Career Options for Social Work
Social Work Graduates in the Workforce
A degree in Social Work emphasizes the social context of what many see as personal problems. Social workers use their skills and knowledge to facilitate change with and for people who are experiencing difficulties in their lives and who struggle with the impact of injustice and oppression.
Employers value Social Work graduates because they are actively involved in the understanding and transformation of injustices in social institutions and in the struggles of people to maximize control over their own lives.
Common Occupations for Social Work Graduates
Here are some of the most frequently-reported career categories for Social Work graduates in Canada and at McMaster, according to census data and alumni outcomes:
Social Work prepares graduates for the general practice of social work by developing:
- Capacity to analyze personal, community, family and societal problems.
- Practical skills such as interviewing, counselling, community development, social action and advocacy.
Employers seek out the skills acquired by Social Work graduates, such as:
- The capacity to gather, analyze and interpret information from a range of sources
- Effective communications skills, including composition and organization of ideas
- Writing and presentation skills
- Knowledge of current practice approaches
- Skills for working effectively with individuals, families, groups and communities
- Hands-on learning gained within the field
Common Sectors of Employment
Social Work graduates often work in the following sectors:
Examples of Social Work career paths:
- Health Care settings – hospitals, family health teams, addiction services, mental health agencies
- Children’s services, including Children’s Aid Societies
- Services for immigrants and refugees
- Anti-poverty organizations
- Disabled people’s organizations
- Indigenous communities
- Women’s services, including shelters
- Elder care organizations
- Criminal justice and legal services
- Governments
Related Pages
Career Planning Explore Resources
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Get Experience Learn More
Explore opportunities for paid work, volunteer positions, and community engagement.
Program Information Visit Program Site
Explore the courses and degree pathways available by visiting the Social Work program website.