Choosing the Social Work Program That Works For You
Getting a social work degree is often the first step in a new career in social work. If you’re considering becoming a social worker, you’re no doubt looking at programs and considering your options. If you’re not sure how to narrow down your list, here are several considerations that will help you
Accreditation
Choosing an accredited school for your social work degree is the most important consideration. Without accreditation, your degree won’t be recognized, and you won’t be able to practice social work after graduating. The University you’re getting a degree from needs to be accredited by a recognized accreditation body, and the social work program should have accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). You can check prospective school’s status on their website, course catalog, or by calling the school.
Level of Education
There are two standard social work degrees in the US: the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW). The BSW program is a four year college degree, while the MSW requires two years of graduate coursework after obtaining a Bachelors Degree. Both programs require a combination of classes and internship experience.
Which program you select depends on your level of education. A new college student will need to get a BSW before considering an MSW, which career changers who already have a Bachelors Degree usually get a Masters Degree. BSW degree holders typically hold case management and community-based jobs, which an MSW opens up options to work in clinical capacities. Some BSW degree holders will continue on to get the MSW degree later, which many schools will let BSWs get in an accelerated one year program.
Cost
Beginning your social work career with minimal student debt is ideal. Identify your budget for social work school, and research the cost of accredited social work programs that appeal to you. Along with student loans, many universities offer scholarships and grants for education that you won’t need to repay. Another great question to ask social work programs is if they offer paid internship options.
Focus of Practice
Social workers specialize in working with a wide variety of populations, including children, the elderly, people with mental illness, the medically vulnerable, and more. Other social workers work at the macro level as managers, administrators, public policy makers, researchers, and community organizers. If you know what type of practice you aim to do, look into programs that will allow you to specialize in that type of work. If you’re not certain about your scope of practice, aim for programs that offer strong general education.
Location
Where do you want to practice after graduation? In many cases, it makes sense to attend a program where you plan to work. Your social work program will acquaint you with community resources in the local area and connect you with local organizations through the internship program. Attending school near your desired area will give you a leg up on the job market after graduation.
After considering these factors, draw up a short list of programs that meet your criteria. You can investigate those top choice schools further by visiting the social work program’s website, contacting current professors or students in the program, and visiting campus. Many schools offer open houses, either before the application deadlines or for accepted students.
Once you’ve finished your social work program, the next step is to obtain licensure so you can practice in your state. No matter where you live, AATBS has test prep support that will help you prepare for the Bachelors, Masters, Clinical, and Law and Ethics examinations. We look forward to supporting you on your journey towards becoming a social worker.
