Social Work Careers
What Can I Do with a Social Work Degree?
NWU social work graduates will have the necessary competencies to intervene ethically and effectively with diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities in their social environment. Plus they will be equipped to utilize research to evaluate practice decisions and contribute to the advancement of the profession.
Graduate Studies
Students who graduate from NWU’s accredited social work bachelor’s program may apply for Advanced Standing status at the graduate level. This status offers students the opportunity to earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) in one calendar year. A social work degree is also excellent preparation for law school.
Job Opportunities
For detailed information about Social Work career opportunities, see also Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook: Social Workers.
Nearly half of social workers are employed as child, family or school social workers. Social workers also are employed in medical, mental and public health fields, including substance abuse. Employment of child, family and school social workers is expected to grow by 20 percent from 2010 to 2020. Employment of healthcare social workers is expected to grow by 34 percent. Clinical social workers must have a master’s degree. Licensure for social workers varies by state. Clinical social workers must be licensed. Common employment areas include:
- Child Welfare
- Aging Services
- Hospice and Palliative Care Services
- Nursing Homes
- Healthcare/Hospital Social Workers
- Public Health
- Community Advocacy
- Family Services
- Domestic Violence Services
- Homelessness Services
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Legal Services
- Substance Abuse Services
- Mental Health Social Workers
- Prevention Programs
- School Social Workers