There are many job choices with a social work degree and they continue to expand. There are more options with the msw than the bsw (bachelor degree). Also, getting the license (ie lcsw or csw) will open up more opportunities as well. The license is necessary for receiving reimbursement from most insurance companies and a number of jobs like to get individuals on insurance panels.
First of all, find out if the social work school is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education located in Virginia. Although most people associate social workers with agency work, hospitals, private practice and mental health clincs, there are many other settings for social workers. For instance, social workers can work in private businesses, court system, nursing home and assisted living facilities and with forsenics.
There are also teaching positions, online course instructors, social work supervisors, case managers and positions in administration. If you like to teach supervising new graduates can be quite fulfilling. Running classes on ethics, treatment modalities and group therapy is another area of work.
The range of issues one deals with at a mental health clinic or agency is incredible. I find that my understanding of the human condition deepens every day from counseling others. It is a gift to be allowed to hear the inner thoughts and feelings of someone. Some people have never opened up before to anyone previously. It requires a lot of presence and attention to hear the words spoken as well as the words that are not spoken by someone struggling with an issue.
Remember this if you feel burnt out or get tired during the day. Someone is counting on you to help them unravel their underlying issues and do some problem solving. A great weight can be lifted by a perceptive comment . Guilt from years can be dropped. Forgiveness of a parent is beautiful to watch. Appreciation of an adverse situation can be life altering for someone who had no hope. A social work career has many options and the degree helps you to contribute to the world as well as your own personal growth.