How to Become a Social & Economic Justice Social Worker
Social and economic social work is a vital field that addresses the intersection of social issues and economic disparities in communities. Social and economic social workers are crucial in advocating for social justice, assisting individuals and families in need, and implementing programs to promote financial stability and well-being. If you are passionate about creating positive change in society and improving the lives of others, a career in social and economic justice social work may be the perfect fit for you. The following is a comprehensive guide on how to embark on this rewarding career path.
Step 1: Complete a Social Work Degree
The foundational step towards becoming a Social & Economic Justice Social Worker is acquiring the necessary education, which is a social work degree. Most entry-level positions in this field require at least a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. However, to pursue advanced roles and enhance career prospects, obtaining a Master of Social Work (MSW) is highly recommended. Some individuals may even choose to pursue a Doctorate in Social Work, mainly if they aim for research or academic positions.
- Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): A Bachelor of Social Work, or BSW degree, typically spans four years and provides students with a fundamental understanding of social welfare systems, human behavior, social policy analysis, and intervention strategies. Coursework often includes topics such as social justice, diversity, ethics, and social research methods.
- Master of Social Work (MSW): An MSW degree delves deeper into specialized areas such as social and economic justice, community organizing, policy advocacy, and program evaluation. MSW programs equip students with advanced clinical skills and theoretical frameworks necessary for addressing complex social issues.
- Doctorate Degree: Pursuing a Doctorate in Social Work, such as a DSW or a Ph.D. in Social Work, allows professionals to engage in in-depth research, contribute to scholarly literature, and advance knowledge within the field. Doctoral programs often focus on specialized areas of social work practice and provide opportunities for students to become experts in social and economic policy analysis.
Step 2: Become Licensed as a Social & Economic Justice Social Worker
After completing the requisite education, aspiring Social & Economic Social Workers must obtain licensure to practice in their respective states. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically involve completing a designated number of supervised clinical hours and passing a licensure examination.
Licensure Examination
The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) administers licensure examinations for social workers at various levels, including BSW, MSW, and clinical licensure. These exams assess candidates’ knowledge of social work principles and ethical standards and competency in applying theoretical frameworks to real-world scenarios.
State Requirements
Each state establishes its own licensure criteria, which may include specific coursework, supervised field experience, and background checks. Aspiring social and economic Social Workers must familiarize themselves with the licensure requirements of the state where they intend to practice.
Find out the Social Work Licening requirements of your state in our guide.
Step 3: Apply for a Social & Economic Justice Social Worker Job
Once you have obtained the necessary education and licensure, you can begin exploring job opportunities in the field of social and economic justice social work. These social workers are employed in a variety of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, schools, healthcare facilities, and community-based organizations.
What Careers Can I Pursue as a Social & Economic Justice Social Worker Degree?
- Case Manager: Provide assistance and support to individuals and families accessing social services, healthcare, housing, and other resources.
- Community Organizer: Advocate for social justice and policy change by mobilizing communities, raising awareness of social issues, and organizing grassroots campaigns.
- Policy Analyst: Research and analyze social and economic policies to assess their impact on vulnerable populations and advocate for policy reforms.
- Clinical Social Worker: Provide therapy, counseling, and mental health services to individuals, families, and groups experiencing emotional or psychological challenges.
- Program Coordinator: Develop and implement programs and interventions to address social and economic disparities and promote community development.
Where Can I Work With a Social & Economic Justice Social Worker Degree?
Social and economic social workers can find employment opportunities in a wide range of settings, including:
- Government Agencies: Departments of social services, health, housing, and education.
- Non-profit Organizations: Organizations focused on poverty alleviation, community development, human rights, and social justice.
- Healthcare Settings: Hospitals, clinics, and mental health centers.
- Schools and Universities: Providing counseling and support services to students and their families.
- Correctional Facilities: Working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system to address underlying social and economic issues.
Step 4: Learn About Social & Economic Justice Social Worker Salaries
Salaries for social and economic social workers vary depending on factors such as education, experience, geographic location, and employer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for social workers was $55,350 as of May 2022. However, salaries can range from around $32,000 for entry-level positions to over $80,000 for experienced social workers in specialized roles or managerial positions.
