article, let’s understand why therapeutic relationships and empathy are irrepla...

Work Opportunities in Canada for International Students

Work opportunities in Canada for international students – Careers360 brings all detail ...

Entrepreneurship: This Is How You Start Your Own Bus...

Know how to succeed as an entrepreneur by navigating the complexities of starting your ...

5 Ted Talks To Watch Before Your Final Job Interview

Top 5 Ted Talks To Watch Before Your Final Job Interview - here are five TED talks to f...

Ethical Hacker: A Lucrative Career That Doesn’t Requ...

Read this article to find lucrative, unconventional career opportunities in freelance e...

Career Growth Of DRDO Scientists And Technical Staff

Know the career growth of DRDO scientists and technical staff in India's leading defenc...

Work opportunities in New Zealand for International ...

Work opportunities in New Zealand for International Students – Careers360 bring detail ...

Architecture And Automation: Why The Industry Can Ne...

Why the Field of Architecture Industry Never Be Automated? In this article, we will exp...

Why Is Automation Not A Threat To The Defence Sector?

AI in Defence: This article explores why the defence sector can never be fully automate...

Public and Private Sector Employment Opportunities f...

Explore the social work career opportunities in the public and private sectors for thos...

Why Complete Automation Won’t Work In Police Services

In this article, we will explore why the field of police service can’t be fully automat...

Essential Skills For Successful Entrepreneurs and Im...

Entrepreneurship Skills - in this article, careers360 listed essential skills for succe...

Non Technical Jobs You Can Look Forward To

Let's take a closer look at some of the top non-technical jobs in creative arts, design...

What Does A Career In Deep-Sea Exploration And Ocean...

Explore a career in Deep-Sea exploration and oceanography. Know various career options ...

Career Trends In The Field Of Social Anthropology In...

Anthropology Jobs - in this article, we have discussed how one can choose a career as s...

Choose Psychology-Sociology-Philosophy In Your BA Fo...

Psychology, Sociology, Philosophy are three subjects that study humans and human behavi...

Why Automation Is Not A Threat To Careers In Perform...

Will AI replace artists - in this article, Careers360 has listed six performing arts th...

Navigate A Career In Teaching While Embracing AI

Artificial Intelligence is almost all spheres of our life, and its implementation in th...

An Insight Into The Profession Of Child Psychology

Know the significance of child psychology in today's world, its industry trends, variou...

Why Must You Master Your Communication and Persuasio...

Know the importance of communication and persuasion skills for post-graduate students. ...

How To Make A Career In Corporate Banking: Skills, O...

Corporate Banking Careers Guide - Know the skills, opportunities, and challenges in th...

Explore Lucrative Careers In Disaster Management

Jobs in disaster management - read this article to know the scope of careers in disaste...

New Insights Into A Career In Product Management

Check the an insight of product management new insights and trends and see how it is on...

New And Traditional Career Opportunities In Aviation...

Job opportunities in aviation - in this article, Careers360 has listed some of the trad...

Explore The Dynamic Careers In The Booming Gaming In...

Explore dynamic gaming careers in the booming industry. Know the lifecycle of designing...

What Must You Know About Switching Career Paths?

All You Must Know About Switching Career Path - In this article, we discussed the key i...

Social Media Influencer - Is It A Viable Career Option?

In this article, Let’s find out how creating content and maintaining an audience is the...

Courses That Will Unlock Exciting Careers In Geophys...

Check the careers in geophysics and geology with specialized courses. Know in detail wh...

Scope, Current Trends And Challenges In Pursuing Der...

Exploring Scope, Trends, and Challenges in Dermatology As a Career. Find out how it has...

Naturopathy: A Career In Alternative Medical Science

In this article, naturopathy practitioner Dr. Kayelarasi shared some insightful informa...

Over 55% Graduates From Kerala’s Top Colleges Chose ...

Know how many graduates From Kerala’s top Colleges were placed? Check in details here.

How Does Networking Help Improve Your Career?

Know the importance of networking in career development and delve into the benefits it ...

5 Medical Jobs That Can Never Be Automated

Check the 5 medical professions that can not be replaced by the artificial intelligence.

Footwear Design: A Creative And Technical Career Choice

Explore the world of footwear design and know the creative processes, technical aspects...

Part Time Jobs After 12th

The following article is meant to give students an insight into the part time jobs afte...

Jobs After 12th Commerce - Know How to Get In, Roles...

Jobs After 12th Commerce - This following article will inform you about the various jo...

Jobs After 12th - Check Eligibility, Job Options

Jobs After 12th - Check out the overview of job options you can pursue directly after c...

Most Respected Jobs In India: Check Eligibility, Exa...

Most Respected Jobs In India - The following article will take you through the list of ...

What Can A Degree In Hotel Management Offer?

This article explores hotel management, scope, industry trends, and the jobs available ...

Anthropology - A Holistic Subject That Opens A Numbe...

Careers in Anthropology - Know the scope of anthropology as a career check more about t...

Cultivating A Green Career: Explore Careers In Envir...

Know the top 10 career opportunities that are there in the field of environmental scien...

How Can Pinterest Help You Plan Your Career Goals?

Know how Pinterest can help you to plan your career goals. Get ideas that can be your i...

A Career In Medicine: Who Should Consider Becoming A...

Career in Medicine - Know if it is right for you? Check who should consider becoming a ...

5 Things to Never Say At An Interview

Avoid Saying These Things At An Interview - this article listed a few things to never s...

What Must You Know Before Pursuing A Career In Cyber...

This article explores various steps one can take to foray into the world of cybersecuri...

All You Need To Know About Certificate Courses Offer...

AYUSH certification courses - this article contains a list of AYUSH certification progr...

Indian Foreign Services: All You Need To Know About ...

Find out how to become a diplomat in India, check education qualifications, skills and ...

Logistics Management: How Is Flipkart’s Quick Delive...

Logistics Management - Interview with a logistics manager working with Flipkart wherein...

What Qualifications Are Required To Get A Job At The...

Know what are the skills you require to work at the United Nations.

7 Ways In Which Mentors Impact Your Career Development

Check 7 ways in which mentors impact your career development.

5 Hacks to Deal with Distractions

In this article, we explore some of the best strategies for managing distractions to ov...

Craft Instructor Training Scheme (CITS): Building An...

Careers360 analyses CITS courses along with institutes and number of seats available. R...

Select your reason of reporting

The Question containing Inaapropriate or Abusive Words

Question lacks the basic details making it difficult to answer

Topic Tagged to the Question are not relevant to Question

Question drives traffic to external sites for promotional or commercial purposes

The Question is not relevant to User

Explore Related Careers

Did you know?

In the United Nations, over 60 per cent of mental health services are provided by mental health social workers.

There is an expected increase of 11 per cent in the jobs of social workers by the year 2028 in the United States, according to the bureau of labor statistics.

Jane Addams was the first social worker to receive the Nobel Peace Award in the year 1931.

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was the first Indian to develop a society for organized social work.

The professional social work began in India with the establishment of Sir Dorabji Tata Graduate School of Social Work in 1936.

The details of a career as Social Worker has been sent to your registered email ID successfully.

Sign In/Sign Up

We endeavor to keep you informed and help you choose the right Career path. Sign in and access our resources on Exams, Study Material, Counseling, Colleges etc.

Help us to help you.

Download the Careers360 App on your Android phone

Regular exam updates, QnA, Predictors, College Applications & E-books now on your Mobile

• 150M + Students
• 30,000 + Colleges
• 500 + Exams
• 1500 + E-books

• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• School Counseling
• Military and Veterans Counseling
• Social Justice Dashboard
• Tuition and Financial Aid
• Admissions FAQs
• Student Profile
• Counseling Licensure
• Mental Health Counselor Jobs
• School Counselor Jobs
• Online Student Experience
• Student Success

Get a Program Brochure

Master’s in counseling jobs: exploring career paths for school counselors.

School counseling has evolved far beyond providing career and vocational guidance. Each day, school counselors work with teachers and administrators to help students and their families navigate diverse challenges that affect students’ abilities to learn, develop and thrive—from academics and socialization to food insecurity, language barriers and mental health struggles.

There’s a growing demand for skilled professionals to do this important work. For the decade from 2022-2032, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts strong growth in the job market for school counselors. The projected 5% growth rate is faster than the national average for all occupations. 1

This post explores a variety of career options—in and out of educational settings—for which you’ll become eligible once you’ve earned a master’s degree in school counseling .

School Counselor Roles and Responsibilities

“The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) supports school counselors' efforts to help students focus on academic, career and social/emotional development so they achieve success in school and are prepared to lead fulfilling lives as responsible members of society.” 2 This statement on the ASCA’s website gets to the heart of school counselors’ work. Whether you take your newly minted master’s degree in school counseling to an office in a public or private school, working with young people at any age from pre-K on up, your efforts in three key areas will focus on helping them grow to lead fulfilling, responsible lives.

Academic Development

To promote academic success, school counselors: 3

• Collaborate with school staff to foster a safe, inclusive school culture
• Develop and assess counseling programs based on student data
• Encourage rigorous coursework and remove barriers to access
• Build positive relationships with students, families and the community

Career Development

In middle school and especially in high school settings, career counseling is a vital aspect of the school counselor’s role. You’ll help students with course selection, academic planning and college and career readiness. This involves: 4

• Serving as a guide in identifying student interests, career clusters and postsecondary plans
• Assisting in transitioning to postsecondary education or employment
• Advising on diverse postsecondary pathways, including apprenticeships, military programs and college options
• Collaborating with administrators, teachers and other stakeholders to create a college-going culture

Social/Emotional Growth

School counselors address students’ social and emotional needs through counseling services, crisis intervention, mental health support and referrals when needed. To that end, you’ll need to: 5

• Use evidence-based, inclusive, trauma-informed interventions for social and emotional development
• Collaborate with teachers to deliver counseling lessons, direct instruction, team-teaching and other methods
• Provide multi-tiered, targeted support for individuals and small groups
• Employ effective counseling theories for direct and indirect student services to support social/emotional development

Career Options in School Counseling

Elementary school counseling.

At every age, students need adult help. In elementary school, children begin to: 6

• Develop their academic self-concept and feelings of competence and confidence as learners
• Develop character values and decision-making, communication and life skills
• Acquire and develop attitudes toward school, self, peers, social groups and family

As an elementary school counselor, you’ll likely be called on to: 6

• Engages students
• Includes leadership, advocacy and collaboration with school staff, administration and community/family members in the delivery of programs and activities to help students succeed
• Removing barriers to learning
• Developing the skills and behaviors needed for academic achievement

Middle School Counseling

Are the middle school years easy for anyone? As young people make the transition from childhood into adolescence, with new hormones raging and pressure seeming to come from every direction, they often experience: 7

• A need to explore multiple diverse interests, connecting their classroom learning to its practical applications in life and work
• A great deal of activity along with frequent fatigue due to rapid growth
• A search for a distinct sense of identity as they begin looking to peers more than parents for ideas and validation
• Acute sensitivity to comments from other people
• Heavy reliance on friends for comfort, understanding and approval

As a middle school counselor, you'll serve your students in a wide breadth of ways, including by: 8

• Providing academic skills support
• Helping with study habits and test-taking abilities
• Discussing career options
• Providing counseling that addresses drug use and sexual activity
• Coping strategies in times of stress or loss
• The ability to create positive relationships with their peers
• Strong decision-making abilities
• Self-confidence

High School Counseling

As the ASCA succinctly puts it, high schoolers are “deciding who they are, what they do well and what they will do when they graduate.” 9 As they gauge their abilities and strengths, their peer group is the biggest influence on their lives. High school is often richly exciting and laden with stressors, such as:

• The search for a place to belong
• Heightened pressure regarding sex, alcohol and other drugs
• Challenges regarding the safe, appropriate use of technology
• Learning to make difficult decisions
• Finding the boundaries of acceptable behavior and mature relationships
• Parental pressure
• High-stakes academic testing
• Applying to college
• Scholarship and financial aid issues
• Preparation for employment
• Entering the job market

As a high school counselor, you’ll be very busy. In addition to contributing to curriculum development, assessing individual students’ educational needs and providing intervention, counseling and crisis management when needed, you’ll have the crucial task of helping your charges develop effective social skills. Teenagers’ maturity in this regard varies widely. Wherever they go after high school, they’ll need the social and communication facilities to navigate in the adult world. Particularly for young people who don’t have positive role models close to them, your influence in incorporating social skills development into your counseling program will be essential. 10

Specializations in School Counseling

School counselors may choose one or more areas of specialization, based on their interests and expertise. Specializations in school counseling can include gifted and talented education, behavioral and emotional disorders counseling and working with diverse communities. These specialized roles allow counselors to focus on specific student populations and tailor their interventions to meet their students’ unique needs.

Careers Beyond the School Campus

With a master’s degree in school counseling and an interest in working off-campus, you have a wealth of career possibilities. They include but are not limited to these: 11

Social Work

As a child and family social worker, you’ll help children at risk of neglect, families needing help with housing or food, and children in need of foster care or adoption. As a school social worker, you’ll likely work in a school setting, meeting with students, parents and faculty to help further students’ academic and social development.

Substance Abuse Counseling

In individual and group settings, you’ll counsel clients who are struggling with addictions, as they develop the resources to cope and recover. With your degree, you could be ideally qualified to help teens or young adults with substance abuse issues.

Social and Community Services Management

Your proficiency in assessment and leadership will serve you well as you develop and manage social service programs and community organizations that work with a particular demographic, such as children or teens. You’ll determine these programs’ effectiveness, advocate for them and use data to improve them.

Expand your counseling career options.

Once you’ve earned William & Mary’s Online M.Ed. in Counseling with a concentration in School Counseling , you’ll be equipped to help students thrive in school and far beyond it.

Led by world-class faculty , this robust curriculum will develop your ability to guide the mental, emotional and physical development of students of all ages. With an emphasis on social justice , cultural responsiveness, program planning and evaluation practices, this flexible online program helps prepare you to meet state licensure requirements and provides the knowledge you need to become a transformative influence in young peoples’ lives.

Learn more to begin this important next step in your career. Schedule a call with an admissions outreach advisor today.

• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/school-and-career-counselors.htm
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from schoolcounselor.org/About-ASCA
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from schoolcounselor.org/Standards-Positions/Position-Statements/ASCA-Position-Statements/The-School-Counselor-and-Academic-Development
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from schoolcounselor.org/Standards-Positions/Position-Statements/ASCA-Position-Statements/The-School-Counselor-and-Career-Development
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from schoolcounselor.org/Standards-Positions/Position-Statements/ASCA-Position-Statements/The-School-Counselor-and-Social-Emotional-Developm
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/1691fcb1-2dbf-49fc-9629-278610aedeaa/Why-Elem.pdf
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/7ed7a427-a87a-4609-a4e1-ee8e5358df29/Why-Middle.pdf
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from school-counselor.org/middle-school-counseling/
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/2a38ea99-5595-4e6d-b9af-2ac3a00fa8c3/Why-High-School.pdf
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from school-counselor.org/high-school-counseling/
• Retrieved on April 5, 2024, from learn.org/articles/jobs_for_a_masters_degree_in_school_counseling.html

Return to Blog

William & Mary has engaged Everspring , a leading provider of education and technology services, to support select aspects of program delivery.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• CENTERS & INSTITUTES

UNC School of Social Work ranked No. 4 best graduate school for social work in the nation 

Posted on April 9, 2024

Tied for No. 2 public, No. 4 overall, UNC School of Social Work is recognized alongside a score of Carolina programs ranked Top 10 in the nation in their respective categories by the magazine.  

Months after being ranked fourth in national research and development (R&D) expenditures among R1 higher education institutions, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work earned another No. 4 ranking today.  

The School of Social Work moved up three spots in the latest U.S. News & World Report “Best Graduate Schools” rankings , rising to a tie for fourth in the nation among the 319 surveyed social work schools accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Social Work Education.  

The School ranked No. 1 among schools of social work across the Southeast and tied for second nationally among public universities. 

Dean Ramona Denby-Brinson said being ranked second among all public university social work programs was especially meaningful due to the school’s responsibility to serve local, national and global communities. 

“Our new national ranking is exciting news,” Denby-Brinson said. “Among many measures of success, the ranking recognizes the tremendous contributions of our faculty and staff. Our MSW (Master of Social Work) program is preparing practitioners, researchers and advocates who improve life for thousands of people each day. We are honored to be recognized by our peers for the excellence displayed by our faculty in all they do.” 

Executive Vice Provost Amy Locklear Hertel, a clinical assistant professor at the School, said “The UNC School of Social Work is a true asset on campus, to our state, and the globe. By drawing our attention to pressing issues of our most vulnerable populations, to developing strong communities and systems, to informing policy as well as practice, the UNC School of Social Work is preparing social service practitioners and researchers to fully ‘advance equity, transform systems, and improves lives’ — just as the School’s mission states.” 

She went on to say, “It is an honor to be a clinical faculty member in the School.” 

Since arriving at the School as dean in August 2021, Denby-Brinson worked closely with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners to establish a strategic plan that helped to elevate the graduate programs, modernize the curriculum, and increase student enrollment by providing access and flexible degree offerings while using advanced learning modalities and proven pedagogical tools.  

“Our graduates are prepared to work with individuals, families and communities to solve complex problems,” Denby-Brinson said. “The practice approaches that we teach derive from the impactful research produced by our faculty. We have a strong faculty, and they are tackling entrenched issues and devising real world solutions.” 

“I’m delighted to hear this news, and to note that the School has consistently ranked in the Top 10 since 1997,” said Dean Emeritus Jack Richman.

The latest rankings were compiled based on peer assessments from administrators, deans and faculty of accredited degree programs and are compiled on a scale of one (marginal) to five (outstanding). The surveys were sent in fall 2023 and early 2024. 

Related Stories

Building Dividends in Zambia

A group representing UNC School of Social Work visits Solwezi, Zambia, with longtime collaborators from Rising Fountains Development Program (RFDP), a Zambian nonprofit organization founded in 2000, to learn more about local women’s savings and credit groups.

UNC School of Social Work ranked fourth in national research expenditures

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work researchers helped the school secure a top four placement in the latest NSF HERD Survey.

Social Work

Advance your career in the rewarding field of social work.

Ready to Get Started?

Fill out the form below to get in touch with an enrollment counselor.

Social Work, MSW Overview

The University of West Florida’s clinically focused online master’s in social work program provides the knowledge and skills to enter the workplace prepared for advanced social work practice. You will complete a specialized study of medical and behavioral healthcare in this program, which blends clinical internships with hands-on learning.

Students who hold a bachelor’s degree in social work can fast-track their studies and complete our online MSW clinical curriculum as Advanced Standing, while those without previous social work experience can gain the experience they need through foundational coursework that prepares them for the rigors of social work practice in our Traditional track.

This program meets educational course requirements for licensure as a clinical social worker in the state of Florida and is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. If you are seeking a rewarding career that allows you to help others every day, UWF’s online social work master’s is the program you’re looking for.

You will study topics such as:

• Human behavior in the social environment
• Human behavior in communities and organizations
• Social service policy
• Human diversity and social justice
• Clinical social work practice
• Social work research

Accreditation

The University of West Florida Master of Social Work program is accredited by the  Council on Social Work Education’s Board of Accreditation.

Accreditation applies to all program sites and program delivery methods of an accredited program. Accreditation provides reasonable assurance about the quality of the program and the competence of students graduating from the program.

Candidates for This Program Include:

• Students with an undergraduate degree in social work who are seeking advanced study in the field
• Students who did not study social work at the undergraduate level but wish to pursue a social work career
• Those seeking to become a licensed clinical social worker in Florida

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate specialized knowledge in medical and behavioral health social work
• Prepare for clinical practice as a LCSW in Florida
• Work with a variety of social populations including individuals, families and groups

View an interview with Joseph Herzog, Ph.D., Chair and Professor in the Department of Social Work

Courses and Requirements

UWF’s online social work master’s degree includes a total of 30 or 60 credit hours, including 30 credit hours of clinical coursework. Depending on your previous education, you may qualify for either the traditional or advanced standing MSW options.

Students enrolled in the traditional program (60 hours) must complete the foundation curriculum prior to progressing to the clinical curriculum. Advanced standing (30 hours) students complete the clinical curriculum only.

Foundation Curriculum (30 credit hours)

3 Credit Hours

Human Behavior in the Social Environment

This foundation year class presents a bio-psycho-socio-spiritual and ecosystems framework that introduces students to a macro, mezzo and micro systems perspective. A major focus of the course is on the analysis of diversity within these systems as well as an examination of power and privilege. The person-in-environment framework provides students with an understanding of human adaptation and the various forces that support or impede well-being. Models for understanding human development are introduced. An overview of social functioning throughout the lifecycle within the context of the social environment is covered.

Human Behavior in Communities and Organizations

This foundation year course focuses on human behavior in organizations and communities. The course familiarizes students with the intervention strategies of community organization. Emphasis is placed on the social workerÕs role as change agent and models and strategies for community organizing. Content related to values and ethics of community organization in relation to the client, the organization and the community is covered. Intervention plans are highlighted which focus on planned change efforts and containing strong evaluation plans are utilized in working with human service agencies serving vulnerable populations.

Analysis of Social Service Policy

This course will examine social work as a policy-based profession and how social welfare policy is a central concern to the social work profession. This course also addresses policy practice roles such as planner, administrator, policy analyst and program evaluator. This course will review ways to improve human services delivery systems through the application of problem-solving, critical thinking and other necessary skills.

Generalist Practice I

This is the first in a two-course sequence which covers generalist social work practice. This course covers basic generalist practice skills in the beginning phase of the helping process with individuals and families. Basic communication and interviewing skills essential to the helping relationship are introduced and practiced. Students learn the tasks and skills required in the beginning phase of practice: preparation, engagement, first interviewing skills and case documentation. Students learn the process of collecting relevant social, psychological, cultural, economic and biological data from both individuals and families, as well as the process of organizing and analyzing these data for purposes of problem formulation. Case management as a form of social work is examined, along with historical and contemporary perspectives on the case management process, with a focus on advocacy roles. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on practice skills through the use of interactive exercises and role plays utilizing case examples representative of the client populations with which the students work.

MSW Research Foundations

An introduction to research methodology in the evaluation of social work practice and program evaluation.

Foundation Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar

This course is designed to integrate the foundation curriculum course content and field education experience utilizing a generalist approach. Agency based casework experiences and seminar discussions provide an opportunity to gain professional and peer feedback regarding acquisition of generalist practice skills. Focus will include critical thinking skills regarding the application of social work knowledge to the solution of client problems. Issues related to social work values and ethics, diversity, social and economic justice, populations at risk, HBSE, social welfare policy and services, practice and research are examined within the context of the studentÕs field education experience.

MSW Human Diversity and Social Justice

This course examines the impact of social, economic and political environments on diverse populations specifically race, gender, age, ethnicity, social class, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion and physical and mental abilities. This course integrates the key elements of the social work profession through the lens of social, political and economic justice. It includes the history and philosophical foundations of social welfare, community organization and social action strategies and tactics. Included are effects of cultural and group differences, the results of oppression, economic systems and social policies on social work professional practice.

History, Philosophy and Theory of Social Work Practice*

This course examines the current structure of social welfare programs in the United States, their historical evolution and the role ideological, political, economic and social forces have played in the development of the social welfare system and its present character focusing on social and economic injustice in the United States. Also discusses the impact of social welfare policies on clients, agencies, service delivery and social work practice. Students are provided an overview of the historical development, philosophical orientation, basic values, principles, knowledge base and practice of the profession. The course will examine critical social problems that impact societies with an emphasis on the quest for social justice at local, national and global levels. Various perspectives on social welfare, social work as a profession and many of the core concepts of the profession will be introduced. Content will cover major concepts and perspectives to include issues in poverty, child welfare, criminal justice, health and mental health, values, ethics and working with a diverse and vulnerable population of individuals and families, ethnicity, minorities, women, gays and lesbians, aging and disabled people.

*First semester course requirement for the foundation curriculum.

Concentration Curriculum (30 credit hours)

Evaluation of social work practice.

The second of two required courses in the social work practice in research sequence. This advanced curriculum course builds on the knowledge and skills acquired in the foundation research course. The focus of this course is on the advanced skills necessary to effectively evaluate practice. The course utilizes single subject design and program evaluation techniques that are grounded in the social sciences and social work literature. Particular attention will be paid to the ethical issues of conducting research with oppressed and vulnerable populations. This course is open to students admitted to the MSW program only.

Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar I

Integrates theoretical models and concepts with practical experience gained in concurrent field education. Integrates skills and knowledge acquired through the entire social work curriculum. Material and supply fee will be assessed.

Clinical Practice with Individuals

This course builds on the knowledge base of generalist social work practice and expands and deepens that base. The course emphasizes advanced assessment of clients across the life span, trauma assessment and beginning evaluation of practice skills. Treatment planning with individuals is stressed. Building on the generalist practice base for analyzing and interpreting bio-psycho-socio-spiritual content, interpreting and implementing professional values and ethics and utilizing the professional helping relationship, this course expands and deepens that base by introducing an advanced clinical practice base of clinical community social work. Major contemporary theories of psychotherapy will be introduced, including cognitive-behavioral, experiential, interpersonal and integrative therapies. We will investigate clinical processes as they are informed by psychopathology and developmental issues across the life cycle, as well as institutionalized oppression, poverty, racism, sexism, heterosexism and other inequities. This course is open to students admitted to the MSW program only.

Clinical Practice with Families

Clinical decision-making and advanced clinical interventions by building on a generalist approach to social work practice. Utilizes the clinical community concentration prerequisites to examine normal development and psychopathology as a foundation for advanced practice. Examines specific theories and models of intervention with individuals, families, and groups that can be tailored to client needs. Addresses work with clients across the life cycle with diverse issues. The impact of poverty, racism, sexism, and manifestations of institutionalized oppression upon clients and workers are addressed at an advanced level. Methods of enhancing adaptive functioning and resiliency are emphasized. Students will be expected to demonstrate clinical expertise, an understanding of social work ethics and values, incorporate client preferences, utilize critical thinking skills, and apply empirical evidence to practice decisions. This course is open to students admitted to the MSW program only.

Clinical Practice with Groups

The advanced social work practitioner is required to demonstrate group skills in a variety of practice situations. The focus of this course is on the design and implementation of group treatment services for at risk populations of varying ages, social situations and composition. Students will be afforded the opportunity to develop a clear sense of the scope, uses and skills of group work in the social work profession. This course is open to students admitted to the MSW program only.

Psychopathology for Social Work

This course addresses patterns of human behavior and psychosocial functioning commonly conceptualized as psychopathology. The course addresses such concepts as function, mental health, mental illness, normality and abnormality. Prevalent categories of psychiatric disorders are considered as to their labeling process, differentiating characteristics, explanatory theories and relevance for social work practice. This course is open to students admitted to the MSW program only.

Advanced Year Field Instruction and Integrative Seminar II

This is the second of two advanced master's level field internship and integrative seminars. Assists social work graduate students in integrating theoretical models and concepts with practical experience gained in concurrent field education. Integrates skills and knowledge acquired through the entire social work curriculum. Material and supply fee will be assessed.

Capstone in Advanced Clinical Practice

Capstone course in clinical community social work practice. Student analysis of practice with individuals, families and group through a written and oral presentation of case material. Focus is on refinement of intervention skills relying on field practicum experience for integration of learning. Integration of knowledge from the clinical practice courses and field instruction. Students will prepare and present a case from their internship for oral presentation and demonstrate ability to organize and select appropriate treatment strategies for a specific client, family or group. A broad range of field placements will provide diverse clients and a range of clinical issues. Students are expected to show evidence of critical thinking and self-awareness in written and oral presentations. *Must be last course and taken concurrently with SOW 6536

Credit Hours

Electives in Advanced Clinical Practice (6 Credit Hours)

Clinical curriculum (30 credit hours), admission requirements.

To be considered for admission into UWF’s online MSW program, you must have earned an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum recommended institutional GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on the last 60 hours of coursework in the baccalaureate degree.

Additional requirements for advanced standing applicants

• Must have earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program within the past seven years
• Submit a copy of final field evaluation (only required for advanced standing applicants who received their undergraduate social work degree from an institution other than UWF)

How to Apply

Based on program capacity, application deadlines may be subject to change each semester.

To apply for admission to the Master of Social Work online program, you first need to submit an application for graduate admission (plus a $30 application fee) and be accepted for admission to the University of West Florida. In addition, you must:

• Submit official transcripts confirming a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum undergraduate institutional GPA of 3.0 is recommended
• Submit GRE or MAT scores (waived with undergrad institutional GPA of 3.0 or better)
• Academic preparation as demonstrated by quality and relevance of undergraduate degree major
• Submit a personal statement using the required Social Work Personal Statement Form
• Submit three recommendation forms from individuals familiar with the applicant’s ability to succeed in a graduate program (advanced standing applicants must include one recommendation from a supervisor who provided supervision during their undergraduate field experience)
• Applicants residing outside of a 60 mile radius of campus must submit the contact information for three potential field placement sites
• Submit the MSW Criminal History Form
• Submit a résumé

Have questions about this program or the admissions process? Connect with one of our knowledgeable enrollment counselors.

Costs & Financial Aid

Time to completion for the master’s in social work degree program varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Fees are charged per semester unless otherwise noted. The online MSW takes up to 10 semesters to complete, depending on transfer credits and chosen program option. For a personalized estimate of time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 844.372.9390 or request information .

Refer to UWF  Cost of Attendance Estimates  and  Financial Literacy  for more information on UWF costs and financial aid.

* Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Military Students

UWF proudly serves active duty U.S. military members and veterans. As UWF has been a participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program since 2011, you could be eligible to receive free tuition with your military benefits.

Financial Aid

Funding your college education should not empty your wallet. We offer various financial aid options for our online students, including loans, scholarships and grants for degree-seeking students.

Career Outcomes

Upon completion of our online MSW degree, you can pursue a variety of practice areas within the field including:

* Salary and job information from PayScale.com.

Medical Social Workers

Medical social workers provide patient care to a variety of populations, conducting evaluations and advising clinicians. They also facilitate support services with specialists and other medical professionals as needed. The median annual salary for the position is $59,737.

Clinical Social Workers

Clinical social workers are licensed mental health professionals who can provide psychological counseling, therapy and other services to clients. They also help clients access any services and resources they need, improving quality of life. Clinical social workers earn a median salary of $63,139 per year.

Substance Abuse Counselors

Substance abuse counselors provide therapy and counseling services for individuals who are struggling with alcohol and drug addiction or abuse. They conduct group, family or individual counseling and perform initial evaluations. The median annual salary for this role is $37,500.

Military Social Workers

Military social workers provide comprehensive social work services in a military setting, including working closely with veterans, active duty service members and their families. Military social workers earn a median annual salary of $72,369.

Child, Family or School Social Workers

These social workers support children who may be at risk for mental health or other issues due to circumstances at home or school. They perform assessments and advocate for children and their families, helping them access the resources they need to live healthy lives. The median annual salary for this position is $45,852.

Get started with UWF online

Our websites may use cookies to personalize and enhance your experience. By continuing without changing your cookie settings, you agree to this collection. For more information, please see our University Websites Privacy Notice .

UConn Today

• School and College News
• Arts & Culture
• Community Impact
• Entrepreneurship
• Health & Well-Being
• Research & Discovery
• UConn Health
• University Life
• UConn Voices
• University News

April 9, 2024 | Ziba Kashef

UConn School of Social Work Rises in 2024 U.S. News & World Report Rankings

The UConn School of Social Work (SSW) is ranked at No. 28, which puts the SSW among the top 9% of graduate social work programs in the nation.

Exterior views of the School of Social Work (SSW) with students walking out of the building. Sept. 15, 2022. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)

On April 9, U.S. News & World Report released its national rankings of graduate schools of social work, with the UConn School of Social Work (SSW) ranked at No. 28. That ranking, which is up from No. 36, puts the UConn SSW among the top 9% of graduate social work programs nationally.

With this ranking, the UConn SSW continues to lead graduate social work programs in Connecticut and be a top choice for students across the country.

“The UConn School of Social Work stands strong among graduate social work programs nationwide,” says Dean and Professor Laura Curran. “Building upon more than 75 years of history, we have a growing research portfolio, innovative academic programming, and long-standing partnerships that impact communities locally and globally.”

The U.S. News social work rankings were calculated and published in 2024, based on surveys in fall 2023 and early 2024. Those surveyed included 318 social work programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education Board of Accreditation.

The UConn SSW is the first public university in Connecticut to offer bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. degrees in social work, and its research doctorate is the only public social work Ph.D. program in the region. Areas of distinction include child and adolescent well-being, health and behavioral health, LGBTQ youth and families, aging, policy practice and community organizing, and global social work.

In 2023, the UConn SSW expanded its national footprint by welcoming Innovations Institute , an interdisciplinary, translational research center. The SSW is actively involved in a growing number of interdisciplinary collaborations within the University – including with UConn Health and the Gladstein Family Human Rights Institute – and has extensive collaborations with public and private human service agencies.

Earlier this year, the SSW launched a new fully Online MSW program to provide greater access to aspiring social workers across the state and region.

SSW graduates – more than 8,800 strong – play major roles in planning, administering, and providing social and mental health services in Connecticut, the region, and beyond.

Recent Articles

April 12, 2024

Graduate Education at UConn Soars in New National Rankings

Read the article

April 11, 2024

Metanoia 2024 Kick-Off on Wednesday, April 17

Advancing Approaches to Physical Therapy

• Enroll & Pay
• Prospective Students
• Current Students
• Degree Programs

Associate Director of Practicum Education

Position overview, job description.

• 50% - Manages all aspects of preparation, planning, and placement of students with a practicum site, most of which occurs within the practicum planning software Sonia Online. Provides information about practicum requirements to prospective and enrolled students individually, in small groups, and at orientations. The responsibility includes replacement of students during the academic year when practicum disruptions occur, and replacement is authorized. It also includes counsel and advising students on issues related to field instruction and career opportunities.
• 25% - Develop with the Director of Practicum employment based practicum (EBP) and distance practicum site recruitment and onboarding procedures, including web-based and Sonia Online applications; this includes collaborating with information technology staff, the communications coordinator, and the Practicum Office team to develop and maintain online information and data management relevant to the functions of the Practicum Office. Communicates regularly with practicum sites to maintain up-to-date record of placements available throughout the academic year, and to recruit qualified practicum instructors. Assists the Director of Practicum and Administrative Associate with managing affiliation agreements for EBP and distance practicum sites. Periodic practicum visits (virtual or in-person) to recruit, maintain, and enhance practicum site participation in practicum education are also included.
• 20% - Conducts liaison visits, most virtually; and administers assignments including grading of assignments. Participates in planning orientation programs, workshops, and practicum education events necessary to the goals and functions of the Practicum Office. This includes recruitment of presenters, preparation of presentations, and notices or invitations for these events. May teach and/or assists with the coordination of a social work course outside of practicum in the Fall and or Spring semesters.
• 5% - Initiate and participate in initiatives to enhance opportunities for student stipends.

Required Qualifications

• MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program.
• Minimum of five years post-MSW, full-time social work experience.
• Minimum of three years of experience providing practicum instruction to social work students (BSW and/or MSW levels).
• At least one year of experience working with a planning/programming software database or client case management software.
• At least one year of experience with community outreach activities.
• Experience that includes contributions and engagement in areas of equity and inclusion, as evidenced by resume, supplemental applicant questions, and interview.
• Proficient in relevant software (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Effective written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by resume, supplemental applicant questions, and interview.
• Current social work license or eligibility for social work licensure.

Preferred Qualifications

• Liaison experience.
• Experience with teaching or facilitating training/presentations.
• Work experience within a social work academic context (accredited BSW and/or MSW degree programs).
• Familiarity with the Council on Social Work Education educational policy and accreditation standards pertaining to practicum education.
• Professional experience reviewing/establishing affiliation agreements.
• Professional experience in more than one area of social work practice.

Additional Candidate Instructions

Contact information to applicants, advertised salary range, work schedule, application review begins, anticipated start date, search jobs, posting information.

• Posting ID:  27606BR
• Department:  Social Welfare
• Primary Campus:  Univ of Kansas Edwards Campus
• Assignment:  On-Site
• Reg/Temp:  Regular
• Employee Class:  U-Unclassified Professional Staff
• Review Begins:  01-May-2024

Jobs by Type

• Faculty, Lecturers, and Academic Staff

Other Employment at KU

• KU Dining & Memorial Unions
• Off-Campus Student Employment

Related Links

• Employment Posters
• Human Resources
• Immigration Related Notices
• Civil Rights and Title IX
• KUMC Human Resources

GOBankingRates

10 Jobs That Aren’t Worth Their Education Requirements

Posted: January 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 9, 2024

It's important to determine if a job will be a good fit . It's sometimes clear a role won't be rewarding when you consider salary and education requirements.

GOBankingrates identified 10 Jobs that require significant education or training but may not be rewarding in terms of salary and career prospects. To determine which jobs aren't worth their education requirements, GOBankingRates analyzed data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The study looked at median salary and compared it with education requirements and job outlook. Here are 10 jobs you might want to reconsider .

Grant Cardone: Here's How To Become Rich If You're Earning an Average Salary Also: Ramit Sethi Shares 3 Tips for Becoming Rich on an Average Salary

1. Historian

• Median Salary : $64,540
• Education Required : Master's or PhD
• Concerns : There are limited job opportunities, often in academia or museums, with modest salaries.
• Job outlook : 3% growth

Barbara Corcoran: 'If You Buy a Home Now, It's To Your Advantage'

Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief.

2. Librarian

• Median Salary : $61,660
• Education Required : Master's in Library Science
• Concerns : This is a shrinking job market due to digitization, with relatively low salaries for the level of education.

3. Social Worker

• Median Salary : $55,350
• Education Required : Master's in Social Work
• Concerns : Despite the critical nature of their work, social workers often receive modest salaries.  
• Job outlook : 7% growth

4. Anthropologist

• Median Salary : $63,940
• Education Required : PhD in anthropology
• Concerns : Academic positions are scarce and often don't pay high salaries despite lengthy education.
• Job outlook : 4% growth

5. Academic Researcher

• Median Salary : $60,410
• Education Required: Master's or PhD in a relevant field
• Concerns : This is a highly competitive job market with relatively low pay and unstable positions.
• Job outlook : -4% decline

• Median Salary : $61,810
• Education Required : Bachelor's degree and sometimes a master's degree
• Concerns : Teachers often report salaries that do not align with their education and responsibilities.
• Job outlook : 1% growth

7. Journalist

• Median Salary : $55,960
• Education Required : Bachelor's degree
• Concerns : This is a highly competitive field with declining job opportunities due to changes in technology and media consumption.
• Job outlook : -3% decline

8. Graphic Designer

• Median Salary : $57,990
• Concerns : This is an oversaturated market with many freelancers. It can be challenging to find stable, well-paying positions.

9. Dieticians and Nutritionists

• Median Salary : $66,450 per year
• Education Required : Bachelor's degree and often a master's degree in nutrition or dietetics, along with licensure
• Concerns : Despite their essential role in healthcare and wellness, dietitians and nutritionists do not typically command high salaries, especially in public health or community settings.
•  Job outlook : 7% growth

10. Mental Health Therapist

• Median Salary : $56,570
• Education Required : Master's degree and licensure
• Concerns : While the job is important, it often does not pay a high salary, especially in non-profit or community settings.
• Job Outlook : 15% growth

This list is a general overview and does not apply to everyone in these professions. Many people find these careers fulfilling and successful, and job markets can vary by location and over time.

Methodology: To find 10 jobs that aren't worth their education requirements, GOBankingRates consulted the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook. Each occupation's median annual salary, sourced from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, was compared with education requirements and job outlook. All data is current as of January 22, 2024.

More for You

Emergency Symptoms of a Sinus Infection That Spreads to the Brain

RFK Jr. says he has ruled out Libertarian run for president

Use this 2-word phrase when your boss asks you to do more work than you have time to do, according to a therapist

KFC Is Changing Its Menu—Here’s What to Expect

Founder of Toms shoes went on a men’s retreat with other entrepreneurs to combat his loneliness and depression: ‘I lost a lot of my clear meaning and purpose’

16 Compliments You Didn’t Realize Are Actually Pretty Insulting

Autism May Have 'Unnoticed' Driver, Say Stanford Neuroscientists

This type of supplement may increase heart disease risk, new study finds

How to 'quiet quit,' from a former teacher who did it for 2 years so she could enjoy a better life while still getting a paycheck

Kayla Harrison chokes out Holly Holm to win debut at UFC 300

Keanu Reeves' Ballerina Cameo as John Wick Revealed at CinemaCon Screening

I study people with high emotional intelligence for a living—8 things they never ever do when talking to others

78 Riddles for Adults That Will Test Your Smarts

Sam's Club makes a key move designed to trump Costco

The one food you should try in every state

2025 Toyota 4Runner Is Finally Here and Appears Worth the Wait

Common Blood Pressure Drug Increases Lifespan, Slows Aging in Animals

The best way to answer 'tell me about yourself,' says CEO who's done over 30,000 interviews

Star Trek Origin Movie Confirmed by Paramount, Logline Revealed

New 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' Footage Introduces Jenna Ortega's New Character