The field of social work is booming. Social workers who specialize in the field of gerontology will find a social work diploma to be a valuable asset as the American baby boomer generation transitions into the retirement generation. In addition, there is always a large client base of people seeking assistance with substance abuse or family issues. Because it requires compassion, empathy, and patience, social work is not for everyone. Those with these characteristics, on the other hand, will find social work to be a rewarding career.
A social work diploma does not require the rigors of some degree programs, despite the fact that it takes a long time. Full-time, part-time, and even online students can pursue social work degrees at most colleges and universities. A bachelor’s degree is required, and state agencies and private employers are increasingly preferring master’s degrees (MSW). Although government-funded agencies in rural or remote areas will occasionally hire someone with a bachelor’s degree, this is becoming the exception rather than the rule. An MSW is required to engage in any type of advanced clinical work.
In general, successfully completing 120 credit hours of coursework is the minimum requirement for receiving a social work diploma and the designation of a Bachelor’s of Social Work. Sixty credit hours must be earned through required core courses and fieldwork. Electives will be used to fill in the remaining hours. Education in family violence and child welfare, substance abuse, minority issues, statistics, criminology, and any number of psychology and public administration options are among the most common options.
A four-year program is required to obtain a social work diploma and a Bachelor’s of Social Work. Those interested in pursuing an MSW should expect to spend an additional two years of advanced study, totaling 60 credit hours. Those pursuing an MSW are typically required to spend a significant amount of time working for an accredited government agency, hospital, or private institution that specializes in social work. Working in a clinical setting is essential, and most MSW students must complete between 500 and 1,000 hours of practical experience before graduating.
Every state in the United States requires social workers to be licensed, and the requirements vary by region. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) has established a number of different types of specialized accreditation (NASW). The position of Licensed Clinical Social Worker is the most basic and one of the most sought after (LCSW).
A master’s program is required to obtain a social work diploma and an LCSW. An LCSW has typically completed approximately 3,000 hours of supervised postgraduate field experience. This usually takes two years to complete. However, it should be noted that most postgraduate work is done in a paid position.
While programs, coursework, and licensing requirements differ from country to country, the basic steps to earning a social work diploma are the same. In general, undergraduate work, post-graduate studies, and supervised experience are all required. Exams and licenses are administered by government boards such as the General Social Care Council (GSSC) in the United Kingdom. Virtually every country, on the other hand, determines its own specifics and licensing fees for certification.