The career choices available to social workers are many and varied. Social workers will generally have a preference for either the micro or the macro practice approach. Those interested in micro practice look forward to working with individuals, families, and groups in need, perhaps as therapists, case managers, school social workers, hospital social workers, child welfare workers, advocates, employee assistance counselors, psychiatric social workers, international social workers, or substance abuse counselors. Individuals interested in macro practice may work as administrators, program and policy planners, community organizers, community developers, government relations specialists, political assistants or researchers.

There are three degree levels in social work: bachelor of social work (B.S.W.); master of social work (M.S.W.) and doctor of social work (D.S.W.) or doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) in social work. Depending on their degree level and area of interest, social workers can work in:

Adoption agencies	International human rights agencies
Advocacy organizations	International aid organizations
Child welfare agencies	Local/state/federal government offices
Community action agencies	Long-term care facilities
Community not-for-profit agencies	Managed health programs
Corporations	Mental health offices
Counseling offices	Neighborhood centers
Court systems	Political organizations
Day treatment facilities	Prisons
Domestic violence shelters	Psychiatric hospitals
Employee assistance programs	Refugee relief agencies
Health clinics	Schools (elementary/middle/high)
Hospice	Universities
Hospitals/medical facilities/oncology centers	Victim assistance offices

Career Links:

• College of Human Services and Health Professions Career and Professional Development Center
• Government Jobs
• Federal Government Jobs
• New Social Worker Magazine
• Social Work and Social Services Jobs online
• America's Job Bank
• New York State Department of Labor
• Civil Service Exam information