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Social Work Masters in Social Work (MSW) Unlike the other degrees, a Master’s degree in Social Work requires practicum, the marriage of theory and practice. Therefore you would take classes two days a week and work on your practicum 3 days, for example. The philosophical model dominant in most social work schools is NOT the medical model of illness. In fact, it is the model of helping people to build on their strengths, not treat their illness. Common fields of practice include health, criminal/juvenile justice, aging, and children and youth. Once you graduate with your MSW and have two years working experience, you can get your licensure in social work and become a "Licensed Clinical Social Worker." Licensure requirements vary from state to state; it may be a requirement for certain government jobs, or for clients to receive medical reimbursement for clinical work. Course of Study: Social work schools are usually divided along two tracks:
Different programs emphasize one track or the other. The MSW candidate is trained to work with organizations – their planning and development. The skills developed include: how to assess communities, budgeting and managing agencies, interviewing, surveying, data analysis, lobbying, policy analysis, and program evaluation. Courses are grouped into content areas such as Research, Social Policy, Social Work Practices, and Individual and Social Processes. The student is also given training in assisting and counseling clients. The academic evaluation in many Social Work schools does not consist of grades, rather of a narrative evaluation of the student by his or her mentors. Common areas of concentration are child, youth and family; mental health; criminal justice, gerontology. Application Process: To be accepted you need a liberal arts background and volunteer or work experience in the field. A well thought-out commitment to helping others should be evident from your application. Essays and letters of recommendation are important for the committee to assess your commitment and maturity. It is essential that your essay clearly articulate why you want to pursue a degree in social work. Most programs do NOT require the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Some require the Miller Analogies Test (MAT). When choosing a school, consider the focus of the program and the type of training you will receive (macro or micro). When you graduate, the prestige of the school may be less important than the reputation you establish through your work and internships. Your initial job out of school may result from an alumni connection, but ultimately it will be your performance and networking that will count for the advancement of your career. Ask practical questions when considering schools:
Look at the placement information on the graduates of the program. (See sample of Penn graduate placement: http://www.upenn.edu/careerservices/sw/sswsalsurv.html). Talk with students or graduates of the program. Schools in the area include: Check www.cswe.org for more information on schools. Search for information by program and by region. The New Social Worker magazine offers many articles for social work students or prospective students.
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