Online Social Work Degree

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An online social work degree is the perfect choice for those individuals who enjoy working with people to help improve their lives and to really make a difference. Obtaining a social work degree can open up numerous career opportunities which involve helping others by solving their personal problems. These issues are diverse in nature and can range from domestic violence to unemployment and from foster care to life threatening diseases, to name but a few.

Plenty of career options

A job within the social care industry tends to be fairly flexible offering plenty of scope for advancement together with the option to specialize in specific areas such as mental health, drug abuse, child and family care, or medical and public health. A Bachelor's in social work gives students the basics in serving a wide variety of people which can then be broken down into more specialized areas by working for a Masters.

Study when it suits you

An online social work degree can be obtained by attending “classes” at home for those students who don't want to leave home or move far away to study. Social work is one of the fastest growing fields and offers many career options.

When you study for an online social work degree it gives you the opportunity to study at your convenience and a time to suit yourself. The majority of long distance programs use web based teaching and learning platforms to accept completed assignments, promote discussions and deliver lectures, using WebCT Blackboard or an interface which is similar. The Council On Social Work Education (CSWE) which regulates the degree, stipulates that there must be a clinical practice module in order to be accredited and this is the only part of the degree which can't be completed online.

How long does the course last?

Full time virtual students can gain their Master of Social Work degree in four successive semesters. Students can also complete the degree in 4 years working part time or in a three year accelerated program either part time or full time. The Master Social Work program requires the completion of 60 units. However, there is also an Advanced Standing option for those who already hold a Bachelor's degree in social work.

How long will I need to study each week?

You will probably need to spend around 90 minutes per class each week taking part in discussions, attending online lectures and meeting in study groups with your peers. In addition you will need to factor in time to read material, study and complete assignments. The number of course units you take each semester is dependent on which option you have enrolled into.

What is involved?

The first year of the Masters degree gives an all round basic knowledge of skills and values by introducing issues, theories and practice methods that deal with an individual's environment. The second year gives advanced training in specialized areas such as Families and Children, Mental Health or Community Organization, Planning and Administration. Two years of field study experience (900 hours) or internship is also required in conjunction with the theoretical study.

What do social workers do?

Social work is a profession which is dedicated to helping people function to the best of their

ability within their environment. This can mean providing therapy or services direct to “clients” or it can mean working to improve their social conditions. Social work is for those individuals seeking a career which is full of meaning, has plenty of options, is satisfying, and offers an abundance of career choices.

Where do social workers work?

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, half of the social workers are employed in the social assistance and health care sections. Others are employed by Government agencies at local and state levels.

How much can I earn?

Annual wages vary according to which sector of social work you are employed in. A very general figure is a minimum of $29,340 per year rising to a top level of $77,260.

Job prospects are favourable in social work with an increase in new jobs, especially in the aging and substance abuse fields, as well as to replace people who have left the industry. There will also be less competition in rural areas as opposed to city centers.

Social work is an extremely worthwhile career and one in which you can really make a difference to the world around you. For more information take a look at the US Department of Labor website.

Browse through these programs and begin an Online Degree in Social Work.