Is a social work degree hard?

Earning a degree in social work can be challenging, as the curriculum often covers complex topics like psychology, sociology, and public policy. However, with dedication and the right support, many students find the experience rewarding and manageable.

Is social work a stressful job?

Social work can be stressful. The profession often involves dealing with difficult situations and crises, which can take an emotional toll. It's crucial for social workers to have strong stress management strategies and to prioritize self-care to avoid burnout at work.

Is social work a safe job?

While the safety of social work can depend on the specific role and work environment, it's generally considered safe. However, social workers often work with vulnerable populations, which can sometimes involve challenging situations. Proper training and clear protocols can mitigate most risks.

How to Become a Social Worker

Updated on December 21, 2024

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Learn how to become a social worker in just seven steps with this comprehensive guide. Find out about education, work experience, and salary potential.

Portions of the following article were drafted using an in-house natural language generation platform. The article was then reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by multiple members of our editorial team prior to publishing.

There are 751,900 social workers in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).Whether you’re drawn to the field by a passion for helping others or are simply considering a career change, becoming a social worker can be a fulfilling career path.

Our guide will help you understand what it takes to become a social worker and whether it’s the right role for you. We’ll share practical steps to get you started, a realistic timeline, and salary expectations.

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How to Become a Social Worker in 6 Steps

The journey to becoming a social worker involves several steps. These include earning a degree, gaining experience, and securing licensure. Here, we’ll break down these steps to provide a clear path forward.

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to becoming a social worker is earning a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field. Be sure to attend an accredited college in order to apply for graduate school and qualify for federal financial aid.

2. Consider Specializations

Some social workers choose to specialize in a specific area, such as child and family social work, healthcare social work, or mental health social work. You can cater your education and work experience to gain skills in your chosen focus.

3. Earn a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW)

Many social work positions require an MSW, which typically takes 2-3 years to complete unless you enroll in an accelerated or part-time program. You’ll also need a master’s degree to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).

4. Complete Fieldwork

Participating in practical experience is usually part of bachelor’s and master’s social work programs. You may complete supervised internships at hospitals, community centers, clinics, or schools.

5. Acquire State Licensure

State licensure is required to work as a LCSW. While each state has its own requirements for licensure, you’ll typically need a MSW, supervised clinical hours, and to pass an exam.

6. Continue Your Education

Even after you’ve become a working social worker, many states require social workers to complete continuing education courses to maintain their license. These courses can help you stay informed on new standards and industry advancements.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Social Worker?

It can take anywhere from 2-6 years to become a social worker, depending on the level of education you pursue. A bachelor of social work usually takes four years to complete.

If you’re aiming for clinical or advanced roles, a master’s degree in social work may require an additional 1-2 years.

Obtaining licensure and gaining relevant field experience are also important steps that can add to your timeline.

What Does a Social Worker Do?

The social work field is growing rapidly, with a projected 7% increase in jobs from 2023 to 2033, according to the BLS.

Social workers have a wide number of responsibilities, some of which include:

Helping individuals, families, and groups in crises.
Assisting vulnerable individuals and communities, addressing challenges in everyday life, and advocating for their well-being.
Working across settings, from one-on-one interactions to larger group settings to systemic change.
Assessing clients, planning treatments, securing resources, monitoring progress, and advocating for clients.

How Much Can a Social Worker Earn?

Social workers earned a median annual salary of $58,380 in 2023, according to the BLS. However, salaries for social workers vary based on specialization, location, and experience.

For example, Payscale reports that social workers with over twenty years of experience earn around $63,000 each year.

The BLS reports that social workers earn the most, over $90,000, in New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, and Washington.

Is Becoming a Social Worker Right for You?

Becoming a social worker can be an incredibly rewarding career, but it’s not for everyone. Carefully consider the pros and cons of the role before beginning your journey.

Pros of Being a Social Worker

Variety of Employment Options: Social workers can work in hospitals, schools, community centers, and government agencies, offering diverse work environments.
Job Satisfaction: Many find fulfillment in helping people overcome significant life challenges.
Great Job Outlook: The demand for social workers is above average, with a projected 7% job growth over the next decade.

Cons of Being a Social Worker

Challenging Situations: Social workers often deal with difficult and emotionally draining cases.
High-Stress Role: Managing complex client needs with limited resources and high caseloads can be stressful.
Significant Education Requirements: Earning the required advanced degrees and licenses can be costly and time-consuming.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Social Worker

Social workers can earn a comfortable living, especially those with advanced degrees or specialties. However, salary can vary considerably depending on where you live, your workplace, and how many years of experience you have.