4 Reasons to Pursue a Master’s in Social Work

Jun 21, 2017

Whether you are a college student, recent graduate, or currently employed, a master’s in social work (MSW) can help boost your career. Here are four reasons why.

1. Advocate for underserved populations.

Social workers get to advocate for the most marginalized and vulnerable populations. At-risk populations require the most assistance from social workers, but they have the most difficult time effecting change in their life and in their community. Social workers serve and speak up on behalf of all human rights and social justice issues to preserve the dignity and worth of all persons.

2. The demand for social workers is increasing.

The demand for social workers is increasing as Federal and State Legislation impacts various parts of the country, Baby Boomers start aging, Mental Health needs continue to be a rising issue in health, and opioids continue to become a public health issue. The number of Social Workers in Health Care settings is projected to grow by 12%, which is faster than the average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

3. Your skillset will span multiple disciplines.

Social workers are employed across diverse practice areas and host settings in Hospitals, Medical Centers, Private Practice, Government Agencies, Social Service Agencies, Academia, Clinics, and Outpatient Facilities. Social Workers have the option of specializing in a specific practice area: substance use, gerontology, mental health, health, school social work, forensic social work, child welfare, administration/supervision, etc. In most MSW Programs, there are opportunities to choose a specialization that represents the primary practice area a social worker ends up working in. An MSW Student is also required to complete Field Education that is similar to an internship and provides students with early, hands-on experiences as a social worker.

4. You can impact public policy.

Social Workers often have an active voice in policy, especially as a community social workers or attorneys. On a macro level, social workers advocate for large-scale social policy changes. As our political landscape evolves, it is important for policymakers to be connected to the lives of those most impacted by policy changes, which is where social workers intersect.

Related Resources

 

 

Social Workers Help Pet Owners Navigate Homelessness

Social Workers Help Pet Owners Navigate Homelessness

Last year, New York city opened its first pet-inclusive homeless shelter By Faye Beard Christine Kim, MSW, knows well the choice many unhoused individuals face when deciding to keep their pets with them—no matter what. “Many people experiencing homelessness are even...

Violence in Schools: Social Workers Need to be Part of the Change

Violence in Schools: Social Workers Need to be Part of the Change

By Sue Coyle At 13, eighth-grader Melissa* is no stranger to lockdown drills—drills where students and staff practice what they would do if an active shooter was on campus. She says the drills occur monthly, more frequently at the beginning of the school year, and are...

Categories