How to become a social worker

Social workers are essential professionals who support people during some of the most challenging times of their lives. Whether helping families find stable housing, counseling individuals through mental health struggles or advocating for systemic changes, social workers use compassion, communication and critical thinking to uplift those they serve.

If you're driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference and promote social justice, social work may be the right path for you.

What do social workers do?

Social workers are versatile, handle a variety of responsibilities, and no two days are exactly alike. They may work with children and families, support patients in healthcare settings, help people recover from trauma, or guide communities through complex social issues. At the heart of it all is one goal: empowering individuals to overcome adversity and access the tools they need to thrive.

In practice, social workers often:

• Assess the needs of individuals, families or groups
• Develop treatment or support plans tailored to client goals
• Provide therapy, crisis intervention or case management
• Advocate for clients in legal, medical or educational systems
• Coordinate with community agencies and services

Social workers operate within a professional code of ethics that emphasizes dignity, relationships, integrity and a commitment to social justice.

What are the steps to become a social worker?

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree

The first step toward a social work career is earning a bachelor's degree. Many professionals begin with a Bachelor of Social Work (BASW or BSW), which provides an introduction to social work principles, cultural awareness, and hands-on learning through internships or field experiences. However, if you plan on continuing your education with a masters degree in social work (MSW), it is not necessary for your bachelor’s degree to be in social work, it can be in a different field of study.

Students in a BSW program explore topics such as:

• Human behavior and the social environment
• Social welfare policy and history
• Ethics and values in social work
• Practice methods with individuals, families, and communities

It’s important to note that even if you earn a degree in psychology, sociology or another human services field, you can still pursue a graduate degree in social work down the line.

2. Earn a Master of Social Work (MSW)

While a BSW can lead to entry-level roles, an MSW is typically required for advanced practice and clinical licensure. An MSW program builds on undergraduate knowledge, preparing students for specialized or leadership roles in social work.

MSW students often choose a concentration that aligns with their goals, such as:

• Clinical mental health or therapy
• Children and families
• Healthcare and aging
• Substance use and recovery
• Social policy and advocacy

At Ohio University, the online MSW program is flexible, fully accredited and rooted in trauma-informed, culturally responsive care. Students complete supervised field placements in their own communities, gaining valuable real-world experience while preparing for licensure.

3. Complete licensure requirements

To become a licensed social worker, you must meet your state’s requirements, which typically include:

• Graduation from a CSWE-accredited MSW program
• Completion of supervised clinical work (often 2,000–3,000 post-graduate hours)
• Passing the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam at the appropriate level
• Applying for and maintaining state licensure

Different states may have additional requirements, such as background checks or continuing education. It’s important to check with your state’s licensing board for exact details.

Licensure opens doors to independent practice, including therapy and diagnostic roles, as well as leadership in social service agencies.

4. Choose your career path

Social work offers a wide range of career options depending on your interests and qualifications. You might find yourself working one-on-one with clients, managing programs for nonprofits or influencing public policy at the state or national level.

Popular social work roles include:

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) – providing therapy, assessments and treatment
• School Social Worker – supporting students’ mental health and academic success
• Medical Social Worker – helping patients and families navigate illness, treatment and recovery
• Child Welfare Specialist – ensuring child safety and family stability in challenging circumstances
• Community Organizer or Policy Advocate – working on systemic issues affecting marginalized populations

Whether your passion lies in direct service or macro-level advocacy, the profession offers flexibility, mobility and long-term career satisfaction.

Why become a social worker?

Social work is more than a career, it’s a commitment to making a difference and helping others thrive. For those who are driven to help others, the profession provides a path to lasting impact. Social workers often describe their work as deeply fulfilling, despite the emotional challenges it can bring.

In addition to being meaningful, social work is a growing field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for social workers is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade, particularly in healthcare, mental health, and substance abuse services.

With strong job prospects, diverse career settings, and the opportunity to change lives every day, social work is a powerful and rewarding profession for those who want to be a force for good.

Ready to make a difference?

Explore Ohio University’s online Master of Social Work program to learn how you can take the next step toward a career that creates meaningful change—for individuals, families, and entire communities.

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