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The Global Insight

What degree do you need to work as a social worker?

Author

Sarah Garza

Updated on March 25, 2026

Complete a bachelor degree in social work. Alternatively, for students with previous tertiary qualifications, complete a two-year Master of Social Work program.

Can you be a social worker without a social work degree?

Although social workers need a bachelor’s or a master’s, pursuing a career in the social work field does not necessarily require any kind of college degree. Several entry-level positions can be located with a high school diploma, and in some cases, a certificate will improve your chances of securing employment.

Do social workers get paid well?

Median annual wages for social workers reach $50,470, and range from $31,750 for the lowest-paid 10% to $82,540 for the top 10% in the field. Social workers practicing individually and in family services settings average $43,030 a year. At the upper end of the pay scale, hospitals pay a median wage of $55,500.

How many hours a week is a social work degree?

Outside of timetabled sessions, you are also expected to dedicate around 30 hours a week to self-study. This may involve further reading and research, preparing coursework and presentations, and preparing for tests and exams. Our facilities are designed to support you in these activities.

What are the disadvantages of being a social worker?

Disadvantages of Being a Social Worker

  • Social work can be stressful.
  • Emotional burden.
  • Many social workers cannot unplug from their work.
  • You see the worst of people.
  • Social work is not always safe.
  • You often have to walk into unknown situations.
  • Some people can’t deal with the high level of responsibility.

Do social workers make good money?

How Much Does a Social Worker Make? Median annual wages for social workers reach $50,470, and range from $31,750 for the lowest-paid 10% to $82,540 for the top 10% in the field. Social workers practicing individually and in family services settings average $43,030 a year.

Do you need a BA to become a social worker?

Social work is a graduate profession and you’ll need either an honours (BA or BSc) or a postgraduate degree in social work to find employment. The degree will need to be approved by one of the four regulators: England: Social Work England Wales: Social Care Wales

What can you do with a Social Work degree?

A Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree will prepare you for an advanced role in your career. A PhD degree focuses on expanding research opportunities, while a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree specializes in furthering the practice of social work. What Can You Do With a Social Work Degree?

How long does it take to get a Social Work degree?

While a master’s degree in social work takes two years to finish, there are programs that enable bachelor’s degree in social work holders to get their master’s degree within one year. It’s also important to understand that a bachelor’s degree in social work is not the only entry point towards getting a MSW degree.

How many points do you need for Social Work degree?

Social work degree entry requirements The minimum UCAS points required to study a social work degree ranges from 88 points (CCD at A-Level; MMM at BTEC level) to 128 points (ABB at A-Level; DDM at BTEC level). Social Work Degree Entry Requirements 2021 Type Minimum Grades/Points Required (with Foundation Year) Minimum Grades/Points Required