The field of social work is one that usually requires an individual to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree. The nature of the job and the responsibilities that come with it require individuals to have a certain level of education to be effective in their role.
Many people who are interested in pursuing social work may not have the time or money to go back to school for four years. Fortunately, there are now many online degree programs in social work available.
An online program will allow you to continue working while you get your degree. If you feel ready to take that next step toward your future career as a social worker, read on and see which of the following schools offer an online degree in social work:
What is Social Work?
Social work is the practice of helping people deal with mental, emotional, financial, physical, and other issues to improve their quality of life. The goals of social work are to prevent problems, improve the lives of people in the community, and help people reach their full potential.
To do this, social workers use a variety of skills, including problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking. Social workers typically work in hospitals, community centers, schools, juvenile detention centers, and other organizations. Social workers can work in many different areas, such as health care, mental health, substance abuse, child abuse and neglect, and aging.
Depending on the area that one chooses, the specific duties and responsibilities will vary. Some examples of general social work tasks are completing assessments, performing case management, providing counseling, and working with families.
Why Earn an Online Degree in Social Work?
While social work has a long and proud history, it is important to understand that today’s landscape is markedly different than it was in the past. One of the biggest shifts that you’ll find in the world of social work is the increase in online degrees and programs.
Many schools are now offering online social work degrees, and more students than ever are taking advantage of these programs. Social work is still a great field to work in, but there has been a slight shift as to where and how it is practiced. Why are these shifts taking place? There are several reasons that online social work degrees are becoming increasingly popular.
First, many traditional programs only offer face-to-face formats. This may work for some, but for others, it can be pretty difficult to attend school on a full-time basis. Social work is a demanding field that often requires long and unpredictable hours. For these reasons, online social work degrees can be a great option for those looking to gain experience in this field.
How to Find the Right Online Degree Program
If you are interested in pursuing an online degree in social work, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First, make sure that the program you are interested in is accredited by a reputable institution.
Additionally, it is important to make sure that the program is designed for students who are working full-time. Many programs are designed for people who are balancing family, work, and school. Make sure that your online degree in social work is flexible enough to meet your needs.
It is also a good idea to make sure that you can easily communicate with your professors. While you’ll be interacting with your classmates, it is important to make sure that you have a strong relationship with your instructors. This will enable you to receive the support that you need in order to be successful in your studies.
Top Online Degree Programs in Social Work
If you are interested in pursuing an online degree in social work, there are several great programs to choose from. We’ve compiled a list of five top online degree programs in social work to help you decide which one is right for you.
Colorado State University – Colorado is one of the few schools that offer an online BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) degree. This program is fully online and can be completed in two years. This program offers a unique approach to social work education. Students will receive field experience throughout their education by participating in projects.
Eastern Kentucky University – This school offers a BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) online degree. This program is designed to allow students to work while earning their degrees. Eastern Kentucky University features an online program that is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
Loyola University Maryland – Loyola University Maryland offers a BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) online degree. According to the school’s website, students can complete the program in three years. The program has an options track that allows students to customize their degree and choose electives that best suit their needs.
Texas State University – Texas State is another online school that offers a BSW (Bachelor of SW) online degree. This program can be completed in as little as two years. Students can choose from various concentrations, including child/family welfare, health, mental health, and others.
Concluding Thoughts
If you’re interested in pursuing an online degree in social work, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of five top online degree programs in social work.
These programs can be completed online and offer a wide variety of degree options. In addition, many of these schools offer financial aid for students. Now is the time to take that next step toward your future career as a social worker.