Social Worker

One of the most famous Mahatma Gandhi quotes reads, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” No one seems to do this more than social workers. These front-line servants are ready and available to bring about change by assisting the most vulnerable of our population in myriad ways. They are true heroines and heroes who do tireless work behind the scenes to keep our society running smoothly.

Simply put, social workers help people. They are the ultimate problem-solvers. They work with people from every walk of life, including families, parents, kids, adults, and elderly citizens. Social workers predominantly help low-income individuals, but they can help affluent families, as well. For example, hospital social workers help families navigate critical care. Typical places of employment for social workers can include clinics, doctor’s offices, child welfare organizations, adoption agencies, long-term care centers, and government agencies.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2021), employment for social workers is projected to grow 13 percent nationally between 2019 and 2029, which is more than three times the national average of 4 percent for all jobs. Job growth varies based on specialization and place of employment. Child, family, and school social workers will grow at the slowest pace of 12 percent, followed by healthcare social workers at 14 percent and mental health (and substance abuse) social workers at 17 percent.

Social work is an exciting career where professionals can really make a difference. Keep reading to learn about licensing requirements, the best places to earn social work degrees, and typical job duties.

A bachelor’s in social work (BSW) is the most common type of degree earned by those looking to pursue a career as a social worker. Graduates with a BSW can be employed in entry-level positions such as caseworkers, mental health assistants, and or even an activity director.

For those pursuing work as a clinical caseworker, a master’s degree in social work (MSW) is typically required. Specializations for either a bachelor’s or master’s of social work include geriatric, medical, educational, and child and family.

Applicants to BSW programs are required to have completed high school or obtained a GED. Advanced courses, particularly in classes such as psychology, can bolster BSW applications.

MSW programs require applicants to have already completed a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Many MSW programs also look for applicants who have work or internship experience in social work or related fields.

Both BSW and MSW programs typically require test scores (ACT, SAT, GRE), statements of purpose, letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.

Students should ensure the BSW or MSW program they enroll in is accredited. Accreditation ensures that the schools meet or exceed a minimum quality level. It also makes transferring between schools easier.

Top BSW and MSW programs will be, at a minimum, regionally accredited by an agency recognized by the Department of Education’s Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). In addition to regional accreditation, students should look for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Currently, the CSWE has accredited over 500 bachelor’s and 200 master’s programs.

University of Michigan – School of Social Work

The MSW at the University of Michigan School of Social Work is ranked number 1 in the country by US News & World Report (2021). This outstanding program offers students the flexibility to take courses part-time or even in the evenings and on the weekends, allowing them to balance work, family, and school.

With seven concentrations (family welfare, counseling, community change, policy and politics, applied research, older adults, and leadership), students have the opportunity to personalize their education to their career goals. Prospective students who have work experience or a BSW can choose an accelerated program and complete their degree in as little as a year. There is even an option to complete 27 months of work with the Peace Corps as part of the program.

• Location: Ann Arbor, MI
• Duration: One to two years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $24,099 per semester

University of Chicago – School of Social Service Administration

The University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration offers a unique master’s of arts in social work and social welfare instead of a traditional MSW. This interdisciplinary degree gives students a comprehensive education while providing training to be effective social workers. The program frames individual distress in a societal context and teaches students the best way to address both issues.

During their first year, students learn the three main methods of social intervention: direct, policy, and research. For their second year, students choose either a clinical concentration and engage clients through fieldwork, or a concentration on social work administration, where they learn how to use policy to enact change.

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $16,578 per quarter

Fresno State – College of Health and Human Services

Students who are looking for a general social worker education should consider the bachelor of arts in social work at Fresno State College of Health and Human Services. This on-campus four-year program aims to prepare its graduates with the skills necessary to find entry-level work as social workers.

During their senior year, students will complete a 450 internship. Many students choose to complete their internship at community programs that benefit local individuals and families. The cohort model featured in this program has students complete the last two years of school together, facilitating peer support. Due to the popularity of this program, students must enter the program their freshman year or as direct transfer students. Students already attending Fresno State may not switch to this major.

• Location: Fresno, CA
• Duration: Four years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $18,469 per year

Alabama A&M University

There are so many options for students completing a master’s of social work at Alabama A&M University. There is an advanced standing track for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree in social work and a standard track for those who haven’t. Additionally, there is a part-time option for students who have other obligations but want to earn an advanced degree. Also, there are two concentration options in either family and child welfare and community mental health. Lastly, students can complete their studies on the main campus or at Lawson State Community College.

• Location: Normal, AL
• Duration: As little as two years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $840 per credit

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee – Helen Bader School of Social Welfare

Trauma-informed care is at the center of the master’s of social work at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Helen Bader School of Social Welfare. This theory of counseling prioritizes traumatic events and helps patients process them in a safe way to be able to move on with their lives.

Electives are an essential part of this program that allow students to tailor their education to their interests. Options for electives include behavioral and mental health, child and family well-being, clinical social work, gerontology, physical health, school social work, and substance abuse counseling.

• Location: Milwaukee, WI
• Duration: One to two years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $1,928 per credit

Columbia University – School of Social Work

Since 1898, the Columbia University School of Social Work has been training students to help others. With rigorous coursework emphasizing social justice and 1,200 required fieldwork hours, it is no wonder this program is ranked third best in the nation by US News & World Report. Students can complete this program online allowing them to balance work, life, and studies.

With seven programs to choose from, ranging from accelerated to part-time studies and everything in between, students can choose the path that best fits their lives. There are also four concentrations, seven methods of practice, nine dual degree programs, and six minor options allowing students to customize their studies to their interests and career goals.

• Location: New York, NY
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $1,626 per credit

University of Southern California – Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work

In 12 months or more, students can earn an MSW from the University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. With a focus on collaboration and small seminar-style classes utilizing online learning tools, students can complete the same curriculum offered on-campus completely online. Fieldwork is completed in the student’s own community allowing them to stay local while still meeting their education requirements.

During the first term, students all take the same four courses. Beginning in the second term and continuing through graduation, students chose to complete their studies, research, and fieldwork in one of three departments. Additionally, there are two program tracks and a myriad of electives allowing students to tailor their studies.

• Location: Los Angeles, CA
• Duration: One to two years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $1,928 per credit

University of Oklahoma – Anne and Henry Zarrow School of Social Work

In just 15 months, students who already have a bachelor’s degree in social work can complete a master’s of social work at the University of Oklahoma Anne and Henry Zarrow School of Social Work. Those with undergraduate degrees in a different field will need to complete additional coursework, which takes approximately two years total. With courses offered entirely online, students can take advantage of this program’s flexibility to continue working or raise a family.

Coursework all students must complete include client-centered direct practice and macro systems in practice. Each semester students have the opportunity to take an elective, allowing them to customize their education to their interests. All students must also complete an intensive practicum.

• Location: Norman, OK
• Duration: 15 months or more
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $625 per credit

Arizona State University – Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions

In just two years of online classes, students can earn a master’s of social work through Arizona State University Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions. The online program features a generalist concentration which provides students with well-rounded social work training and the skills to work with groups, individuals, and families in community settings.

Part-time study options are available, but it will take longer to complete the degree. A core tenet of this program is in promoting social justice and is woven into all aspects of the curriculum.

In order to complete this degree, students must complete two 480-hour internships. The internships must take place at different sites and ideally with a different population. The Education Office helps students find suitable internship placements, particularly if they are not near campus. This program meets the requirements for licensure as a social worker in most states.

• Location: Phoenix, AZ
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $6,791 per semester

University of North Dakota – College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines

There are so many options with the online bachelor’s of science in social work from the University of North Dakota College of Nursing & Professional Disciplines. Graduates can work as entry-level social workers or an optional minor in chemical dependency to work as addiction counselors. There is also a gerontology minor that is perfect for students who want to work with older adults.

Options for this program include completing it as a first degree, transferring in to finish a degree, or completing it as a second degree. Admission to this program is competitive. Quality of submitted essays, high school GPA, extracurricular activities, and volunteer experience are all taken into consideration when making an admissions decision.

• Location: Grand Forks, ND
• Duration: Four years
• Accreditation: Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
• Tuition: $447.13 per credit

It can take as little as four years of postsecondary study to become a social worker. However, becoming a clinical social worker can take one to three more years, depending on the course of study and required supervised experience.

Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED (Four Years)

Obtaining a high school diploma or a GED is the first step towards becoming a social worker as nearly all bachelor’s and associate programs require it. Aspiring social workers can begin interning in high school to gain work experience and bolster college applications. Politicians’ offices, hospitals, care centers, and the YMCA are typical places high schoolers can intern.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (Four Years)

Most students who pursue a career in social work earn a bachelor of social work (BSW). This degree typically takes four years to complete and prepares students to help, advocate for, and educate those who need help.

However, not all social workers earn a BSW but rather in a related field such as psychology or sociology. Employers and master’s programs also highly value internships and work experience while completing a bachelor’s.

Step 3: Obtain Entry-Level Work Experience (Optional, Timeline Varies)

Those who have completed a BSW can find work in a variety of settings, including clinics, political offices, hospitals, government agencies, child protective services, and long-term care facilities. Entry-level work experience will enable professionals to move up the ranks in their chosen field or prepare them for further studies.

Step 4: Complete a Master’s Degree (Optional, One to Three Years)

An MSW opens up a wide variety of social work careers including becoming a licensed clinical social worker. These programs typically take between one to three years to complete and include a clinical rotation component where students gain valuable hands-on experience.

Step 5: Acquire Supervised Experience (Two to Three Years)

In order to become a licensed clinical social worker, it is necessary to have earned a set number of supervised work experience hours. This number varies by state and often is divided between face-to-face client hours and supervision hours. Typically the total hours required vary between 1,500 to 4,000. In some states, it is a minimum number of months employed post-graduation.

Step 6: Obtain Licensure (Optional, Timeline Varies)

Once the required number of clinical work experience hours has been completed, prospective licensed clinical social workers can apply to their state board for licensure. Requirements vary by state but often include testing in addition to verification of education and work experience hours. As requirements vary widely it is important to be familiar with state requirements when pursuing education, work experience, and licensure.

See the certification and licensure section below for more information.

Social workers are essential to the well-being of a community. They are employed by hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, nonprofits, and government agencies to help people and communities solve problems. Typical duties of a social worker include:

• Meeting with clients one on one to assess their needs
• Helping clients determine what their goals are
• Establishing a plan to assist clients in reaching their goals
• Providing outreach to communities where it may be difficult to access resources
• Advocating on behalf of clients for services or policy changes
• Maintaining confidential client records
• Referring to other community services that may help the client
• Responding to crisis situations in a calm manner
• Assisting with an array of family issues, including child abuse, adoption, divorce, domestic violence, or terminal illness.

Prospective licensed social workers must first apply for candidacy from their state. They then receive authorization to take the state-authorized exam or the appropriate test from the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB).

Upon passing the test, applicants must submit any additional required documentation to their state board such as proof of clinical supervision hours and length of work experience, if required. All states require clinical social workers to be licensed but requirements vary from state to state for those who hold bachelor’s or associate degrees.

The most common licenses available are licensed clinical social worker, certified social work associate, licensed master’s social worker, and registered baccalaureate social worker. The intermediary license of “clinical social work associate” is often used for clinical social workers who are working on completing their supervised work experience.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2020), there are four main categorizations of social workers. Here are their detailed salary percentiles, averages, and the numbers employed across the US:

Child, family, and school social workers (328,120 employed, $52,370 average annual salary)

• 10th percentile: $32,300
• 25th percentile: $38,350
• 50th percentile (median): $48,430
• 75th percentile: $62,080
• 90th percentile: $80,290

Healthcare social workers (176,110 employed, $60,470 average annual salary)

• 10th percentile: $36,110
• 25th percentile: $45,280
• 50th percentile (median): $57,630
• 75th percentile: $72,120
• 90th percentile: $87,150

Mental health and substance abuse social workers (116,780 employed, $54,540 average annual salary)

• 10th percentile: $30,770
• 25th percentile: $37,220
• 50th percentile (median): $48,720
• 75th percentile: $65,210
• 90th percentile: $87,420

Social workers, other (60,390 employed, $64,940 average annual salary)

• 10th percentile: $36,070
• 25th percentile: $45,130
• 50th percentile (median): $64,210
• 75th percentile: $83,200
• 90th percentile: $96,140

Here are a few alternatives to a career as a social worker.

Become a Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Similar to social workers, licensed mental health counselors work directly with clients. The primary difference between the two careers lies in the fact that licensed mental health counselors focus primarily on therapy versus social workers who provide additional services such as connecting to community resources.

• Typical Education: Master’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)

Become an Addiction Specialist

Addiction specialists work with clients who have addiction and mental health issues. They provide a variety of services, including individual and group therapy, educating patients or family members, helping clients access services, and collaborating with other health care providers. Addiction comes in many forms and can include food, gambling, drubs, or alcohol.

• Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC)

Become an Applied Behavior Analyst

Individuals with autism often receive a type of therapy called applied behavior analysis. This therapy is administered by applied behavior analysts to help clients change their behavior. This type of therapy can also be used with individuals with disabilities, brain injuries, or addictions.

• Typical Education: Master’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)

Kimmy Gustafson

Writer

At HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.

Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.