A degree in social work can provide pathways to a unique , impactful and a broad range of careers. Social work is a field dedicated to helping individuals and communities address a variety of social , physical and psychological challenges. Here are some of the career paths and roles you can pursue with a social work degree:
- Clinical Social Worker - Clinical social workers provide therapy and counseling services to individuals and families dealing with trauma, mental health and emotional issues. They may work in private practice, NHS hospitals, mental health clinics, or other healthcare settings.
- School Social Worker - School social workers support students’ academic and social development by addressing issues such as bullying, absence , family problems, and mental health concerns. They work with teaching staff, parents, and students to create a positive learning environment.
- Medical Social Worker - Medical social workers work in healthcare settings, assisting patients and their families in coping with illness, injury, and healthcare decisions. They may help patients access necessary resources and navigate the healthcare system.
- Child Welfare Worker - Child welfare workers, also known as child protective services workers, assess and intervene in cases of child abuse or neglect. They work with the police and the CPS to ensure the safety and well-being of children and families.
- Geriatric Social Worker - Geriatric social workers specialize in working with the elderly population, addressing issues related to aging, long-term care, and palliative care. They may work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or with older adults living in the community.
- Mental Health Counsellor - While not limited to social workers, mental health counsellors provide therapy and support to individuals dealing with mental health issues. Social work education can prepare you for this role.
- Substance Abuse Counsellor - Substance abuse counsellors help individuals struggling with addiction and substance abuse issues. They provide counselling, support, and treatment planning to facilitate recovery.
- Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker - Hospice and palliative care social workers assist patients and their families with end-of-life care decisions, emotional support, and access to services that enhance the quality of life for those with terminal illnesses.
- Community Organizer or Advocate - Social workers can work as community organizers or advocates for social change and justice. They may work with non-profit organizations, lobbying groups, or community development agencies to address social issues.
- Correctional Social Worker - Correctional social workers work within the criminal justice system alongside prisons and the DOJ , helping inmates with rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
- Adoption and Foster Care Worker - Social workers in this role assist with the adoption and foster care process, ensuring the well-being of children and supporting families.
- Military Social Worker - Military social workers provide support to service members and their families, addressing a range of issues, including deployment, post-traumatic stress, and family dynamics.
- International Social Work - For those linguists and travellers interested in working abroad, international social work involves addressing social issues on a global scale, such as poverty, public health, and human rights.
- Police family liaison officer - Family Liaison officers are police officers who are specially trained to deal with families after a serious crime . They are usually appointed on the day of the incident. Their job is to be a sensitive contact between the police investigation and the family.
There is no doubt that a degree in social work can offer a wealth of different opportunities, within social work there are a variety of different roles working with various different groups of people. Further posts will explore what exactly these roles consist of and the different career paths that you can take towards them.