Why an MSW?

Social Work, Large & Small

Many social workers’ careers include both individual client-centered work and system-wide advocacy work. Regardless of the specific career path, social work involves individual services for people in need of support along with program development and advocacy to improve the institutions, systems, and policies impacting their client population.

Individual Support

Social workers provide case management and clinical services to individuals, couples, families, and groups who may be dealing with any number of life challenges. Social workers offer therapeutic and supportive counseling, and connect people to community resources to help them meet their needs and achieve their goals.

System-Wide Advocacy

Social workers work in community organizations, government, and advocacy groups to alleviate poverty and social injustices. This might include legislative advocacy, policy analysis, and community organizing to break down barriers and drive reform.

Why an MSW degree vs. another helping profession?

A Master of Social Work (MSW) degree prepares students for a leadership role in the care and advocacy of clients that includes individuals, families, organizations and communities. An MSW degree provides the skills needed to perform clinical assessments, advocate for entitlements, provide education and resources, offer clinical counseling, and manage a large caseload of complex cases.

The MSW degree offers coursework in clinical practice, social administration, public policy, research and ethics leading to many different career paths in the public health and the medical field, nonprofit organizations, or government programs that address public needs. Social workers are also taught the skills and theories to challenge social injustice and change systems of care.

More on the Social Work Profession

For more information on the profession of social work, visit the following sites:

• Social Workers Occupational Outlook, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• Explore Social Work, National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
• Careers in Social Work Social Work Guide
• Comparing Social Service Degrees Social Work License Map