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Social-Work-Board
CFSW
NAFC Certified Forensic Social Worker
https://killexams.com/pass4sure/exam-detail/CFSW Question: 253
A client discloses information to a social worker about domestic violence within
the home. Several times it has involved the injury of their child. At a court
proceeding, this is shared as circumstantial evidence. The client is angry with the
social service agency and declares her confidentiality was violated. The
administrator looks at the case and determines:
A. The information should have been forwarded to administration
B. The social worker should never have disclosed this information
C. The social worker acted appropriately considering the danger
D. The social worker wanted to make a bigger case out of the proceedings Answer: C
Considering the danger to the child, the social worker acted appropriately. Question: 254
A social worker is taking part in an interdisciplinary team meeting. During the
course of determining the well-being of a client, ethical concerns become an
issue. One of the team members openly displays a problem with the client�s
ethnic background, and this leads to negativity towards decisions being made.
What should the social worker do?
A. Discuss various religions and their beliefs
B. Base all decisions on the religious beliefs of the client
C. Try to resolve the disagreement through appropriate channels
D. Walk out of the meeting until the team member changes her mind Answer: C
Professional and ethical obligations should be clearly established pertaining to the
NASW Code of Ethics. Administration may be contacted to rectify a situation
within an interdisciplinary meeting when there are ethical concerns. Social
workers should participate in decisions that affect the well-being of a client by
drawing on experiences, values and perspectives. Question: 255
A social worker is providing services for a client whosuffered years of sexual
abuse by a guardian. There is very little rapport, and the professional understands
the challenges ahead. What needs to be established before therapy can be
successful?
A. Completion of a thorough assessment
B. Foundation based on a trusting relationship
C. Interaction with the perpetrator
D. Intimate relationship Answer: B
Before therapy can be successful, an intimate relationship must be established. A
relationship in social work is defined as a beginning and end with human
encounters between twoor more people. Question: 256
A social worker providing services for an elderly woman helps by doing her
grocery shopping every week. The client is unable to leave her home and
purchase provisions on her own, but she receives food assistance through the
Department of Health and Human Services. Every Friday the social worker takes
the woman�s assistance card and her list of groceries to the local store. A
colleague observes the social worker buying items on her own list as well. At the
cash register, the professional only provides the elderly woman�s assistance card.
What should the colleague do next?
A. Tell the elderly woman what has been happening
B. Report the actions to the NASW Code of Ethics Board
C. Notify the professional�s supervisor
D. Discuss the problem with the social worker Answer: D
The colleague needs to discuss the problem first with the social worker. If the
issue is not rectified, then administration needs to be contacted. All professionals
should pursue measures to prevent, discourage, expose or correct unethical
conduct. Social workers need to be aware of the standards and policies for
professionalism. Question: 257
Social workers empower individuals to function effectively through personal
growth and development. They provide advocacy and education to help end
oppression and promote self-determination. What do professionals strive to
uphold for their clientele?
A. Self-worth
B. Rights and Responsibilities
C. Legislation
D. Legal action Answer: B
Individuals have a right and responsibility to participate in society, working
toward a common good. When these rights are protected, a healthy community
can be achieved. Everyone has a right to options necessary for human decency.
Clientele have responsibilities to society, community and family. Question: 258
Social workers engage in organized action to Improve working conditions and
services to clients. Injustice related to unemployment, inhumane labor practices
and workers� rights is challenged. What principle do professionals adhere to in
regards to the basic rights of workers?
A. Appropriate labor practices
B. Non-discriminatory employment
C. Women�s rights
D. Dignity and rights of workers Answer: D
The dignity of work and the rights of workers often take a backseat to
marketplace profit. Individuals are not present to serve the economy. The basic
rights of workers must be respected in the manner of fair wages, private property,
union membership and economic initiative. Question: 259
One of the principles professionals adhere to in the promotion of social justice is
the advocacy for basic human needs. Social workers pursue change on behalf of
individuals to expand opportunity and choice. What group of people should be
considered top priority?
A. Children under the age of 6
B. Poor and vulnerable individuals
C. Women
D. Non-majority ethnic groups Answer: B
Poor and vulnerable people within society are characterized by extreme divisions
between them and the rich. Professionals strive to promote economic, social,
political and cultural values compatible with social justice. Change is advocated
on behalf of the vulnerable and oppressed to address poverty, discrimination and
unemployment. Question: 260
Governance structures are imperative to promote human rights, dignity and the
common good. Lower levels of government insure self-determination and
empowerment. Higher levels provide leadership and set policies. What is the
social worker�s role?
A. Engagement in social and political action
B. Social workers are advised to not get involved
C. Government action is denied by the NASW Code of Ethics
D. Advise clients to take political action Answer: A
Professionals take part in social and political action in an effort to promote
equality, expand opportunity, challenge injustice and empower others.
Individuals, families and groups should be urged to participate in governance
structures at all varying levels. Question: 261
Social workers empower clients and groups to promote social justice. Human
dignity requires that all individuals be assured a minimum level of what within
the community?
A. Socialization
B. Employment
C. Participation
D. Government Answer: C
It is the ultimate injustice for individuals or groups to be unfairly excluded from
community participation. Social workers empower clients to influence social
policies and gain equal access to resources.
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https://killexams.com/exam_list/Social-Work-Board4 things to know about a master’s degree in social work
BY Kayla SolinoMay 26, 2023, 2:54 PM
Graduates during the commencement ceremony for California State University Northridge, as seen in May 2023. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht—MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News/Getty Images)
A career in social work is not likely to help you gain a six-figure salary, but it’s a rewarding and in-demand field that touches many facets of everyday life. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, social workers have become heavily sought after as individuals, communities, and the government have realized the importance of adopting mental health and support services.
Jobs in social work are expected to grow 9% by 2031, a rate faster than the average across all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Though the number of social work jobs is rising, it’s not easy to simply jump into this field. That’s because a master’s degree in social work (MSW) is often required for many roles in clinics or as a supervisor—and applicants to master’s programs must complete various requirements both inside and outside of class.
The master’s degree is the universal standard for advanced social work practice says Yvonne Chase, president-elect of the board of directors for the National Association of Social Workers. She’s also an associate professor at the University of Alaska-Anchorage.
“The MSW does open the doors to many other things—you can go into private practice, you can work in the government systems,” Chase tells Fortune. “It’s the MSW that you actually need to move forward and that gives you the flexibility to move into all these various specialty areas.”
Before pursuing this advanced degree, however, you’ll need to find a program that best fits your lifestyle. Fortune’sdirectory of online MSW programs can help narrow your search because we’ve compiled a variety of information—including details about the programs, required credit hours, fieldwork components, and cost. That said, there are some additional things to consider about this master’s degree. Here’s what you need to know.
Your bachelor’s degree matters…somewhat
While anyone can pursue a master’s degree in social work, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree from any accredited college or university. You don’t need a bachelor’s in social work (BSW) to enroll in traditional or regular standing MSW programs, but if you have a BSW, you may be eligible for advanced-standing MSW programs. Advanced standing programs often shorten the total time it takes to complete an MSW degree since it usually requires fewer hours of fieldwork and credit hours.
Regular standing MSW programs typically require at least 60 credit hours of coursework and take on average of two to three years to complete versus the 12 to 15 months for advanced standing programs. Advanced standing eligibility and program details can differ by institution, so be sure to read up on any prospective program you may be interested in.
To be eligible for advanced standing MSW placement at certain schools, your BSW degree is subject to a statute of limitations. That means you must have obtained this degree within a specific timeframe—typically within the last five to 10 years, to ensure that as an MSW candidate you will learn the most up-to-date industry knowledge.
For example, at West Virginia University, a student can be considered for advanced standing if their degree was obtained within the last eight years. At Baylor University, that timeframe is within the last five years. Other programs have no limitations, like the University of Alabama’s one-year, full-time advanced standing track.
Fieldwork, sometimes referred to as a practicum, is similar to an internship. Students work for a set number of hours each week in a social work role under the supervision of a certified professional to gain real-world experience. The total number of hours required will vary by degree track and program, but the CSWE mandates a minimum of 900 hours of fieldwork be completed within a certified MSW program. Advanced standing students can use hours earned during their BSW to count toward this 900 hour requirement.
The required fieldwork hours often take place over several semesters, Mandy Weirich, a clinical instructor and the MSW online program coordinator at West Virginia University, previously told Fortune. At WVU, a field coordinator works with individual agencies to help set up fieldwork contracts for students.
Some programs have specific limitations on where the fieldwork can be completed, while other programs, such as Baylor University’s online MSW, allow fieldwork to be completed anywhere. Fieldwork placements allow students to gain experience in the field in varying roles—and can also help further define a student’s desired career focus.
“Your field of placement gives you an opportunity to work in the field under supervision in a way that you can ask questions and not feel like this is going to be your performance review in a job, but really learn if it is the right place for you,” Chase says. “It helps you define what area that you would like to work in and help you to identify the areas you don’t want to work in.”
Consider specializations or concentrations
While many people pursue a master’s degree to become qualified for more specialized roles in social work, receive higher pay, or get licensure, MSW programs often present candidates with a chance to explore specialized roles. Not every program offers specializations or concentrations, but common program specialty areas include clinical, community, family, children, trauma-informed care, or rural and indigenous social work.
Just as fieldwork allows you to find their career interests, a master’s degree program in social provides more opportunities to explore your passions and build upon skills you learned in your undergraduate program, Chase tells Fortune.
“An MSW is an extension and intensification of your BSW,” Chase says. “So as a bachelor’s student, you end up with many of the same basics, obviously that you would have in a master’s program, and the master’s program extends and expands upon those.”
Licensure requirements vary
Most certified CSWE programs prepare graduates to sit for the state licensure exams. The licensure process and requirements are different for each state and are determined by each state’s licensing board or agency. For this reason, it’s a good idea to evaluate where you plan to attend school and that state’s policies, especially if you live in a different state.
In certain states, you don’t need a license to practice as a social worker in a more limited capacity, though you may experience restrictions on your areas of practice and you may not be able to identify yourself as a social worker. Other states require licensure for any working professional, clinical or not.
Fri, 26 May 2023 03:40:00 -0500entext/htmlhttps://fortune.com/education/articles/4-things-to-know-about-a-masters-degree-in-social-work/How To Become A Medical Social Worker: A Step-By-Step Guide
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
If you’ve ever been hospitalized, you know how complex U.S. healthcare can be. No matter how well the medical staff explains your symptoms, treatment options and discharge plans, wading through the medical jargon and bureaucratic processes can feel like deciphering an ancient and mysterious code.
Luckily, medical social workers know how to break that code. These specialized social workers liaise between healthcare organizations and patients, serving as a crucial resource for people who need support navigating the medical system. Medical social workers advocate for their patients to ensure they receive the proper resources for a healthy recovery.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about starting a career as a medical social worker. Read on to discover how to become a medical social worker.
What Is a Medical Social Worker?
Medical social workers are professionals trained to help patients and their families navigate the healthcare system. They ensure clients receive adequate social support services, provide counseling as necessary, coordinate with medical staff, and communicate with patients’ families and loved ones.
Medical social workers’ responsibilities vary daily, as no two cases are alike. Generally, however, medical social workers must facilitate communication between clients, medical staff and social service programs, ensuring that all parties are informed and involved in making key decisions.
Common responsibilities for medical social workers include:
Meeting with the medical team to understand their clients’ prognosis and healthcare plans
Communicating their findings with clients
Connecting patients to proper community support services after their discharge
Explaining the patient’s financial obligations in clear terms
Medical social workers are found in various professional settings, but as the name suggests, they’re typically employed by healthcare organizations. These include outpatient healthcare services and inpatient settings, like hospitals.
Inpatient social workers—medical social workers who work in hospitals and other medical facilities—sometimes specialize in a specific hospital department, such as the emergency room or trauma intensive care. Many social workers also work in offices to complete administrative and clerical tasks.
Steps to Become a Medical Social Worker
Becoming a medical social worker involves years of academic and professional training, plus state licensure. Here’s an in-depth look at what it takes to become a medical social worker.
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Becoming a medical social worker starts with earning a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes four years to complete. While it makes the most sense to opt for a bachelor’s in social work (BSW), degrees in other fields such as psychology or sociology can also prepare you for a career in medical social work.
Credit requirements vary by institution. You’ll need a high school diploma or the equivalent, plus official transcripts, to apply to a bachelor’s program. Some programs also require standardized test scores and/or a personal essay.
Many social workers in training pursue a master’s in social work (MSW) after their bachelor’s. Earning an MSW qualifies you to become a licensed clinical social worker and provide professional counseling services to patients. Positions in medical social work commonly require master’s degrees.
To qualify for social work licensure, your MSW program must be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Most MSW programs take two years to complete.
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree to apply for an MSW, and most graduate programs ask for an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. Most programs also require letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement essay. Some may request standardized test scores.
Remember that supervised practicum or internship hours are mandatory to earn your MSW. Requirements vary among programs but are often around 1,000 hours.
Complete Supervised Experience and Training
After completing your MSW, you’ll need supervised training hours to earn a license. Exact hour requirements vary state by state, but most require roughly 3,000 hours of supervised training. California requires exactly 3,000 hours for licensure, for example. In Delaware, you’ll need to clock 3,200 hours, but states like Montana require just 2,000.
Obtain Licensure
Medical social workers must be licensed to practice in their respective states. Licensing requirements vary by state, but in general, you’ll need to complete your degree, apply for the license and pass the appropriate social work licensing exam. This test is usually administered by the Association of Social Work Boards.
Consider Certification
Certification isn’t required to practice medical social work, but it can help your job prospects by demonstrating your expertise in the field. Medical social workers typically earn the Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC) certification from the National Association of Social Workers.
Certification for Medical Social Workers
The C-SWHC certification serves social workers who specialize in healthcare. Earning this credential demonstrates your expertise and professional aptitude in medical social work.
Eligibility requirements for this certification include:
A graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program
At least two years (or 3,000 hours) of post-MSW social work in a healthcare facility or organization, such as a hospital or community clinic
Compliance with the code of ethics and standards for continuing professional education from NASW
Licensure in your respective state or a social work certification, license or registration from your state office
Challenges of Medical Social Work
Medical social work is a demanding field. It requires long work hours and can expose social workers to emotionally draining situations, especially when working with critically ill and dying patients. Stress and burnout are common among medical social workers.
The healthcare system’s complex nature also poses a challenge to medical social workers. Because medical social workers must liaise among various departments and organizations, information can slip through the cracks.
Medical social workers must also coordinate with community members and programs to advocate for their patients’ healthy living and working conditions. This adds a layer of challenge to an already-demanding day-to-day, particularly when bureaucratic roadblocks appear.
Working with a patient’s family dynamics can also make medical social work a challenge. It’s stressful to have a family member in the hospital. During emotional times like this, family conflicts and disputes can crop up and make it difficult to provide patient care and support.
Salary and Job Outlook for Medical Social Workers
Medical social workers take home an average annual wage of $60,840, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Jobs for social workers are expected to rise by 9% between 2021 and 2031, the BLS reports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Medical Social Workers
How do I break into medical social work?
Start by earning a BSW or a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Accumulating experience and establishing connections in an accredited program or university can help you get a foot in the door.
Where do medical social workers make the most money?
Medical social workers in Washington, D.C., make the most money, taking home a mean annual wage of $87,000. Medical social workers in California, Oregon and Hawai‘i all earn higher-than-average salaries
What is a hospital social worker called?
A hospital social worker is usually referred to as a medical social worker. Some might be called inpatient social workers.
Tue, 30 May 2023 09:51:00 -0500Cecilia Seiteren-UStext/htmlhttps://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/become-medical-social-worker/Accredited Online Master’s of Social Work (MSW) Programs
What you need to know about online master’s in social work programs
Most online master’s in social work (MSW) programs are a replica of the school’s on-campus program and are typically led by the same professors and faculty. The online learning format enables students to earn their degree while maintaining their personal, family, and employment commitments. Online programs are accredited in the same way as the school’s on-campus program, and most programs on Fortune’s directory don’t require a GRE for application consideration.
General MSW curriculum
Most online MSW programs prepare their students for advanced generalist practice on an individual (micro), community (mezzo), or policy (macro) level. This curriculum prepares students to work with individuals, in schools or other community settings, or to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and work in a clinical setting. Common courses subjects include:
Mental health
Leadership and management
Children and families
Social work in schools
Gerontological
Social work in health care
Trauma
Working with specific populations like rural, Indigenous, or military
International social work
Policy change
Aging and health
Substance misuse
Community and social justice
In addition to preparing students for advanced generalist practice, some online MSW programs offer dual degree options, as well as a niche or demographic-specific curriculum, so it’s a good idea to check with the schools you’re interested in to see what each program offers.
Internships
Students enrolled in an online MSW program must complete a specific number of field hours prior to graduation. That number varies by program, but typically requires around 1,000 hours during the program. Students with a bachelor’s degree in social work who enter the program in advanced standing are required to complete about half the number of hours as students with a bachelor’s degree in any other field—since advanced-standing students have already satisfied their foundational requirements. Some online MSW programs allow students to complete their internship field-hour requirements fully online, while others require some level of in-person attendance at the determined field site. Most programs help students locate a field site for an internship, but it’s important to determine whether the university you’re interested in will help you with placement.
Specializations and concentrations
Concentrations and areas of specialization vary across online MSW programs. However, most schools prepare their students for advanced generalist practice upon graduation, with the opportunity to select an area of focus which can include:
Global social work practice for immigrants and refugees
Military social work
Service in rural environments
Substance misuse
Trauma
Working with Indigenous communities
Fortune’s directory of online master’s in social work programs provides details on concentrations for each school listed.
Regular online MSW vs. advanced-standing online MSW
Most online MSW programs offer a regular and advanced standing option for entrance into the program. Students with a bachelor’s degree in social work enter the program in advanced standing and can complete their degree in about half the time as compared to regular standing students—and, potentially, even less time if the program offers an accelerated option. It typically takes students two years to complete the regular track degree if they are attending school full-time. Students who enter the program in advanced standing are typically required to complete about half the number of field hours as students with a bachelor’s degree in any other field. This is because advanced-standing students with a bachelor’s degree in social work have already satisfied their foundational requirements during their undergraduate studies.
Admissions information
Admissions requirements vary among online MSW programs, but the most common requirements for application consideration are:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited school
Official transcripts
A minimum GPA requirement, often of at least 3.0 for most programs
A personal statement and letters of recommendation. The number of recommendation letters required varies, but it is generally two or three. Some online MSW programs don’t require any letters of recommendation.
Technical requirements, which generally include a computer and internet connection.
Completed application and application fee, which varies in cost between programs but is generally less than $100.
Most online MSW programs don’t require applicants to submit a GRE score, unless the applicant’s GPA for undergraduate or other completed degree is below 3.0, or 2.8, for some programs.
GRE and GPA requirements
Most online MSW programs don’t require a GRE score for application consideration. In fact, on Fortune’s directory, only three schools may require a GRE score to accompany the application—and even then, this requirement may only apply if the applicant’s GPA during their undergraduate coursework is below than 3.0, or 2.8 for some programs.
The online master’s in social work experience: What is it like to study online?
While most online MSW programs strive to provide students with the same services they would expect on campus, there are a few things online students should consider. Some programs have required meetings on Zoom or other videoconferencing technology, and course instruction may be offered either a synchronous or asynchronous basis. Time management is essential when completing an online MSW, as students are often working independently on coursework while juggling other responsibilities.
Financing and scholarships
Most online MSW students take out student loans to finance their degree, but there are other options to help lower the cost of the education. It’s important to consider what you plan to do with your degree post-graduation, and to see if your employer provides any financial assistance. Stipends and scholarships are another way to reduce the cost.
Two funding sources most widely used by social workers for loan forgiveness or help lowering their tuition bill are the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) loan repayment program.
The PSLF program forgives the remaining balance on your direct loans once you’ve made 120 qualifying monthly payments under the plan while employed full-time for a qualifying employer.
The NHSC loan repayment program provides loan repayment assistance for licensed primary care clinicians in eligible disciplines—like a clinical social worker (LCSW). Loan repayment qualification hinges on your commitment to complete at least two years of service at an NHSC-approved location, which can be in a public or non-profit private medical facility like a hospital or correctional facility in a geographic area with a shortage of providers.
Students who plan to use their MSW degree to work in child welfare after they graduate can apply for funds from the federal program, Title IV-E Foster Care.
Veteran students can take advantage of the GI bill, which covers the cost of education for qualifying veterans at institutions approved by the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs.
Finally, it’s also a good idea to check the financial aid page on the website of your selected school or contact the financial aid office, as officials can provide advice on applying to both internal scholarships—funds disbursed directly from the school—and external scholarships given by outside organizations.
How to choose the best online master’s in social work for you: factors to consider
Beyond a school’s reputation, you should consider your individual needs when choosing an online master’s in social work program; several important ones are outlined below. Some online MSW programs only admit students during fall or summer semester, others offer a few start dates per year, which enables students to enter the program at the best time for them. Determining if the program has any in-person dates required or whether field hours can be completed online will be especially helpful. Knowing if classes are synchronous or asynchronous, and when live meetings are held will also help. Finally, it’s important to consider the curriculum, concentration, internship, and other academic aspects of a program is key to deciding on the best program fit for you
Start times, schedule and program length
It generally takes students two years to complete an online MSW degree program when attending school full-time, or one year for full-time advanced standing students. Many programs have part-time options available, allowing students to complete the program in three or four years. Finally, some programs offer an accelerated option which allows students to complete their degree in a matter of months.
H3: GRE requirements
A majority of online MSW programs on Fortune’s directory don’t require applicants to submit a a GRE score for consideration. Some programs will allow a GRE score to be submitted with a student’s application if their GPA is below the school’s determined criteria, while others won’t review them for any reason during the application process. It’s a good idea to check with the university you’re interested in before investing the time and money required to study for and complete the standardized exam.
Concentrations
Most online MSW programs prepare their students for advanced generalist practice upon graduation, with the opportunity to select an area of focus which allows students to work with a specific community, or in a setting they are called to serve—such as working with rural populations or in a school with children. Many programs also allow students to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), which prepares students to work in a clinical setting.
Cost
The cost of an online MSW varies tremendously between schools, so it’s important to identify your educational goals. Some programs offer one fixed tuition cost for all online students, while others have different costs for in-state versus out-of-state students. Depending on the program, advanced standing students can pay close to about half of the tuition cost since they have satisfied their foundational education requirements.
Internship placement
Students enrolled in an online MSW program must complete a specific number of field hours to graduate, and that number varies by program and a student’s prior experience. In general, the requirement is typically around 1,000 hours, or around 500 for advanced standing students. Some online MSW programs allow students to complete their internship field-hour requirements fully online, while others require some level of in-person attendance at the determined field site. Most programs help students secure a placement with a field site, but it is important to determine whether the university you’re interested in will help you with placement—and the types of internship opportunities available.
Immersive experiences (on-campus visits)
While most online MSW programs can be completed online, some schools do require a level of in-person participation on campus for orientation, or community building and skill development. These immersive experiences may be either an appealing aspect of an online program—or a potential drawback. In-person requirements can be as few as three days per year, but it’s a good idea to check with the university you’re interested in to determine if the program has any in-person requirements.
Social work licensure
Licensure requirements for social workers differ by state, and some states offer one type of licensure but not another, so it is crucial to identify the requirements of the state where you’ll pursue opportunities as a social worker after graduation. Many online MSW programs prepare students to sit for the licensure test upon successful completion of the degree requirements, but again, this offering varies by program. Graduates can work in numerous social work settings with an MSW, but those who plan to practice in a clinical setting must become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). The Association of Social Work Boards provides details on each state’s licensure requirements and fees.
Careers and salaries for online MSW graduates
The average salary for a social worker in the U.S. is $58,185 per year as of April 2023. Earning a master’s degree in social work increases earnings potential by enabling those people who hold the advanced degree to move into higher-paying positions in management. Graduates with an MSW can become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), which has a much higher earnings potential. Upon completing the field hour requirements and graduating with an MSW degree, graduates also have the option to open a private practice—where earnings can exceed the average social worker’s salary by close to double. The National Association of Social Work (NASW) features an updated list of job openings for social workers which notes specifics on salary expectations.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to complete an online MSW program?
It generally takes students two years to complete an online MSW degree program, or one year for advanced standing students. Many programs also offer part-time options which allow students to complete the degree in a longer timeframe that suits their lifestyle and educational goals. Most part-time program options can be stretched out over three or four years.
How much does an online MSW program cost?
The cost of an online MSW varies tremendously depending on the school. Many online MSW degree programs on Fortune’s directory cost less than $40,000, though some programs come in close to half or double that amount. The cost of an online MSW program is significantly less for students with a bachelor’s degree in social work who enter the program in advanced standing—that’s because those students have already satisfied their foundational requirements.
Do online MSW programs require GRE?
No, most online MSW programs don’t require a GRE score for application consideration. In fact, only three programs on Fortune’s directory have some sort of GRE requirement that typically hinges on whether an applicant’s GPA during their undergraduate coursework was less than 2.8, or 3.0 for some programs.
Can you study for an online MSW without a BSW?
Yes, you can study for an online MSW without a bachelor’s degree in social work. To do so, you will enter the program in what is referred to as the standard or regular track. Without a prior educational background in social work, it typically takes students two years to complete the degree when attending school full-time. Most students enter an online MSW program in standard or regular standing, since many people have bachelor’s degrees in fields outside of social work.
Are the career prospects for online MSW graduates good?
Career prospects for those people entering the field of social work are growing rapidly. The outlook for jobs in this field is projected to increase 9% by 2031, a rate which is faster than average, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Tue, 11 Apr 2023 15:11:00 -0500entext/htmlhttps://fortune.com/education/health/accredited-online-msw-programs/Journal Information
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Fri, 12 May 2023 18:01:00 -0500entext/htmlhttps://www.nature.com/palcomms/journal-informationSocial Media
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When Emanuel Wilkerson sat for the test to become a licensed master social worker, he had nine job offers lined up. All he had to do was pass.
Starting in May, Wilkerson, 24, took the test three times in four months. He spent his summer studying. He sank at least $1,300 into test preparation and fees. He failed each time ― by 10 points, by six points, and then by a single point.
“This test leaves you essentially, financially, like broke,” Wilkerson said. “It basically leaves you traumatized from even trying again, and it makes you want to basically leave the field altogether.”
He’s not alone in his struggle. Data released last year by the Association of Social Work Boards, which administers the social work licensing exams that the state of Maryland requires, showed disparities along racial lines that some in the profession say demonstrate the tests’ bias against nonwhite graduates.
In response, Democratic state Sen. Mary Washington of Baltimore introduced legislation Feb. 6 to address the issue.
“We are in a crisis. We need social workers,” Washington said. “There is a national movement to address these disparities and Maryland has an opportunity to be the leader.”
The Association of Social Work Boards warned in a statement against eliminating its exams, saying that could have “many real-world consequences that could negatively affect the profession.”
The state of Maryland issues four types of licenses and each requires passing at least one exam. For instance, the requirements to reach the top license — licensed certified social worker-clinical — include a master’s degree, 3,000 hours of supervised social work and two exams. On this path, a “master’s exam” must be passed to get a master social worker license and begin the roughly two years of supervised work. A “clinical exam” is taken after that period to obtain a license to practice without supervision.
The four-hour exams have 170 questions each, many of which ask candidates to identify what they would do in a given situation.
From 2018 to 2021, white test takers passed the master’s test on the first try at an average rate of 86%. Those identifying as multiracial passed at a rate of 80%, followed by Asian test takers at 71%, Native American and Indigenous test takers at 64%, Hispanic and Latino test takers at 63% and Black test takers at 45%, according to the association.
The disparity persists for eventual passing rates, with a rate of 91% for white test takers and 52% for Black test takers.
Between 2011 and 2021 in Maryland, the first-time pass rates for white and Black test takers, which were the two largest groups to sit for the exam, were 93% and 56%, respectively. The third-largest group, Hispanic and Latino test takers, had a passing rate of 79%.
Wilkerson said some of the tests’ scenarios show “cultural blindness.” For example, a question might ask what it means if a client constantly touches his hair. Wilkerson said he knows the answer could be that the child is not being washed or is otherwise neglected. But he said that ignores the fact that Black boys tend to touch and curl their hair.
A group called Social Workers for Equity and Anti-Racism says the association’s data demonstrates the “unfair” exams “affirmatively cause harm” by keeping Black, Latino and Indigenous test takers from becoming social workers. The organization also argues the exams do not reflect good social work in practice or what is taught in schools.
It called in an open letter for the state of Maryland to stop requiring the bachelor’s and master’s exams and instead issue licenses upon completion of a degree, allowing new graduates to immediately begin supervised practice.
Other states, such as California, Illinois and Rhode Island, do not require the association’s exams. Different states offer exemptions or alternatives.
In 2021, Illinois eliminated the master’s exam. Students graduating with a master’s degree in social work still apply to the state for a license, but taking the national test is no longer part of the process for a license to begin working under supervision.
Kyle Hillman, the director of legislative affairs for the National Association of Social Workers Illinois chapter, said in the first six months of 2021, 241 social workers were licensed in Illinois. After Illinois eliminated its master’s exam, that number jumped in the first six months of 2022 to nearly 3,000 new social workers. Hillman said many of those individuals were already working in social work-adjacent roles, and are now overseen by the state.
“To see 2,600 people get licensed, that’s a huge success for this state,” Hillman said. “But it’s also a huge indictment of how bad this test is and how it’s hurting this profession and the folks who need services.”
Hillman said his association acted after feedback from members that the tests showed bias. But at the time, there was no concrete data available, so the clinical test remains in place. Now, Hillman and his chapter intend to advocate for an alternative to testing for the license to practice without supervision.
“I hope every state does it,” he said.
Before Washington introduced her legislation in Maryland, the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners invited the Association of Social Work Boards to its Jan. 13 meeting to address questions about the exams.
Association CEO Stacey Hardy-Chandler told the board in a virtual presentation that racism in America as a whole and disproportionate opportunities for people of color are to blame for disparate test results, rather than the tests themselves.
“We know that there have been a lot of conversations about the licensing exam, a lot about us, in spaces without us,” Hardy-Chandler said. “In a country with a long and profound history of racism, systemic racism, and especially anti-Blackism, people are not coming to the test process with the same opportunities for preparation.”
The board publicized the meeting with an offer to accept questions that members of the public submitted in advance. Hardy-Chandler said she tried her best to incorporate answers into her presentation.
In an emailed statement afterward, the board called the test a “defensible measure of competency.”
“Requests that we, as a regulatory board, choose not to rely on the ASWB licensing examinations do not address the larger societal issues that can impact candidates long before they take a social work licensing exam,” the statement read. “Prerequisites to licensure are set in law, serve an essential component of public protection, and cannot simply be ignored nor waived.”
Philicia Ross, 33, is a licensed master social worker waiting to take her clinical exam. She said the Association of Social Work Board presented all Black and brown people to the board as a monolith that lacked access to certain opportunities.
Ross failed her master’s test the first time she took it by two points.
“When you sit down for the genuine exam, the test questions do not reflect what me as a Black, fat, queer woman would ever do if I was across from somebody who looked like me,” Ross said. “So now, there’s an added level of anxiety because I’m not answering as myself.”
Will Doyle is the director of housing operations for Pathways to Housing D.C. and is licensed in the District of Columbia as an independent clinical social worker.
Doyle, 44, is white and said that since the test “is very much from a white lens,” he was well prepared to take it.
“For my upbringing and my family experience, calling the police, calling CPS [Child Protective Services] as the first thing is very much embedded in white culture,” Doyle said. “It’s very easy for me to respond that way out of just who I am.”
Jessica Strauss, a licensed psychotherapist and member of Social Workers for Equity and Anti-Racism, said no one is advocating for eliminating evaluation of candidates for licenses.
“But we’re saying we need a human-centered form of evaluation for a practice that is so human-centered,” she said.
Some have suggested changing the exams rather than abolishing them. At a Feb. 9 meeting of the Legislative Black Caucus, certified clinical social worker Brittany Barber-Alexander presented that view while maintaining the association should be held accountable. She said she failed her master’s test three times and the clinical test twice.
“I don’t think we should dismantle the exam. It needs to be changed,” Barber-Alexander said. “I once applied to be a test writer and I know several other people in my community have and been denied to do so. So you still have the same people writing those test questions that are antiquated and have nothing to do with what we do in this field.”
Advocates say ditching the exams would allow more social workers of color into a field that desperately needs them. For example, Wilkerson said he can’t find a Black therapist for himself. Ross has noticed the same gaps.
“It affects the public because we are in a mental health crisis,” Ross said. “You aren’t passing enough of us in the community to tell you what the community needs.”
Mon, 20 Feb 2023 20:12:00 -0600en-UStext/htmlhttps://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/standardized-exams-keep-black-social-workers-out-activists-say-these-marylanders-want-to-change-that/ar-AA17JZFOMore Arizona schools request counselors, social workers under safety grant program
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Wed, 24 May 2023 08:57:00 -0500en-UStext/htmlhttps://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-education/2023/05/24/state-board-approves-funding-for-school-police-counselors-social-workers/70245530007/What is Social Security? How does it work?
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Wed, 24 May 2023 10:32:00 -0500en-UStext/htmlhttps://www.usatoday.com/story/money/personalfinance/2023/05/24/what-is-social-security/70253485007/Search results for "social work england"
Should more casework be transferred from social workers to non-social work qualified staff? It should be decided on a case-by-case basis (45%, 234 Votes) No, this would undermine the quality and integrity of the profession. (38%, 200 Votes) Yes, this…
Thu, 11 May 2023 12:01:00 -0500Mithran Samuelen-GBtext/htmlhttps://www.communitycare.co.uk/?s=social+work+englandMaster's pay for education social workers clears committeeTue, 30 May 2023 08:20:00 -0500entext/htmlhttps://www.themountaineer.com/news/state/masters-pay-for-education-social-workers-clears-committee/article_f1c5c89f-59e5-5186-9f72-395935479b21.html
