The BSW and MSW Degrees, Essay Example

Social workers attempt to improve the lives of individuals through a variety of means. They work with individuals, groups, families, and couples to determine the steps that are necessary to improve their relationships or livelihood. While other professionals, such as psychologists and medical professionals aim to help people by aiding their physical health, social workers aim to help by improving their living situations and addressing their greater needs.

Although the BSW and MSW degrees provide the same foundation of knowledge, MSW recipients are expected to work more independently and have more directly contributed to an application of the field. The purpose of social work education is to prepare social workers with the human development, administrative, and counselling skills necessary to help individuals and families.

A generalist social worker receives case studies regarding individuals that need help. It is then his or her responsibility to investigate the situation and determine what the needs are and then to create a plan that will help the individual or group recover from what ailed them. A generalist would work with individuals with a large variety of problems.

The CSWE regulates social work education and standards while the NASW regulates the performance standards that directly concern active social workers. It is important to follow the regulations of both councils closely in order to ensure success and effectiveness in the field.

Areas in which social workers will be extremely needed to assist clients in the future is in large cities with concentrations of impoverished individuals. These families will need the greatest degree of help in ensuring that their basic needs can be met. As an individual, I could improve social work’s visibility by explaining the work I do in greater detail to friends and family.