The Best Social Work Jobs

Depending on their setting and context, social work educators might train aspiring professionals or conduct original research or both. Most work as professors in postsecondary institutions and hold at least a master's degree, and many have a doctorate. Daily duties include curriculum assessment, lecture preparation, and student performance evaluation.�

Social work teachers work full time throughout the academic year. They need strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills. In some situations, these professionals may devote a significant portion of their time to quantitative research or administrative duties on behalf of their school or department.

These professionals coordinate and implement programs to encourage individual and public welfare. Common programs and services include subsidized food and housing, job training, and public health initiatives. Aspiring social and community services managers need a bachelor's degree in social work, public administration, business, or another related discipline. Some positions require graduate-level credentials.�

Professionals in this role work closely with case managers, counselors, and other social services experts. At times, they act as a liaison between their employer, key funding partners, and the general public, necessitating strong management and interpersonal skills. Most work full time in office settings within clinics, nonprofits, and municipal entities.

School counselors help students build the social and academic skills they need to succeed. They may improve quality of life through individual and group counseling, help students navigate educational transitions, and develop individualized curricula for students. Career counselors offer similar services, but for professional clients rather than students.

School and career counselors work full time and need a master's degree and state licensure. School counselors work in K-12 settings, while most career counselors take on roles in employment agencies and social services organizations. Both types of professionals should excel in social perception, active listening, and cultural sensitivity.

These social workers specialize in healthcare delivery and psychosocial support. They help people cope with chronic or long-term medical conditions. They often advise caregivers and provide patients with vital information and counseling services. They may also conduct interventions, engage in case management, and offer preventative care.

Education requirements vary by role and employer. Most healthcare social workers hold a master's degree, but some positions only require undergraduate credentials. Additional licensure may also be necessary, depending on the state. Most healthcare social workers find employment in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and nursing facilities. They generally work full time and may need to travel in order to meet with clients.

Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work at the intersection between social work and criminal justice. They help facilitate rehabilitation for offenders, in compliance with the legal system. Common responsibilities include parole or probation evaluation, drug testing and substance abuse counseling, and criminal investigation. They may also be asked to serve as expert witnesses in court.

Most professionals in this field have a bachelor's degree in social work, criminal justice, or behavioral health. They must also pass aptitude tests, drug evaluations, and a criminal background check. Depending on the job, candidates may need to complete an additional training program offered by their employer.

Social workers help people cope with issues that limit their quality of life. They identify individuals and groups in need of support and develop measures to meet those needs, often advocating on behalf of their clients and raising public awareness on pertinent issues.

These professionals typically need a master's degree in social work and state-level licensure. Some positions may only require a bachelor's degree, but those roles require supervision with limited responsibility. Most social workers assume full-time roles in nonprofits and other social service organizations, though they may also work in private practice.

These professionals help people address family issues in individual and group settings. They create a safe space where clients can discuss their issues and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Marriage and family therapists may also help clients navigate life transitions, like divorce or death, and they may address domestic violence or other forms of abuse.

Marriage and family therapists need a master's degree in social work or counseling and state licensure, strong interpersonal skills, compassion, and an ability to listen. Most work full time in clinics, mental health centers, and private practice.

Most health educators work in community health clinics, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations, teaching people how to develop behaviors that promote health and wellness. They build education programs, coordinate events, and assess the needs of the communities they serve. They also collect and interpret data to evaluate and improve programming.

Aspiring health educators need a bachelor's degree in health education, social work, or a related field. Some employers may require additional certification as a health education specialist. Most health educators work in office settings and are required to travel for events and programs.

These social workers offer preventative services for clients dealing with emotional distress or mental health disorders. They assess and treat individuals and groups through case management, talk therapy, crisis intervention, and advocacy. They offer diagnoses, monitor progress, and develop treatment plans.

Education requirements for social work jobs in these areas include a relevant master's degree, state licensure, and sometimes additional certification. Mental health social workers need strong communication skills and an awareness of cultural diversity. Professionals in this field work in private practice, outpatient clinics, and community health centers.

Substance abuse counselors work with clients who suffer from drug addiction, alcoholism, and other dependency issues. They evaluate needs, diagnose disorders, and help clients develop constructive behaviors to overcome addiction. They may also make referrals and use talk therapy to help clients build healthier behaviors or modify existing ones.�

Most substance abuse counselors hold a master's degree in counseling or social work, though some have a bachelor's degree and professional certification. Additional requirements include state licensure, especially for those working in private practice. Applicable skills include social perceptiveness, active listening, and complex problem-solving.