If you want a career where you can help people and make a real difference, social work might be the perfect path for you. Social workers support individuals, families, and communities by helping them overcome challenges like poverty, addiction, mental health struggles, and more. But before you can become a social worker, you’ll need the right education. This article explains what degree you need, what you can study, and the different types of social work careers available.
What Degree Do You Need to Be a Social Worker?
To become a social worker, you typically need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or a Master of Social Work (MSW) from an accredited program. Some states also require a license to work in certain social work positions.
A BSW is enough to qualify for many entry-level positions, where you can work with individuals and communities in need. However, if you want to become a clinical social worker, you’ll need to earn an MSW and complete at least two years of supervised experience. Clinical social workers must also be licensed in their state.
Even if your undergraduate degree isn’t in social work, you can still pursue an MSW if you have a degree in a related field like psychology, sociology, or political science.
What Should You Major in for Social Work?
Before earning an MSW, you’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related subject. Here are some common majors that can prepare you for a career in social work:
Social Work
A social work degree focuses on understanding human behavior, problem-solving, and supporting individuals and families in need. You’ll learn about therapy techniques, research methods, and laws related to social services.
Psychology
If you’re interested in how people think and behave, a psychology degree is a great choice. Social workers with a background in psychology can specialize in mental health and addiction counseling.
Sociology
Sociology majors study human behavior in groups and institutions, making this a useful degree for social workers who want to address social issues like poverty, inequality, and education.
Political Science
If you’re passionate about changing laws and policies to help people, a political science degree can give you the knowledge you need to advocate for better social programs and policies.
Types of Social Work Careers
Social workers can specialize in different areas depending on their interests. Here are some common social work specialties:
Family Social Work
Family social workers help children and families dealing with difficult situations, such as divorce, abuse, or foster care placement.
Addiction and Substance Abuse
These social workers assist people struggling with addiction by connecting them to rehabilitation programs, counseling, and community resources.
School Social Work
School social workers support students dealing with bullying, academic struggles, or family problems, ensuring they have a safe and positive learning environment.
Health Care Social Work
Health care social workers help patients transition between hospital and home care, provide emotional support, and help families navigate medical challenges and financial issues.
Social Work Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree
Not all social work positions require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Here are some social work-related jobs you can get with a high school diploma or associate degree:
- Community Health Worker – Helps connect individuals with health care and community resources.
- Substance Abuse Counselor – Supports individuals recovering from addiction. Some states require certification.
- Social Service Assistant – Works with social workers to provide client support and resources.
- Case Aide – Assists in organizing case files and research for social work agencies.
- Group Home Caregiver – Provides care and supervision for individuals with disabilities or seniors.
Do You Need a Master’s in Social Work?
A Master of Social Work (MSW) is required if you want to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Clinical social workers often work in hospitals, schools, and mental health facilities, where they provide long-term support and therapy to individuals.
An MSW program usually takes two years to complete, and you must attend a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). After earning your degree, you’ll need to complete supervised fieldwork and pass a licensing exam to become a licensed social worker.
If you’re unsure whether you need an MSW, consider your career goals. If you want to provide therapy, diagnose mental health conditions, or work in a medical setting, an MSW is necessary. If you prefer to work in community support roles or administrative positions, a BSW may be enough.
Becoming a social worker is a rewarding career choice for those who want to help people and improve communities. While a BSW is enough for many entry-level jobs, an MSW is required for clinical roles and higher-level positions. Social work offers many specialties, from family and addiction counseling to health care and school social work. If you’re passionate about making a difference, earning a degree in social work or a related field can open doors to meaningful and impactful career opportunities.
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