Positively Impact the Lives of Individuals and Families
Social work is a versatile, purpose-driven profession that prepares you to positively impact the lives of individuals and families, as well as the performance of groups and organizations. A degree in social work can open doors to new job opportunities that can strengthen our communities.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth and compensation will be driven by increased demand for healthcare and social services. Relative to a number of factors within a community, the most competitive employers include hospitals, government agencies, and educational institutions based in urban areas.
Social workers operate within a wide range of industries and perform a variety of job functions. As a social worker, you can tailor your career to your interests and passions and have the option to reinvent yourself professionally while continuing in your chosen field. Social workers can be found in:
Child, Family and School Services
Work with families to strengthen parenting skills
Prevent child abuse
Identify alternative homes for children who are unable to live with their biological families
Provide counseling and support services to school age children and teenagers
Advocate for student success
Medicine
Help aging populations and their families
Advise family care givers
Provide patient education and discharge planning
Make referrals for other services
Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Help clients adjust to major lifestyle changes
Assist with disaster relief programs
Provide substance abuse assessment and referrals
Make referrals for social rehabilitation and crisis intervention
Criminal Justice System
Serve as probation and parole officers
Work with juveniles in detention centers
Work in an alternative sentencing program
Military and Veterans Affairs Agencies
Work with active duty military members and their families
Work with veterans as they transition from service to civilian life
Work in veteran hospitals
Administration and Community
Raise funds for community projects
Write grants to sustain communities
Plan and implement community infrastructure projects
Assist and advocate for state and federal policies that assist community projects
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