How do you become a social-worker?

Question

Im currently a freshmen in college and im worried that im not taking the right courses. also, im a little confused weather i should be takeing human services or siocial work, is there a diffrence between the two? my main objective is to became a social worker in a middle or public high school. can someone give me a bit of advice, any help will be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

I would suggest that you speak with your counselor for specific information. But first, look over the program curriculum, noting classes that are required for your specific degree, but also classes that are interesting to you. Then, a counselor will be able to help you make a decision

For example, I am a registered nurse, but my BA is in human behavior and corrections. I was/interested in working with my patients, and also took a position as a prison nurse in a psychiatric setting for a number of years.

Later, 2 years ago, I finished my MA in counseling at a Christian university. During the interim, I became a minister, and feeling that my nursing also involved working with my clients included more than 'simple' nursing care.

Because I prefer 'hands on' nursing, I chose not to pursue any further nursing degrees, because, IMHO, that would have directed me more to an administrative position in an office.

So, back to you choices, required classes are 'givens' but electives are more personal choices. Another suggestion, talk with other highschool social workers, and investigate what their choices were and why.

I might add that I was 71 when I finished my Masters, and am thinking about a Doctorate, now!
Good luck.

Answer 2

You need to return to school. What you get out of it is much more than an education. Why not call and make an appointment with a counselor. They can give you some good guidance and get you on the proper path. And if one counselor isn't helpful (they are so overworked), make an appointment with another and talk to that person. A good counselor will have the right answers. Good luck and don't let anyone stop you from returning to school. You will like where you are in life so much more when you are finished and you can parlay an education into a much better life. If social worker doesn't work, then find something that is close. Social work is hard, thankless work with little pay but you can make a difference in people's lives. There are many professions that are that line. A career that gives back to the community certainly shows that you have changed and now want to move on and have a better life.

Answer 3

In order to possibly become a social worker, one is supposed to attend a CSWE-accredited program in *social work*. (A human services degree is very broad and may not have as many job opportunities as with social work.

Please be aware that jobs for the school social worker may *not* be too abundant since there are usually just one per school, and those individuals usually stay in their positions until retirement (or if "laid off" or "fired").

In order to possibly obtain a job as a school social worker, one may need to first "pay his/her dues" (between us and the wall :) That refers to working in a non-school setting with other social workers and/or mental health professionals to get work experience, and prove one's competence and ability.

The school social worker will most likely require a master's degree in social work (MSW) and having gotten the credentials of LCSW (licensed-clinical social worker). I'll add more in a bit in the comments section, too.

Answer 4

4 doing social work, u can join in any clubs or join NSS....