By Steve Bailey Last Updated: May 15, 2020 While some nonprofits allow workers without a college degree to provide limited support services to individuals and families, virtually all social workers must possess at least an undergraduate degree and a license to practice. Many social workers go on to secure a master's degree, which significantly increases their potential for career
growth and higher pay. Although professionals have delivered social work in some form for hundreds of years, Columbia University offered the nation's first course dedicated to the field in 1898. This sparked what many consider the birth of modern social work. During the 20th century,
states began requiring social workers to secure college degrees and demonstrate their competence through licensing processes. The National Association of Social Workers sets most of the field's standards, credentials, and continuing education requirements for licensure. While you can still provide social work-like services without a
college degree, you need at least a bachelor's degree to practice with a license. Some social work jobs require only a bachelor of social work (BSW) degree, but most call for a candidate to possess a master of social work (MSW) degree — especially for positions involving direct service to individuals and families. Earning an MSW degree also provides greater job mobility and salary growth opportunities while allowing
professionals to deliver the best possible counsel to their clients. Earning a BSW typically requires four years of coursework, along with at least 400 hours of supervised field experience in most programs. The curriculum focuses on basic social work theories and practices, such as program planning, shaping policy, and delivering support services to individuals and families. Graduates may seek a licensed bachelor of social work (LBSW) certification
by passing the Association of Social Work Board's bachelor's exam. BSW degree-holders often serve as case management aides, probation officers, benefits eligibility workers, human services specialists, and community outreach coordinators. These entry-level jobs can pay $30,000-$50,000 per year, depending on the
location. Before entering an MSW program, each student must first secure a BSW degree from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution. The master's degree usually takes 1-2 years to complete, and most programs require students to engage in at least 1,000 hours of community-based field experience. Graduates of MSW programs pursue licensed master of social work (LMSW) and licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) credentials. Licensure allows
professionals to work directly with children, adults, and families to provide need-based support services. MSW degree-holders commonly serve as community service managers, school social workers, and social work administrators. They generally earn $50,000-$80,000 per year. Last Updated: May 08, 2020 By SocialWorkLicensure.org There is no better time than now to become a social worker. Social workers help people solve or cope with everyday problems and address a variety of social issues through a wide range of generalist and advanced social work skills and techniques. Whether you want to work with children in public schools, with elderly individuals in care facilities, or in various healthcare branches, the field of social work provides several fulfilling employment opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% employment growth for social workers between 2018 and 2028, much faster than the 5% projected growth rate for the economy as a whole. This projected growth is partially attributable to the continuing demand for social workers who specialize in working with children and families. Moreover, the increase in healthcare facilities around the country has stoked demand for social workers to assist aging populations, mental health patients, and substance abuse patients. Covered in This Article
What Does a Social Worker Do?It is helpful to think of the various responsibilities social workers have. All social workers deliver specialized care, helping individual patients address a particular challenge or obstacle in their lives. At the macro level, social workers may also institute large-scale organizational change. Typical day-to-day social work duties include identifying, evaluating, and addressing client needs in individual, group, and community settings. Client care often involves helping people cope with daily challenges, and many social workers work with mental health specialists, such as counselors and psychologists. School social workers often collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to improve students' academic performance and support their social development. Healthcare and mental health social workers find employment in hospitals, clinics, and clients' homes. Social work careers often center on helping clients transition from care facilities back to their daily lives. Bachelor's Degree in Social WorkA bachelor's degree in social work is the field's minimum credential. Social work bachelor's programs provide a comprehensive overview of the field. Students typically learn about case management, community and program organization, and utilizing community resources. Undergraduate social work students acquire essential skills for client advocacy, crisis response, and treatment design. Students who earn an online bachelor's degree in social work often focus on one area of specialization. Commonly offered specialties include child and family services, geriatrics, hospice, and school social work. Many states require social workers to hold a master's degree in social work(MSW), so it is important to determine your state's licensing requirements when choosing an online bachelor's degree in social work. That said, some social workers may practice without licensure. After completing an on-campus or online bachelor's degree in social work, graduates find employment in school settings, child and family case management, mental health, and substance abuse recovery. Featured Online ProgramsMaster's Degree in Social WorkEarning a master's degree in social work helps students develop specialized skills within their area of expertise. The specializations available in many master's programs are comparable to those in bachelor's programs. Master's seekers may specialize in children, youth, and families; mental health; hospice; or aging adults. Master's degree programs focus on advanced practical skills while reinforcing knowledge obtained during undergraduate studies. In most cases, students who enter a master's program without a bachelor's degree in social work must complete additional coursework. Students earning a master's degree in social work typically take courses related to social welfare policy, human behavior and the social environment, social work practice with groups and families, and psychopathology. Some traditional and online social work degrees require students to complete fieldwork or a clinical practicum. An online social work master's degree prepares graduate students to work in many healthcare positions. Healthcare social workers are active in hospitals and clinics, helping patients access specialized care, treatment resources, and decision-making support. Clinical mental health counseling positions also require a master's degree. Specialty certifications in clinical, healthcare, and school social work are reserved for master's holders. Accreditation for Social Work DegreesIt is important for students to earn an accredited social work degree online. Accreditation demonstrates that a given school or degree program meets established standards in quality and rigor. Schools may be regionally or nationally accredited. Regional accreditation is the academic gold standard, as it involves a more rigorous evaluation process. Regionally accredited schools typically offer academically oriented programs. Typically, these institutions only accept transfer credits from other regionally accredited schools.
Nationally accredited schools are often more career-focused. They usually offer fewer areas of study. It is difficult to transfer credits from a nationally accredited school to a regionally accredited institution. Students seeking an online social work degree should select a school with regional and programmatic accreditation. The Council for Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits social worker preparation programs. Most states require social work licensure candidates to possess a CSWE-accredited degree. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation maintains a directory of accredited schools and recognized accrediting bodies. How Long Does It Take to Become a Social Worker?Earning an online social work degree typically requires 120 credits and four years of full-time study. Full-time students can expect to spend two additional years earning a master's. Social work graduates may also spend additional time preparing for and passing a licensure exam. Additional factors that may extend a student's time in school include enrollment status, fieldwork or practicum requirements, and program structure.
In individually paced courses, distance learners fulfill course requirements at their own pace and maintain minimal interaction with their instructors. In cohorts, students will take classes in a prescribed sequence with a designated set of classmates. How to Become a Social Worker: Earn Your LicenseLicensure requirements vary by state, but all clinical social workers and most master's-level social workers must be licensed regardless of location. Many states prefer bachelor's holders to obtain licensure as well. Licensure titles differ between states and can indicate different practice types. The licensed social worker (LSW) is a common designation which can signal baccalaureate or master's-level credentials. The highest-level practitioners typically receive the title of independent, clinical, or independent clinical social worker. Licensure candidates must submit an application and take a standardized exam, which typically costs approximately $300, including registration fees. In most states, social workers must renew their license every two years. How to Find a Career in Social WorkAspiring social workers may access state-specific employment information, online communities that connect social workers to current events, and international organizations that serve vulnerable populations. Online professional communities connect social workers to career resources, job boards, and networking opportunities. Offline resources may include local colleges, universities, medical facilities, and social service organizations. A phone call or email may be enough for degree seekers to secure a meeting with an experienced practitioner. Social work experts can provide critical insight on students' career goals and professional trajectory. Students earning a social work degree online may locate career information through news platforms and social media -- especially Twitter, Facebook, and social work blogs. Distance learners may also consult the organizations listed below. Common Types of Social WorkersProgram DirectorProgram directors for nonprofit organizations secure funding. They must be wise planners and strategic spenders. Program directors oversee client needs, coordinate with other companies, and supervise organization managers, coordinators, and staff. Entry Level Salary $56,029 Degree Level and License Requirement Bachelor's, optional School Social WorkerSchool social workers typically work with elementary and secondary school students. They assess social, psychological, and external factors that affect children's scholastic and social progress. They ensure that students receive necessary support, sometimes from outside organizations. They may also work with and counsel parents. Entry Level Salary $48,908 Degree Level and License Requirement Bachelor's, LSW recommended Medical Social WorkerSocial workers help patients and their families address daily and prolonged ailments. They often work with patients to ease their transition from a healthcare facility back to their regular routines. They may also help patients adjust to new lifestyles, medications, and treatments. Some social workers organize educational outreach and support groups within their communities. Entry Level Salary $50,470 Degree Level and License Requirement Master's, LSW Case ManagerCase manager clients include sick or elderly patients, individuals struggling with substance abuse, and former convicts transitioning back to the workforce. Case managers help clients improve their quality of life. They may create treatment plans, locate support groups, and help clients access employment resources. Case managers are typically excellent communicators with strong time management and organizational skills. Entry Level Salary $40,503 Degree Level and License Requirement High school diploma/associate's, optional Licensed Clinical Social WorkerThese healthcare professionals provide counseling and therapy services. They may work in rehabilitation centers or private practices. Maintaining a large network of healthcare contacts helps clinical social workers provide informed and personalized care to clients navigating the path to recovery. Entry Level Salary $50,470 Degree Level and License Requirement Master's, LCSW Social Services DirectorThese directors oversee social services staff, organizational projects, and client admissions and transfers. They integrate care strategies for residents, implement treatment plans, and maintain records of facility operations. Many are skilled financial planners who have previous management experience. Entry Level Salary $54,902 Degree Level and License Requirement Bachelor's, optional Child and Family Social WorkerThese social workers help clients cope with problems in their daily lives. They work with children and families, as well as in school systems. Some choose a healthcare-focused career path, working in clinics or hospitals. Clinically licensed social workers may focus on mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. Entry Level Salary $50,470 Degree Level and License Requirement Bachelor's, master's (clinical), LSW Mental Health TherapistThese professionals work in various healthcare fields. Mental health therapists include clinical psychologists, family and school therapists, and clinical social workers. These professionals use psychoanalysis and cognitive behavioral therapy to help patients address mental health challenges. They may work within an organization or maintain a private practice. Entry Level Salary $42,840 Degree Level and License Requirement Master's, LSW Social Work Career Resources
What is the easiest social work job?5 Easy Entry-Level Social Work Jobs. Group Home Workers.. Substance Abuse Counselors.. Community Social Workers.. Healthcare Social Workers.. Case Managers.. How do I get started as a social worker?Complete a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or a Related Field. ... . Pursue a Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) or MSW-Equivalent Program. ... . Complete Fieldwork Hour Requirements. ... . Complete the ASWB Examination. ... . Apply for State Social Work Licensure. ... . Choose a Social Work Career. ... . Advance Your Practice Through Continued Learning.. What qualifications do you need to be a social?To get onto a social work degree course you usually need two or three A levels, along with five GCSEs (grades 4-9/A-C), including English and maths. Or you could have alternative qualifications, including: BTEC, HND or HNC. relevant NVQ.
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How to become a social worker without qualifications
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