Types of Social Work Degrees (2024)

FAQs

What degrees are best for social work? ›

In order to become a social worker, many people will pursue a major in social work to obtain their Bachelor's of Science in Social Work (BSW). Other undergraduate majors such as sociology and psychology will allow you to further your education in order to pursue a Master's of Social Work (MSW).

A BSW focuses on generalist foundational studies in social work. It prepares you to work with individuals, families, and community organizations. An MSW is an advanced degree that prepares you for clinical practice. An MSW is the minimum education level required to become a LCSW.

Earning a Master of Social Work (MSW) poses unique challenges, however. The curriculum is not only academically challenging but also emotionally draining. Finances can present a problem because unlike, say, a JD or MBA student, you're not likely to start earning a fortune the moment you receive your degree.

Social work is concerned with helping people overcome the challenges of daily living. The field is divided into two main categories: clinical and direct service.

What is the most common type of social worker? ›

Clinical social work is one of the most common types of social work in which one identifies and solves problems to strengthen the functioning and quality of life of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Clinical social workers can work in a number of areas, depending on the population.

Work Environment

Social workers are employed in a variety of settings, including child welfare and human service agencies, healthcare providers, and schools. Most work full time, and some work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

An MSW is a social work degree, standing for Master of Social Work or master's in social work. LCSW stands for licensed clinical social worker. Earning an MSW degree may be a requirement to become an LCSW. Not all MSW holders are LCSWs.

It is possible to obtain your master's degree in social work (MSW) without a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. A traditional MSW program can provide the path to earn an MSW without a BSW.

Social Science is the study of societal groups and their charactersitics. Population trends come into play here. Social work focuses on helping people.

A bachelor's degree in social work provides an essential foundation for the knowledge and skills needed to pursue one of the many career pathways within the field. A bachelor's in social work prepares you for entry-level positions upon graduation and can also serve as a step toward licensure.

Social workers on the higher end of the pay scale can break the $83,000 earnings mark, Indeed reports. And salaries for social workers who hold a master's degree are at least $13,000 higher than people with only a bachelor's degree, according to the NASW.

Social Work Is a Highly Recommended Profession

According to a survey by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), most new social workers (90.4%) reported being very or somewhat satisfied with their new positions.