Dream Big: Social Work’s Boundless Opportunities

In social work, no two days (or careers) are alike. One moment you might be standing beside a family welcoming a new baby, the next guiding someone through the aftermath of a life-changing event. Social work is one of the most versatile degrees you can earn, opening doors to opportunities that span communities, cultures, and causes. 

The Heart of the Profession   

Deciding on a career can be daunting, but in social work, it doesn’t have to be a narrow or linear decision. The field’s broad reach means it touches nearly every corner of society. A degree in Social Work offers an exciting career full of ongoing opportunities, continuous learning, and transformative experiences. 

Social workers are committed to human rights and improving the well-being of individuals and communities. We are champions of compassion, empathy, and advocacy. Social work is mercy, healing, and hope — a powerful, transformative career that offers lifelong growth. 

I am a prime example. As a first-generation college student, I knew I wanted to help people, particularly children and families, but I also felt a quiet pull toward teaching. Social work allowed me to explore both passions. 

My Journey in Social Work 

Early in my career, I worked with children and families involved with child protective services and the justice system. I later served as an administrative supervisor, overseeing adult protective services, geriatric social work, case management, and community outreach. 

In hospitals, I supported people celebrating the birth of an infant and others facing the diagnosis of a serious illness. I stood beside survivors grieving the loss of a loved one, helping them navigate the difficult days ahead. 

For over a decade as a mental health provider, I focused on interventions and recovery for adults with complex trauma. As a researcher and policy analyst, I used my skills to advocate for children and families, writing grants to develop a nonprofit multidisciplinary center that provides forensic social work and coordinated resources, support, and advocacy for child victims and their families. 

Answering the Call 

Well into adulthood, as a single parent, I decided to pursue graduate studies for a doctoral degree in social work. The versatility of the MSW and licensure allowed me to continue working while returning to school. It wasn’t until I explored a doctoral program that I realized I could combine my love for helping others with my passion for teaching. Earning my doctorate led me to higher education, where I found a profound sense of satisfaction in educating the next generation of ethical and professional leaders to create change. 

I can’t think of any other profession that would have allowed me to expand my vision, serve with passion, and stand beside people during some of their most challenging and meaningful moments. I am proud to be both a social worker and a social work educator — but even prouder of our students and alumni, who embody respect for the dignity and worth of every individual. 

If you are already on the path to becoming a social worker, congratulations. If you are considering it, know that the possibilities are as wide as your vision. Dream big. Carve your own path. And let Carlow University’s Social Work program help you turn your passion into a career that transforms lives. 

Direct Service/Clinical Roles 

• Clinical Social Worker: Provides counseling and therapy to individuals, families, and groups.   

• Medial Social Worker/Healthcare Social Worker: Works in healthcare settings like hospitals and clinics, helping patients and families navigate health challenges.   

• School Social Worker: Supports students’ academic and social-emotional well-being within the school system.   

• Child Welfare Social Worker: Focuses on child protection, foster care, and adoption services.   

• Mental Health Social Worker: Provides support and treatment for individuals with mental health conditions.   

• Forensic Social Worker: Works within the legal system, often in areas like victim services, child welfare, juvenile justice or district attorney offices.  

• Substance Abuse Social Worker: Helps individuals overcome addiction and substance use disorders.   

• Gerontological Social Worker: Specializes in the needs of older adults.   

• Hospice Social Worker: Provides support to individuals and families facing end-of-life care.   

• Case Manager: Coordinates services and resources for individuals and families.   

• Probation Officer/Correctional Treatment Specialist: Works with individuals involved in the criminal justice system.   

• Family and Marriage Counselor: Provides support to families and couples.   

Indirect/Support Roles 

• Policy Analyst: Researches and develops social policies.   

• Researcher: Conducts studies on social issues and interventions.   

• Community Organizer: Works to mobilize communities and address social problems.   

• Program Director/Manager: Oversees social service programs and organizations.   

• Social and Community Service Manager: Coordinates and supervises community organizations and programs.   

• Advocate: Represents the interests of individuals and groups.   

• Legislative Advocate: Works to influence social policy at the legislative level.   

• Human Resources Specialist: Applies social work principles in the workplace to support employees.   

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Professional: Develops and implements social responsibility programs for businesses.   

Other Potential Paths 

• Social Work Educator/Professor: Teaches social work at the university level.   

• Nonprofit Organization Administrator/Staff: Works for various non-profit organizations that address social issues.   

• Military Social Worker: Provides support to military personnel and their families.   

• International Social Worker/Global Social Worker: Works with international organizations and communities.   

• Disability Social Worker: Focuses on the needs of individuals with disabilities.   

• Occupational Social Worker: Work within organizations to address employee well-being and provide support for workplace issues.  

Explore social work at https://www.carlow.edu/academic-programs/department-of-social-work/