Axe ’Em, Jacks!
Working for the greater good
Our social work majors go on to find careers in a variety of settings, including state and government agencies, schools, hospitals and nonprofits. The School of Social Work provides a combination of coursework and hands-on training that's needed to become a qualified, competent social worker. Our school’s focus on rural populations ensures that our graduates are prepared to work in the communities that need them most.
Why study social work?
If your idea of a “dream job” involves helping others and making a difference, social work is a rewarding field of study. A degree in social work will give you the tools to address real-world needs and issues like promoting social and economic justice and helping to alleviate poverty and oppression.
As a social work student at SFA, you’ll get out into the community and gain valuable experience through internships and fieldwork with state and local agencies. By the time you graduate, you’ll be ready to become a licensed social worker or advance your studies with a master’s degree in social work.
What kind of jobs can I get with a degree in social work?
Our graduates typically work with individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities to provide interventions and solutions to social issues related to poverty, inequality and injustice. Your social work degree qualifies you to provide services in a variety of settings, including:
- child and family agencies
- employment and occupational health organizations
- hospitals and medical facilities
- mental health facilities
- police departments, courts and prisons
- political and nonprofit organizations
- substance abuse programs.
Job availability and growth
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that social work jobs would grow by 12% from 2014 to 2024, which means that demand for social workers will continue to increase. The average salary for a social worker is around $47,000 per year. The demand for bilingual social workers is typically higher.
Social workers who obtain a Master of Social Work can expect to earn higher salaries and have more job opportunities and potential for advancement.