Social Work Programs

Choosing a career is never easy. Aptitude testing was considered to be one of the ways of assessing your skills and choosing a job but times have changed. There are so many different jobs and professions, that it is difficult to guide a student on to a particular career. As a result, we do suggest that you do as much research as possible about any career you are interested in right from high school. If you are interested in the helping profession or human services, there are a number of ways to volunteer. To learn about the profession, volunteer or ‘job shadow’ a professional in the field to learn more about it. If you’re interested in nursing or social work in particular but cannot make up your mind, this article should be able to provide you with a better perspective on both professions. Many people want to be in involved in helping others to improve their lives but are unsure of which way to go.

Currently, the nursing profession is considered one of the best in the US. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nursing profession is expected to grow by as much as 26% from 2010 to 2020. On an average, nurses also get paid anywhere from $64,690 to about $95,130 depending on profession and education. The job does have its pros and cons though. Most nurses have to study for 4-5 years before they get their degree. After completing their degree, most states have a mandatory certification exam and a licensing exam that has to be cleared. These exams are repeated every year or every two years for recertification. (more…)

Both nursing and social work as careers are rooted in the wish to help other people. There are many disciplines within each career, and the choice may be difficult.

A medical social worker based in a nursing home can expect to make, on average between $45,000- $50,000 per year, depending on location and experience. This job requires a master’s degree plus some years experience in the field or another related area. A licensed clinical social worker can make about the same.

A career in nursing starts out with a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree or a diploma. A diploma program is administered by hospitals and takes 3 years, but there are few hospitals that offer this course. A diploma must be followed by an associate or bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation, and a national licensing exam must also be passed. To advance to a position such as a nurse-midwife or a nurse anesthetist will require a master’s degree. A BSN taken in a college or university lasts for 4 years and an associate degree or ADN will last for 2 to 3 years. (more…)