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Continuing Education For Social Workers
from: Kyle BesserA 4-year bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) is the most common minimum requirement to qualify for a job as a social worker. Degrees in psychology, sociology and related fields may qualify for some entry-level jobs, especially in small community agencies.
Although a bachelor's degree is sufficient for entry into the field of social work, an advanced degree has become the standard for many positions. A master's degree in social work (MSW) is typically required for positions in health care settings and clinical work. Some jobs in public and private agencies also may require an advanced degree, such as a master's degree in social services policy or administration. Supervisory, administrative and staff training positions usually require an advanced degree. College and university teaching positions and most research appointments normally require a doctorate in social work (DSW or Ph.D.).
Bachelor's degree continuing education programs prepare graduates for direct service positions, such as caseworker, and include courses in social work values and ethics, dealing with culturally diverse clientele and at-risk populations, promotion of social and economic justice, human behavior and the social environment, social welfare policy and services, social work practice,and field education. Accredited programs require a minimum of 400 hours of supervised field experience.
Master's degree programs prepare graduates for work in their chosen field of concentration and continue to develop the skills required to perform clinical assessments, manage large caseloads, take on supervisory roles, and explore new ways social services can meet the needs of clients. Master's degree continuing education programs last about 2 years and require a minimum of 900 hours of supervised field instruction or an internship.
Entry into a master's degree program does not require a bachelor's degree in social work, but courses in psychology, biology, sociology, economics, political science and social work are recommended. A second language can be very helpful. Most master's degree continuing education programs offer advanced standing for those with a bachelor's degree from an accredited social work program.
All states and the District of Columbia have licensing, certification or registration requirements. The standards for licensing vary by state. A growing number of states are placing greater emphasis on communications skills, professional ethics and sensitivity to cultural diversity. Most states require 2 years of supervised clinical experience for licensure of clinical social workers.
The National Association of Social Workers offers voluntary credentials. Social workers with a master's degree in social work may be eligible for the Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW), the Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW) or the Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW) credentials based on their professional experience. Credentials are particularly important for social workers in private practice. Some health insurance providers require social workers to have these credentials.
Advancement to supervisor, program manager, assistant director, or executive director of a social service agency or department usually requires an advanced degree and related work experience. Other career options for social workers include teaching, research and consulting.
Some social workers go into private practice. Most private practitioners are clinical social workers who provide psychotherapy. Private practitioners must have at least a master's degree and a period of supervised work experience. Many private practitioners split their time between working for an agency or hospital and their private practice.
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