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FAQs
What is social work?
Social Work is a helping profession dedicated to serving the needs of the poor and disenfranchised.
What qualities should I see in myself if I am looking at being a social worker?
Do you like to work with people? Do you have a sense of justice and equality and concerns for those in our society who are not treated fairly? Do you want to make a difference in the world to improve the lives of people who live on the margins of society? Then social work is the profession for you.
What kind of jobs can I do with a bachelor degree in social work?
Recent graduate have been employed in child protection, schools, nursing homes, Head Start, and programs for the homeless. Some have worked in other countries such as England and China.
What kind of jobs can I do with a masters or doctors degree in social work?
Master’s level graduate can provide therapy and mental health services to clients. They also work in the same areas mentioned above as graduates with bachelors degrees.
When do I take the first social work licensure test?
You are first eligible to take the licensure test the spring semester of your senior year.
How often do I have to take the social work licensure test?
If a student is unsuccessful at passing the licensure test the first time, it can be taken up to 3 times.
What does an accredited program mean for me?
The Social Work program at CSB/SJU was first accredited through the Council on Social Work Education in 1982 and reaffirmed twice, in 1989 and 1999. The Social Work Department completed a self-study and site visit for reaffirmation of accreditation by CSWE in 2007. As a graduate of a CSWE accredited program your are eligible to take the social work licensure test. Also many Master’s in Social Work program allow advanced placement for graduates with bachelors degrees in social work. MSW students with advanced placement standing can complete an MSW degree in one year in some universities.
Because social work requires more credits than some other majors, can I still study abroad?
Yes, with careful planning with your academic advisor in your first year. Students are advised to study abroad the fall semester of their junior year.
Because social work is a larger major can I still have a minor?
Yes, again with careful planning with your academic advisor, you can complete a minor. Recent graduates have completed minors in Communications, Spanish, and Gender and Women’s Studies.
Is it easy to get a job with a social work bachelor degree?
County social service jobs are more plentiful in rural areas. Nursing homes also hire social workers with bachelors degrees. Selecting an internship in the field you are interested in helps you to get a foot in the door.
How does volunteering play a role in the social work program at St. Johns and St. Bens?
Students apply to become a social work major and are asked to list their volunteer experiences. Many volunteer opportunities exist on campus such as VISTO, Volunteers in Service to Others. Students also complete service learning requirements in some courses.
Should I join NASW? (What benefits are there for joining?)
Student memberships are available through the National Association of Social Workers. The Minnesota Chapter of NASW encourages students to become involved in its committees including those that screen political candidates and develop the legislative agenda for social workers influencing social policy.