Finding some of the different social work programs in NJ is a process that takes time but is well worth it for your future. Where you receive your training and education from is important, because after you are done with school, you will absolutely need to have reliable and reputable credentials, including you college degree. You should think carefully about where you choose to get your education from, because it will end up reflecting on you one way or another when you are going in for interviews and applying for various positions in this sector. Don’t forget there are also online options but you want to find out about what boards accept the schools as well as how the licensing board regards the programs. The Council of Social Work Education is an important board to consider and whatever school you look at should be able to discuss with you the situation for meeting licensure requirements.
Within NJ some schools for the MSW degree include Kean University, Rutgers and Monmouth University. Richard Stockton College of NJ is in Ponoma, New Jersey. Think about if you will be living at home or want to move right near the school as you try to plan where to apply. Don’t forget that certain parts of NJ are quite close to NYC which can open up the idea of going to Hunter or NYU school of social work.
With Ashford University, you will be able to earn your degree online. More and more people are choosing to do this, simply because it tends to be much more affordable while giving those who want to graduate the chance to take classes in the comfort of their own home. When you enroll at an online university, you won’t have to change out of your pajamas generally, though some programs have in-person meetings required.
The University of Washington has an online program for the MSW and is accredited by Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges. Some travel is required to ths school. Florida State U has an online MSW program and if you have attained a BSW that was from a C.S.W.E approved institute you can get your degree from anywhere, without relocating.
Additional social work programs for NJ students include ones which are offered by Golden Gate University, another online college, as well as Anna Maria College. Online degrees can open doors for you and get you started down the right path towards what you want to do with the rest of your life. If you already live in this state, then you won’t have to spend extra money on tuition for out of state students. You can find a college or university in your general or immediate area which will allow you to get the education you need, but do your research in terms of credentialing boards if you choose to use an online degree program.
Joining the NASW (National Association of Social Workers) branch in New Jersey is also a good way to network, learn about job opportunities and discuss important clinical issues as well as ethical concerns. We are pleased to hear that a former NASW president, Dr. Allison Blake, is now the Commissioner of the DCF- The New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
I think people that live out of the area don’t realize how close New Jersey is to NYC. It is an easy commute and people do it from port authority or penn station every day. It can be cheaper living in NJ for going to social work school and you still have the advantage of weekend fun in NYC. Or you can get the msw in NY but live in NJ and commute too.
Comment by Jack — July 24, 2010 @ 2:10 pm
I am a jersey girl and got my msw degree. After graduating and settling down,I found the nasw meetings in nj were very good for getting to meet people that connected me to someone in a company I wanted to work. I was able to get a job there after unsuccessfully getting no interview for a year. Networking is the way to go and that’s an edge you need today in getting a job, even a bsw job or msw position.
Comment by Daniella — March 4, 2011 @ 1:28 am