Career Opportunities
Social workers are prepared to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities in both public and non-profit practice. The State of California is experiencing an acute shortageof individuals prepared for leadership roles in social work practice. The State also has a critical shortage of social workers trained at the master's level and this is expected to increase well into the 21st century. In child welfare alone, it is estimated that the ten largest county child welfare agencies have an immediate need for 3,400 social workers. The need is greatest in mental health, gerontology, and in the juvenile justice system. Both the Alameda County and the Contra Costa County social service agencies all report a shortage of social workers.
Some specific social work careers include:
- Adult Protective Services Worker (BSWMSW level)
- Case Manager (BSW/MSW level)
- Child Welfare Social Worker (BSW/MSW level)
- Clinical Supervisor (MSW only)
- Community Organizer
- College Admissions Counselor
- Crisis Intervention Specialist
- Domestic Violence Advocate
- Eligibility Specialist
- Family Liason
- Human Services Specialist
- Independent Living Skills Coach
- Legislative Assistant
- Licensed Clinial Social Worker (MSW only)
- Mental Health Counselor (BSW/MSW level)
- Outreach Worker
- Patient Advocate
- Policy Analyst
- Probation Officer
- Program Director
- Research Assistant/Associate (BSW/MSW level)
- Regional Center Counselor (BSW/MSW level)
- School Social Worker (MSW only)
- Social Service Designee (Long Term Care)
- Substance Abuse Counselor (BSW/MSW level)
- Mental Health Therapist (MSW only)
- Victim's Witness Advocate
- Wellness Coach