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Your Guide to a Degree in Social Work

At SocialWorkDegrees.org, we use the United States Department of Labor and US Census Bureau, as well as the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) as our data sources to aggregate all the social work programs and pertinent information for working in the social work field. We have visited thousands of web pages and reviewed hundreds of different schools of social work at US universities. For starters, here is a sample of the different types of social work degrees:

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In addition, we have writers and contributing experts that have their BSW, MSW, and PhD in Social Work to ensure our data is accurate, but helpful for prospective students. 

Start navigating the programs below to figure out which social work degree or career path is best for you.

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Social Work Degrees Fast FAQS

Here are a variety of quick points that you should know if you are looking to work within the social work field. 

Click here for more frequently asked questions about social work.

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Bachelors of Social Work

One of the most common degree paths for social work is at the bachelor’s level. 

There are currently over 770 universities providing Bachelor’s of Social Work degrees throughout the country. Of these, the vast majority are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Choosing an accredited college provides learners with a sense of relief in knowing that their degree will be accepted for future licensure. 

In-Person and Online BSW Programs

Bachelor of Social Work degree programs can be obtained through traditional in-person colleges as well as online platforms. Online learning is becoming more popular, making this a great option for busy professionals wanting something extra for their professional life. Thus, the widespread availability of social work degree programs can potentially open doors for students from all backgrounds.  

Dive into Social Behavior and Public Service

The Bachelor’s degree program in Social Work really dives deep into social behavior and public service – pulling together the various aspects of both that draw them together. These 4-year programs are suitable for individuals that wish to build a foundation in social work and potentially move to higher degree programs in the future. While in a bachelor’s program at this level, students are taught the skills required to work with the public. 

Social Work Courses & Additional Topics

Community planning, social welfare and relationships to the judicial system, mental health topics, and administrative functions are taught in depth throughout this program. Students will learn about the various functions of social service agencies and how their contributions will lead to better lives for individuals throughout their career. The schematics of local and government agencies are also taught in the bachelor’s program, which can prepare learners for careers working for state or government agencies. The knowledge gained throughout these programs can provide a solid platform of social skills that can contribute to a meaningful career for those involved. 

Are there Licensing Requirements for a BSW? 

Licensing for social workers can be obtained at the bachelor’s level in some states, but most states require master’s degrees or higher in order to be licensed through the state. It is important for applicants to review their state’s current standards prior to choosing the right degree path.  

BSW Career Opportunities

Wondering what can be done with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work is completely normal when considering this degree program. A degree can be a means for a better life, so considerations for future potential should always be a part of the decision process. It is always important to consider how much a degree can provide not only financially, but also with regards to the quality of work. 

At the bachelor’s level, graduates have the potential to seek out careers in many different fields in the social domain. Careers are available as: 

• Mental health assistants – providing care and planning for individuals under the care of licensed mental health practitioners.  
• Work for welfare agencies – providing case planning and outreach for families receiving food and healthcare assistance from their respective states. 
• Youth care facilities that foster troubled youth – seeking out social work professionals to fill positions such as activities coordinators and youth service officers.  
• Community planning and administration positions – relying on knowledgeable social work professionals. 

Masters of Social Work

Throughout the country, over 300 colleges offer Master’s in Social Work programs. About three quarters of these programs are CSWE accredited, so it is vital to review each program prior to applying.  

A Master’s program is designed to train practicing professionals to create more knowledgeable and experienced social workers in the field. 

Is a MSW Worth It?

Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Social Work is a proud and exciting quest. The Master’s in Social Work degree opens learners up to the potential for licensing as well as more employment capabilities throughout their career.  

What a master’s degree means for upcoming students is a more in-depth look into the social work field and the opportunity to work hands on with the public during typical course studies. Master’s programs integrate the social knowledge gained in undergraduate studies with the application of theories and practices in an in-person setting. 

Growing Popularity of Online MSW Programs

Online Master’s Degrees in Social Work are also available through online, non-profit universities, making it a convenient choice for individuals that have families or current careers to maintain. Many universities are bringing their CSWE-accredited program online, while others are getting their established Online MSW program CSWE accreditation. 

Online learning allows students to embark on independent learning and time management, which are important skills for social work professionals. Regardless of a traditional environment or online, accreditation ensures that the curriculum is on point and accepted by future employers. 

How Long are MSW Programs?

Typical Master’s degree in Social Work programs last about 2 years and require students to take part in an on-the-job practicum near the end. Depending on the university, students can choose either a clinical or non-clinical focus, which can change the scope of their class work as well as the requirements for the practicum. Students also have the potential to choose a specialty at this level. 

Different Types of MSW Programs

With many MSW programs to choose from, what is best depends on your personal preferences and your experience and education level. Here are some examples: 

Licensing for MSW Graduates 

Some states allow bachelor’s level graduates to become licensed upon graduation and completion of an exam and experience requirements, but most begin licensure at the master’s level. Depending on which state a student resides in, he or she may be qualified for licensure after only a bachelor’s degree. Researching individual state requirements will ensure that applicants are knowledgeable of what their state requires and prepared for the road to licensure as they move along. 

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Micro, Mezzo, and Macro Social Work

The field of social work is divided into three, interrelated levels of practice: micro, mezzo, and macro social work. Though sharing similar core values and ethical standards, career options and job descriptions are distinct and with key differences.  

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Research Various Types of Social Work Degree Programs

View all types of social work specialties 

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CSWE Accredited Social Work Degree Programs

Currently, over 700 different social work programs are accredited at the Bachelors and Masters levels by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), while others are candidates under review.  

CSWE Accredited Social Work Certificates

Based on data from the  CSWE Annual Survey of Social Work Programs, below are the top studied certificate programs at the MSW level. 

What is CSWE Accreditation?

Students considering enrolling into social work degree programs may see accreditation mentioned at both the institutional level and through state licensing agencies. Accreditation is an incredibly critical component when seeking out degree programs in this field. Accreditation is a label that is affixed to degree programs that are approved by higher learning organizations. It can contribute to the types of careers you can obtain after graduation and your ability to become licensed in the future.  

For social workers, an important organization to remember is the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). 

State Licensing and CSW Accreditation

One of the most important aspects of CSWE-accreditation is that your state may require accreditation for licensing. Your state’s licensing board should specifically outline degree requirements that may be considered during the licensing process. If you are considering degree programs in social work for enrollment, choosing CSWE-accredited options can be the safest choice for your future. These options have met the quality standards outlined by this agency and include relevant and inclusive coursework and field components for optimum growth. 

Becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Licensed clinical social workers are found within many different areas of the community. In schools, social workers can provide educational reference and advice to students as well as working as advocates for children in need of guidance. Some social workers work for state agencies and maintain contact with educational institutions in an attempt to find more effective methods of providing education and support to students. 

Social workers at this level can also pursue meaningful careers working with welfare agencies to help families find better means of employment, medical or mental health services and even legal assistance. Master’s level social workers act as a third party in connecting community members to the services that they need. 

Learn more about LCSW careers

Choosing a Social Work Degree 

Choosing social work as a degree path is a step in life that can potentially lead to better careers, more enjoyment, and career fulfillment. There is a sense of pride in knowing that this degree program provides so much for communities and the residents within. 

Also, it is important to consider what accreditation means not only for a social work degree program, but for licensure and potential careers in the future. Therefore, view BSW and MSW Programs by state – whether it’s a degree program near you or the state in which you want to begin you career in social work.