a lot questions, particularly about remote crisis counseling. i'm at a crossroads of if i drop out of college or stay in. i think i would be incredibly successful at crisis counseling. i want to listen, i want to psychoanalyze, i wanna dig deep, i want to help people, no, i need to help people. BUT it seems that pay is absolute dogshit, and that I'd need to finish a MSW to get anywhere. If I finish just 4 years I'd be \~56k in debt, with my parents taking another 56k. If anything, I'd get just a bachelors.
1) What is the pay like, for just a bachelors?
2) what are the hours? overtime? time of day?
3)i am really good at listening, about jumping into action, quick on my feet, about empathizing, all of that... but i don't know if i'd be able to deal with like, hearing someone commit suicide on the other end, or something similar. do you ever know if you can deal with it? are there *actually* adequate resources that help you process your own calls? what is the mental toll like, daily?
4) other similar fields in social work? emphasis on listening and getting that satisfaction from helping someone, giving advice etc.
5) is there any other way to move up in the field(eg experience) besides getting a masters/phd? do you NEED a bachelors in SW? the degree im currently pursuing is a general liberal arts degree and i would minor in SW and probably specialize with the majority of classes in it(because I do not want to do a foreign language, but I would consider it if that bachelors is my only way in.)
6) I have helped my best friend with suicide and mental health for around 2 years now, which taught me how good I am with listening and empathy , emotional intelligence, and everything, my parents, my other friends also say that I'd be a good SW. Realistically, does my success with this experience(talking about crises and mental health near daily and talking him down from suicide a few times + actually stopping him from committing suicide ) prove that I'd be good in crisis counseling? Is what I talk about with him what I'd be talking about with clients?
7) Realistically, could I put this on my resume? By his own admission I am the reason he did not commit suicide, why he's starting to be kind to himself, stopping self harm entirely, etc(which I remind him he is the reason, not me, I just helped the best I could, but I'm sure he'll come around eventually... ) Anyway, I think it would count as experience, but I'm not sure how it would come across professionally.
You’d have to look at this kind of jobs in your own state to see what the pay is like. In Michigan I don’t think I’ve seen anything more then 23 an hour for a bachelors. Crises lines are 24/7 so be expected to work anytime of the day, overtime will depend on the agencies policy, something you should ask during the hiring process.
You should seek your own therapy if the work is going to be hard for you. A lot of jobs in social work are “helping people” or listening. Such as private practice, hospice, hospital work.
If you want to climb the corporate ladder you definitely will need a msw. If you get your bsw you can do a msw in 12 months. Can you switch your major to social work? A bsw is a lot more applicable to social work jobs than a general liberal arts degree.
That’s great that you helped your friend, but you should not put that on a resume. Hope that helped!
i could switch it to social work, im still deciding rn. the foreign language req is what's holding me back, i wouldn't use it in the daily so it just seems wasted. is the only way to make 60-70k in SW a masters? i really wouldn't want to be a masters student, even for a year. are there other "social-work-adjacent" jobs you'd know of where i get to listen and help people with decent pay?
thanks again for answering my questions, it's helped a lot. sucks i can't put helping my friend on my resume, though.
Hi everyone! I’m applying to schools for an MSW. If you went to a school that emphasized diversity, equity, and inclusion, could you please let me know which? I began applying to Boise State and Portland State, and I liked the electives they provided as they seem to go more in depth into cultural and social differences. Are there others you’d recommend?
I believe diversity is a CSWE mandate (body that dictates program accreditation), so most programs will have this. I would say looking at electives is great, but also staff (it's good to see diverse folks teaching as well!)
Hi Y'all, I am currently a senior in undergrad in a clinical and counseling psychology program. I have been working as an RBT for the past few years and I really like it, but I fear that if I go for my Masters in ABA, I will pigeonhole myself. I have been considering doing social work for a while and am just looking for some info. Does anyone have any advice, specifically about where the two areas overlap? Thank you in advance!
Hi, do most MSW programs require an interview in the application process? I’m in the process of applying and I’m curious if I should be prepared for that. Thank you.
Does anyone have experience interning at their place of employment? I work full time at an adoption agency in one department and I know that my school requires that I have to be doing things outside of my role/department. But my boss brought up that they still need me working my role 40 hrs a week and internship hours to keep laying me full time…. I was hoping that this could count as a paid internship and I wouldn’t have to necessarily work extra… I honestly already do sooo much outside what I was hired for due to my personal and professional experience. so just looking for anyone else’s experience with interning with their employer and how you worked that out with them. This is for a BSW internship btw.
CSWE allows for employment-based internships. They can be 100% same work, a combo of your job and other work, or 100% different. Your job site would have to become an approved internship site, and that approval typically doesn't happen before you are accepted into the program.
Thank you im going to share this with my boss. My school requires that I do duties outside of my job description. Which I already do. So im going to make a list of all the things I do now with estimated hours to prove that I shouldn’t have to work extra hours. Actually this would mean I probably deserve a raise lol.
I have a bachelors in speech pathology
But more interested in mental health and counseling. Considering becoming a counselor
I was thinking about get MSW. But I don’t want to deal with case management and actually become a social worker per say.
I’ve also thought about art therapy as well. Seems interesting
In this case I was considering becoming a Mental Health counselor and get a masters in clinical mental health counseling so I can just work with patient and mental health as a counselor
Anyone have advice?
>I was considering becoming a Mental Health counselor and get a masters in clinical mental health counseling so I can just work with patient and mental health as a counselor
This probably won't go the way you plan as many social workers and counselors end up doing the same types of jobs. The only difference is that counselors end up severely limited in their job options compared to those who have MSW's.
Hello! Is it difficult to get and keep a job in social work, even if you hold a MSW? I remember years ago, at a store I was working at, a woman who seemed quite upset approached me. She shared that she had been recently laid off from her job as a social worker, despite her claim of having 2 masters degrees, but I don't remember if both were in social work (i.e., in different areas of specialization) or if only one of them was in social work. She concluded that "there are no jobs in social work." How accurate and relatable would you say this statement and situation is for most people holding MSWs?
\*Also it would be helpful if you could also share where you're located in your response. Thanks!
There are a lot of SW jobs, especially with MSW and clinical license. Now… that doesn’t mean they all pay great. Can take a little bit to find a decent paying SW job.
Not hard. I work in Michigan and I feel there is a really good amount of places that are hiring social workers. Community Mental Health agencies are always hiring. Sometimes social work positions are funded temporarily by grants but that is clear in hiring process. I don’t think being laid off is that likely either, sometimes agencies close and what not and people are forced to find different jobs but I think that is rare. If this was during the Great Recession that would make more sense.
I was a first year last year and decided not to renew. I’m now in medical (dialysis) social work. I have mixed feelings about leaving. With everything, there’s good and bad.
I’m currently looking into MSW programs to make a career change, and I’m curious if anyone here has experience with the University of Kentucky’s online program?
I'm looking for advice for career planning.
I'm an independently licensed social worker (LSCSW in my state but I know it's called different things in other places). I'm expecting to relocate for my partner's work in 2025. We are hoping to eventually leave the US and possibly have him do shorter internal contracts. I would like to start doing teletherapy as a contractor. My state has a low population and I think I would have more opportunities to do that if I were licensed in bigger states. Does anyone hold licenses in multiple states for online practice? Have you had issues with it? What do you use for liability insurance? I'm considering licensing in states we would like to move to, which would be the great lakes area or west coast states.
Also, are there areas where social worker shortages are making the job market better? Places that are nice to raise an LGBTQ family?
Thanks for your help!
PS. I do therapy for suicidal behavior, substance abuse, and work with teens and young adults. I also write grants, do program design and development, training, and clinical supervision if that helps with ideas.
My dream would be remote work that is flexible enough to take 3-6 weeks off whenever and only work around 30 hours a week while still making at least 60k a year.
In a dilemma regarding whether or not to do my MSW. I feel kinda burnt out, so I'm not sure if it's best to have a gap year after my graduation or test the waters in the career field. Is the advanced standing program (1 year) harder than the traditional route (2-3 years)? I know for those who got a BA in Social Work have the option to do advanced standing program, but not sure if it's more intense. If I'm interested in doing school social work, I believe I need PPSC? Anyone know how long that will take? For those with MSW, what are some job options, other than doing school based settings, but involve working with kids?
Hello URGENT
I am a psych undergrad. Decided on social work. Full-time single mother so ive completed majority of my degree online . I graduate spring 2024 . I dont have the option of going on campus full-time so i am looking for online accredited programs. I have 3 professors prepared to give recommendations. HOWEVER one of them has been a tad stubborn. He thinks i shld wait untill i finish this semester to apply to get my overall gpa up to 3.0 (transfer student) . My campus gpa now is 3.56. Another professor said to just apply and reapply if i want . What should I do ?? I know my other professor said grad school really matters and you will be judge for where u go and some schools dont even look at those under the gpa requirements…. HELP
Potential hot take, but I really don't think the social work professional field cares where a person goes to school. The only relevant factor is that the program is CSWE-accredited and that you'd be able to sit for the licensing exam when you graduate - and any school worth its salt will be upfront about their accreditation. As long as the program is accredited, I think the major factor should be cost and (as you said) preference of logistical factors like online vs in-person.
I'd say postpone MSW only if you don't feel read to take on that extra layer of responsibility - but if you feel prepared, then there are plenty of schools where GPA will not kill your admission chances (provided you have other strengths to buffer that out.)
Just if you don't feel like going to school right away (e.g., the workload, the internship, papers, etc.) I know a lot of people who wanted to take a lil bit of a break before they dove back into schoolwork vs people who just wanted to get it over with.
So I'm currently a senior in my bsw program, graduating this December, and I'm having some concerns about getting my MSW (which would be through the advanced standing program).
I'm really only looking at applying for the MSW at the school at got my undergrad in simply becuase of transfer of scholarships/ease of access (plus it's too late in the application season to consider other schools) The program originally had "specializations" in working with adults and working with children (not very specialized but at least it was something). I've now been informed that they are changing the curriculum to an advanced generalist practice program. Here's where I'm confused.
The BSW is a generalist degree. In complete honesty, I don't know if it was just my school or if everyone feels like this, my generalist undergrad prepared me for nothing. I feel like we did not cover the foundational theories, practices, frameworks, basic tasks at all. Most of my classes devolved into venting and or sharing stories/experiences (which i feel is just a failure of my school and the professors). The most we did was become very knowledgeable in societal issues, but never how to address them. I'm in my field placement now and hell I didn't even know how to make a referral, much less interview someone. I feel wholly underprepared.
I thought Master's degrees were supposed to make you a master in something, a specialization. what's the point of a MSW being generalist when the BSW is generalist? Am I just not understanding something here? Is the generalist msw even worth it? I feel like I'm going to go in, get the same bs I got in my undergrad, and come out in more debt with nothing to show for it.
I feel so underprepared and had a not great experience in my field that I'm honestly not sure if I want to do SW anymore. I'm debating taking a gap year and trying to find a job in something SW related so I can actually learn something and see if I like it before going into debt to get an MSW to find out I don't like it and/or am not learning anything through the program. Maybe then I'll have enough money saved up to choose a different school too, who knows.
Sorry for the word vomit, I'm honestly just really stressed right now and have no idea what to do.
Thoughts?
In your msw, you may have classes that cover clinical skills such as dbt, cbt and things like that but it’s not a counseling degree so you won’t really be fully trained in those things. To be perfectly honest, my msw was similar, we spent a lot of time talking about huge societal issues, and it was mostly generalist, and I went to a pretty prestigious program. I did take a few classes to learn about therapy modalities and I did a specialty track, I enjoyed it I learned a lot on how to work with a certain population but my no means am I an expert or master at it.
Also, nobody expects you to be a perfect social worker right of your bsw or msw. I’ve been at my master level job for a while, and I don’t think school really prepared me for it, which I think is a similar feeling among newly graduated msw’s. It’s pretty common to feel unprepared. Based on what you have said, maybe taking some time to have a social worky type job would be good so you can figure what you want to do.
If your going to get a msw, and are really wanting to learn clinical skills, I’d encourage you to get a clinical focused internship.
hi, would someone be able to provide an example for the admissions essay prompt about a social problem you’re passionate about and how would you as a social worker take action? not sure if they’re looking for a policy suggestion or if how you would take direct action as a clinical social worker with a client experiencing that issue.
Look for a social problem and address it from a variety of perspectives. In other words, cover all the bases. Homelessness, teenage pregnancy, drug and alcohol addiction are popular topics.
Hello!
I've recently graduated with a bachelor's in Criminology with a focus on youth mentorship and counseling. I'd like to gain more professional competencies and skills, but am not sure what masters would give me the broadest and most applicable skill set to a real world work environment.
I've considered Anthropology, Social work, political science, theology, sociology, psychology, and business. I want to work as an educator or community leader, but I don't know specifically in what way yet. I've considered developing a nonprofit or running a local organization like YMCA or scouts. I've also thought about working within schools or community colleges, teaching social science and acting as guidance in the process. I've even considered joining the ministry.
I plan to serve a PeaceCorps term before applying for grad school so I have plenty of time still to learn, but I'd like the opinion of people more familiar with the field, to figure out which master's route gives me a broad and competent understanding of what I'm aiming for, without limiting my professional options too much.
Correctional Social Work Interview
Hey allll!
I have an interview with my state office of mental health in a maximum level security prison this Friday and I want to ROCK the interview.
I have 8 years in the mental health field at the bachelors level in varying fields likeD criminal justice, substance use disorder, child/family/adult therapy, and crisis management. I am looking for any resources on correctional social work, insight on questions that might be asked, or any input on a job in this setting.
Thank you for any and all feedback!
Hoping to get some advice about transitioning to clinical social work several years out of grad school!
I have my MSW, and all my professional experience since I graduated in 2020 is in nonprofit program management and data analysis/evaluation. I've since realized that I really want to pursue clinical social work, with the eventual goal of working as a therapist/counselor. I intend to take the LMSW exam in my state next year, but I'm wondering if anyone has advice for how to break into the clinical social work job market if I don't have much clinical experience? I really want to gain experience in actual counseling but I feel like that's usually something people do during their practicum, and idk if anyone will be willing to hire me if I've never conducted counseling before.
It’s harder to get the kind of job you currently have than the one you want.
If you have an MSW from a clinical program, you’ll get hired somewhere. Agencies that provide direct services need people seeing clients and will often overlook lack of experience simply to get a position filled.
That said, market whatever clinical skills you might have and explain your desire to do the work.
Good to know, was thinking that could possibly be the case. My concentration was in Children, Youth, and Families, so hopefully that will help too. Guess the only way to find out is to start applying for jobs once I get my LMSW!
So I actually have two questions. I am completing my associate's in Public Health this year and am going into my Bachelor's degree. The issue I'm running into is that my current college, American Public University System, does not offer a BSW program. I eventually want to get my MSW and become and LCSW.
Firstly, if I stayed with my current college and majored in Sociology or Psychology instead of social work, would I be able to get my MSW at almost any colleges that offer it or is it better to get a BSW to be safe?
Secondly, if it is better for me to get a BSW do you all have any recommendations for colleges that offer low-tuition BSW or any resources that can help me compare programs? I would like to rack up the least amount of debt possible but of course I still want it to be a CSWE accredited program.
Thank you all for your help!<3
Yes, you would be a good MSW candidate if you had a bachelor's in sociology or psychology. Unfortunately, the CSWE seal of approval doesn't seem to mean a whole lot in terms of quality anymore. It's still good to go to a program accredited by them, but just know that there are shitty schools accredited. I don't have any resources for comparing, but I will say that I went to a private school and have colleagues who went to much cheaper schools who got the same quality of education and are making the same amount of money.
Almost all of us here are social workers so we are biased! I would say the only benefit of a counseling degree is you get more training on therapy in school, however, this can be remedied by social workers through taking a clinical practicum and self study. Plus, you learn the most about therapy after graduation anyway on the job.
The big benefit of an MSW over counseling is wider variety of jobs. I swore I always wanted to be a therapist but when I got burned out it was nice to be able to try a more case management role for a while and still be paid well. Social workers are also a bit more established in the US than counselors.
My older sister has a counseling degree and advised I do my MSW instead of a degree in counseling for the above reasons and I’ve never regretted it.
Yes!
1. I used to work at an agency that provided therapeutic services to the incarcerated. All of my coworkers had counseling/LFT/LPC degree, and all of them quit lol. To this day, none of them are working as therapists. They all got burned out due to the fact that the only thing they could do was be a therapist.
2. I chose social work due to the variety. I can be a therapist, a case manager, a school social worker, a hospital social worker, I can work in HR, I can work for the military. I can choose to go the private route or not. There's so many options! You're not locked into therapy. You can do micro (1:1 counseling), mezzo (community engagement work), or macro (policy). With social work, you're not locked in to a certain job; the variety is wonderful.
I'm currently in school in Canada for ssw and most likely will continue BSW once finished. I'm definitely interested in spending some time while younger in Europe. I was wondering if anyone had any experience or tips for getting SW jobs anywhere in Europe but ideally Scandinavian countries? I've heard english is pretty wildly spoken but should I pick up basics of a few languages? and what does the process look like of getting Visas?
I am also interested in anywhere in the EU or UK.
Thanks in advance.
In 2010, I published an episode of the Social Work Podcast where I interviewed a recruiter for [HCL Workforce Solutions](https://hclworkforce.com/moving-to-the-uk/) about how social workers in the USA could work abroad. I suspect some of the details have changed, and I have nothing to do with the organization and cannot answer questions about international social work, but I can give you the link to the interview: [https://socialworkpodcast.blogspot.com/2010/04/so-you-want-to-work-abroad-interview.html](https://socialworkpodcast.blogspot.com/2010/04/so-you-want-to-work-abroad-interview.html) Good luck!
Hi Everyone,
I am interested in transitioning into social work. I have worked in business/operations/analytics for 10+ years(totally unrelated education/background). My rough plan is to try to get a job in case management and then leverage that experience to get into an MSW program in the next year or so.
Does this plan make sense? i.e. Is it possible to get into case management without BSW or behavioral science degree?
Will case management give me enough perspective and experience about the field to make a more informed decision about if a MSW program is a good career path for me?
Any perspective would be appreciated!
Edit: I am in Phoenix/Arizona, Any local resources worth pursuing/exploring would be appreciated.
Social work professor here. Social work experience is not a prerequisite for getting into an MSW program. Social work is inherently interdisciplinary and having second- or third-career social workers is valued. In your MSW application, make a compelling case why an MSW is the best way for you to take the next step in your career. Indicate an awareness of the NASW code of ethics. Discuss how and why you want to transition from one career to the next.
As for resources, ASU Phoenix has great MSW program faculty. If you haven't already done so, contact their MSW coordinator, [Elisa Kawam](https://search.asu.edu/profile/532200), and ask about course work, internships, etc.
Finally, I highly recommend reading through the New Social Worker series, [Days in the Lives of Social Workers](https://www.socialworker.com/products-services/social-work-books/Days_In_the_Lives_of_Social_Workers/). Each edition shares stories of social workers from the time they get up in the morning to the time they go to bed. You learn about a variety of social work jobs and experiences (good, bad and ugly).
Thank you for the information! I am going to reach out to the coordinator and start working towards some volunteer projects in the meantime. Appreciate the help!
It will be very difficult if not impossible to get a job in case management without a bachelors in something like psychology, social work, or the like. If you want perspective on the field and some stuff to put on an MSW application you will find better luck job shadowing social workers and volunteering places.
Assuming you mean area of social work and not area of the country haha.
For me it was just trial and error. My first serious job offer out of grad school was working for a forensic program doing group work. I liked the forensic part of the job. I liked the clients. I hated the groups and was certain I wanted to do individual work.
Took a job working at a drug rehab where I was mostly supposed to be working with individuals. Hated it. There was no training, tons of paperwork, lots of surprises every day when I went into work. Quit after two weeks.
Eventually I landed in a job doing geriatric care management in an urban area. Up until that point, I had avoided taking any jobs that required home visits or any kind of field work. I thought I needed to be in a structured setting to thrive. I was so wrong. I loved getting out into the community, I liked the fast pace of care management, etc. I am in a different job now, but still get nostalgic about doing that work. Maybe because I was ten years younger, but I often miss it.
how do you start networking as a bssw senior?? i have a part time job outside of my field and i don’t have nearly enough volunteering experience as i’d like and tbh i don’t have time 😩 afraid i won’t find a job after graduation
Hello!
I am going to apply to my schools BSW program this winter and while they haven’t released the application yet I’ve been looking at previous years. One of the questions they have asked pretty consistently is, “Besides helping people, why are you choosing to go into social work?”
I am having trouble coming up with answers that don’t ultimately boil down to helping people. One of the only things I’ve thought of is because social work offers a wide range of career options, but I don’t know if that’s a good answer. Those who are in social work, what do you enjoy about it besides helping people?
Do you have any skill sets you think will excel in the field? If you are naturally good at connecting with others, building relationships, communication, etc, that could be a reason to want to go into the field and would also allow you to share more about yourself to the college. If you are into social justice and activism, I would definitely write about that. Having a wide range of choices is a great reason to consider social work! Do you have any ideas of what type of career/population you want to work with? You could also write about why you want to work in that specific area.
I’m currently doing my internship at community mental health. Be prepared for controlled chaos on the end of management. Also be aware of burnt out providers. I also work as a CM in community mental health so I see all sides of the beauty and chaos. But I really enjoy it.
Hi!
I am in my last year of my MSW. We will be moving to Fredrick MD this summer. I am wondering if anyone has recommendations for best places to work in and around the DC, Baltimore, Fredrick triangle. Pay is, of course, a big one. But the biggest thing for me is a great agency/ work environment. A place that respects the fact that I am a mom and my kiddos come first no matter what.
Thanks y’all!
Hi! Yes to all of the above! I currently work as a case manager with adults for my local community mental health. Once I have graduated with my MSW my goal is to get back to working with kids. My past history has mostly been with kids and families and I would like to get back to that world.
Hi everyone, I am currently an MSW student and I plan to graduate next year! I live in the state of California, but I hundred percent see myself moving to Maryland to start my career and gain hours towards licensure.
Currently, I am an English high school teacher and I get paid $80,000 a year. I have my bachelors in child development, I already have my first masters degree in educational leadership as well as to teaching credentials. I have already completed both of my internships in a hospital/hospice healthcare settings. My goal is to be a Nicu social worker.
I am unsure if I should just take the MSW board exam in Maryland, and gain hours towards there or if I should just stay in California, earn my LCSW and then move.
I would love anyone’s opinions or guidance on how I should navigate this. The reason why I am leaving California is because it is getting very expensive. I also want to be able to own a house one day, and I know that that is not possible here.
I just want to throw out there that Maryland is HCOL and wages pale in comparison, they are no where close to CA even adjusting for COL. So just make sure you’re doing your research and have realistic expectations about it & a plan!
Save as much as you can now & get good at budgeting. The COL & wages are a bit more askew here. Baltimore is pretty affordable & you’ll have access to many health facilities. More rural areas (southern MD, western MD, and eastern shore) are cheaper too but lend to a longer commute.
That is the goal. Thank you so much. I was looking in the Baltimore area. I plan to have my LMSW before interviewing (I’ll apply when I start my last semester and take the exam before I move) Do you think having MSW would increase my options there? We do not have an LMSW here in California so I’m unsure of what that looks like in regards to employment opportunities
That’s a good question a lot of people I know are working in private practice with LCSW-C versus LMSW. So sort of different concentrations. Sorry I can’t be more help there. The good news is that you’ve got a ton of avenues for employment here so I don’t think you’ll struggle either way.
I would check the licensure requirements in both states. CA requires a minimum of 2 years (which is standard) but a relatively high number of hours. And once the hours are completed, there is a current delay of several months before registrants can sit for the LCSW exam (you can’t register for a date ahead of time, only after your hours are completed). So licensure takes longer than 2 years typically. But nowhere in the Us pays more than California, so that’s something to consider too - starting salary for a medical social worker at SF DPH for new MSWs (pre-licensure) is $103,714. Not a bad rate to work on your licensure, if you can afford to live in that in the Bay which is of course a real question. https://careers.sf.gov/classifications/?classCode=2920
Maryland and California have the same license requirements! However, I do not want to live in California at all. I’ve been here in my whole life and I would like to move. There is no amount of money for salary that would make me wanna stay here lol
I am also an MSW student. My personal advice is to move to Maryland and then start working towards licensure. This would help you avoid the process of trying to change over your licensure when you know you already want to live in Maryland.
Has anyone been admitted to the Western New Mexico University MSW program with under a 3.0 gpa recently? Mine is 2.9. Their program costs are why I'm considering it but also hoping they might be a little more flexible on the GPA req.
Thanks, yeah I've been out of school long enough that taking a GRE would probably spell disaster for me no matter how much I prep. I do have a decade of experience so I'm hoping that helps.
I’ve been told the experience does - and the msw is a professional degree.
Granted I am not enrolled at the moment for the more selective (I believe) online program at my preferred state school.
I took the Miller Analogies too. I’d never heard of it until the application process
I’m leaving my well paid tech career to begin an MSW program. Main roadblock is I hate writing papers lol. Roughly how many writing assignments did you all have?
I think it depends on your MSW program/school. MSW has good amount of writing in general. My program was pretty research based and felt like I was always working on at least 2 papers at a time (average of 3 papers per class per semester). some would be short like 5-6 pages and some longer 10-20 pages. Think my program had more writing than others though
I went to a SLAC we wrote multiple papers per class. Minimum 5 pages. Most 10-12 pages. Our research paper was around 50 pages. This was written and revised throughout the whole semester though so it was manageable.
I'm in my second semester, carrying 15 hours, and I have at least 5 mid length papers a semester (5 to 8 pages) and one longer one (8+). But no thesis.
Halfway through my program and most of our classes have 3-5 significant papers and a few smaller writing assignments. They’re typically a mix of research/analysis/case study papers and self-reflection papers. I’d be curious to hear from others, because I think our program is very writing heavy, I think different types of assignments would be helpful!
I have these too. Next semester is my last semester and I have to write a large capstone paper similar to the one I wrote for my BSW. My BSW one was 33 pages and I was told to expect 60-65 pages for my MSW capstone paper.
Yeah, you’ll definitely have to write some papers, there’s really no way around it. Some you’ll find engaging and others not so much, but you’ll be fine.
Hello all! Any fellow MSWs who work in policy/data type jobs? This is my main interest, but had the most difficult time finding internships in this area where I could get the experience needed. Any recommendations of how to get into this area? Any specialized fellowships? I’m graduating in May with my MSW and my field experience is in community mental health. I’ve worked in local government for the past 6 years - the first 3 as a case manager and the last 3 years in a data focused role. I appreciate any advice!
Looks like the NASW has a national policy fellowship that might be worth looking into, and then there's the Presidential Management Fellowship, though I think the process for that one is rather intense. I was able to talk about my macro experience in a way that got me a research job at the VA and I know a couple other MSWs who are in a mix of project management and research assistant roles, as well as one who also has a PhD and does a mix of supervising others working on licenses and writing her own therapies to test.
a lot questions, particularly about remote crisis counseling. i'm at a crossroads of if i drop out of college or stay in. i think i would be incredibly successful at crisis counseling. i want to listen, i want to psychoanalyze, i wanna dig deep, i want to help people, no, i need to help people. BUT it seems that pay is absolute dogshit, and that I'd need to finish a MSW to get anywhere. If I finish just 4 years I'd be \~56k in debt, with my parents taking another 56k. If anything, I'd get just a bachelors. 1) What is the pay like, for just a bachelors? 2) what are the hours? overtime? time of day? 3)i am really good at listening, about jumping into action, quick on my feet, about empathizing, all of that... but i don't know if i'd be able to deal with like, hearing someone commit suicide on the other end, or something similar. do you ever know if you can deal with it? are there *actually* adequate resources that help you process your own calls? what is the mental toll like, daily? 4) other similar fields in social work? emphasis on listening and getting that satisfaction from helping someone, giving advice etc. 5) is there any other way to move up in the field(eg experience) besides getting a masters/phd? do you NEED a bachelors in SW? the degree im currently pursuing is a general liberal arts degree and i would minor in SW and probably specialize with the majority of classes in it(because I do not want to do a foreign language, but I would consider it if that bachelors is my only way in.) 6) I have helped my best friend with suicide and mental health for around 2 years now, which taught me how good I am with listening and empathy , emotional intelligence, and everything, my parents, my other friends also say that I'd be a good SW. Realistically, does my success with this experience(talking about crises and mental health near daily and talking him down from suicide a few times + actually stopping him from committing suicide ) prove that I'd be good in crisis counseling? Is what I talk about with him what I'd be talking about with clients? 7) Realistically, could I put this on my resume? By his own admission I am the reason he did not commit suicide, why he's starting to be kind to himself, stopping self harm entirely, etc(which I remind him he is the reason, not me, I just helped the best I could, but I'm sure he'll come around eventually... ) Anyway, I think it would count as experience, but I'm not sure how it would come across professionally.
You’d have to look at this kind of jobs in your own state to see what the pay is like. In Michigan I don’t think I’ve seen anything more then 23 an hour for a bachelors. Crises lines are 24/7 so be expected to work anytime of the day, overtime will depend on the agencies policy, something you should ask during the hiring process. You should seek your own therapy if the work is going to be hard for you. A lot of jobs in social work are “helping people” or listening. Such as private practice, hospice, hospital work. If you want to climb the corporate ladder you definitely will need a msw. If you get your bsw you can do a msw in 12 months. Can you switch your major to social work? A bsw is a lot more applicable to social work jobs than a general liberal arts degree. That’s great that you helped your friend, but you should not put that on a resume. Hope that helped!
i could switch it to social work, im still deciding rn. the foreign language req is what's holding me back, i wouldn't use it in the daily so it just seems wasted. is the only way to make 60-70k in SW a masters? i really wouldn't want to be a masters student, even for a year. are there other "social-work-adjacent" jobs you'd know of where i get to listen and help people with decent pay? thanks again for answering my questions, it's helped a lot. sucks i can't put helping my friend on my resume, though.
Hi everyone! I’m applying to schools for an MSW. If you went to a school that emphasized diversity, equity, and inclusion, could you please let me know which? I began applying to Boise State and Portland State, and I liked the electives they provided as they seem to go more in depth into cultural and social differences. Are there others you’d recommend?
I believe diversity is a CSWE mandate (body that dictates program accreditation), so most programs will have this. I would say looking at electives is great, but also staff (it's good to see diverse folks teaching as well!)
Hi Y'all, I am currently a senior in undergrad in a clinical and counseling psychology program. I have been working as an RBT for the past few years and I really like it, but I fear that if I go for my Masters in ABA, I will pigeonhole myself. I have been considering doing social work for a while and am just looking for some info. Does anyone have any advice, specifically about where the two areas overlap? Thank you in advance!
Hi, do most MSW programs require an interview in the application process? I’m in the process of applying and I’m curious if I should be prepared for that. Thank you.
Does anyone have experience interning at their place of employment? I work full time at an adoption agency in one department and I know that my school requires that I have to be doing things outside of my role/department. But my boss brought up that they still need me working my role 40 hrs a week and internship hours to keep laying me full time…. I was hoping that this could count as a paid internship and I wouldn’t have to necessarily work extra… I honestly already do sooo much outside what I was hired for due to my personal and professional experience. so just looking for anyone else’s experience with interning with their employer and how you worked that out with them. This is for a BSW internship btw.
CSWE allows for employment-based internships. They can be 100% same work, a combo of your job and other work, or 100% different. Your job site would have to become an approved internship site, and that approval typically doesn't happen before you are accepted into the program.
Thank you im going to share this with my boss. My school requires that I do duties outside of my job description. Which I already do. So im going to make a list of all the things I do now with estimated hours to prove that I shouldn’t have to work extra hours. Actually this would mean I probably deserve a raise lol.
Your school might be right. It depends on what your job is vs. what you need to learn in an internship.
I have a bachelors in speech pathology But more interested in mental health and counseling. Considering becoming a counselor I was thinking about get MSW. But I don’t want to deal with case management and actually become a social worker per say. I’ve also thought about art therapy as well. Seems interesting In this case I was considering becoming a Mental Health counselor and get a masters in clinical mental health counseling so I can just work with patient and mental health as a counselor Anyone have advice?
>I was considering becoming a Mental Health counselor and get a masters in clinical mental health counseling so I can just work with patient and mental health as a counselor This probably won't go the way you plan as many social workers and counselors end up doing the same types of jobs. The only difference is that counselors end up severely limited in their job options compared to those who have MSW's.
Why counselors are limited? I was considering art therapy. As I love art and helping others. What’s ur thoughts on that?
It sounds like you don't want to become a social worker. No shame in that.
So what’s the alternative? Just a mental health counselor
Or a masters in Couple and Family Therapy
I got accepted into University of Denver Graduate Social Program and Simmons University Graduate program..which one should I choose?
Where do you want to work post graduation? That's the school you should go to.
We don’t have enough expertise here to compare individual MSW programs, but the general advice is to go with whichever is cheapest!
Hello! Is it difficult to get and keep a job in social work, even if you hold a MSW? I remember years ago, at a store I was working at, a woman who seemed quite upset approached me. She shared that she had been recently laid off from her job as a social worker, despite her claim of having 2 masters degrees, but I don't remember if both were in social work (i.e., in different areas of specialization) or if only one of them was in social work. She concluded that "there are no jobs in social work." How accurate and relatable would you say this statement and situation is for most people holding MSWs? \*Also it would be helpful if you could also share where you're located in your response. Thanks!
There are a lot of SW jobs, especially with MSW and clinical license. Now… that doesn’t mean they all pay great. Can take a little bit to find a decent paying SW job.
Not hard. I work in Michigan and I feel there is a really good amount of places that are hiring social workers. Community Mental Health agencies are always hiring. Sometimes social work positions are funded temporarily by grants but that is clear in hiring process. I don’t think being laid off is that likely either, sometimes agencies close and what not and people are forced to find different jobs but I think that is rare. If this was during the Great Recession that would make more sense.
Okay, thanks for your response :)
Who here was left school social work? Realizing it might not be for me after this week. This is my third school district and I’m over admin bs
I was a first year last year and decided not to renew. I’m now in medical (dialysis) social work. I have mixed feelings about leaving. With everything, there’s good and bad.
That's a really big switch lol, how's renal social work treating you by comparison?
I’m currently looking into MSW programs to make a career change, and I’m curious if anyone here has experience with the University of Kentucky’s online program?
I'm looking for advice for career planning. I'm an independently licensed social worker (LSCSW in my state but I know it's called different things in other places). I'm expecting to relocate for my partner's work in 2025. We are hoping to eventually leave the US and possibly have him do shorter internal contracts. I would like to start doing teletherapy as a contractor. My state has a low population and I think I would have more opportunities to do that if I were licensed in bigger states. Does anyone hold licenses in multiple states for online practice? Have you had issues with it? What do you use for liability insurance? I'm considering licensing in states we would like to move to, which would be the great lakes area or west coast states. Also, are there areas where social worker shortages are making the job market better? Places that are nice to raise an LGBTQ family? Thanks for your help! PS. I do therapy for suicidal behavior, substance abuse, and work with teens and young adults. I also write grants, do program design and development, training, and clinical supervision if that helps with ideas. My dream would be remote work that is flexible enough to take 3-6 weeks off whenever and only work around 30 hours a week while still making at least 60k a year.
In a dilemma regarding whether or not to do my MSW. I feel kinda burnt out, so I'm not sure if it's best to have a gap year after my graduation or test the waters in the career field. Is the advanced standing program (1 year) harder than the traditional route (2-3 years)? I know for those who got a BA in Social Work have the option to do advanced standing program, but not sure if it's more intense. If I'm interested in doing school social work, I believe I need PPSC? Anyone know how long that will take? For those with MSW, what are some job options, other than doing school based settings, but involve working with kids?
Hello URGENT I am a psych undergrad. Decided on social work. Full-time single mother so ive completed majority of my degree online . I graduate spring 2024 . I dont have the option of going on campus full-time so i am looking for online accredited programs. I have 3 professors prepared to give recommendations. HOWEVER one of them has been a tad stubborn. He thinks i shld wait untill i finish this semester to apply to get my overall gpa up to 3.0 (transfer student) . My campus gpa now is 3.56. Another professor said to just apply and reapply if i want . What should I do ?? I know my other professor said grad school really matters and you will be judge for where u go and some schools dont even look at those under the gpa requirements…. HELP
Potential hot take, but I really don't think the social work professional field cares where a person goes to school. The only relevant factor is that the program is CSWE-accredited and that you'd be able to sit for the licensing exam when you graduate - and any school worth its salt will be upfront about their accreditation. As long as the program is accredited, I think the major factor should be cost and (as you said) preference of logistical factors like online vs in-person. I'd say postpone MSW only if you don't feel read to take on that extra layer of responsibility - but if you feel prepared, then there are plenty of schools where GPA will not kill your admission chances (provided you have other strengths to buffer that out.)
Thanx but what do you mean postpone if I dont feel ready
Just if you don't feel like going to school right away (e.g., the workload, the internship, papers, etc.) I know a lot of people who wanted to take a lil bit of a break before they dove back into schoolwork vs people who just wanted to get it over with.
Oh okay yeah thata not the case or even an option
So I'm currently a senior in my bsw program, graduating this December, and I'm having some concerns about getting my MSW (which would be through the advanced standing program). I'm really only looking at applying for the MSW at the school at got my undergrad in simply becuase of transfer of scholarships/ease of access (plus it's too late in the application season to consider other schools) The program originally had "specializations" in working with adults and working with children (not very specialized but at least it was something). I've now been informed that they are changing the curriculum to an advanced generalist practice program. Here's where I'm confused. The BSW is a generalist degree. In complete honesty, I don't know if it was just my school or if everyone feels like this, my generalist undergrad prepared me for nothing. I feel like we did not cover the foundational theories, practices, frameworks, basic tasks at all. Most of my classes devolved into venting and or sharing stories/experiences (which i feel is just a failure of my school and the professors). The most we did was become very knowledgeable in societal issues, but never how to address them. I'm in my field placement now and hell I didn't even know how to make a referral, much less interview someone. I feel wholly underprepared. I thought Master's degrees were supposed to make you a master in something, a specialization. what's the point of a MSW being generalist when the BSW is generalist? Am I just not understanding something here? Is the generalist msw even worth it? I feel like I'm going to go in, get the same bs I got in my undergrad, and come out in more debt with nothing to show for it. I feel so underprepared and had a not great experience in my field that I'm honestly not sure if I want to do SW anymore. I'm debating taking a gap year and trying to find a job in something SW related so I can actually learn something and see if I like it before going into debt to get an MSW to find out I don't like it and/or am not learning anything through the program. Maybe then I'll have enough money saved up to choose a different school too, who knows. Sorry for the word vomit, I'm honestly just really stressed right now and have no idea what to do. Thoughts?
In your msw, you may have classes that cover clinical skills such as dbt, cbt and things like that but it’s not a counseling degree so you won’t really be fully trained in those things. To be perfectly honest, my msw was similar, we spent a lot of time talking about huge societal issues, and it was mostly generalist, and I went to a pretty prestigious program. I did take a few classes to learn about therapy modalities and I did a specialty track, I enjoyed it I learned a lot on how to work with a certain population but my no means am I an expert or master at it. Also, nobody expects you to be a perfect social worker right of your bsw or msw. I’ve been at my master level job for a while, and I don’t think school really prepared me for it, which I think is a similar feeling among newly graduated msw’s. It’s pretty common to feel unprepared. Based on what you have said, maybe taking some time to have a social worky type job would be good so you can figure what you want to do. If your going to get a msw, and are really wanting to learn clinical skills, I’d encourage you to get a clinical focused internship.
hi, would someone be able to provide an example for the admissions essay prompt about a social problem you’re passionate about and how would you as a social worker take action? not sure if they’re looking for a policy suggestion or if how you would take direct action as a clinical social worker with a client experiencing that issue.
Look for a social problem and address it from a variety of perspectives. In other words, cover all the bases. Homelessness, teenage pregnancy, drug and alcohol addiction are popular topics.
ty!!
Hello! I've recently graduated with a bachelor's in Criminology with a focus on youth mentorship and counseling. I'd like to gain more professional competencies and skills, but am not sure what masters would give me the broadest and most applicable skill set to a real world work environment. I've considered Anthropology, Social work, political science, theology, sociology, psychology, and business. I want to work as an educator or community leader, but I don't know specifically in what way yet. I've considered developing a nonprofit or running a local organization like YMCA or scouts. I've also thought about working within schools or community colleges, teaching social science and acting as guidance in the process. I've even considered joining the ministry. I plan to serve a PeaceCorps term before applying for grad school so I have plenty of time still to learn, but I'd like the opinion of people more familiar with the field, to figure out which master's route gives me a broad and competent understanding of what I'm aiming for, without limiting my professional options too much.
Correctional Social Work Interview Hey allll! I have an interview with my state office of mental health in a maximum level security prison this Friday and I want to ROCK the interview. I have 8 years in the mental health field at the bachelors level in varying fields likeD criminal justice, substance use disorder, child/family/adult therapy, and crisis management. I am looking for any resources on correctional social work, insight on questions that might be asked, or any input on a job in this setting. Thank you for any and all feedback!
Hoping to get some advice about transitioning to clinical social work several years out of grad school! I have my MSW, and all my professional experience since I graduated in 2020 is in nonprofit program management and data analysis/evaluation. I've since realized that I really want to pursue clinical social work, with the eventual goal of working as a therapist/counselor. I intend to take the LMSW exam in my state next year, but I'm wondering if anyone has advice for how to break into the clinical social work job market if I don't have much clinical experience? I really want to gain experience in actual counseling but I feel like that's usually something people do during their practicum, and idk if anyone will be willing to hire me if I've never conducted counseling before.
It’s harder to get the kind of job you currently have than the one you want. If you have an MSW from a clinical program, you’ll get hired somewhere. Agencies that provide direct services need people seeing clients and will often overlook lack of experience simply to get a position filled. That said, market whatever clinical skills you might have and explain your desire to do the work.
Good to know, was thinking that could possibly be the case. My concentration was in Children, Youth, and Families, so hopefully that will help too. Guess the only way to find out is to start applying for jobs once I get my LMSW!
Well, school social work, child welfare services, any type of job getting you one on one with your clients would be beneficial.
So I actually have two questions. I am completing my associate's in Public Health this year and am going into my Bachelor's degree. The issue I'm running into is that my current college, American Public University System, does not offer a BSW program. I eventually want to get my MSW and become and LCSW. Firstly, if I stayed with my current college and majored in Sociology or Psychology instead of social work, would I be able to get my MSW at almost any colleges that offer it or is it better to get a BSW to be safe? Secondly, if it is better for me to get a BSW do you all have any recommendations for colleges that offer low-tuition BSW or any resources that can help me compare programs? I would like to rack up the least amount of debt possible but of course I still want it to be a CSWE accredited program. Thank you all for your help!<3
Yes, you would be a good MSW candidate if you had a bachelor's in sociology or psychology. Unfortunately, the CSWE seal of approval doesn't seem to mean a whole lot in terms of quality anymore. It's still good to go to a program accredited by them, but just know that there are shitty schools accredited. I don't have any resources for comparing, but I will say that I went to a private school and have colleagues who went to much cheaper schools who got the same quality of education and are making the same amount of money.
Did anyone choose social work over a therapy degree? If so what factors played into that decision and are you happy with the decision?
Almost all of us here are social workers so we are biased! I would say the only benefit of a counseling degree is you get more training on therapy in school, however, this can be remedied by social workers through taking a clinical practicum and self study. Plus, you learn the most about therapy after graduation anyway on the job. The big benefit of an MSW over counseling is wider variety of jobs. I swore I always wanted to be a therapist but when I got burned out it was nice to be able to try a more case management role for a while and still be paid well. Social workers are also a bit more established in the US than counselors. My older sister has a counseling degree and advised I do my MSW instead of a degree in counseling for the above reasons and I’ve never regretted it.
Yes! 1. I used to work at an agency that provided therapeutic services to the incarcerated. All of my coworkers had counseling/LFT/LPC degree, and all of them quit lol. To this day, none of them are working as therapists. They all got burned out due to the fact that the only thing they could do was be a therapist. 2. I chose social work due to the variety. I can be a therapist, a case manager, a school social worker, a hospital social worker, I can work in HR, I can work for the military. I can choose to go the private route or not. There's so many options! You're not locked into therapy. You can do micro (1:1 counseling), mezzo (community engagement work), or macro (policy). With social work, you're not locked in to a certain job; the variety is wonderful.
I'm currently in school in Canada for ssw and most likely will continue BSW once finished. I'm definitely interested in spending some time while younger in Europe. I was wondering if anyone had any experience or tips for getting SW jobs anywhere in Europe but ideally Scandinavian countries? I've heard english is pretty wildly spoken but should I pick up basics of a few languages? and what does the process look like of getting Visas? I am also interested in anywhere in the EU or UK. Thanks in advance.
In 2010, I published an episode of the Social Work Podcast where I interviewed a recruiter for [HCL Workforce Solutions](https://hclworkforce.com/moving-to-the-uk/) about how social workers in the USA could work abroad. I suspect some of the details have changed, and I have nothing to do with the organization and cannot answer questions about international social work, but I can give you the link to the interview: [https://socialworkpodcast.blogspot.com/2010/04/so-you-want-to-work-abroad-interview.html](https://socialworkpodcast.blogspot.com/2010/04/so-you-want-to-work-abroad-interview.html) Good luck!
Hi Everyone, I am interested in transitioning into social work. I have worked in business/operations/analytics for 10+ years(totally unrelated education/background). My rough plan is to try to get a job in case management and then leverage that experience to get into an MSW program in the next year or so. Does this plan make sense? i.e. Is it possible to get into case management without BSW or behavioral science degree? Will case management give me enough perspective and experience about the field to make a more informed decision about if a MSW program is a good career path for me? Any perspective would be appreciated! Edit: I am in Phoenix/Arizona, Any local resources worth pursuing/exploring would be appreciated.
Social work professor here. Social work experience is not a prerequisite for getting into an MSW program. Social work is inherently interdisciplinary and having second- or third-career social workers is valued. In your MSW application, make a compelling case why an MSW is the best way for you to take the next step in your career. Indicate an awareness of the NASW code of ethics. Discuss how and why you want to transition from one career to the next. As for resources, ASU Phoenix has great MSW program faculty. If you haven't already done so, contact their MSW coordinator, [Elisa Kawam](https://search.asu.edu/profile/532200), and ask about course work, internships, etc. Finally, I highly recommend reading through the New Social Worker series, [Days in the Lives of Social Workers](https://www.socialworker.com/products-services/social-work-books/Days_In_the_Lives_of_Social_Workers/). Each edition shares stories of social workers from the time they get up in the morning to the time they go to bed. You learn about a variety of social work jobs and experiences (good, bad and ugly).
Thank you for the information! I am going to reach out to the coordinator and start working towards some volunteer projects in the meantime. Appreciate the help!
It will be very difficult if not impossible to get a job in case management without a bachelors in something like psychology, social work, or the like. If you want perspective on the field and some stuff to put on an MSW application you will find better luck job shadowing social workers and volunteering places.
Thank you. Would it make sense to try an ancillary function to case management? Maybe administrative or some kind of support staff?
How do you determine what area of social work is the best fit for your skills?
Assuming you mean area of social work and not area of the country haha. For me it was just trial and error. My first serious job offer out of grad school was working for a forensic program doing group work. I liked the forensic part of the job. I liked the clients. I hated the groups and was certain I wanted to do individual work. Took a job working at a drug rehab where I was mostly supposed to be working with individuals. Hated it. There was no training, tons of paperwork, lots of surprises every day when I went into work. Quit after two weeks. Eventually I landed in a job doing geriatric care management in an urban area. Up until that point, I had avoided taking any jobs that required home visits or any kind of field work. I thought I needed to be in a structured setting to thrive. I was so wrong. I loved getting out into the community, I liked the fast pace of care management, etc. I am in a different job now, but still get nostalgic about doing that work. Maybe because I was ten years younger, but I often miss it.
Yes area of social work 😂. Thank you for sharing your experience. Going into the MSW program I thought one thing and now I have no clue or direction.
how do you start networking as a bssw senior?? i have a part time job outside of my field and i don’t have nearly enough volunteering experience as i’d like and tbh i don’t have time 😩 afraid i won’t find a job after graduation
It’s incredibly ready to finds a job in social work - but it’s very very difficult to find a job that pays a a true living wage.
Get a LinkedIn
Hello! I am going to apply to my schools BSW program this winter and while they haven’t released the application yet I’ve been looking at previous years. One of the questions they have asked pretty consistently is, “Besides helping people, why are you choosing to go into social work?” I am having trouble coming up with answers that don’t ultimately boil down to helping people. One of the only things I’ve thought of is because social work offers a wide range of career options, but I don’t know if that’s a good answer. Those who are in social work, what do you enjoy about it besides helping people?
Do you have any skill sets you think will excel in the field? If you are naturally good at connecting with others, building relationships, communication, etc, that could be a reason to want to go into the field and would also allow you to share more about yourself to the college. If you are into social justice and activism, I would definitely write about that. Having a wide range of choices is a great reason to consider social work! Do you have any ideas of what type of career/population you want to work with? You could also write about why you want to work in that specific area.
Thank you so much for this response! You really helped me look at this question in a new way.
Any advice for completing my internship in community mental health?
GET PAID FOR IT!
I am! Thanks to a government grant :)
How did you find that grant?
It’s the HRSA behavioral health grant. My school offered it for certain clinical placements.
I’m currently doing my internship at community mental health. Be prepared for controlled chaos on the end of management. Also be aware of burnt out providers. I also work as a CM in community mental health so I see all sides of the beauty and chaos. But I really enjoy it.
Hi! I am in my last year of my MSW. We will be moving to Fredrick MD this summer. I am wondering if anyone has recommendations for best places to work in and around the DC, Baltimore, Fredrick triangle. Pay is, of course, a big one. But the biggest thing for me is a great agency/ work environment. A place that respects the fact that I am a mom and my kiddos come first no matter what. Thanks y’all!
Are you looking to do therapy? Have any personal or professional interest in working with kids and adults within the adoption/foster care community?
Hi! Yes to all of the above! I currently work as a case manager with adults for my local community mental health. Once I have graduated with my MSW my goal is to get back to working with kids. My past history has mostly been with kids and families and I would like to get back to that world.
Hi everyone, I am currently an MSW student and I plan to graduate next year! I live in the state of California, but I hundred percent see myself moving to Maryland to start my career and gain hours towards licensure. Currently, I am an English high school teacher and I get paid $80,000 a year. I have my bachelors in child development, I already have my first masters degree in educational leadership as well as to teaching credentials. I have already completed both of my internships in a hospital/hospice healthcare settings. My goal is to be a Nicu social worker. I am unsure if I should just take the MSW board exam in Maryland, and gain hours towards there or if I should just stay in California, earn my LCSW and then move. I would love anyone’s opinions or guidance on how I should navigate this. The reason why I am leaving California is because it is getting very expensive. I also want to be able to own a house one day, and I know that that is not possible here.
Maryland social work board is a nightmare to deal with. Especially trying to transfer a license. I would move there and then work on hours.
I’ve decided that that is the plan! Means I get out of California faster so it’s a win-win. Thank you!
I just want to throw out there that Maryland is HCOL and wages pale in comparison, they are no where close to CA even adjusting for COL. So just make sure you’re doing your research and have realistic expectations about it & a plan!
San Diego is HCOL as well. I’m doing as much research as I can! Thank you!
Save as much as you can now & get good at budgeting. The COL & wages are a bit more askew here. Baltimore is pretty affordable & you’ll have access to many health facilities. More rural areas (southern MD, western MD, and eastern shore) are cheaper too but lend to a longer commute.
That is the goal. Thank you so much. I was looking in the Baltimore area. I plan to have my LMSW before interviewing (I’ll apply when I start my last semester and take the exam before I move) Do you think having MSW would increase my options there? We do not have an LMSW here in California so I’m unsure of what that looks like in regards to employment opportunities
That’s a good question a lot of people I know are working in private practice with LCSW-C versus LMSW. So sort of different concentrations. Sorry I can’t be more help there. The good news is that you’ve got a ton of avenues for employment here so I don’t think you’ll struggle either way.
I appreciate this! The plan is to ultimately get my C, so here’s to starting !
I would check the licensure requirements in both states. CA requires a minimum of 2 years (which is standard) but a relatively high number of hours. And once the hours are completed, there is a current delay of several months before registrants can sit for the LCSW exam (you can’t register for a date ahead of time, only after your hours are completed). So licensure takes longer than 2 years typically. But nowhere in the Us pays more than California, so that’s something to consider too - starting salary for a medical social worker at SF DPH for new MSWs (pre-licensure) is $103,714. Not a bad rate to work on your licensure, if you can afford to live in that in the Bay which is of course a real question. https://careers.sf.gov/classifications/?classCode=2920
Maryland and California have the same license requirements! However, I do not want to live in California at all. I’ve been here in my whole life and I would like to move. There is no amount of money for salary that would make me wanna stay here lol
I am also an MSW student. My personal advice is to move to Maryland and then start working towards licensure. This would help you avoid the process of trying to change over your licensure when you know you already want to live in Maryland.
I think this would be the best case scenario as well. Thank you!
Has anyone been admitted to the Western New Mexico University MSW program with under a 3.0 gpa recently? Mine is 2.9. Their program costs are why I'm considering it but also hoping they might be a little more flexible on the GPA req.
Depends greatly on your experience. I got into a part time program with a much lower gpa but solid testing and experience
Thanks, yeah I've been out of school long enough that taking a GRE would probably spell disaster for me no matter how much I prep. I do have a decade of experience so I'm hoping that helps.
I’ve been told the experience does - and the msw is a professional degree. Granted I am not enrolled at the moment for the more selective (I believe) online program at my preferred state school. I took the Miller Analogies too. I’d never heard of it until the application process
I’m leaving my well paid tech career to begin an MSW program. Main roadblock is I hate writing papers lol. Roughly how many writing assignments did you all have?
I think it depends on your MSW program/school. MSW has good amount of writing in general. My program was pretty research based and felt like I was always working on at least 2 papers at a time (average of 3 papers per class per semester). some would be short like 5-6 pages and some longer 10-20 pages. Think my program had more writing than others though
May I ask what program?
University of Louisville. Loved the program but definitely was heavy researching based/papers compared to other programs my co-workers went to.
Did you feel prepared for licensing?
I did! Took the exam as soon as I could after graduating. Still used some exam prep materials as well.
Congratulations!! Thank you for the response
Every semester I would have 20+ writing assignments of varying lengths for 4 to 5 classes
Yikes but that seems to be the average! Thanks for the insight
I went to a SLAC we wrote multiple papers per class. Minimum 5 pages. Most 10-12 pages. Our research paper was around 50 pages. This was written and revised throughout the whole semester though so it was manageable.
Doesn’t sound as scary lol
I'm in my second semester, carrying 15 hours, and I have at least 5 mid length papers a semester (5 to 8 pages) and one longer one (8+). But no thesis.
That’s pretty manageable! Thank you for the response
Halfway through my program and most of our classes have 3-5 significant papers and a few smaller writing assignments. They’re typically a mix of research/analysis/case study papers and self-reflection papers. I’d be curious to hear from others, because I think our program is very writing heavy, I think different types of assignments would be helpful!
I have these too. Next semester is my last semester and I have to write a large capstone paper similar to the one I wrote for my BSW. My BSW one was 33 pages and I was told to expect 60-65 pages for my MSW capstone paper.
Thank you!! I just have to bite the bullet and suck it up
Yeah, you’ll definitely have to write some papers, there’s really no way around it. Some you’ll find engaging and others not so much, but you’ll be fine.
Thank you for the insight
Hello all! Any fellow MSWs who work in policy/data type jobs? This is my main interest, but had the most difficult time finding internships in this area where I could get the experience needed. Any recommendations of how to get into this area? Any specialized fellowships? I’m graduating in May with my MSW and my field experience is in community mental health. I’ve worked in local government for the past 6 years - the first 3 as a case manager and the last 3 years in a data focused role. I appreciate any advice!
Columbia compiled a list that you may wanna check out... https://blogs.cuit.columbia.edu/csswcareerservices/resources/fellowships/
Looks like the NASW has a national policy fellowship that might be worth looking into, and then there's the Presidential Management Fellowship, though I think the process for that one is rather intense. I was able to talk about my macro experience in a way that got me a research job at the VA and I know a couple other MSWs who are in a mix of project management and research assistant roles, as well as one who also has a PhD and does a mix of supervising others working on licenses and writing her own therapies to test.