Many individuals opt for social work for obvious reasons, one of them being a greater sense of personal fulfillment. This field may be a popular one, but becoming a social worker can be a little challenging.
If you are planning to become a social worker, this will be the best guide for you. Nonetheless, stepping into this field calls for commitment and unnerving dedication. Consider this career path as one of the most significant decisions of your life. Moreover, to ensure your success, you will need proper education and training.
So let’s begin. Just follow these steps to get where you want to in the field of social work.
Step #1: Do some thorough research before moving ahead.
Ask yourself; do you want to join this field and why. Thorough research will enable you to make a better decision for yourself. For instance, it will help you choose between a Bachelor’s or Masters in Social Work. Click here for more information. Moreover, it will help you identify a specific area of interest In the broader spectrum of social work career opportunities and how they contribute to society’s betterment.
Step #2: Look into the educational requirements.
Different career paths in social work have additional requirements. These requirements can vary from under-grad degrees in specialized areas other than social work such as healthcare and psychology and completing relevant work experience for a Master’s program. Carefully study these requirements so that you can set your long-term plans accordingly. However, the Council on Social Work Education endorses the completion of either a Bachelor’s or Master’s program to become a social worker.
Step #3: Choose your majors.
Choose your majors wisely. Yes, social work has different majors to choose from. These include:
- Human Services
- Public Administration
- Public Policy
- Community Organization and Advocacy
- Child Development
- Teaching
- Human Behavior and Psychology
Choose an area of study that matches your career goals.
Step #4: Look into the available options for the MSW program.
The Master’s in Social Work program will eventually help you qualify as a social worker. There are several Master’s programs that are now available both offline and online. Your choice will be significantly influenced by the career path you wish to pursue and how you want to manage your time between work and studies. Here are some options you got:
- Online programs: You can now study online and get rewarded with a Master’s degree wherever you are. Some benefits of online MSW programs include greater flexibility in managing your schedule and the ability to continue working alongside your degree.
- Advanced standing programs: Advanced standing programs can easily be completed in a short time. If you have already done your Bachelor’s and want to finish MSW rapidly, this is probably the best choice for you.
- Dual programs: As the name suggests, you can pursue MSW and another degree simultaneously. For example, doing MSW and MBA together or MPH with MSW.
- No-GRE-required programs: Many graduate programs ask for GRE (Graduate Record Examination) score as a prerequisite. However, a few MSW programs do not have such requirements, making it easier to enroll in the program.
Step #5: Start applying for a social worker’s license.
After getting your degree, apply for the social worker’s license immediately; otherwise, you may not be allowed to practice. Look for the social work license office in your state to start your career. All states have different licensing systems and requirements. Doing all the necessary research and paperwork beforehand will help you save valuable time.
Step #6: Time to begin your social work career.
Once you’ve completed your education and gotten your license, you are all set to kickstart your career as a trained social worker. Lucky for you, the career opportunities here are broad. Remember that your designated career path should resonate with your skills, interests, and passion. Some of the more widely chosen areas of expertise include substance abuse and rehab, school-related social work, community healthcare services, and mental health.
Step #7: Work towards maintaining your social work career.
To maintain your career and license, complete the ongoing social work requirements. Requirements tend to vary state by state. Some states would ask you to complete minimum working hours, while others will need you to accomplish specific courses. Do not worry; such requirements will only benefit you further.
Conclusion:
If you wish to become a qualified social worker, follow the steps mentioned above. Soon, you will be nearer to your professional goals and achieve them proficiently. Not only will you be doing something great for yourself, but contribute to society’s betterment as well.
