Careers in Social Work
Social workers are professionals who provide services to people of any age, income, race, ethnicity, gender, religion, and sexual orientation. They help people cope with complex interpersonal and social problems and assist in obtaining resources for people.
Because social work professionals spend their time helping people, they find their careers intrinsically rewarding. They get more than a paycheck out of their service - they get the satisfaction that comes with knowing they're helping vulnerable populations.
But the paycheck is nice, too. Don't believe any myth that tells you the field of social work has 'low wages.' Starting wages for social work professionals are comparable with the starting wages of many other fields. Plus, with FHSU's record of success, you won't have to wait around for that first job.
Historically, graduates of the FHSU Social Work program have attained nearly a 100% job placement record in the social work profession, and, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in social work is expected to grow substantially over the next several years. Since our program is nationally accredited, our graduates don't have to spend time and money securing extra accreditation.
What can I do with a Social Work Degree?
Social work professionals work in several settings, including:
- Child and family service agencies
- Mental health centers
- Hospitals and health care agencies
- Schools
- Nursing homes
- Social service agencies
- State and federal government
- Addictions treatment centers
- Community organizations
- Criminal justice settings
Social Work Career Exploration Resources
National Association of Social Workers
Clinical Social Work Association
Association of Social Work Boards
Association of Oncology Social Work
Gerontological Society of America
Kansas Works job site
A Day in the life of a Social Worker
Occupational Outlook Handbook
Ask an Expert
Fort Hays University Career Resources
Academic Advising and Career Exploration Center
Career Services Online Job Resources