Major
Careers
Related Skills
- ability to manage pressure well
- good conflict resolution skills
- good listener and motivator
- posses the understanding of human behavior
- ability to lead and be a team member
- organizational skills
- strong communication skills
- creativity
- empathy for others
- appreciation for diversity
- interest in social change
Contact
Career Industry Liaison
Megan Ruffin
(309) 438-2200
223 Bone Student Center
Internship Coordinator
Ingrid Brown
(309) 438-3733
302B Rachel Cooper
Being Successful in the Field
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) prepares individuals for entry-level direct practice.
- Master of Social Work (MSW) is necessary to provide therapy and for advancement to supervisory or administrative positions.
- Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) or Ph.D. is usually required for positions in teaching, research, and administration. Desirable for some clinical positions and private practice.
- Complete a degree from a college or university program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Programs include practical field experience.
- Most states require licensure, certification, or registration.
- The field practicum is used to determine suitability for this profession and to provide exposure to various practice settings and clients.
Related Fields
- Mental health facilities and outpatient clinics
- Community mental health centers
- Child welfare agencies
- Adoption programs
- Substance use disorder treatment programs
- Government agencies (federal, state, and local)
- HIV/AIDS clinics and outreach programs
- Youth services
- Early intervention programs
- Head Start programs
- Intimate partner violence services
- Senior services
- Community-based programs
- Advocacy agencies
- Legal services
- Homeless services
- Relief services
- Community organizing efforts
- Services to individuals with developmental disabilities
- Child Protective Services
- Correctional facilities
- Public health services
- Public assistance agencies
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Political office
- Military support services
- International organizations
- Union organizing
- Employee assistance programs
- Hospice services
- Research
- Private practice