Online Social Work Degree

Online Social Work Degree

Social Work is more than just a profession; it's also a science. Social Work applies social theory and research methods to study and improve the lives of people and/or groups.


With a degree in Social Work, you'll be able to help your clients with a variety of problems including housing issues and family problems. Not only will you provide emotional support and counseling to clients, but you will also be able to direct them to appropriate social programs. Overall, a social worker's number one concern is to assess their clients' needs and determine which programs or what advice will help them live full, happy lives.

The places you could find employment as a social worker are as numerous as the type of clients you will be serving. You may choose to work in the school system, nursing homes, government agencies, a correctional facility or a hospital.

Additionally, you may wish to specialize in one particular area of social work. For example, a specialty in gerontology would be good for those who prefer to work with the elderly. On the other hand, you may prefer to work with abused children, AIDS or Cancer patients, or battered women.

You should note that specialization may require certification or another type of licensure.

Degree Choices

Certificate (graduate), ASW, BSW, MSW, PhD. Getting an Associate's or a Bachelor's in Social Work will be enough to get you in some entry positions. However, if you want to move up in an organization or if you wish to teach, you will need to seriously consider obtaining a graduate degree.

For Social Work degree candidates, some of the core coursework you will probably encounter in most include: Career Social Work, Theories of Social Work, Ethical and Professional Issues in Social Work, Applied Behavioral Psychology, Multicultural Social Work and the Psychology of Addiction.

When you are considering a degree in Social Work, you should be aware that most states and employers require licensure for social workers. Once you acquired your degree and a social work position, you will often be required by state law to participate in continuing career education programs.

Career and Salary Outlook

By obtaining a Social Work degree, you have tapped into one of the fastest growing industries in the nation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has indicated the growth rate for social work jobs and other human services will reach 34% over the next seven years!

Many factors surround the amazing growth rates in this industry. As baby boomers age, there will be a greater demand for health and social services; with the growing school enrollments, there will be a greater need for child, family and school social workers; and finally there is projected to be a greater need for social workers to help with the mental health and substance abuse programs. All adding up to a lot of jobs!

According to payscale.com, salaries for Social Work tend to be in the range of $30,000 to $50,000. As with most professions, the higher degree you hold and/or the more experience you have will always count toward increasing your salary.