Some possible jobs within this career area are:
Depending on your personal career path, you might need to get licensed to start work. Counselors, for example, need special training. There are also many professional organizations related to human services careers. While your degree might qualify you for employment, membership to a national association could give you the credentials you need to get promoted or advance your career.
Some certifications related to human services careers include:
- Professional Licensing/Certification
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- PhD
Human services careers are steadfast in the job market. Human resources professionals help companies grow, and also help to recruit talented workers. Nonprofit organizations provide services to people in need or crisis. Whether it’s a guidance counselor in high school or a marriage counselor in adulthood, chances are good that we’ll encounter someone who devotes their life to a career in human services.
Human services careers follow traditional education patterns, which means that you could earn an Associate’s Degree in two years and a Bachelor’s Degree in four years. Your career, however, could require additional certification, licensing or training. Consult a career counselor to make sure you’re doing all you need to start your career.
How to Become a Social Worker
A social worker career may be for you if you're interested in helping the lives of people. Social workers help family members cope with social problems such as inadequate housing, substance abuse, unemployment, or domestic violence. A career in social work can be satisfying for those who are uplifted by making a positive difference in the lives of people.
Social work can also be demanding. Social service departments are typically overloaded, and caseloads for social workers can be daunting. Most social workers work a standard 40-hour week.
Training Required for a Career in Social Work
To become a social worker, you will need a bachelor's degree as a minimum. The typical degree program is a major in social work, although some people start a social worker career with a degree in a related field such as psychology or sociology. Some positions, especially those in school and health settings, require an advanced degree in social work.
All states require some form of licensure, registration, or certification. These requirements, however, vary from state to state. To find out more about specific requirements in your state, contact a local agency.
Social Worker Salaries
Social worker salaries vary with the type of job setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary overall is $39,500. The median social worker salary by specific setting is shown in the following examples:
- Elementary and Secondary Schools = $53,900
- Local Government = $46,700
- State Government = $39,600
- Residential Care = $34,300
(Salary data retrieved 6/24/11)
To get the education you need to become a social worker, find a degree program now!