The quality of social service is reportedly reducing by the day. The major reason is that workers do not have quality education and skills. Therefore, every aspiring social worker should get a degree by enrolling in one of the best social work schools in the world.
For one thing, professional knowledge remains the best tool for excellence. When you learn professionally, you improve your capacity and output.
BLS speculates that the positions of available social workers are expected to grow by 16% over the next decade, a rate of growth faster than most other occupations. Also, this increase will create about 110,000 new jobs.
A typical social worker has the distinction of examining different aspects of a problem, from the individual to the society, from the psychological to the political. Typical ways of serving clients include counseling, therapy, education, and connecting clients with public or private resources.
Before we look at the various social work schools that offer the best programs, let’s quickly take a glance at some specific questions you may have about the profession.
Table of contents
- What Is Social Work?
- Why Social Works?
- How Can I Become A Social Worker?
- How Long Does It Take To Become A Social Worker?
- Work Environment
- How Much Do Social Workers Earn?
- What Is The Career Prospect Of A Social Worker?
- What are the Best Social Work Schools In The World?
- #1 University of California – Berkeley
- #2 Rutgers University
- #3 Fordham University
- #4 University of Wisconsin
- #5 University of Washington
- #6 Syracuse University
- #7 University of Texas – Austin
- #8 University of Georgia
- #9 Washington University in St. Louis
- #10 University Of Chicago
- #11 Michigan State University
- #12 Columbia University
- #13 New York University
- Best Social Work Schools In The US
- Online Schools For Social Work
- Conclusion
- We Got Our Source From
- We Also Recommend
Social work is a profession in the broad sense that includes many types of professionals who serve people in need. According to the International Federation of Social Workers, social work is “an interrelated system of values, theory, and practice.”
Therefore, if you are interested in a career that aims to help people overcome the biggest challenges in life, such as poverty, addiction, mental illness, and family crises, going to a social work school may be your first option.
A lot of people are familiar with the common social work professions, such as social work for children, family, and school, or social work in hospitals. However, there are many more career paths available for those who choose to attend a school of social work.
Social work is sub-divided into three types including:
- Social workers in Medical and Public Health sectors
- Child welfare workers, Families, and Schools Social Workers
- Mental health and addictions Social workers
According to BLS, the most common type of social worker are Child welfare workers. Usually, their role is to help children, families, and the elderly ones solve their problems. They help place children in foster care and help parents who wish to adopt.
They connect parents with problems with resources to better care for and raise their children. Also, they work with students and teachers to combat bullying, learning disabilities, and other problems.
Similarly, Social workers in Medical and Public Health sectors: help people who are seriously ill and people with chronic health conditions find care, access public resources such as Medicare and Medicaid, and also find services like nutrition and nursing classes.
They often play a key role in helping clients navigate and coordinate the various health care and public service systems that provide joint care.
Also, Mental health and addictions Social workers help people with various mental health problems and addictions. Therapy is a common way for social workers to help clients solve these problems. Also, they help people find long-term rehabilitation programs or mental health care.
The following are the reasons you should consider social work as your career choice.
- You play the role of key mental health professionals in many contexts,
- Lead large non-profit and small-scale organizations,
- Assume roles in government or politics, and
- Assume leadership roles in their work. Communities, working for social justice.
Most social work positions require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. If you are interested in a career in social work, the first step is usually a four-year BSW degree. High school graduates applying to college should consider schools that offer accredited social work degree programs.
The BSW provides a good base for social work professionals considering entering the labor market directly after college and at the beginning of their careers as social workers.
BSW graduates also apply for advanced graduate positions, which allow students to obtain a master’s degree in social work in just one year.
Most states require professional social workers to obtain a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work and also a social assistance license. As a result, many professionals without BAC finally choose to get a master’s degree in social work.
Traditional BSW programs usually last four years, including classroom and field training. So, most BSW students take liberal arts courses in their first two years of study, then choose a specialization in social work.
Also, Social work specialists attend compulsory social work courses, elective courses, and field training courses. Additionally, graduate students are prepared to work as professional social workers or to enter graduate school.
Work Environment
Social workers mostly work in mental health clinics, schools, child welfare and social services agencies, hospitals, settlement centers, community development corporations, and private practices.
They usually work full-time and may need to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for social workers was $49,470 in May 2018.
Based on the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, it projected the overall employment of social workers to grow 11% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Therefore, there is likely to be an increasing demand for healthcare and social services, but it may vary by specialization.
We have made a list of 13 best social work schools In the World. So, you can choose a school that fits your demands.
Each of the schools has received full accreditation. The basis of our selection of these schools is; No. of programs, Accreditation, Tuition, Student-faculty-ratio, Acceptance, and graduation rates.
Here is the list of the 10 best social work schools in the world
- University of California – Berkeley
- New York University
- Fordham University
- Adelphi University
- University of Wisconsin
- University of Washington
- Syracuse University
- University of Texas – Austin
- Rutgers University
- University of Georgia
- University of Chicago
- Michigan State University
- Columbia University
#1 University of California – Berkeley
One of the top-ranked schools in the United States for Social Work is the University of California – Berkeley. The Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare program in this college is solid. The school has recorded a 70-year history of excellence in social work and social welfare curriculum.
Basically, the degree program focuses on the liberal arts, and graduates are qualified to apply to Master of Social Work (MSW) programs as a bridge to social work licensure.
Berkeley offers a Master of Social Work and combined MSW/Ph.D. programs. The Berkeley Graduate Social Work Program ranks 3rd in the US News and World Report’s Best Grad Schools – Social Work rankings.
Besides the academic program, UC-Berkeley graduates report average early career wages of $41,463 and mid-career wages of $72,087. Also, it has one of the largest student bodies in California.
#2 Rutgers University
With a history that dates back to 1766, Rutgers is one of the few universities licensed before the American Revolution. It has grown and changed significantly in over 230 years. Rutgers now encompasses five separate campuses.
The School of Social Work offers courses on the Camden and Newark campuses. These diverse spaces allow students to experience student life in an urban environment.
Many Rutgers students travel daily or live in apartments near the campus, but there are undergraduate accommodations available for those seeking the bedroom experience. Students who wish to specialize in social work apply for a place in the BASW program during their second year.
This competitive program requires a GPA of 3.0, proof of having completed the prerequisite course, and letters of recommendation. Social work students gain valuable experience as apprentices in New Jersey, New York City, and Greater Philadelphia organizations.
#3 Fordham University
The Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) at Fordham University prepares graduates for general social work practice in an agency environment. The program focuses on social justice, human rights and the well-being of individuals and communities.
All students take a 600-hour field training course at a social services agency to gain experience and practical skills. With Fordham University in the New York metropolitan area, students have many opportunities to complete their internships. Extracurricular activities, such as conferences, conferences, and other events are offered throughout the school year.
BASW graduates are eligible for advanced degrees in master’s programs in social work at Fordham or other schools, allowing them to complete the master’s program in less time. The Council for Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits Fordham’s social work programs.
#4 University of Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin – Madison is one of the best social work schools in the World. So, if you plan to study social work, consider it your best option. Social work graduates from the University of Wisconsin – Madison earn approximately 11.7% more income than typical social work graduates.
Located in Madison, Wisconsin, this university is a logical choice for students who enjoy the excitement of a great city.
#5 University of Washington
Social Work (MSW) program at the University of Washington offers students three flexible ways to complete their studies.
Therefore, applicants who already have a university degree in social work or social protection approved by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) are eligible to obtain the advanced qualification to complete the training program after 10 months of full-time studies.
Usually, a full-time day program that can be completed in two years is open to students from all walks of life. A part-time course that can be completed in three years is also available.
It provides students with competitive opportunities to participate in social work research projects and innovative approaches to social work practice. Also, the school offers a BSW program and a Ph.D. in social protection.
In all programs, during the advanced study program, students can choose a concentration camp that matches their career goals. The UW ranks first to fund for research, research results, and teacher publication rates. That makes it one of the best social work schools in the world.
#6 Syracuse University
Looking for one of the world’s best social works schools that offer bachelor’s and master’s programs? The Syracuse University School of Social Work embraces the profession’s commitment to the values of human diversity and the dignity and worth of all people, with particular attention to those who are oppressed, vulnerable or living in poverty.
The bachelor of social work (BSSW) program prepares undergraduates to work at a generalist level across our field. Also, the innovative master of social work (MSW) program offers two license-eligible tracks of graduate study:
- Advanced Clinical Practice, for those who wish to specialize in the direct provision of services to individuals, families, and groups; and
- Advanced Integrated Practice, for those whose interests also encompass practice in interdisciplinary organizations, human service administration, community organizing, and public policy.
#7 University of Texas – Austin
With nearly 40,000 undergraduate students, the University of Texas at Austin is one of the country’s largest universities and the best social work schools in the world. Social work is one of the 170 undergraduate fields of study the university offers.
Students at UT Austin School of Social Work can enjoy all the benefits of a major university – sports, clubs, cultural offerings, and community activities – while enjoying the personal attention of a small social work program.
With approximately 300 BSW students, the number of students per class is generally between 30 and 50. The School of Social Work student council organizes various school, social and service-related activities each year.
The BSW program at the University of Texas at Austin requires 125 semester hours, including 30 credits of courses in human behavior, practice, research, and policy, as well as 480 hours of fieldwork in a social service agency.
The city of Austin offers excellent fieldwork opportunities, and students enjoy the city for its music, cuisine, and nightlife.
Check out the Best Loan repayment programs for social workers.
#8 University of Georgia
Found in 1785, the University of Georgia is a public university in Athens. In 2016, it was ranked number 21 among the public universities of the South, according to US News & World Report.
The BSW program accredited by the CSWE of the UGA School of Social Work prepares students for general social work practice in many areas. It focuses on the informed practice of research and social justice.
The program curriculum has a predefined sequence, which helps the students to take introductory courses in social work from the first year to the general practice in the last year.
Students must also meet the basic liberal arts requirements, including the English language, psychology, and world culture, and study a foreign language at least until their third year of study. Also, it is possible to combine the major social work with another important or related minor, such as
- Criminal justice,
- Public health
- Psychology.
During the program’s last year, students received at least 560 hours of supervised training at a social services agency. The university also offers an MSW program accredited by CSWE and a doctorate in social work.
#9 Washington University in St. Louis
The George Warren Brown School of Social Work at the University of Washington in St. Louis has a history that dates back to 1909. This Brown School has been recognized for years as one of the leading social work schools and attracts students from all over the country.
The mission of the Brown School is to prepare students for policy, practice, and research. MSW students can customize their program by choosing between various concentrations and specializations. Over 300 field teaching options are available locally, nationally, and internationally.
The joint and double degree programs allow students to get their master’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in another field (education, urban development, law or commerce). Students interested in a college degree may consider the Brown School’s doctoral program.
#10 University Of Chicago
The University of Chicago’s ranks #6 in the 2020 edition of Best Colleges is National Universities. The school is in Hyde Park. Its tuition is $59,298.
UC offers one of the best social work programs in the world. SSA’s Master of Arts Program in Social Work and Social Welfare (SW) prepares you to be a leader in clinical social work and social administration practice. The Council on Social Work Education accredits the SSA master’s programs. The program features various coursework and field activities intending to frame individual distress in a larger social context.
The SSA Master’s Program in Social Work and Social Welfare (SW) first-year curriculum introduces you to the chief methods of social intervention, the diversity of human experience, and the fundamentals of human behavior and development.
In addition, you will be required to choose between two academic specialties which are: Clinical concentrations and Social administration.
#11 Michigan State University
Michigan State University offers a social work program at the bachelor, master’s, and Ph.D. levels. The BASW Program prepares students for introductory-level practice through innovative courses and personal attention.
Similarly, the MSW Program prepares students for advanced practice in Clinical Social Work and Organization, and Community Leadership. The Ph.D. program also prepares students for leadership positions in research, education, policy-making, and administration.
The school has a total undergraduate enrollment of 39,423. It uses a semester-based academic calendar. Besides the academic program, MSU ranks #84 in the Best Colleges is National Universities edition.
#12 Columbia University
Columbia University is a private institution that was established in 1754. The school has a total undergraduate enrollment of 6,202. Columbia University ranks #3 in the Best Colleges is National Universities based on US news rankings.
The SSW offers a master’s program, Ph.D. and an online program. Basically, the CSSW curriculum combines a foundational understanding of social work practice with a specialized focus on a student’s concentration.
CU School of Social Work is a top-ranked school and the first social work school established in the U.S.
#13 New York University
Since 1960, NYU has trained over 14,000 social workers and leaders in all areas of practice.
The social work program of the University of New York, organized in the Silver School, trains approximately 125 undergraduate students for a BA in social work.
What is unique about this school is that undergraduate students receive the social work experience that is usually found only at a higher academic level.
Students learn social work from a global perspective, including refugees, immigrant populations, and optional study trips abroad.
Schools that offer programs Social work in the USA are;
- University of California – Berkeley
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick
- University of St Thomas Minnesota
- The University of Texas at Austin
- St Catherine University
- University of Georgia
- University of New Hampshire – Main Campus
- Fordham University
- University of Wisconsin – Madison
Here are the best online schools to offer social work
- University of Southern California
- University of South Florida
- Ohio State University, College of Social Work, Ohio
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick, School of Social Work
- University of Central Florida
- The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, School of Social Work
- Boston University, School of Social Work
- Florida State University (FSU), College of Social Work
- Columbia University, Columbia School of Social Work
Check out the top Social work postgraduates scholarships for international students
Conclusion
Becoming a social worker requires good communication skills, commitment, creative thinking, and also your ability to interact with people.
So, to be an effective social worker, social administrator, or policymaker, you must recognize and understand the various causes of the psychological, biological, familial, political, economic, and social forms of distress.
This broader understanding will inform the approach you use to help people overcome their unique challenges, prevent problems from occurring, and craft new solutions to ongoing problems.
However, most social workers often work in government offices. Others work in colleges. There are so many Institutions across the world that offer Social work programs. Usually, some schools combine Anthropology and other related social science programs.
If you desire to become a social worker, you have to, first earn a degree from one of the best social work schools in the world, including the ones enlisted above. Thereafter, you enroll in a graduate program. You may need an advanced degree to gain more experience to improve your earnings.
We Got Our Source From
- https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-health-schools/social-work-
- Social Workers: bls.gov
- rankingshttps://www.bestcolleges.com/features/masters-social-work-programs/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/School_social_worker
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