A social worker often finds her job to be both challenging and rewarding. Becoming a social worker requires a Bachelor's degree in social work, and one can choose to go further in the chosen field by pursuing an advanced degree ,such as a Master's or PH.D. in social work.
Instructions
1. Complete the general education requirements that are a part of obtaining any higher education degree. What are are referred to as "Foundation Curriculum Requirements" generally consist of a strong general education focus on English, math, science and the social sciences. You will also have to complete a physical education requirement and select a set number of electives that you choose to complete the underpinning of your degree. Meeting your general education requirements will usually require approximately 45 to 50 semester hours of coursework.
2. After you have taken your general education courses, you will then be required to complete the core requirements of your degree program. At this point, you might select a specialty. The core program for your degree will approximately take up the last two years of your undergraduate work for a four-year degree. The types of course you will be taking will deal with human behavior, legal issues for social workers dealing with families and minors, social environment, psychology and an array of similar courses.
3. A practicum is sometimes required before one can be awarded a degree in social work. Within a controlled setting, a practicum enables a student to hone her skills in the field of social work while being mentored and graded by a trained practitioner. The student will learn the proper techniques and protocol needed to deal with clients who need assistance dealing with a variety of types of issues.
4. Another requirement in some programs is an internship, usually occurring in the senior year of study. An internship can be arranged with either a private or public entity that provides services to the public. Even when an internship is not required, it is often a good idea to consider requesting an application for one from your department. An internship can either be counted toward your core elective requirements, or there is often an "independent study" option that allows for an internship. Since many employers look to see if you have practical work experience in your field, an internship can offer you a real advantage in finding a position after graduation. Also, it is possible that you might find it easier to get hired for a position at an agency that you have previously interned for, since they will be familiar with your work.
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