Social work is a challenging, rewarding, and dynamic field. But it’s also a demanding profession, requiring emotional and personal maturity. Employers look for candidates who possess workplace readiness skills that include much more than a desire to help others.
Below you’ll find a list of the top eight characteristics that comprise a model social worker in today’s complex health and human services system.
- Training and Knowledge: First and foremost! Obtaining the right education is an essential part of your career development. Degree programs in social work are available at all education levels from an associate degree to a Ph.D. These programs provide the necessary training and skills required to work in social systems, large and small.
- Courage: Being a social worker takes courage, no doubt about it. Social work often takes place in high-stress, complex environments so guts and will-power are must-have characteristics.
- Empathy: Empathy is what social work is all about. Compassion for others is without a doubt, an essential attribute of a successful social worker.
- Organization: Social workers handle some serious paperwork. From case files to medical records, you’ll need to keep your ducks in a row by staying on top of your work in a neat and organized fashion.
- Respect for Diversity: Given the breadth of their profession, social workers often work with clients from all walks of life so it’s imperative to keep an open mind and an open heart.
- Flexibility: In addition to odd hours, even on-call duty, social workers MUST be flexible, in all situations. Being able to adapt to new demands is essential, if not mandatory. Keep this in mind if other commitments will prevent you from working a not-so traditional schedule.
- Ethical and Responsible: Social workers often handle ethical and sometimes legal issues that require careful thought and research. You’ll need to practice due diligence when it comes to handling client-service provider relationships.
- Continuing Education: Employers look for candidates who are active in their field through professional associations, volunteering, or internship work. Do whatever you can to get as much experience and exposure in your field as possible.
If you are considering getting an MSW, take a look at what you need to know about MSW programs and possible future careers.
What to Consider When Evaluating MSW Options
Online programs are designed for students who want to complete their education without the constraint of traditional classroom scheduling. When considering an online option, keep the following in mind:
- Is the program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)? (Online MSW programs must meet the same CSWE accreditation standards as campus-based programs.)
- Does the program offer the area specialization or concentration you want in addition to ample field placement opportunities in your area of interest?
- Does the program offer on-campus or online research facilities, academic advising, classroom training, or internships?
Below you’ll find a list of accredited schools that meet the above criteria and offer a number of quality degree options:
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 Sacred Heart University Accreditation:
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 University of Southern California Accreditation:
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 Walden University Accreditation:
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 Ashford University Accreditation:
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 Grand Canyon University Accreditation:
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 Widener University Accreditation:
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 Indiana Wesleyan University Accreditation:
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Click here to learn about more Social Work colleges