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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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