If you are passionate about service to others – and want to create change in the lives of people, organizations, and communities – consider earning a master of social work (MSW) degree.

Graduates of MSW programs are in demand. For instance, 100 percent of job seekers/graduates of Daemen University’s Master of Social Work program secured employment at or before graduation over the last four years.

Job growth across the U.S. for social workers is expected to increase by 12 percent by 2030. This rate is faster than the average for all occupations, according to federal data.

There is opportunity for advancement in many careers with an MSW in the social work field. In addition, having the skills and expertise from an MSW program will put you in a better position for earning potential, increased leadership opportunities.

Below are three of the top career opportunities for MSW graduates.

Clinical social worker

Clinical social workers diagnose and treat mental health disorders via counseling, case coordination, and other supportive services. They work with individuals, families, and groups to help them increase coping skills and heal from trauma, grief and loss, and other life challenges.

In addition, clinical social workers work in a variety of settings. Some include community mental health clinics, schools, primary care and hospitals.

Some clinical social workers even operate their own private practices. They are also eligible to become licensed in the state where they practice.

Nonprofit Leadership

As a social work professional working in nonprofit organizations, you may be responsible for overseeing the many facets of social programs and organizations.

These may include strategic leadership, service planning and evaluation, staff and volunteer development, community outreach, and more.

Fundraising, marketing, and communications are also essential roles that nonprofit leaders often undertake. They guide their employees to achieve identified goals in support of diverse populations and overall community well-being.

Applied researcher

As an applied researcher, you may work to better understand and address a variety of complex social issues. Some of these include poverty, housing and homelessness, education, oppression and discrimination, health and health care, climate change, social disconnection, isolation, and much more.

Additionally, applied researchers establish evidence-based practices (EBP) for – and alongside – practitioners to ensure high quality care.

They also promote equity, inclusion, and justice through community planning, social policy, and systems change work.

Learn more about Daemen University’s MSW program today!