What is Social Work?

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EXAMPLE JOB TITLES

Mental Health Therapist Adoption Counselor Crisis Intervention Specialist School Social Worker Houseless Outreach Specialist Clinical Director Substance Abuse Counselor Child Welfare Investigator Domestic Violence Court Advocate Refugee Caseworker Hospital Social Worker Community Outreach Coordinator Nonprofit Director

WHAT IS SOCIAL WORK? Social work is a broad and diverse field dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life of individuals, families, groups, and communities. It is grounded in principles of social justice, human rights, and a commitment to empowering vulnerable, marginalized, and oppressed populations. Social workers strive to address social issues, promote positive social change, and advocate for the rights of individuals and communities. At its core, social work is concerned with helping people overcome challenges, providing support, and facilitating access to resources and services.

Disability Services Advocate Policy Analyst Veteran Support Specialist Forensic Social Worker Hospice Care Manager

uwsocialwork@uw.edu

As a leader in the field of social work, the University of Washington School of Social Work’s mission is to promote social and economic justice for poor and oppressed populations and enhance the quality of life for all.

@uwsocialwork


WHY CHOOSE SOCIAL WORK? VERSATILE PROFESSION Social work offers a wide field of study and opens doors to diverse career choices. Professionals may transition between different areas of practice throughout their careers, depending on their interests, skills, and the needs of the populations they serve.

Social workers work in various settings, including hospitals, schools, community organizations, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private practice. They collaborate with individuals, families, and communities to assess their needs, develop intervention plans, and connect them with appropriate services and support systems. SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY Social workers serve a wide range of populations, including: children and youth, families, older adults, individuals with disabilities, medical conditions, mental health conditions, and/or substance issues, those in poverty, refugees and immigrants, veterans and military families, the LGBTQ+ community, and those in the criminal justice system.

BASW Application

MSW Application

uwsocialwork@uw.edu

GROWING, IN-DEMAND FIELD Social work is one of the most versatile, rapidly growing careers in the United States

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts higher than average job growth for social workers, especially for those in healthcare, medical, mental health, and substance abuse social work positions. WHERE DO I START? Earning your BA in Social Work or another social science will open up entry-level jobs in the field. To progress into higher-paying jobs and to obtain licensure, you’ll need a Master of Social Work (MSW).

@uwsocialwork


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