They are educators. They are therapists and researchers. More and more, they are also elected political leaders and legislators. To be a social worker, one must have a degree in social work from a college or university program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. An MSW is required to provide therapy.
Degree programs involve classroom study as well as practical field experience.
The bachelor's degree prepares graduates for generalist entry-level work, whereas the master's degree is for more advanced clinical practice. A DSW or PhD is useful for doing research or teaching at the university level. Most states require practicing social workers to be licensed, certified, or registered , although standards vary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, by the year 2000 there will be more than half a million social workers in the United States. Credentials generally require a degree, supervised experience, and a standard examination.