They work with individuals and communities to overcome challenges and effect social change.

Social work is an exciting career area that is highly related to psychology.

Are you looking for a career that is rewarding yet challenging?

what does a social worker do

Verywell / Alex Dos Diaz

Do you want to contribute to society by helping people overcome difficulties and improve their lives?

Social work fits this description, which is why many psychology undergraduates opt to pursue it.

What Is a Social Worker?

So what exactly is a social worker?

Fast Facts

What Does a Social Worker Do?

Those with a Master’s degree typically average a mean income of $44,418.

Are you interested in teaching at the university level or conducting research?

Then you will need to earn a doctorate degree in social work (DSW).

Social Worker Specialty Areas

Social workers often opt to specialize in a specific area.

Some work in school configs to help children with academic, social, and emotional issues.

Others may work with foster children, help arrange adoptions, and assistsingle parents.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.Social workers work environment.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.What social workers do.

University at Buffalo, School of Social Work.What is social work and what do social workers do?

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.Social workers: Pay.

George Washington University Health Workforce Institute.

Association of Social Work Boards.About licensing and regulation.

National Association of Social Workers.NASW Standards for Social Work Practice in Health Care controls.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.Social workers job outlook.