By getting a masters degree in social work, you can earn more in this field. In fact, many of the top jobs in social work are open only to those who have at least a masters degree. What kind of salary can you expect in this field? Let’s check out the average salary for workers in this industry and how you can make more money no matter what your job title.
Base Salary for Social Workers
According to Payscale.com, those in the social work field who have a master’s degree make, on average, between $35,000 and $85,000 per year depending on your job title. Some of the specific salary ranges in the social work field (by position) are as follows:
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker: $42,384 – $59,142
- Clinical Therapist: $36,694 – $48,958
- Medical and Public Health Social Worker: $36,174 – $52,540
- Child, Family, or School Social Worker: $42,935 – $60,096
- Non-Profit Organization Executive Director: $55,000 – $84,160
Your specific education will determine the jobs for which you’ll qualify after you graduate, so before you apply for a masters in social work program, take some time to think about your future career goals. The more specialized your education, the more qualified you’ll be for specific jobs after you graduate with your master’s degree.
Other Factors Affecting Social Worker Salary
Of course, the more experience you have, the more money you’ll make in the social work field; this is common in every industry. With less than a year of experience, workers with a masters in social work make an average of around $36,000 annually. On the other hand, workers with the same level of education who have 20+ years of experience average over $60,000 annually. Other factors that affect social worker salary may not be as apparent. Location, employer size and type, certification, specialty, and industry can all also change the salary amount you can expect as a worker in this field.
Benefits
In addition to your salary, social work jobs typically come attached to benefits packages including such perks as paid vacation days, tuition reimbursement programs, health/dental coverage, and retirement plans. Some social workers also receive year-end bonuses, which can boost your salary significantly, so definitely consider these things when you’re comparing jobs in the social work field.
Top Social Work and Public Management Masters Degrees
A social worker is one who helps others in some capacity, whether it be issues involving family, disabilities, social problems, housing, unemployment, substance abuse, or some other issue. There are many different types of social worker, some of whom are even certified by the state as a licensed clinical social worker. A bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement for entering social work or public administration, but more often than not a Master of Social Work (MSW) or master's degree in a related field is required for upper-level positions.
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A Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Southern California will prepare you for a career serving people in need. This program will develop your leadership skills and enable you to influence the world around you in a positive way. You will learn how to address complicated issues in homes and communities.
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The MPA program at Kaplan University prepares student to become leaders with the education to make a difference within their organization. The classes this program offers will help you make educated decisions that have a positive effect on social and ethical issues. The classes prepare you for careers in social work, public administration, and public management.
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The MPH in Social & Behavioral Sciences from Capella University will provide you with a solid education based on the national public health curriculum. Students who choose this specialization are prepared for positions in social work, public health or social welfare organizations. An MS in Social & Community Services will help you gain the knowledge needed to advocate for and influence positive change in your community.
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An MBA in Public Administration from Ashford University will help you to explore your passion for public service. This degree will enhance your leadership skills and prepare you for a career in social work, human resources, public policy and other areas in the public and private sectors. An MPA degree will help you to develop skills needed for evaluating social initiative strategies. An MA/OM in Public Administration will enhance your management skills and prepare you to become a global leader. The school also offers an MA in Education & Public Policy which will equip you with the skills needed to enact positive change in schools and lead policy initiatives that will benefit future generations.
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Post University's Masters of Public Administration program stands out from other MPA programs focusing on more than just the public sector. Students attending Post University will also learn how administrative and organizational duties can be applied to the private and military sectors. As a result, students will become more well-rounded and versatile in the positions they can pursue.
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