Find an Online Psychology Program for You

Featured Online Psychology & Counseling Programs

School social work is growing in every state. Currently, the Midwest is the strongest area for school social work, but many other states also have strong programs.  Interested school social workers can pursue a social work degree at either the bachelor’s or master’s degree level, and in many states, individuals with a bachelor’s degree can become licensed.  However, individual’s with a master’s degree in social work can be licensed in all states, and also have an expanded scope of opportunities to practice.

School Social Worler

School Social Worker Career Guidance

At the master’ level, individuals will have the opportunity to choose a concentration.  These may include:

Certification

TheNational Association of Social Workers(NASW) provides information on the various certifications recognized in the US.  TheC-SSWS, Certified School Social Work Specialist certification incorporates program development, social work ethics, procedures, methods and theory, and federal and state laws for all aspiring school social workers.

TheNational Association of State Boards of Education(NASBE) provides guidelines and certification requirements for all school social workers in each state.

Salary

Learn more abouthow to become a school social worker.

Typical Employment Settings for a School Social Worker

Possible jobs functions of a school social worker, may include:

Although the role of a school social worker can vary, their caseloads are often high, and they can be assigned to more than one school, which requires travel time between locations.  School social workers often work alone with little access to supervision, and they may have limited support resources, such as supplies and training.  Joining associations, as well as membership in social work, and school social work organizations specifically, is vital for on-going support and continuing education.

Ways a School Social Worker Can Increase Desirability as a Job Candidate and Increase His or Her Salary

Other ways for individuals to increase desirability in this competitive field, may include:

Related Social Work Education Guides

Attributes Employers Often Look For When Hiring a School Social Worker

The job of a school social worker can vary depending upon degree, contracting agency, credentials, etc.  Since school social workers can also work in a variety of settings – traveling between schools, visiting homes of families, and even testifying in court on behalf of a student – their typical workweek can vary greatly.  Many school social workers will work a 40-hour workweek, others may work part-time, and still others will work afterhours in cases of emergencies, or a combination of all three.

Because the caseload and job description can vary, there are a number of attributes employers look for in a school social worker. These include:

Networking Opportunities and Organizations for School Social Workers

Networking is vital for social workers in any field of practice.  This is also true for school social workers.  It is important to take advantage of all opportunities to further a school social worker’s career.   Just a few of the networking opportunities available, include:

2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics job market trends and salary figures forschool social workersare based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2023.

Related CareersStart a School Social Work CareerSocial Work as a Parole OfficerStart a Family Social Work CareerHospice & Palliative Social Work CareersMilitary Social Work Careers