 Preparation
A bachelor's degree
in social work (BSW) is the most common minimum requirement to qualify
for a job as a social worker; however, majors in psychology, sociology,
and related fields may qualify for some entry-level jobs, especially in
small community agencies. Although a bachelor's degree is sufficient for
entry into the field, an advanced degree has become the standard for
many positions. A master's degree in social work (MSW) is typically
required for positions in health settings and is required for clinical
work as well. Some jobs in public and private agencies also may require
an advanced degree, such as a master's degree in social services policy
or administration. Supervisory, administrative, and staff training
positions usually require an advanced degree. College and university
teaching positions and most research appointments normally require a
doctorate in social work (DSW or Ph.D.).
The Council on Social
Work Education accredits about
450 bachelor's programs and almost 200 master's programs. The Group
for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work list
doctoral programs
in social work (DSW or Ph.D.) in the United States. Bachelor's degree
programs prepare graduates for direct service positions, such as
caseworker, and include courses in social work values and ethics,
dealing with a culturally diverse clientele and at-risk populations,
promotion of social and economic justice, human behavior and the social
environment, social welfare policy and services, social work practice,
social research methods, and field education. Accredited programs
require a minimum of 400 hours of supervised field experience.
Master's degree programs
prepare graduates for work in their chosen field of concentration and
continue to develop the skills required to perform clinical assessments,
manage large caseloads, take on supervisory roles, and explore new ways
of drawing upon social services to meet the needs of clients. Master's
programs last 2 years and include a minimum of 900 hours of supervised
field instruction or internship. A part-time program may take 4 years.
Entry into a master's program does not require a bachelor's degree in
social work, but courses in psychology, biology, sociology, economics,
political science, and social work are recommended. In addition, a
second language can be very helpful. Most master's programs offer
advanced standing for those with a bachelor's degree from an accredited
social work program.
 All
states and the District of Columbia have licensing, certification, or
registration requirements regarding social work practice and the use of
professional titles. Although standards for licensing vary by state, a
growing number of States are placing greater emphasis on communications
skills, professional ethics, and sensitivity to cultural diversity
issues. Most States require 2 years (3,000 hours) of supervised clinical
experience for licensure of clinical social workers.
Social workers should be
emotionally mature, objective, and sensitive to people and their
problems. They must be able to handle responsibility, work
independently, and maintain good working relationships with clients and
coworkers. Volunteer or paid jobs as a social work aide can help people
test their interest in this field.
The National Association of
Social Workers offers voluntary credentials. Social workers with a
master's degree in social work may be eligible for the Academy of
Certified Social Workers (ACSW), the Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW),
or the Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW) credential, based on
their professional experience. Credentials are particularly important
for those in private practice; some health insurance providers require
social workers to have them in order to be reimbursed for services.
Note: Some resources in this section are provided by the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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