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Help people get through their difficult situations. Provide resources to help them, come up with a plan to help them reach their goal.

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$82,496 as of April 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $76,929 and $91,644.
Depends on skills, location, education, years of experience, and more

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Licensed Clinical Social Worker Salary in California | Salary.com

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The Licensed Clinical Social Worker role earned an average salary of $82,496 in California in 2022. Get a salary report by industry, company size, and skills.

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work in many fields
new experiences every day
grow in character
value own life more
interesting
take on lots of responsibility
make a nice career out of it
do something for others
give you meaning in life
never a dull moment
strong job satisfaction
secure job opportunity

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32 Key Pros & Cons Of Being A Social Worker - E&C

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You want to become a social worker? Great! I show you all the pros and cons of being a social worker in this article.

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can't unplug from work
see the worst of people
not always safe
often in unknown situations
difficulty dealing with all the responsibility
not making a fortune
challenging people to work with
expect the worst while hoping for the best
can get sued
can't help everyone
bureaucracy can be a problem
need a flexible schedule- work in unexpected times
long hours
hard when people don't want your help
may need a license

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32 Key Pros & Cons Of Being A Social Worker - E&C

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You want to become a social worker? Great! I show you all the pros and cons of being a social worker in this article.

# data[].attributes.body
Growing field
May have student loan forgiven
Variety of opportunities
Room to grow
Make a difference
Apply core values to work

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Often, when we think of social workers, we think of givers. Social workers strive tirelessly to help others, and you might be wondering what they get out of all this effort for themselves. As it turns out, there are a lot of great reasons to go into this field, and as many social workers will tell you, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Here are just some of the benefits of pursuing an exciting and fulfilling career in social work.

1. It's a Growing Field

The field of social work is expanding rapidly. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that demand for social workers will increase by 16 percent by 2026, which is faster than for other occupations. ¹ That translates to about 110,000 new jobs in the next decade. ¹ And with a wide range of job options, it's likely that you'll be able to find meaningful work in this field.

The pay for social workers isn't terrible, either. The median salary for a social worker with a Master of Social Work (MSW) is $61,592 per year, ² a number that rises to $66,749 for a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). ³

2. You May Have Your Student Loans Forgiven

One of the benefits of becoming a social worker is that depending on the position, professionals may qualify to have some or most of their student loans forgiven. As part of the College Cost Reduction Act of 2007, if you work in public service (which includes both nonprofit and government jobs) full time for 10 years and make payments on your loans, you can apply to have the remaining balance discharged. You may also qualify to have up to $50,000 of your student loans repaid if you work for two years in a community-based site in a high-need designated Health Professional Shortage Area as part of the National Health Service Corps loan repayment program. ⁴ Some other employers may also provide loan repayment or assistance programs as well to help defray the cost of your education.

3. You Have a Variety of Opportunities

While you may assume that social workers only work in social services agencies run by the government, that is not the case. There is a wide range of opportunities and workplaces for social workers. You can find jobs in schools, hospitals, health centers, nonprofit and advocacy agencies, churches and even businesses, such as insurance companies and law firms. And the types of positions vary as well: You could be involved in direct client care, serve in a supervisory role, or focus on policy development, advocacy, grant writing or other aspects of the field. In short, there is no single definition of social work, and you can find a role that interests you and fits your skills and talents.

4. There is Room to Grow

Once you get your foot in the door of the social work field, you have a great deal of potential for growth, especially if you continue your education and earn an MSW degree. The more education you have, the more positions you will qualify for, including supervisory roles. Depending on their credentials, some social workers may also end up going into private practice.

5. You Can Make a Difference

You can't have a discussion about the benefits of a career in social work without addressing the fact that working in the field allows you to make a difference in the lives of individuals and provide a tangible benefit to society.

Many people want to make the world a better place, but aren't sure where to start or what to do. As a social worker, you are in a position to solve specific problems and help others, and there is a good chance that you will end up being the person that changes someone else's life. While it is a lot of hard work and change doesn't always happen quickly, just knowing that your work is meaningful to others can help provide you with a purpose and personal fulfillment.

6. You Can Apply Your Core Values to Your Work

Many social workers enter the profession because its core principles align with their own values and priorities. In fact, many social workers were inspired by their own experiences, which spurred a desire to help others and advocate for the support and services that they themselves didn't have. Yet even if you don't have your own challenges to draw upon, working as a social worker allows you to live out the values of equality, justice, fairness, respect, dignity and the right of everyone to health and well-being. If these values align with yours, then consider becoming a social worker.

Social work has a number of benefits for those who commit to it. If you have been thinking about a career in this field, now is a great time to get started and begin making a difference in your community. Contact Yeshiva University today to find out even more about the benefits of pursuing an online Master of Social Work degree.

¹ Retrieved on February 21, 2018, from bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-workers.htm
² Retrieved on February 21, 2018, from www1.salary.com/Social-Worker-MSW-Salary.html
³ Retrieved on February 21, 2018, from www1.salary.com/Licensed-Clinical-Social-Worker-salary.html
⁴ Retrieved on February 21, 2018, from socialworkers.org/Advocacy/Policy-Issues/Student-Loan-Forgiveness

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The Top 6 Benefits of Becoming a Social Worker

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Often, when we think of social workers, we think of givers. Social workers strive tirelessly to help others, and you might be wondering what they get out of all this effort for themselves. As it turns out, there are a lot of great reasons to go into this field, and as many social workers will tell you, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.

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Need formal education
Have to pay for education
License
Heavy workload
Long hours
Need to be on call
Possible dangerous situations
Faced with the worst of humanity
May suffer compassion fatigue
Not always able to intervene during situations
Lots of paperwork that needs to be completed
Hard to unplug from work
Work with difficult people

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Written By: Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN

Do you enjoy helping people? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Are you looking for an exciting career that will allow you to work with diverse populations and all age groups? If so, then a career as a social worker might be the perfect fit for you, but do you know what are the pros and cons of being a social worker? The social work profession is a noble one. It can be difficult, but it's also rewarding. Social workers are dedicated to improving the lives of people with mental health issues, substance abuse problems, and other challenges that affect their quality of life, which in return will enhance society as a whole. Below you will find the top 13 pros and cons of being a social worker to help you decide if this is the right career path for you.

What is a Social Worker?

A Social worker is a person who works with people and communities to help them function better in everyday life. They sometimes work directly with individuals, but more commonly, they work within organizations such as health care or social service facilities, schools, universities, police departments, correctional facilities, community centers, and other settings. Their aim is usually to improve the quality of life for their clients by working to change the social conditions which affect their clients' ability to function in society. Social workers develop social welfare policies and create, implement, and evaluate various programs related to the delivery of social work. They are responsible for administering client services on behalf of their organization while also managing the administrative aspects of these services (e.g., budgets, personnel issues). They may offer counseling or psychotherapy to individuals or groups in need.

You will find social workers working in all kinds of settings. For example, children are provided with social workers in schools, the elderly are helped by home care social workers, and mental health patients may receive counseling from psychiatric social workers. Other places you may find them working are in the inpatient units of the hospitals and in the outpatient units. Social workers can also volunteer to work for organizations such as Planned Parenthood and Volunteers of America.

TOP CONS OF BEING A SOCIAL WORKER

(The following are the top 13 disadvantages of being a Social Worker.)

1. You will need to have a formal education

In order to become a social worker, you will first have to earn a four-year college degree known as a bachelor's degree. Most people who embark on this path of going to college for four years will receive a bachelor's degree in social work or something related such as psychology, sociology, public administration, or child development. You will need to ensure that the Bachelor's in social work program you choose to attend is accredited by the Association of Social Work Boards ( ASWB). Four years of your life is a long time to dedicate to any endeavor in your life. That is also four years that you potentially may not be earning an income. This sounds a bit risky to me. If you choose to further your education, you will then need to earn a Master's degree in social work. This will require an additional two years of education. It will also require an additional amount of your time and money.

2. You will have to pay for your formal education.

Becoming a social worker will require that you earn a bachelor's degree as we have discussed, but do you have any idea how much that is going to cost you? If you're like most people, then probably not. One of the top disadvantages of being a social worker is how much the degree will cost you to earn when all is said and done. The average tuition cost of attending a program to earn your bachelor's degree to become a social worker will run anywhere between $40,000 to $150,000. Let's also not forget your cost of living and other additional expenses. That is pretty pricey, in my opinion. So, if you do not have a disposable income, it seems like you may land yourself in some debt.

3. You may need a license to practice as a social worker.

In order to work as a social worker, you will need a license from the state. Although some states do not require licensure, it is still a good idea to have a social worker license, as it shows that you have the right degree and education for the job. The process of getting your social worker license can take a reasonable amount of time. Most states require you to get a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, such as sociology or psychology first. Many states also require at least two years of social work experience under the supervision of a licensed social worker. This means that you will need time to complete college and get clinical practice before you can be licensed. One of the disadvantages of being a social worker is that some licenses require you to pass two tests: the first is for the Licensed Master Social Worker Exam ( LMSW) and the second for your specialty areas, such as school social worker or clinical social worker.

4. You may have a heavy workload.

It's no secret that being a social worker is a tough job. Heavy workloads are to be expected for social workers because there is so much going on all at once. There's no end to the heavy workload that social workers often face because cases are constantly changing and piling up. Even though you're working hard, there will always be more work coming your way.

5. You may have long hours.

When weighing the pros and cons of being a social worker you will need to decide if you will have the stamina for the long hours that may come along with the job. As a social worker, your workday and caseload may require long hours of your time each day. You will have a busy day with little breaks. These extended hours of your day will be spent meeting with clients, attending meetings, conducting research on issues in the community, or completing forms and reports to keep up with necessary documentation. All of the time you will need to dedicate to these tasks means spending less time with family and friends. You may end up missing some pretty important events due to work.

6. You may need to be on call.

One of the disadvantages of being a social worker is that you may be expected to be on call. "On-call" means that you are required to be available by phone at any time of the day or night. Often, this is expected even if you are on vacation or out for an evening together with friends and family. On-call is seen by many social workers as a requirement that does not really give you any extra pay. You may even feel it takes away from your personal life and time to do more fun things.

7. You may be in dangerous situations at times.

One of the biggest disadvantages of being a social worker is that you may find yourself in some pretty dangerous situations from time to time. Not only are you exposed to the most vulnerable members of our society, but you also have to deal with some pretty difficult people. Some clients may be so upset that they can become pretty violent, even threatening your life if you don't do exactly what they want. There is a real danger that the person you are trying to help might harm you instead.

8. You will be faced with the worst of humanity.

One of the biggest cons of being a social worker is that you will be working with some of the worst that humanity has to offer. You will struggle to find any kind of enjoyment when every day is another round of dealing with the mentally ill or criminals. You will face people who have little-to-no regard for your well-being, and you will likely develop a few less than savory coping mechanisms to get by. The job may change you as a person.

9. You may suffer from compassion fatigue.

As a social worker, you may end up suffering from compassion fatigue. This is often the case if you have been practicing for a long time or have worked with exceptional circumstances. It may be draining and very frustrating. Compassion fatigue is often described as a state of physical, emotional, and also mental exhaustion. It can lead to the person not wanting to deal with any more cases or people suffering; they may find it very difficult to continue their work. The most common cause of compassion fatigue is long-term exposure to traumatic events like violence. So, all of your hard work and money spent will be down the drain.

10. You may be unable to intervene in certain situations.

In certain situations that you may find yourself in, you may not intervene for various reasons. Being unable to intervene may be a stressful and sometimes sad reality for some social workers. In certain situations, you may find that the legal system may prevent you from interfering the way you feel you should. There is a more serious side to this too, and that's the idea of not being able to help someone who really needs it. In certain situations where laws may be broken and harm may be done, you will not be able to intervene as a social worker. This can lead you to feel pretty horrible.

11. You will have a ton of paperwork to complete

As a social worker, you will be required to complete an extensive amount of paperwork. All of these pieces of paper are extremely important to the success of your work. The paperwork is required by law since you are entering people's lives and changing their welfare status in some way. This paperwork will need a reasonable amount of time and energy on your part. Do you think you will have enough time in the day to accomplish all of your personal and work tasks?

12. You may find it difficult to unplug from your work

Social workers may find it hard to unplug from work. Your day may repeat in your head over and over again. Social workers leave their workplace with their work, and sometimes they may bring it home to unload or think about it more. They also have to ensure service users receive the help they need during the day, so checking up on their clients is a big part of their job. This might mean checking phone calls and texts from other team members, other workers, and work emails or online chat. As a social worker, you may be used to being available at all hours.

13. You may have to work with difficult people

As a social worker, you may find that you have to deal with some challenging people. This can make your work very difficult. Some of these problematic people may include clients who are abusive, aggressive, or confrontational. Other difficult people you may encounter throughout your day will come in the form of colleagues. So, if you are not somebody who can grin and bear it, well, this may not be the line of work for you. So, when evaluating the pros and cons of being a social worker, you will need to figure out if you can play nice in the sandbox with all the personalities you will come across. Unfortunately, getting along with others will be part of the job.

TOP PROS OF BEING A SOCIAL WORKER

(The following are the top 13 advantages of being a Social Worker.)

1. You can earn your degree online.

One of the advantages of being a social worker is that you can earn your education online. Many benefits come with achieving your education through an online school, such as working at home and getting a degree faster. You will find that it is easier to have full-time employment while attending classes through an online program. Online programs are often very flexible with different deadlines, times, and learning techniques. You will also be able to balance life and work with online school more easily.

2. You can make a pretty good living.

As a social worker, you can expect to earn a comfortable income, which will increase as you gain experience and succeed in your career. According to the Bureau of labor statistics, the median annual earnings of social workers are $51,760 per year. The highest 10% of earners can expect to earn $85,820 per year. Having a good and steady income is one of the most significant benefits of becoming a social worker. Think about all the finer things in life that this type of career can afford you.

3. You will be in demand.

Social work is an in-demand career that will never go out of style. The employment need for a social worker is expected to grow faster than the average occupation. And, it is one of the most flexible careers today. According to the Bureau of labor statistics, the job outlook for social workers is expected to increase by 12 percent from 2020 to 2030. This increase is faster than the average and is one of the top pros of being a social worker.

4. You can work in various settings.

One of the biggest perks of being a social worker is the various places you could work in. This is an extremely versatile career. Depending on your experience, interests, and personality, any one of these settings will be an excellent start for you. As a social worker, you can work with children and youth: foster parents who need help raising their kids, child protective services workers trying to stop abuse or neglect, child therapists, or school. Other examples of where your expertise is needed are in hospitals, rehab programs, and prisons. So, if one place of employment does not seem like a good fit, well, then there are others out there to try.

5. You may be able to have your student loans forgiven.

Did you know that social workers can have their student loans forgiven? After working in social work for 10 years (or 1/3 of your loan forgiveness period), you can apply to have the remainder of your student loans forgiven (not taxed as income). How much can someone save with social worker loan forgiveness? For a brand-new social worker, the remaining amount on their student loans could be over $100,000. Their total salary afterward will be around $50,000. So, they can save approximately $50,000 in taxes from getting a quarter of their student debt forgiven. After the 10 years of work, a social worker will have saved thousands if not tens of thousands on loans and taxes! It's just one of many reasons to consider going into social work. For some people trying to stick out the 10 years to gain loan forgiveness is one of the important things to think about while analyzing the pros and cons of being a social worker. Yes, ten years is a long time, but think of all that money you can save.

6. You can grow in your field.

As a social worker, you will have numerous opportunities for growth within your profession. Some of these opportunities will include leadership roles on the local, state, and national platforms. You will also have many opportunities to grow your career from a co-worker to a manager and eventually up the chain to an executive. Each of these paths has its own set of requirements and specialized skill sets. However, they all include room for growth.

7. You can work anywhere in the United States.

One of the biggest advantages of being a social worker is that you will have the ability to work anywhere in the United States. Every state has a department or agency in charge of social services, and there is plenty of room for employment. Social workers will always have a job, no matter the temperature of the economy. It also helps that almost 95 percent of all working social workers are employed in educational institutions, health care facilities, government organizations, and mental health centers. If one field doesn't work out, many other socially focused organizations always need social workers. Social workers should not be worried about employment for the rest of their lives.

8. You could work internationally.

As a social worker, you will have the ability to lend your service and expertise overseas. Social workers are needed all over the world, particularly in developing countries where there are many challenges. The social work profession is growing in these countries, which means there's a need for more workers. One place you may look to help you figure out where to serve abroad is the Peace Corps website. This website has an extensive list of all the countries that have programs and will help guide you through the process of working overseas. I bet you didn't know that this was a career that could help you tour the world.

9. You can specialize in specific populations of people.

There are different populations that a social worker can work with depending on where they are employed. For example, if you work in the school system you would typically focus on children. Other areas that you could choose to specialize in is working with the elderly, and those who have disabilities. Your services would also be utilized in numerous hospital settings to support their patient populations such as those who have been recently admitted or those who just had a baby. Other populations that you could specialize working with are those who have been incarcerated or those who are fostering children. The availability of options of the type of clients you could work with is truly vast. So, suppose you feel pulled towards a particular population where you may have a personal connection. In that case, you might consider this when figuring out where to work.

10. You can make a difference in people's lives.

One of the pros of being a social worker is making a significant impact on other people's lives. Your clients will love you for it. The important thing about social work is that you can make a difference in people's lives by helping them find resources. If your client has financial troubles, your job is to help him find a way to make a living wage. If your client was a victim of rape, you get to help them find support and resources for themselves and their family. You get to be the difference in people's lives, which is terrific.

11. Your day will have a variety.

As a social worker, boredom will definitely not be part of your daily routine. Every day will be different and full of surprises. You will never know what to expect, and that is amazing! Each case you encounter will be a new experience and a new challenge for you. Your day will never be the same, and that is what makes it so exciting. Whether a client tells you a story about domestic violence or talks to you about how addiction has been destroying their family, being able to offer support and solutions is both satisfying and fulfilling.

12. You may end up with a pretty nice schedule

If you are a social worker who decides to work in the school system, you can end up with a pretty nice schedule. You will have off in the summer and during school breaks. You will also not have to work weekends or holidays. The best part about this is, is that you will get paid for this time off.

13. Your job will give you a sense of pride

One of the advantages of being a social worker is that the work you do will help others and will give you a great sense of pride. Whether you are working with children, elderly people, or families, your work will almost always give you a feeling that you are making a difference in the world. Not many people can say about the work they do.

The Bottom Line

So, what are the 13 pros and cons of being a social worker? I'm sure you can answer that question now. Some people say that they love their job because it's rewarding to make life better for others. Others find themselves frustrated by obstacles they may encounter throughout the day. Still, others may enjoy taking care of children but hate having to deal with adults. The top 13 pros and cons of being a social worker that I have presented to you have surely given you a lot to think about. Yet, at the end of the day, it seems like only you can decide if this career path is right for you!

Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN
Jennifer Schlette is a registered nurse in pediatric critical care in New York City. She is the former Director of Undergraduate Nursing at a college located in New York. After obtaining her BSN from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, she went on to complete her MSN.

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13 Pros and Cons of Being a Social Worker

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Written By: Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN Do you enjoy helping people? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Are you looking for an exciting career that will allow you to work with diverse populations and all age groups?

# data[].attributes.body
Earn degree online
Make pretty good living
In demand
Work various places
May have student loans forgiven
Grow in field
Work anywhere in U.S.
International work
Can specialize in specific populations of people
Make difference in people's lives
Day will have variety
End with pretty nice schedule
Sense of pride

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Written By: Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN

Do you enjoy helping people? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Are you looking for an exciting career that will allow you to work with diverse populations and all age groups? If so, then a career as a social worker might be the perfect fit for you, but do you know what are the pros and cons of being a social worker? The social work profession is a noble one. It can be difficult, but it's also rewarding. Social workers are dedicated to improving the lives of people with mental health issues, substance abuse problems, and other challenges that affect their quality of life, which in return will enhance society as a whole. Below you will find the top 13 pros and cons of being a social worker to help you decide if this is the right career path for you.

What is a Social Worker?

A Social worker is a person who works with people and communities to help them function better in everyday life. They sometimes work directly with individuals, but more commonly, they work within organizations such as health care or social service facilities, schools, universities, police departments, correctional facilities, community centers, and other settings. Their aim is usually to improve the quality of life for their clients by working to change the social conditions which affect their clients' ability to function in society. Social workers develop social welfare policies and create, implement, and evaluate various programs related to the delivery of social work. They are responsible for administering client services on behalf of their organization while also managing the administrative aspects of these services (e.g., budgets, personnel issues). They may offer counseling or psychotherapy to individuals or groups in need.

You will find social workers working in all kinds of settings. For example, children are provided with social workers in schools, the elderly are helped by home care social workers, and mental health patients may receive counseling from psychiatric social workers. Other places you may find them working are in the inpatient units of the hospitals and in the outpatient units. Social workers can also volunteer to work for organizations such as Planned Parenthood and Volunteers of America.

TOP CONS OF BEING A SOCIAL WORKER

(The following are the top 13 disadvantages of being a Social Worker.)

1. You will need to have a formal education

In order to become a social worker, you will first have to earn a four-year college degree known as a bachelor's degree. Most people who embark on this path of going to college for four years will receive a bachelor's degree in social work or something related such as psychology, sociology, public administration, or child development. You will need to ensure that the Bachelor's in social work program you choose to attend is accredited by the Association of Social Work Boards ( ASWB). Four years of your life is a long time to dedicate to any endeavor in your life. That is also four years that you potentially may not be earning an income. This sounds a bit risky to me. If you choose to further your education, you will then need to earn a Master's degree in social work. This will require an additional two years of education. It will also require an additional amount of your time and money.

2. You will have to pay for your formal education.

Becoming a social worker will require that you earn a bachelor's degree as we have discussed, but do you have any idea how much that is going to cost you? If you're like most people, then probably not. One of the top disadvantages of being a social worker is how much the degree will cost you to earn when all is said and done. The average tuition cost of attending a program to earn your bachelor's degree to become a social worker will run anywhere between $40,000 to $150,000. Let's also not forget your cost of living and other additional expenses. That is pretty pricey, in my opinion. So, if you do not have a disposable income, it seems like you may land yourself in some debt.

3. You may need a license to practice as a social worker.

In order to work as a social worker, you will need a license from the state. Although some states do not require licensure, it is still a good idea to have a social worker license, as it shows that you have the right degree and education for the job. The process of getting your social worker license can take a reasonable amount of time. Most states require you to get a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, such as sociology or psychology first. Many states also require at least two years of social work experience under the supervision of a licensed social worker. This means that you will need time to complete college and get clinical practice before you can be licensed. One of the disadvantages of being a social worker is that some licenses require you to pass two tests: the first is for the Licensed Master Social Worker Exam ( LMSW) and the second for your specialty areas, such as school social worker or clinical social worker.

4. You may have a heavy workload.

It's no secret that being a social worker is a tough job. Heavy workloads are to be expected for social workers because there is so much going on all at once. There's no end to the heavy workload that social workers often face because cases are constantly changing and piling up. Even though you're working hard, there will always be more work coming your way.

5. You may have long hours.

When weighing the pros and cons of being a social worker you will need to decide if you will have the stamina for the long hours that may come along with the job. As a social worker, your workday and caseload may require long hours of your time each day. You will have a busy day with little breaks. These extended hours of your day will be spent meeting with clients, attending meetings, conducting research on issues in the community, or completing forms and reports to keep up with necessary documentation. All of the time you will need to dedicate to these tasks means spending less time with family and friends. You may end up missing some pretty important events due to work.

6. You may need to be on call.

One of the disadvantages of being a social worker is that you may be expected to be on call. "On-call" means that you are required to be available by phone at any time of the day or night. Often, this is expected even if you are on vacation or out for an evening together with friends and family. On-call is seen by many social workers as a requirement that does not really give you any extra pay. You may even feel it takes away from your personal life and time to do more fun things.

7. You may be in dangerous situations at times.

One of the biggest disadvantages of being a social worker is that you may find yourself in some pretty dangerous situations from time to time. Not only are you exposed to the most vulnerable members of our society, but you also have to deal with some pretty difficult people. Some clients may be so upset that they can become pretty violent, even threatening your life if you don't do exactly what they want. There is a real danger that the person you are trying to help might harm you instead.

8. You will be faced with the worst of humanity.

One of the biggest cons of being a social worker is that you will be working with some of the worst that humanity has to offer. You will struggle to find any kind of enjoyment when every day is another round of dealing with the mentally ill or criminals. You will face people who have little-to-no regard for your well-being, and you will likely develop a few less than savory coping mechanisms to get by. The job may change you as a person.

9. You may suffer from compassion fatigue.

As a social worker, you may end up suffering from compassion fatigue. This is often the case if you have been practicing for a long time or have worked with exceptional circumstances. It may be draining and very frustrating. Compassion fatigue is often described as a state of physical, emotional, and also mental exhaustion. It can lead to the person not wanting to deal with any more cases or people suffering; they may find it very difficult to continue their work. The most common cause of compassion fatigue is long-term exposure to traumatic events like violence. So, all of your hard work and money spent will be down the drain.

10. You may be unable to intervene in certain situations.

In certain situations that you may find yourself in, you may not intervene for various reasons. Being unable to intervene may be a stressful and sometimes sad reality for some social workers. In certain situations, you may find that the legal system may prevent you from interfering the way you feel you should. There is a more serious side to this too, and that's the idea of not being able to help someone who really needs it. In certain situations where laws may be broken and harm may be done, you will not be able to intervene as a social worker. This can lead you to feel pretty horrible.

11. You will have a ton of paperwork to complete

As a social worker, you will be required to complete an extensive amount of paperwork. All of these pieces of paper are extremely important to the success of your work. The paperwork is required by law since you are entering people's lives and changing their welfare status in some way. This paperwork will need a reasonable amount of time and energy on your part. Do you think you will have enough time in the day to accomplish all of your personal and work tasks?

12. You may find it difficult to unplug from your work

Social workers may find it hard to unplug from work. Your day may repeat in your head over and over again. Social workers leave their workplace with their work, and sometimes they may bring it home to unload or think about it more. They also have to ensure service users receive the help they need during the day, so checking up on their clients is a big part of their job. This might mean checking phone calls and texts from other team members, other workers, and work emails or online chat. As a social worker, you may be used to being available at all hours.

13. You may have to work with difficult people

As a social worker, you may find that you have to deal with some challenging people. This can make your work very difficult. Some of these problematic people may include clients who are abusive, aggressive, or confrontational. Other difficult people you may encounter throughout your day will come in the form of colleagues. So, if you are not somebody who can grin and bear it, well, this may not be the line of work for you. So, when evaluating the pros and cons of being a social worker, you will need to figure out if you can play nice in the sandbox with all the personalities you will come across. Unfortunately, getting along with others will be part of the job.

TOP PROS OF BEING A SOCIAL WORKER

(The following are the top 13 advantages of being a Social Worker.)

1. You can earn your degree online.

One of the advantages of being a social worker is that you can earn your education online. Many benefits come with achieving your education through an online school, such as working at home and getting a degree faster. You will find that it is easier to have full-time employment while attending classes through an online program. Online programs are often very flexible with different deadlines, times, and learning techniques. You will also be able to balance life and work with online school more easily.

2. You can make a pretty good living.

As a social worker, you can expect to earn a comfortable income, which will increase as you gain experience and succeed in your career. According to the Bureau of labor statistics, the median annual earnings of social workers are $51,760 per year. The highest 10% of earners can expect to earn $85,820 per year. Having a good and steady income is one of the most significant benefits of becoming a social worker. Think about all the finer things in life that this type of career can afford you.

3. You will be in demand.

Social work is an in-demand career that will never go out of style. The employment need for a social worker is expected to grow faster than the average occupation. And, it is one of the most flexible careers today. According to the Bureau of labor statistics, the job outlook for social workers is expected to increase by 12 percent from 2020 to 2030. This increase is faster than the average and is one of the top pros of being a social worker.

4. You can work in various settings.

One of the biggest perks of being a social worker is the various places you could work in. This is an extremely versatile career. Depending on your experience, interests, and personality, any one of these settings will be an excellent start for you. As a social worker, you can work with children and youth: foster parents who need help raising their kids, child protective services workers trying to stop abuse or neglect, child therapists, or school. Other examples of where your expertise is needed are in hospitals, rehab programs, and prisons. So, if one place of employment does not seem like a good fit, well, then there are others out there to try.

5. You may be able to have your student loans forgiven.

Did you know that social workers can have their student loans forgiven? After working in social work for 10 years (or 1/3 of your loan forgiveness period), you can apply to have the remainder of your student loans forgiven (not taxed as income). How much can someone save with social worker loan forgiveness? For a brand-new social worker, the remaining amount on their student loans could be over $100,000. Their total salary afterward will be around $50,000. So, they can save approximately $50,000 in taxes from getting a quarter of their student debt forgiven. After the 10 years of work, a social worker will have saved thousands if not tens of thousands on loans and taxes! It's just one of many reasons to consider going into social work. For some people trying to stick out the 10 years to gain loan forgiveness is one of the important things to think about while analyzing the pros and cons of being a social worker. Yes, ten years is a long time, but think of all that money you can save.

6. You can grow in your field.

As a social worker, you will have numerous opportunities for growth within your profession. Some of these opportunities will include leadership roles on the local, state, and national platforms. You will also have many opportunities to grow your career from a co-worker to a manager and eventually up the chain to an executive. Each of these paths has its own set of requirements and specialized skill sets. However, they all include room for growth.

7. You can work anywhere in the United States.

One of the biggest advantages of being a social worker is that you will have the ability to work anywhere in the United States. Every state has a department or agency in charge of social services, and there is plenty of room for employment. Social workers will always have a job, no matter the temperature of the economy. It also helps that almost 95 percent of all working social workers are employed in educational institutions, health care facilities, government organizations, and mental health centers. If one field doesn't work out, many other socially focused organizations always need social workers. Social workers should not be worried about employment for the rest of their lives.

8. You could work internationally.

As a social worker, you will have the ability to lend your service and expertise overseas. Social workers are needed all over the world, particularly in developing countries where there are many challenges. The social work profession is growing in these countries, which means there's a need for more workers. One place you may look to help you figure out where to serve abroad is the Peace Corps website. This website has an extensive list of all the countries that have programs and will help guide you through the process of working overseas. I bet you didn't know that this was a career that could help you tour the world.

9. You can specialize in specific populations of people.

There are different populations that a social worker can work with depending on where they are employed. For example, if you work in the school system you would typically focus on children. Other areas that you could choose to specialize in is working with the elderly, and those who have disabilities. Your services would also be utilized in numerous hospital settings to support their patient populations such as those who have been recently admitted or those who just had a baby. Other populations that you could specialize working with are those who have been incarcerated or those who are fostering children. The availability of options of the type of clients you could work with is truly vast. So, suppose you feel pulled towards a particular population where you may have a personal connection. In that case, you might consider this when figuring out where to work.

10. You can make a difference in people's lives.

One of the pros of being a social worker is making a significant impact on other people's lives. Your clients will love you for it. The important thing about social work is that you can make a difference in people's lives by helping them find resources. If your client has financial troubles, your job is to help him find a way to make a living wage. If your client was a victim of rape, you get to help them find support and resources for themselves and their family. You get to be the difference in people's lives, which is terrific.

11. Your day will have a variety.

As a social worker, boredom will definitely not be part of your daily routine. Every day will be different and full of surprises. You will never know what to expect, and that is amazing! Each case you encounter will be a new experience and a new challenge for you. Your day will never be the same, and that is what makes it so exciting. Whether a client tells you a story about domestic violence or talks to you about how addiction has been destroying their family, being able to offer support and solutions is both satisfying and fulfilling.

12. You may end up with a pretty nice schedule

If you are a social worker who decides to work in the school system, you can end up with a pretty nice schedule. You will have off in the summer and during school breaks. You will also not have to work weekends or holidays. The best part about this is, is that you will get paid for this time off.

13. Your job will give you a sense of pride

One of the advantages of being a social worker is that the work you do will help others and will give you a great sense of pride. Whether you are working with children, elderly people, or families, your work will almost always give you a feeling that you are making a difference in the world. Not many people can say about the work they do.

The Bottom Line

So, what are the 13 pros and cons of being a social worker? I'm sure you can answer that question now. Some people say that they love their job because it's rewarding to make life better for others. Others find themselves frustrated by obstacles they may encounter throughout the day. Still, others may enjoy taking care of children but hate having to deal with adults. The top 13 pros and cons of being a social worker that I have presented to you have surely given you a lot to think about. Yet, at the end of the day, it seems like only you can decide if this career path is right for you!

Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN
Jennifer Schlette is a registered nurse in pediatric critical care in New York City. She is the former Director of Undergraduate Nursing at a college located in New York. After obtaining her BSN from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, she went on to complete her MSN.

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13 Pros and Cons of Being a Social Worker

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Written By: Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN Do you enjoy helping people? Do you want to make a difference in your community? Are you looking for an exciting career that will allow you to work with diverse populations and all age groups?

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Direct Social Workers:
Identify those in need
Help people of all stages of life cope with/solve everyday problems
Create plans to improve clients' well-being
Research and refer clients to community resources
Work with individuals/families/groups
Respond to clients in crisis situations
Work in a variety of public/private organizations

Clinical Social Workers:
Observe client behavior- assess needs
diagnose psychological/behavioral/emotional disorders
Develop and use treatment plans
Consult with doctors/therapists/medical profesionals
Administer social service programs
Instruct clients families/friends during treatment

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As a social worker, you advocate for others, be they young or old. You'll work with clients from every station in life, and sometimes dire economic backdrops, to ease them through transitions, hardships, and mentally tough times.

You'll be the person who assists them in finding the proper resources to get the care or supplement they need to sustain a certain quality of life. You may also be the link between people and caregivers in the health and psychology professions. As a social worker, you'll find reward, take risks, and offer viable options for those who may not be capable-or willing-to help themselves.

What does a social worker do?

There are two basic types of social workers: direct social workers and clinical social workers. One works and interacts with the community while the other offers assistance in a clinical setting:

On the job, direct social workers will:

Identify those in need

Help people of all life stages cope with and solve everyday problems

Advocate for and develop plans to improve clients' well-being

Research and refer clients to community resources

Work with individuals, families or groups

Respond to clients in crisis situations

Work in a variety of public and private organizations

Clinical social workers will:

Observe client behavior, assess needs and create treatment strategies

Diagnose psychological, behavioral and emotional disorders

Develop and put treatment plans in place

Consult with doctors, therapists and medical professionals

Administer social service programs

Instruct clients' families during treatment

Curious about what you can earn as a social worker? Learn about pay and job growth projections.

What education do I need to become a social worker?

A bachelor's degree in social work is the most common requirement for entry-level social work positions. These degrees prepare candidates for jobs as caseworkers and assistants. They require many hours of supervised fieldwork or an internship. Some employers hire social workers with a bachelor's in a related field such as psychology or sociology.

All clinical social workers must earn a master's in social work. This will take one- to-two years to obtain. You can work toward a master's in social work even if your undergraduate degree is in a different field.

Becoming a licensed clinical social worker requires 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience after graduating with your master's. Licensing and certification guidelines for psychologists vary by state so be sure to check the guidelines for the region in which you plan to study.

What career paths can I take in social work?

Social workers are involved with every aspect of the population. You can work in hospitals and clinics, nursing homes, community mental health clinics, government, schools, substance abuse clinics, military bases and hospitals, and in private practice. You can choose to work with a specific population, such as with teenagers, the incarcerated, families and the elderly.

If you'd like to seek more education after earning your master's, you can pursue a doctoral degree in clinical psychology or one of its many specializations. This will require a time commitment of an additional five to seven years, and will broaden your employment opportunities to include academic research, consulting and more.

Tips from a professional MSW

Nikelle Butler-Rosier maintains a thriving private practice and also acts as a Social Worker for the Juvenile Unit of Associated Counsel for the Accused in Seattle.

She offers a few survival tips about the job, its challenges, rewards, and ways to take care of yourself:

Take a deep breath and know it will be overwhelming at first. Allow yourself to learn all you can and let it flow.

I work to live, not live to work. Having interns keeps me fresh because I have to be positive for them, and this helps me from becoming burned out. Sometimes there are not good outcomes, and I feel like a crash test dummy beating my head against the wall. I need to keep my sense of humor. Having my private practice keeps me balanced, as well. And, exercise!

I am fortunate because with two part-time jobs I have some flexibility. It's about balance. I have to do things for myself that I enjoy-snowboarding, a hike with the dog, running and spending time with friends. Many working mothers sacrifice individual joys for family and resent it down the road. I teach-and believe-that attitude is choice, and I choose to be happy and have a positive outlook.

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What Licensed Social Workers Do | All Psychology Schools

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As a social worker, you advocate for others, be they young or old. You'll work with clients from every station in life, and sometimes dire economic backdrops, to ease them through transitions, hardships, and mentally tough times.

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A social worker is a public service professional who assists the public by providing resources and support. They can work generally or with specific groups like children or the homeless. If you're interested in becoming a social worker, learning more about what a day in their life is like can be beneficial. In this article, we explain what a day in the life of a social worker is like, describe the daily job duties they perform, review their requirements, detail important skills they need and provide information about their average salary and job outlook.

What is a day in the life of a social worker like?

A day in the life of a social worker can vary depending on their clientele and where they work. A social worker is a professional who works with the residents of an area to ensure their economic, emotional and social needs are met. Many social workers start early each day, reviewing their cases before meeting with clients and making home visits. They may have a meeting with other social workers to discuss their cases and collaborate on how to improve the lives of the people they work with.

Social workers can use their commutes or travel between cases and visits to address their emails and do quick checks on other cases. They may meet with police officers or lawyers to discuss the legal aspects of a client's case, depending on the situation. Social workers use their emotional and psychological training to address trauma with clients and help them process their feelings. A social worker may meet with children in the system and encourage them to improve their behavior and ask about their placements.

Daily job duties of a social worker

Social workers can assist different areas of the public. There are some social workers who primarily focus on helping children, while others may work with the homeless or women. These are some daily tasks a social worker may manage:

Assess client needs based on physical, emotional, behavioral and financial circumstances

Design personalized care and treatment plans for each client, including visits, resources and objectives

Offer access to health care, educational resources and occupational assistance

Evaluate patient and client progress to determine how to set further goals for improvement

Collaborate with health care professionals, other social worker and legal personnel

Important skills for social workers

Improving their skills can help social work professionals improve their performance and may potentially increase their earnings. Many social work professionals gain these skills by attending school and completing work in the field. These are some essential skills for social workers:

Communication

Communication is the ability to understand and convey information when conversing with another person. This is a critical skill for social work professionals because they spend much of their time communicating with other social workers, health care providers and legal advisers. Social work professionals also use communication skills to connect with their clients and earn their trust. They show their care and convey important information about resources and next steps for improvement by communicating effectively.

Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand another person's situation and emotions. This is important for social work professionals because it helps them connect with their clients and find methods for providing them with the best care. Social work professionals meet with many clients over the course of a typical workday, and empathy allows them to provide the same level of attention and investment to each one. When the client sees that a social worker has great empathy, they may be more likely to accept treatment and take part in a recovery plan.

Patience

Patience is a trait that allows social work professionals to remain calm in difficult situations. Depending on where they work and the clients they interact with, it's possible that a social work professional may encounter challenging situations. Using patience is important to show each client devotion and consideration during difficult and unavoidable circumstances. For example, a social work professional may use patience to continue being kind to a child with behavioral concerns.

Psychology knowledge

Many social work professionals learn about psychology and different approaches to managing psychological needs through formal education. This knowledge allows them to better understand their clients' diagnoses and work with them to find methods for improving their lives and incorporating health care and mental health care into their lives. A social work professional may use psychology knowledge to better understand why clients behave the way they do and create methods for approaching them that improve success rates.

Attention to detail

Social work professionals often work with children who may have difficulties communicating their needs or expressing information about problems in their care. It's important that social work professionals use excellent attention to detail to notice minor signs of neglect or potential abuse. This allows them to recognize situations that require their attention even when their clients are unable to express their needs.

Requirements for social workers

The path that you take to become a social work professional can vary depending on your interests, professional goals and educational plans. If you're interested in leadership positions, you may need more advanced degrees and certifications. Other credentials may also be necessary for working with special needs groups. These are some requirements for social work professionals:

Education

To become a social work professional, you need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. During formal education, social work professionals learn about the different kinds of clients they can help and the systemic issues that affect them. Many programs focus on diversity and inclusion efforts that help potential social work professionals learn to understand the issues that others experience. These are some degree programs you may consider for social work:

Experience

Consider completing internships or volunteering while earning your bachelor's degree to earn valuable experience for becoming a social work professional. Many social work degree programs offer opportunities in which you can observe a social work professional or work with clients under direct supervision. After earning a degree, social work professionals receive training in entry-level positions and slowly build their caseload as they gain more experience. Social work professionals who want to pursue leadership positions may need at least five years of experience first.

Certifications

To improve their professional credentials or specialize their work, social care workers can complete certifications. Many social work certifications require the person to pass written or practical exams after completing coursework. Certification programs are also great opportunities for social work professionals to improve their skills and learn about new methods for approaching clients. These are some certifications you may consider for improving your resume and professional credentials:

Certification in Forensic Social Work (CFSW)

Academy of Certified Social Workers Credential (ACSW)

Certified School Social Work Specialist (CSSWS)

Certified Medical Interpreter (CMI)

Functional Aging Specialist Certification

Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.

Salary and job outlook for social workers

How much a social work professional can earn may depend on factors like their education, experience and performance. The national average salary for a social worker is $56,515 per year. Other factors, like location, can also affect how much a social worker earns. For example, one of the highest-paying cities for social workers is Washington, D.C., where they can earn an average of $68,521 per year.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, social work professionals can expect an average growth of 12% from 2020 to 2030, potentially adding an additional 89,200 jobs to the field. This is a growth rate faster than average and may make social work a reliable career.

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A Day in the Life of a Social Worker (With Job Duties and Skills)

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Learn more about social work by exploring a day in the life of a social worker, discovering important skills they need and reviewing the requirements they meet.

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Earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Council on Social Work Education

Need proof of completion of following courses:
Child Abuse Assessment and Reporting
Human Sexuality
Alcoholism and Chemical Substance Abuse and Dependency
Aging, Long Term Care and Elder/Dependent Adult Abuse
Spousal/Partner Abuse Assessment, Detection and Intervention
Suicide Risk Assessment and Intervention

Complete post-graduate field hours:
Must register as ACSW
need 3,000 total supervised social work hours over course of at least 104 weeks
2,000 hours (at least) need to be in clinical experience- includes 750 hours performing in person therapy
Max- 1,000 hours must be non-clinical experience

Then apply for licensure:
pass criminal background check
pass California Law and Ethics exam
Pass Association of Social Work Boards Clinical Exam
also many fees that need to be paid and applications to fill out

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California has more social workers than any other state in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with social workers in environments like schools, healthcare and independent practices. If you want to help disadvantaged communities and individuals who need social resources to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives, you might be curious how to become a social worker in California.

In this career guide, learn about education and license requirements, social worker salaries and social worker schools in California. Discover some of the common steps to becoming a social worker in California if you're interested in this meaningful career.
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Accredited Online MSW from Top-Ranked USC¹

In the online MSW program from top-ranked USC, students gain clinical skills through virtual and in-person field education. The Advanced Standing track can be completed in as little as one year.
¹ U.S. News & World Report - Best Schools for Social Work
Steps to Become a California Social Worker

Wondering how to become a social worker in California? The steps required include getting a social work education, gaining work experience in the field and becoming licensed in California, according to the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS).

1. Earn a CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work.

To become a licensed social worker in California, you must have earned a Master of Social Work (MSW) from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited school of social work; this includes associate clinical social worker (ACSW) and licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) requirements.

2. Complete additional required coursework.

In addition to an MSW, future social workers in California must ensure that they also have proof of completion for the following courses:

Child Abuse Assessment and Reporting

Human Sexuality

Alcoholism and Chemical Substance Abuse and Dependency

Aging, Long Term Care and Elder/Dependent Adult Abuse

Spousal/Partner Abuse Assessment, Detection and Intervention

Suicide Risk Assessment and Intervention

3. Complete post-graduate field hours.

Before you begin accruing post-graduate hours, you must register as an ACSW. While an MSW program will require field work experience to graduate, California requires 3,000 total supervised social work hours over a minimum of 104 weeks in order to become licensed as a clinical social worker. A minimum 2,000 hours overall must be in clinical experience, including a minimum of 750 hours performing in-person group or individual psychotherapy. A maximum 1,000 hours must be in non-clinical experience, in settings like client-centered advocacy, consultation, evaluation, research and workshops.

4. Apply for licensure.

You'll need to pass a criminal background check, take and pass the California Law & Ethics exam, and take and pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical exam. There are also various fees to pay and applications to fill out throughout the licensure process.

If you want, you can pursue additional certifications and continued education once you've become a California social worker.

Degree Pathways to Become a Social Worker in CA

The two social work licenses offered in California require a Master of Social Work (MSW) from an accredited school. Learn more about MSW programs in California. There are several other types of MSW programs available:

Online Master's in Social Work (MSW): There are several online MSW programs available, with locations inside the state of California and across the country, that are accredited by the CSWE.

Advanced Standing MSW Program: If you have already earned your Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, you may be able to pursue an advanced standing MSW program which builds upon your BSW coursework to graduate in less time than pursuing a full MSW program.

Online Clinical Social Work (LCSW) Program: While a clinical MSW program is not explicitly required to pursue a license as a LCSW in California, it may help when completing the required clinical exam for licensure.

Online MSW with No GRE: Some universities offer admissions without requiring the GRE but may still have GPA and other requirements.

Doctorate of Social Work (DSW): While a DSW program is not required for licensure as a social worker in California, it is available for social workers who wish to pursue advanced careers as an university instructor, administrator or director of social services.

Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW) in California

Before becoming an LCSW in California, you must be registered as an ACSW.

Education Requirement: Master's degree in social work from an accredited school of social work and required coursework

Field Requirement: None

Exams: California Law & Ethics Exam

Fees: $75 application fee

License Renewal: Registration may be renewed five times in a six-year time span.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California

To become an LCSW in California, social workers must meet certain requirements. These include:

Education Requirement: Master's degree in social work from an accredited school of social work, verified by electronic transcripts

Field Requirements: 3,000 total supervised hours, over 104 weeks (minimum)

Exams: California Law & Ethics Exam (if not applying as a ACSW), ASWB Clinical exam

Fees: $100 application fee

License Renewal: Every two years

Social Work Salaries for California
Information on the above social work salaries in California was retrieved from Bureau of Labor Statistics - Learn more about different social work salaries. State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates California as of April 2021.
The average social worker salary in California depends on your role and work environment.

California Social Work Scholarships

There are social work scholarships in California and grants available to aspiring social work students to cover school costs, such as tuition and supplies. Be sure to check with your preferred university for other financial aid options available. Some California scholarships we have found for social workers include:

California Social Work Organizations

Social work organizations in California give students the ability to connect with other social work students, network with social workers and get more involved in the local social work community. The following are some California social work organizations:
Learn more about continuing education for social workers. Information on this page was last retrieved in April 2021
FAQs

Does California have social work reciprocity?

No, there is no social work license reciprocity in California or endorsement licensure. Social workers who have a current out-of-state license must submit a California LCSW application, pass the California Law and Ethics Examination, have an MSW that is accredited by the CSWE and complete California-specific coursework.

What are the social work continuing education (CE) requirements in California?

The social work CE requirements in California for LCSW (PDF, 235 KB) are 36 hours before each two-year renewal period, according to the BBS. Newly licensed individuals must complete only 18 hours of continued education before their first renewal. All licensees are required to complete at least six hours of CE in Law and Ethics for every renewal. LCSWs must also complete seven hours of CE in HIV/AIDS.

What is the best way to look up my social work license in California?

You can search for your social work license verification in California by visiting the California Department of Consumer Affairs license search.

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How to Become a Social Worker in California

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California has more social workers than any other state in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with social workers in environments like schools, healthcare and independent practices. If you want to help disadvantaged communities and individuals who need social resources to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives, you might be curious how to become a social worker in California.

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Earn Bachelors Degree in Social Work
Master's Degree in Social Work
Get Licensed as Social Worker
Consider Professinal Social Work Certifications

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If you are considering becoming a social worker, you have come to the right place. How to Become a Social Worker: A Quick Guide seeks to answer your most important questions about the social work field as a whole, salary and job figures, possible educational paths, and the best schools in the field. We also feature helpful advice from social work experts and explain in depth the specific, up-to-date licensure requirements for each state so that you can decide not only where to go to school but also where you might want to start your career.

Table of Contents

What Is Social Work?

What Do Social Workers Do?

Why Become a Social Worker?

How can I learn about the field before making a decision?

Steps to Become a Social Worker

1. Earn a bachelor's degree in social work.
2. Earn a master's degree in social work.
3. Make the most of your time in school.
4. Consider getting licensed in your state.

Maintaining Your Social Work License and Continuing Education

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Social Work?

The profession of social work seeks to improve the quality of life for individuals and to effect system-wide change through the pursuit of social justice. Just like any helping profession, such as nursing and teaching, social work seeks to help people overcome some of life's most difficult challenges. What separates social work from other helping professions is its focus on the person-in-environment model and its emphasis on social justice. Social workers not only consider individuals' internal struggles, as a counselor might, they also work with people to examine their relationships, family structure, community environment, and the systems and policies that impact them in order to identify ways to help address challenges.

Social work also emphasizes a strengths-based approach in which all individuals have strengths and resources and the social worker's role is to help build upon a person's skills and support systems. The profession of social work is varied serving people young and old, from every walk of life, in a number of settings such as hospitals, schools, neighborhoods and community organizations. It involves work with families, couples, groups, organizations, and communities. Social work is dedicated to the pursuit of social justice through direct service and through advocacy on the local, national, and global levels. These areas of practice are also referred to as the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. You can read more about specific careers in social work as well as the differences and intersections between micro, mezzo, and macro social work on our careers page.

What Do Social Workers Do?

Many social workers work directly with individuals, couples, families or small groups. These social workers help clients cope with problems such as poverty, abuse, addiction, unemployment, educational problems, disability, trauma and mental illness. Social workers provide individual, family and group counseling, case management services connecting clients with resources and service providers, and other services to empower clients to meet their own needs.

Social workers often work within nonprofit organizations, schools, hospitals and government agencies working toward the common good. These social workers may work directly with individual clients or be involved in program development, program evaluation, and human services management. Many social workers choose to work with communities, organizations or governments to address social problems on a systems level. These workers advocate for vulnerable populations, fighting to end the inequalities and injustices they see in their communities. They engage in legislative advocacy, policy analysis, and community organizing to break down barriers and drive reform.

Why Become a Social Worker?

There are many reasons you may be drawn to a career in social work. Some people become interested in social work because they have been helped by a social worker in the past or they have experienced hardship and would like to help others overcome similar struggles. You may be drawn to the field by a particular interest in addressing problems such as addiction, abuse, or mental illness. You may have a strong interest in working with children or with elders. Despite the varied paths that lead social workers to the profession, most social workers enjoy working with people and are driven by their desire to help others and make the world a better place.

How can I learn about the social work field before making a decision?

The best way to learn about social work is to volunteer! There are volunteer opportunities in every community that can give you a sense of life as a social worker. Many social workers are tasked with volunteer management and are actively seeking volunteers to help out in hospitals, schools, and community organizations around the country. Volunteering not only allows you to meet social workers and learn about what social workers do, it may also provide you with some experience working directly with individuals, families or groups and/or advocating for community-wide change. To look for volunteer opportunities, you can start by contacting local schools, churches, or community centers. For national listings of volunteer opportunities visit (link)

Steps for Becoming a Social Worker

The guide below will outline the general steps to become a social worker. The first step in becoming a social worker is obtaining the necessary education. There are a number of educational paths to consider on the road to become a social worker.

1. Earn a bachelor's degree in social work.

The first step for many people interested in becoming a social worker is to obtain a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited college or university. Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs prepare students for entry-level, professional, generalist social work practice and for graduate social work education. Students learn to practice as professional social workers with individuals, families, groups and communities. Students learn a great deal about the profession while earning their BSWs since bachelor's of social work programs combine classroom learning with field education. Students gain work experience while applying their classroom training to real-world work settings. Once you receive your BSW, you will be eligible to begin working as a social worker.

2. Earn a master's degree in social work.

Whether you received your bachelor's degree in social work or in any other field, you may apply to a CSWE-accredited graduate program to earn your Master of Social Work (MSW) on campus or online. If you receive a BSW prior to applying to graduate school, you may be eligible for advanced standing allowing you to receive an MSW in one year rather than the traditional two-year program. While all accredited social work graduate programs follow similar curricula combining classroom learning with field education, some schools of social work have strong clinical programs while others focus on systemic issues such as poverty reduction and social justice. Choosing a clinical focus or a macro concentration may determine electives and field education placements but all graduates receive the same degree.

A few points to keep in mind when deciding which degree path is best for you:

If you are considering working toward your first bachelor's degree, a BSW may be a good choice. A BSW gives you a solid foundation to begin work as an entry-level social worker. If you decide to continue your education with a master's degree, you may apply for advanced standing. This way, you may receive both your BSW and MSW in only five years.

If you already have a bachelor's degree in another field, there is no need to seek out a BSW. You may find a position you enjoy in the social services field with a bachelor's degree from another discipline. If you would like to become a social worker, you should apply to a CSWE-accredited MSW program.

If you are interested in moving to a supervisory role and advancing in your career in social work, you should consider obtaining an MSW. Increasingly, employers are seeking master's level social workers for any position above entry-level. Even those searching for entry level positions are likely to find that an MSW opens more doors than a BSW.

If you are interested in clinical social work, you must obtain an MSW and then become licensed in your state.

3. Make the most of your time in school.

1. Choose courses and consider specialized certifications based on careers that may interest you. If you plan to work as a clinical social worker, take as many clinical classes as possible. If you are more interested in macro social work, choose an elective in advocacy or nonprofit management that will help you build marketable skills.

2. Make the most of your practicum placements and internship experiences. As a social work student working at a field placement, capitalize on the opportunity to position yourself for future employment. Always treat your placement experience just as you would paid employment. During your field placements, push yourself to gain new skills and experiences that will prepare you for employment and keep in mind: you never know when a job may open up at your practicum site. A hardworking, energetic student who already understands organizational policies and procedures is a great candidate for the next opening. Even if you are not interested in working at your field site, be sure to build connections with supervisors and colleagues who can alert you to other job prospects and serve as references during the interview process.

3. Begin your job search well before graduation. Many employers planning to hire in the summer start interviewing candidates in the spring. Research your state's licensing process; you may be able to start the application process early too. Remember many people graduate at the same time. It is important to position yourself ahead of the pack as your graduation date nears.

4. Consider getting licensed in your state.

The purpose of social work licensing is to ensure safe professional practice. Each state board defines what is required for each level of social work license. The specific license names and requirements vary significantly by state. There are four levels of education and training that are commonly distinguished by different levels of licensure.

1. Bachelor's level: Baccalaureate social work degree (BSW)

2. Master's level: Master's degree in social work (MSW)

3. Advanced Generalist: MSW plus two years non-clinical supervised social work experience

4. Clinical: MSW plus two years direct clinical supervised social work experience

Some states require you to obtain a license before beginning your career in social work. In some states, it may be important to work toward progressive licenses as you advance in your career.

5. Find a job!

Finally, once you are fully prepared to enter the field of social work, it is time to look for a job. While finding a job in social work can be similar to finding any job, we have included some ideas below to get you started. If you are ready to look for available jobs in your area, check out our Jobs page.

Scour the internet.

1. Job search engines can feel too time-consuming given their relatively low rate of return, but you should be registered and familiar with the major ones such as Monster, Career Builder, etc. Some engines, such as idealist.org are directed at the social work profession and nonprofit sector. Setup preferences to narrow your search, and utilize job alert emails to receive job listings in your inbox.

2. Look beyond the national search engines and consider local job listings. Some communities have nonprofit coalitions or task forces that list jobs across agencies. Check the job boards of local membership organization chapters such as NASW. Visit job boards for hospitals, school districts, state and local government agencies, and other large employers in your area.

Expand your search.

1. Social workers are found in many professional settings. Expand your search beyond schools, hospitals and public agencies. Consider private practice, small nonprofits, churches and advocacy organizations. Consider your interests as a social worker and brainstorm nontraditional settings where you can put your skills to use.

2. You've probably already considered common search engines for job posts but many jobs are never advertised. Professional networking is critical to learn about job openings and position yourself as a candidate to be recommended for those positions. Attend as many networking events and workshops as possible. Utilize continuing education courses as networking opportunities. Consider attending workshops for counselors, nurses, and other helping professionals who may know about jobs that fit your search criteria. Maintain contact with professors, advisors and peers from your bachelors and masters programs. Reach out to new contacts for informational interviews. Let your friends know that you are serious about your job search. Expanding your social circle and cultivating good relationships with people who know you're looking for a job, can lead to crucial a referral down the road.

Maintaining Your Social Work License and Continuing Education

Once you have obtained a social work license, continuing education will be necessary to ensure that you are staying up-to-date on best practices in the field. Social workers are lifelong learners who value ongoing continuing education throughout their career. Continuing education requirements vary from one state to another; some boards require only a specific number of hours, while others mandate continuing education in certain topics such as social work ethics. You will find plenty of continuing education courses offered online and in your community for varying costs. Keep in mind that your state licensing board has final approval on any continuing education course from any source on any subject. It is your responsibility as a regulated social worker to contact your board and verify that your continuing education plans meet your board's requirements. Be sure to keep careful records of all continuing education courses you complete through your employer, at conferences, trainings, workshops, and online. It is your responsibility to provide proof of continuing education when you apply to renew your social work license.

Gain additional experience and build connections.

1. Build skills, make contacts and learn more about your desired profession through volunteering. Call a few nonprofits you are interested in pursuing and ask if you can provide regular volunteer help. Commit to a regular schedule so that you can demonstrate your professional strengths. Also consider occasional volunteer opportunities at additional organizations in the community. Even one Saturday volunteer project may open your eyes to types of work you had not considered before and connect you to like-minded peers. Remember, volunteering is a great addition to any social work resume.

2. You may desire a full time position but consider taking per diem or temporary social work positions while you search. These opportunities expand your work experience and skills, increase your professional network and may even lead to permanent employment.

Research How to Become a Social Worker by State

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How long does it take to become a social worker?

Answer: Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs generally take four years to complete. If you attend a full-time Master of Social Work (MSW) program, it should take two years. Part-time programs are available for undergrads and graduate students. Expect these programs to take longer. Students applying to graduate level social work programs who have a BSW are often eligible for advanced standing. Advanced standing programs can last as little as one year, allowing you to become a master's level social worker in five total years. In some states, you may begin practicing as a social worker immediately after graduation. In other states, you must obtain a social work license before beginning your career as a social worker.

Question: What is a clinical social worker?

Answer: A clinical social worker provides individual, family or group clinical social work services such as psychotherapy, counseling, and other forms of therapy. Clinical social workers are often involved in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Clinical social workers often work in hospitals, mental health agencies and private practices.

Question: What do you learn in social work school?

Answer: The practice of social work requires knowledge of human development and behavior, of social, economic and cultural institutions, and of the interaction of all these factors. While you may choose elective courses, internships and field education experiences that interest you, all BSW and MSW programs prepare you for a varied career in social work by addressing both individual and systemic areas of study. Both BSW and MSW programs incorporate classroom education with training in the field to prepare you to practice as a social worker.

Question: Are there any social work scholarships available?

Answer: Many social work students receive scholarships to support their undergraduate and graduate programs. If you are considering a bachelor's of social work, it is important to research all of the scholarship, grant and loan opportunities available for undergraduate students. If you already know that you're interested in serving a particular community or need, take a look at organizations that tackle a specific cause. Some state and local government employers provide scholarships for employees seeking to advance their degrees or students willing to commit to employment for a few years after graduation. Many graduate students finance their MSW degree as graduate assistants or teaching assistants. These work-study positions often cover tuition and provide a stipend for living expenses.

Question: What is social work supervision?

Answer: There are many definitions of social work supervision. Generally, supervision is defined as a professional relationship between a supervisor and a social worker in which the supervisor provides evaluation and direction of the social worker's services to clients to promote competence and ethics fostering ongoing development of the social worker's knowledge and application of professional social work skills and values. While your manager may serve as a supervisor, the role of manager or employer is distinct from the role of supervisor. Supervision allows for consultation on current services and issues as they arise and debriefing on past practice. Supervision is often a structured time designed to enhance knowledge and skills through practice, discuss pertinent research, develop greater self-awareness, and internalize professional ethics. Supervisors regularly analyze supervisees' decisions and judgments, alternative options to be considered, and lessons learned in individual and group sessions. Group sessions allow for supervised social workers to learn from each other as well as their supervisor while individual sessions often address more personal topics such as managing biases, ethical dilemmas in the field, and practicing self-care. Each state defines the number of hours and the type of supervision necessary to receive varying levels of social work licenses. Even if you are not working toward an advanced license, supervision can be very helpful for new social workers. Supervision may also be recommended if you are taking over a new role or learning a new skill and may be required as a result of disciplinary action.
References:
1. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Best Practices in Social Work Supervision: https://www.socialworkers.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=GBrLbl4BuwI%3D&portalid=0

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Your Guide for Becoming a Social Worker in 2018

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How to Become a Social Worker: A Quick Guide If you are considering becoming a social worker, you have come to the right place. How to Become a Social Worker: A Quick Guide seeks to answer your most important questions about the social work field as a whole, salary and job figures, possible educational paths, ...

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Bachelors in Social Work:
Brandman University- Ca:
California State University-Chico - Ca
Touro University Worldwide- CA

Masters in Social Work:
University of Southern California
California State University-San Bernandino
San Jose State University
California State University-Northridge
California State University-Stanislaus
Humboldt State University

Doctorate in Social Work:
University of Southern California

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By: Socialworkguide.org Staff
Last Updated: April 2020

Individuals who feel inspired to help others may want to consider a career in social work. These professionals get to positively impact others by ensuring that vulnerable populations achieve what they need to thrive. Social workers aid healthcare professionals, government associations, and nonprofits to make sure their clients live healthy and safe lives.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for social workers to grow 11% from 2018 through 2028, a rate much faster than average. If this career interests you, keep reading to learn how to obtain a California social work license and what kind of social work jobs in California are available.

Featured Online Social Work Programs

Online Social Work Degree Programs in California

Employment Outlook for Social Workers in California

Featured Online Social Work Programs

Social Work Licensure in California

To earn a California social work license, you must earn a degree, acquire supervised hours, and pass a licensing exam. The Association of Social Work Boards requires you to earn a degree from a college or university with programmatic accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education, Canadian Association for Social Work Education, or another nationally recognized accrediting agency. In some cases, the board accepts a bachelor's degree from a field other than social work.

Aspiring social workers in California must attain 3,000 supervised hours to earn a clinical license. Most California schools design their program to fit California licensing requirements, so if you intend to practice in California upon graduation, consider earning your degree from a California school. You must take both a law and ethics and a clinical exam to earn your license. You can prepare with practice exams.

Individuals who feel drawn to the field and want to work in the Golden State should spend time researching requirements for a California social work license.

Should You Earn an Online Social Work Degree in California?

If you find it challenging to attend on-campus classes, consider earning your degree online. This convenient learning format allows you to earn a degree while managing work and family commitments. Aside from convenience, earning your degree online can help you save money since you avoid activities fees and commuting costs. In addition, distance learners usually receive the same in-state tuition rate as state residents.

To succeed as an online distance learner, you must stay motivated without constant supervision.

During your online studies, you can refine your time management and organization skills. You also develop soft skills, such as patience, interpersonal communication, active listening, and problem-solving abilities. The hard skills you gain, which are much easier to quantify than soft skills, include researching community resources, balancing a client's budget, and memorizing laws that affect the social work field.

To succeed as an online distance learner, you must stay motivated without constant supervision. You must also possess self-motivation and keep close track of deadlines. Your first semester of online learning might be an adjustment, but with enough effort, you can succeed in your studies. Most online learners love the convenience and ability to work from anywhere. This means you can advance your career from the comfort of home or the excitement of a foreign country.

Online Bachelor's Social Work (BSW) Programs in California

Online Master's Social Work (MSW) Programs in California

Online Doctorate Social Work (DSW) Programs in California

Accreditation Information for California Social Work Schools
*The net price is calculated by the National Center for Education Statistics by subtracting the average amount of aid (including grants and scholarships) from the total published cost of attendance for in-state/in-district students, which includes tuition, books, room and board, and other expenses. To gain a better understanding of how to interpret the statistics discussed in this table, see our list of important definitions.
Directory of California Social Work School Programs

Note: Student Reviews are based on the experiences of a few individuals and it is unlikely that you will have similar results. Please review the "Data, Student Reviews and Other Information" section in our Terms of Use and Disclaimers.

Schools with an asterisk (*) have programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Student Review: "The social work I was involved with on campus was through the Service Learning Program where I was a Service Learning Student Leader. I worked with other student leaders on campus and we did action projects together. I also worked off campus at an HIV/AIDS organization and my main job was to help run the needle exchange in the most impoverished area in the city where there were hundreds of homeless people and many of them were addicts. I helped exchange the needles to prevent the spread of illness, as well as managed the student volunteers and tried to help them get the most of their experience. To explain more about my interpretation of Service Learning is essential to understand the role I played in the community. Service learning is often misunderstood as community service." - Student at California State University-Monterey Bay

Student Review: "The Community Health Worker (CHW) program at City College of San Francisco (CCSF) was well worth the effort. The CHW field itself, which is now nationally recognized and utilized in hospitals and care facilities throughout the country, was created at CCSF. The teachers literally wrote the textbook. It's pretty inspiring to be learning from experts such as these and they are nothing short of amazing. The program combines book work, professional lectures in many areas of social work, field trips, group projects, resource development, role playing, advocacy, community graded projects and exams, and a long internship. The student can choose just the general CHW degree or can choose a focus area such as Youth Health Work or Post Prison Health Work and earn either or both of those additional certificates concurrently. There is plenty of room to be yourself in the classes and fully contribute your unique, personal qualities and knowledge to the class. Furthermore, the teachers and staff are super supportive and well connected to the various resources one might need to utilize to excel in the program. They are compassionate, understanding, yet by-the-book and somewhat strict. It is a good balance between flexibility and rigidity. Support and encouragement. The results are a program which consistently produces highly qualified, yet compassionate and confident professionals who are itching to get out there and start their careers!" - Student at CCSF

Student Review: "I have truly benefited from being part of the amazing social work program that is offered at Modesto Junior College. I took one class as a former child development major and I was hooked ever since. The professors are brilliant and they aren't hired unless they have had clinical experience and have actually spent many years working in the field. The professors in the social work program have real life experiences to add to their students' education and they connect students to possible job leads. The professors focus on different theoretical perspectives, different types of counseling, and education in the classroom as well as field training. Students are encouraged to explore multiple theories, relevant issues, as well as complete field training in an area of interest so they can find their niche in the program. This program offers many different options for students based on their individual interests in social work. Additionally this is the only program in California that prepares students to sit for and take the California State licensing exam for Drug & Alcohol Counseling. This program prepares their students for long term success in the field of social work." - Student at Modesto Junior College

Student Review: "I had a great time acquiring knowledge at San Jose State while studying Social Work as an undergraduate. The school's diversity gave me the chance to meet people from other walks of life. The professors were experienced and always ready to answer questions as soon as you drop it. The atmosphere in the class is always friendly with everyone having a sense of belonging. By the second year, invitations for internships started coming in, all thanks to one of the professors who dedicated his time gathering necessary information for internship opportunities. He would send out tons of emails every day offering internships, funds, grants for research among others. Although there were several hardcore courses that I only passed by the whiskers, every single class contributed to my vast knowledge and I can boldly say I graduated from the school ten times better than I was before gaining admission into the program. I couldn't have had it better elsewhere! My first job came when the department organised a job fair with potential high ended employers. I was interviewed and one of my professors had to write a recommendation. Since we have been assigned a professor each at the beginning of the program for mentorship, I did not stress out to get a recommendation. I got my first job with Santa Clara County and I worked there for 2 years before proceeding." - Student at San Jose State University

Student Review: "I've had nothing but amazing experiences with UCLA's social work program. The faculty and student network with numerous social work committees made it not only very accessible but easy to get really deeply involved. The email newsletters made it very easy to be notified of who, when, and where a guest speaker was speaking along with information on upcoming meetings or projects. I specifically remember when I wanted to get involved with a particular social work project, I was able to set up an in-person meeting with the professor involved despite being outside of office hours. After discussing, he personally set up a meeting for me with the person in charge of said social work project allowing me to not only work in the project but later working for the project leader on more extensive work. If anything could be improved from UCLA's otherwise amazing social work program, the program's website could be benefited with updates to its server hosting as there were times the site loaded slowly or was down." - Student at UCLA

*Programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
2. Kiplinger's Best College Values: https://www.kiplinger.com/tool/college/T014-S001-kiplinger-s-best-values-in-private-colleges/index.php?table=all
3. US News & World Report Social Work Best Grad Schools Rankings: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-health-schools/social-work-rankings
4. Social Work Guide's Top Online MSW Programs 2018: /degrees/masters/online/
5. Council on Social Work Education: https://www.cswe.org/Accreditation/Directory-of-Accredited-Programs.aspx

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Social Work Degree Programs in California | Socialworkguide.org

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By: Socialworkguide.org Staff Last Updated: April 2020 Individuals who feel inspired to help others may want to consider a career in social work. These professionals get to positively impact others by ensuring that vulnerable populations achieve what they need to thrive.

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Undergraduate:
Sociology
Science
Math
Child Development
Political science
Social studies
Foreign language

Graduate:
Complete 4 year Bachelor of Social Work or Bachelor's degree in Psychology
Education

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What degree levels are available?

Earning a four-year undergraduate degree is the initial step in your education toward becoming a social worker.

Unlike most psychology and education-related specialties, in which you specialize on the master's level, social work offers associate's degree programs and specialized bachelor degree programs, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW).

Then, you can go on to complete a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a doctoral program, if you choose.

Associate's in Social Work

Though you're limited to what you can do with an associate's in social work, it can be a stepping stone to your bachelor's degree or offer entry-level experience in career fields such as human services, social services, and healthcare. Most roles will focus on assistant or associate level tasks and you'll likely need to work under a supervisor's watch as you do your job.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

The four-year Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree is commonly the base requirement for a job in social work. It prepares students for direct service positions on the individual or community level through a curriculum that may centers on basic individual and family support services, national social welfare policy, casework planning, and intervention strategies.

Accredited BSW programs also require at least 400 hours of supervised field experience. For this reason, the BSW is also the minimum qualification for most state social work licensing and certification programs.

With a Bachelor of Social Work, you're qualified to work in the following capacities:

Case consultant, evaluating cases and meeting with individuals in need of services

Child life specialist, advocating for children in the health care system and alleviating the stress of hospitalization for children and their families

Child protective services worker, investigating claims of child abuse, neglect, and juvenile delinquency

Court-appointed special advocate, working on behalf of children brought before the court

Gerontology social worker, offering emotional support and helping the elderly with housing, transportation, and long-term care

Criminal justice social worker, providing services to inmates and their families

To outline a typical course program, we'll use the example of the Bachelor of Social Work at the School of Social Work at Arizona State University, below.

Examples of Core Courses

Social Service Delivery Systems: Federal, state, not-for-profit and for-profit social service delivery system's purpose, structure and professional roles. Includes 40 volunteer hours.

Foundations of Social Work Practice: Understand the theoretical foundation and skills for effective culturally competent communication and interviews with individuals, families, small groups and larger systems.

Micro Human Behavior in the Social Environment: Human behavior in the social environment throughout the life cycle, analyzing theories of human development within an integrative multidimensional framework.

Social Work Practice: Learn social work methods, with an emphasis on the following skills: relationship development, cross-cultural interviewing, communication patterns, and case-recording.

Research Methods in Social Work: Applies scientific principles to field practice, problem formulation, intervention procedures, and impact assessment.

Statistics for Social Workers: Learn how to use and interpret descriptive and inferential statistics in social work practice.

Macro Human Behavior in the Social Environment: Focuses on groups, organizations, and communities and examining theoretical perspectives in a macro context.

Diversity and Oppression in a Social Work Context: Students learn the issues of social inequality related to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and disability.

Master of Social Work (MSW)

An advanced social work degree, such as the two-year MSW has become a standard requirement for most specialized positions in social work, such as clinical, policy and administration work.

In addition to classwork, a minimum of 900 supervised hours is required for this advanced social work degree, in the form of field instruction or an internship. Fluency in a second language is also extremely helpful.

Social workers with an MSW are eligible to:

Join the Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW)

Become a Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW)

Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW) through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

The NASW also offers voluntary credentials that many employers find attractive when hiring. Credentials are imperative for those who wish to work in private practice, because some health insurance providers require them for reimbursement purposes.

A master's social work degree prepares social workers for specialized work in their chosen field of concentration. An MSW is qualified in the following areas:

Clinical social work, providing psychotherapy and counseling services in settings such as clinics, private practices, and public agencies

Employee assistance program social work, helping employees with problems that compromise their job, such as trouble with coworkers, substance abuse or marital problems

Psychiatric social work, helping psychiatric patients adjust to daily life and re-enter the community also provides a link between medical professionals and the families of patients

School social work, helping students resolve personal problems and those related to school

AIDS and HIV services counselor, guiding patients through the testing process, as well as helping obtain further health care options and community support for patients who are HIV positive

Doctoral Programs

Doctoral social work degree programs generally take between two and four years to complete, and focus heavily on research techniques, as well as qualitative and quantitative analysis methods. All doctoral social work degree programs culminate in the presentation of a well-researched student dissertation, which can take a year or more to finish.

Social workers holding their DSW or PhD are qualified for any of the following careers:

Social work professors, who concentrate on preparing a new generation of social workers in our schools, while working on research and publication goals

Heads of social work practices (agency based or self-employed), where they oversee and guide other social workers through their caseloads

Policy advocates, lobbying for state and federal policies that affect the social work community

Policy advisors, lending knowledge of the field to elected officials who want to improve various social work systems

What certification will I need to practice social work?

The purpose of licensing in social work is to create standards for the professional practice of social work. Most professions in the health care field have standards to uphold and regulations in place to protect citizens from malpractice or professional misconduct. Social workers who complete the state licensing process demonstrate a commitment to upholding the professional codes of conduct in their field. Licensing-at different levels of social work-is mandatory in all states.

States generally regulate four main categories of social workers:

Those with bachelor's degrees

Those with master's degrees

Advanced generalists (defined as MSWs with two years post-master's experience)

MSWs with two years of post-master's direct clinical social work experience

Some states may only regulate one of these practice levels, but most will license two or more levels of social workers.

Since licensing requirements vary from state to state, it behooves you to research your state's specifications beforehand. Most states require two years (3,000 hours) of supervised field experience in order to become a licensed social worker.

What will I learn from my courses?

The National Association of Social Workers recommends the following standards for cultural competence in social work practice:

Ethics and values

Self-awareness

Cross-cultural knowledge

Cross-cultural skills

Service deliver

Empowerment and advocacy

Diverse workforce

Professional education

Language diversity

Leadership

How long will it take?

Depending upon your level of dedication, a social work major can take the following time to complete:

The BSW is a 4-year general practitioner degree

Master's degree programs generally require one to two years

Doctorate programs generally take between two and four years

Accredited BSW programs also require at least 400 hours of supervised field experience

A minimum of 900 supervised hours is required for master's-level social work degrees, in the form of field instruction or an internship

Are online programs available?

Online programs for social workers are available for certain types of coursework and degrees, usually for bachelor's and master's-level programs. These courses are non-clinical and generally designed to prepare you to advance into administrative roles in the field. Online degree programs should be accredited, as almost every state requires a social work degree from a Council on Social Work Education-accredited institution in order to apply for a license and sit for the licensing exam.

How much will my education cost?

The cost of a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) varies depending upon the type of institution you attend. According to College Board's Trends in College Pricing 2017-18, the average annual cost* for a four-year, public institution runs around $9,970 per year for in-state tuition.

The average annual cost for a four-year private non-profit school is $14,530 per year for a private for-profit school.

Master's degree program tuition at in-state public institutions costs an average of $8,670 per year, and doctorate program tuition costs $10,830 per year at in-state public institutions.

Attending an accredited school may allow you to apply for financial aid, whether the school you select is a traditional classroom or an online program.

*Cost of tuition only. Prices do not reflect other fees, books, room and board

Are there prerequisites?

Undergraduate: A strong college preparatory high school education is a good start for your social work degree program. Courses in sociology, science, math, child development, political science, social studies, and a foreign language are important for prospective social workers.

Graduate: A completed, four-year Bachelor of Social Work, or bachelor's degree in psychology, education or another field will prepare you for graduate school. Any electives you've taken in psychology and/or education will be valuable in your graduate work.

GRE: Check with the institution and program you plan to apply to, to find out whether the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for admission. If it's not, but you've taken the test and have good scores, you may submit them for review with your admission materials.

Part-time or volunteer work at a social services agency can also provide a good foundation for students and prospective graduate students, and anyone interested in social work.

What accreditation is there for my program?

Increasingly, employers require that the social workers they employ be graduates of accredited programs of social work or human services. Accreditation shows that an institution or program meets standards of quality set forth by an accrediting agency, and that it is committed not only to meet those standards but to continuously seek ways in which to improve the quality of education and training provided.

There are two types of educational accreditation: institutional and specialized. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) conducts specialized accreditation.

Institutional accreditation is provided by regional and national associations of schools and colleges. There are six regional associations, each named after the region in which it operates (Middle States, New England, North Central, Northwest, Southern, Western).

Attending an accredited school may allow you to apply for financial aid, whether the school you select is a traditional classroom or online program.

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What You'll Learn in Your Social Work Degree | All Psychology Schools

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Earning a four-year undergraduate degree is the initial step in your education toward becoming a social worker. Unlike most psychology and education-related specialties, in which you specialize on the master's level, social work offers associate's degree programs and specialized bachelor degree programs, the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW).

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Can work virtually anywhere because there is a demand for social workers everywhere you go
Can either stay local or go live somewhere different

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Program Manager
Assistant Director
Executive director of a Social service agency or department

Can choose to go into:
Teaching
Research
Consulting
Open private practice

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Detailed Guide forChild, Family, and School Social Workers in May also be called: Adoption Specialists; Case Managers; Caseworkers; Child Protective Services Specialists; Child Welfare Workers; Family Preservation Caseworkers; Family Service Caseworkers; Foster Care Social Workers; Geriatric Social…

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Advancement Opportunities for Social Workers

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People who searched for Advancement Opportunities for Social Workers found the following related articles and links useful.

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Feel lots of stress and anxiety
Try to help others,but there isn't always access to get people help
System isn't set up to help them help others
Constant stress and blame over those they help

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Di Galpin, Annastasia Maksymluk and Andy Whiteford

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Social workers are under huge pressure. They can’t rely on their resilience alone

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Relying on professionals’ own coping strategies ignores the harsh realities of working and living in a culture of blame and austerity

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Emotional stress:
From seeing extremes of injustice and abuse
Challenges of working with vulnerable and marginalized client pops.
Stress and physical injuries obtained while working- with little to be done to fix it

Struggle to find compassion and empathy for all clients is difficult at times
Need to be understanding in order to help them to the best of your abilities

Must have knowledge of all the resources available and how helpful they could be
Constantly changing so they need to stay on top of them and the new requirements needed

Depending on what type of social worker you are, you could need more degrees and experience

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Social work is more than a job. It's a calling an individual has to help others, often in the face of difficult and stressful situations. Although social workers love what they do and the difference they are able to make, the reality is that this occupation is incredibly challenging in many ways. Among the hardest things about working as a social worker are factors like the emotional stress that comes with seeing the extremes of injustice and abuse, the challenge of working with vulnerable and marginalized client populations, the stress and physical injuries that often accompany the job and the inability to fix every problem or save every client.

Is Being a Social Worker Hard?

The level of difficulty involved in any job role is subjective. While being a social worker isn't hard by some measures, the job can be extremely challenging in other ways. You generally don't need coursework and expertise in high-level math and laboratory science subjects for a career in social work, so in that sense, this path is easier than a career in math, science or engineering.

However, it's difficult to handle interpersonal interactions and communications social workers have with their clients, especially since the clients a social worker assists are usually in some sort of stressful situation. Finding empathy and compassion for all of your clients in all situations - even when their experiences and the choices they make are very different from your own - can also be difficult, both emotionally and logically. Yet without understanding a client's experience, your ability to help that client is severely limited. For example, a social worker who assists individuals and families affected by substance abuse sees the strain and hardship that drug use puts on a family every single day, but they must still be able to approach the individual with compassion rather than judgment if they're going to help their clients. This aspect of the job certainly is hard.

Also, while you don't need to memorize every law of physical science or mathematical formula to succeed in this career, you must be very knowledgeable about each of the resources and programs available to help your clients. You must understand the parameters of what benefits the program does and doesn't provide, as well as its eligibility requirements, limitations, and availability of services. Since these programs are constantly changing, social workers need to continue to keep up with those changes. Similarly, social workers in advocacy roles must keep abreast of all proposed changes in policy and legislation.

Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) are practitioners authorized to treat mental and behavioral health issues. For this social work role, you need an advanced degree - the Master of Social Work (MSW). The curriculum of an MSW program is, of course, appropriately challenging for a master's-level degree program. Students of MSW programs take classes in the clinical practice and methods of diagnosing and treating mental, emotional and behavioral health conditions. As mental health providers, clinical social workers have a great deal of responsibility to their clients. They also work with other health practitioners, including doctors, in assessing patients' mental health conditions and planning for intervention.
The process of acquiring your license as an LCSW is also difficult in that it is a lengthy, multi-step process. Generally, aspiring LCSWs need at least two years of supervised clinical experience post-graduation and a passing score on a clinical exam, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. Non-clinical social workers, too, may need licensure.
Social Workers' Problems

The function of social workers is to help people cope with and solve their problems. Unfortunately, social workers encounter plenty of problems themselves in the course of their profession. The challenges social workers face are many, varied and serious. They range from the emotional impact of dealing with troubles like abuse, substance use, criminal activities and severe health issues to the challenges of working with marginalized client populations and the common experience of job burnout.

The Emotional Toll of Social Injustice

As a social worker, you're constantly seeing the ugliest parts of social injustice, oppression and inequality. Sure, you have the opportunity to help the people who need it most, but it's difficult not to feel personally upset by the problems and obstacles your clients face. It may be even more upsetting when you know, from experience navigating the social services system, that many of the services and programs needed to address those problems aren't available, appropriately funded or staffed or otherwise up to par.

Social workers tend to be compassionate people, and they sometimes choose to focus on causes that they or their loved ones have been personally affected by at some point. Thus, they are likely to have a strong emotional reaction to the suffering that they witness their clients experiencing.

When social workers help children and families affected by abuse and addiction, it can be difficult at the end of the day not to dwell on the tragedies that you witnessed working with clients. Similarly, social workers in the field of substance abuse may see high rates of relapse among their clients, despite their best efforts. Sometimes well-intentioned policies can, unfortunately, limit how much you are allowed to do to protect and assist your clients. All of these factors combine to make social work an emotionally difficult, though potentially very rewarding, career path.

Often, the worst horror stories involve social workers having to close cases due to the organization's or government entity's policies regarding a client's lack of cooperation or inability to contact, only to later become aware of a tragic end to the situation.

Working With Marginalized Populations

With their focus on helping the people most in need, it's no surprise that social workers assist vulnerable populations. However, many social worker jobs involve working with often marginalized or ostracized client populations, which can be difficult. Social workers in certain settings may work with incarcerated populations, perpetrators of abuse, homeless populations, individuals with a history of substance abuse and patients with HIV or AIDS. Work with these marginalized populations can range from leading support groups to providing individual counseling and from arranging rehabilitation and treatment plans to advocating for resources through social services, programs and assistance.

The best social workers have strong emotional skills and are able to show compassion and empathy, the BLS (BLS) reported - even when working with populations that non-social workers may struggle to empathize with or whose circumstances tend to make others uncomfortable. To help them achieve this sometimes challenging objective, skills and abilities like active listening, social perceptiveness and problem sensitivity are important for social workers, according to O*NET.

IMAGE SOURCE: Wikimedia Commons, public domain

Burnout and Beyond

Social work is a high-stress job. The demands are extensive, and crises can and do occur without warning. Caseloads are often high, and every client in the social worker's caseload requires attention and assistance. Constantly hearing and seeing the worst of society and social problems can dim even the most positive outlook. With time, a social worker may suffer a phenomenon known as " compassion fatigue." A phenomenon called "secondary trauma," which can present symptoms similar to those that characterize post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can also occur when a person is exposed to the disturbing firsthand narrative and descriptions of others' trauma - as social workers commonly are in the course of their efforts to assist clients.

Add in a low pay rate for a job that requires, at minimum, a bachelor's degree (and for many roles, a master's degree), plus an exceptionally high rate of injuries and illnesses, according to the BLS, and it's no wonder social workers suffer alarming rates of burnout. In fact, research studies have suggested that up to 39 percent of social workers are suffering from burnout at a given time, and the lifetime burnout rate for social workers rises to as much as 75 percent. Some symptoms of burnout may include feelings of excessive stress, anger, irritability, sadness, fatigue, trouble sleeping and misuse or abuse of substances. Unresolved job burnout may end up having serious effects on a person's health, including contributing to high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Social workers earned a median salary of $51,760 as of 2020, according to the BLS. That puts their earning potential significantly below the median wage for all workers with the same level of education. Among bachelor's degree holders in all occupations, the reported that the median wage in 2018 was $60,996, while master's degree holders in all occupations saw a median salary of $72,852 .

The Most Difficult Part of Being a Social Worker: Not Being Able to Help Everyone

Ultimately, one of the most frustrating parts of a job in social work isn't just the stress, the challenges and the risk of burnout that social workers themselves face. It's the fact that, no matter how good a social worker is at his or her job or how much that social worker is committed to making a difference, no one social worker is able to help everyone. There's not enough time in the day and not enough resources to go around.

It can be discouraging when a client stops cooperating or a policy that's in place is preventing a better outcome. Whether the help the client truly needs just isn't available, the funding of a social services program gets cut, or the client doesn't follow through with the plans and programs that the social worker worked so hard to put in place, a time is likely to come at least once in a social worker's career when they weren't able to help the client the way they wanted to.
Although this reality may be discouraging, it's important to remember that social workers still help a lot of people, even if they can't successfully help every client to the extent that they may want to. Also, just because the social services available may fall short of completely resolving an individual's or family's problems doesn't mean that the social worker's intervention didn't help the client in some way.
Addressing the Problems Social Workers Face

How do you address these problems and prevent burnout? It's a difficult question to answer. Just as there are many different problems that social workers face, there are many possible ways to address those problems. While the ideal solution may be to drastically change the systems that cause or contribute to those problems, that's not always feasible, at least not as an immediate solution. Instead, a social worker may have to make some changes to how they respond to the demands of the job.

For example, social workers can and often do advocate for better policies and programs that could help reduce the rate and effects of existing injustices and help solve problems involving needs that are currently unmet. Their work may also aim to end the stigma around marginalized populations and taboo issues so that these problems and the people suffering from them can become more widely understood.

When it comes to the challenges that relate directly to employment, like poor pay rates, chronic understaffing and inadequate procedures in place to protect social workers, these professionals can exercise some control over solving their problems by seeking out job roles where the pay and work conditions are better. Of course, that's easier said than done, often involving going back to school for a master's degree or moving to a state or industry known for higher rates of pay.

Many social workers find that it's easier to find ways to manage job burnout than to radically change their pay and work conditions or the demands of the profession. To combat feelings of job burnout, experienced social workers often recommend strategies such as setting firm limits and boundaries, taking time for self-care and making it a priority to eat, sleep and exercise well. Although these actions won't solve the numerous and significant problems their clients face or erase the original trauma that left the social worker feeling compassion fatigue upon its retelling, they can help to insulate the social worker from those feelings of secondary trauma and burnout, allowing them to keep working to help others.

Social workers are only human, and they need someone to talk to about their stresses, too. Talking to colleagues or going to a therapist themselves can offer some valuable relief and perspective.
Additional Resources What Is the Hardest Thing About Working as a Psychologist? What Is the Hardest Thing About Working as a Counselor? What Should You Know When You Interview for a Job With a Degree in Social Work? What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

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What Is the Hardest Thing About Working as a Social Worker?

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Social work is more than a job. It's a calling an individual has to help others, often in the face of difficult and stressful situations. Although social workers love what they do and the difference they are able to make, the reality is that this occupation is incredibly challenging in many ways.

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Depends on experience and knowledge
Takes time to get to the level needed to advance

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https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-health-schools/social-work-rankings