Social work is a growing industry, particularly in gerontology and substance abuse. A bachelor’s degree is mandatory, and a master’s degree is preferred for advanced clinical work. Licensing requirements vary by location, but generally require supervised experience and passing an examination.
Social work is a growth industry. As America’s baboomer generation transforms into the retirement generation, social workers specializing in the field of gerontology will find a social work degree to be a valuable asset. In addition, there is always a huge customer base that is looking for help with substance abuse or family issues. Social work is not for everyone as it requires compassion, empathy and patience. Those who possess these traits, however, will find social work to be a rewarding profession.
Earning a social work degree, while time-consuming, does not entail the rigors of some degree programs. Most colleges and universities offer social work degrees to students full-time, part-time, and even online. A bachelor’s degree is mandatory and, increasingly, a master’s degree (RSU) is preferred by state agencies and private employers. Although government-funded agencies in rural or isolated areas will sometimes hire an individual with a bachelor’s degree, this is becoming more the exception than the rule. To engage in any type of advanced clinical work, an individual needs an MSW.
As a general rule, the minimum criteria for earning a social work degree and designation of a Bachelor of Social Work is to successfully complete 120 credit hours of coursework. Sixty credit hours must be earned through required core courses and fieldwork. Additional hours required will be in the form of electives. Common choices include education in family violence and child welfare, substance abuse, minority issues, statistics, criminology, and various psychology and public administration options.
Obtaining a social work diploma and a Bachelor of Social Work requires a four-year program. Those wishing to pursue an RSU can look forward to an additional two years of advanced study consisting of an additional 60 credit hours. Those seeking an RSU will typically be expected to spend a good deal of time working under the auspices of a government agency, hospital, or accredited private institution specializing in social work. Working in a clinical setting is crucial, and many times the student seeking to be an MSW must log between 500 and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience before graduation.
All states in America require social workers to be licensed, and as usual, standards vary by location. There are many different specialized forms of accreditation, largely established by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). The most basic and one of the most sought after positions is that of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
To receive a social work degree and an LCSW, you must complete a master’s degree program. Typically, an LCSW will also complete a postgraduate supervised field experience worth approximately 3,000 hours. This is usually completed within two years. It should be noted, however, that such postgraduate work is usually obtained in a paid position.
While programs, courses, and licensing requirements vary in countries outside the United States, the basic steps for earning a social work degree are similar. Generally speaking, you need to complete undergraduate and graduate work and gain supervised experience. Government boards such as the General Council for Social Care (GSSC) in the UK administer examinations and grant licenses. However, virtually all countries determine their own specifics and set licensing fees for certification.
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