Social Work

Why a Career in Social Work?

What Social Workers Do: Professional social workers handle such responsibilities as counseling individuals and families, assisting the homeless in finding places to live, helping those without jobs find educational or training opportunities. They deal with a broad range of social issues that can include child welfare, poverty, aging, mental health, substance abuse, social policies and more.

Job Availability: According the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, the increased demand for social workers in Missouri between 2010 and 2020 will range from 12.9 percent to 27 percent, depending on the area of employment.

Prepare for Graduate School: Graduates with a BSW wanting to obtain a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) can potentially apply for Advanced Standing status which reduces the graduate credit hours required for completion of the degree.

Job Satisfaction: Social work is a career that appeals to those who want to improve the world through caring, professional practice. They go home at the end of the day knowing they have helped people. It is a “hands-on” profession.