A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a type of degree offered by many colleges and universities. More important, it is a type of preparation for students who want to enter a career of helping the less fortunate with high levels of respect and knowledge.
Degree
A BSW is typically earned after four years of study at a college or university.Preparation
A BSW is designed to help prepare students for a career in social work, which involves many different occupations that all strive to improve the lives of people who are less fortunate.Advancement
Focus
Respect
(Taken from: http://www.ehow.com/about_5368305_careers-bachelors-degree-social-work.html)
A bachelor's degree in social work is the beginning for individuals who want to work in a career aimed at helping people. After an individual earns an undergraduate degree in social work from a Council on Social Work Education accredited school, she is eligible sit for the state exam to become a licensed baccalaureate social worker. With a degree and social work license, graduates can apply for entry-level positions in various settings. According to the National Association of Social Workers, an entry-level social worker can earn up to $30,000 a year.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, in 2006, three out of 10 social workers were employed in state or local governments, particularly in health and human services roles. Bachelor's level social workers are found in jobs such as benefits qualifiers, child and adult protective services and the state's attorney general child support division. Workers use skills in assessment, intake and referral, and case management. Individuals who are bilingual are more effective at working with diverse clients.
- Some teachers contend they don't teach a subject, they teach life skills to students. If this is the case, social workers who enter the teaching field are able to use their skills in counseling, mentoring and assessment to help students become a success in the classroom. Through their education, they are more likely to see signs of abuse or neglect in a child. Also, social workers have the ability to work with parents and students from diverse backgrounds.
- For individuals with physical and mental disabilities, social workers assess and monitor their progress. The social worker's role as an advocate is found in these types of positions. For instance, since it is their role to know the needs of the individual, they are more likely to lobby for the interest of their client. Other duties include developing a plan of action for the individual and collaborating with other professionals concerned with the client's care.
- As a social worker, professionals use their education to help individuals overcome struggles. Social workers fit well into the role of probation or parole officer. As a probation officer, social workers prepare pre-sentencing assessments and provide services to prison inmates. Parole officers help individuals who have recently been released adjust to life outside the penitentiary walls. Workers with social work backgrounds are able to refer these individuals to community resources.
- Social workers help families get through life's hurdles by acting as a bridge to community outreach programs. These jobs, which are usually found in the nonprofit sector, include family coordinator, outreach specialist or community liaison. They assess the family's situation and develop a plan of action to help them rise above survival stage.
