How to Research Salary Ranges and Benefits for a Social Worker

The average salary range for social workers is between $25,000 and $47,000 per year, depending on geographic area, degree and experience. A minimum of a master's degree is necessary for advancement; if you have a Ph.D. you can command a higher salary.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet Access
• Computers

1. Visit the National Association of Social Workers Web site (naswdc.org) for solid information related to the career.

2. Read NASW journals to stay up-to-date on any changes in the field.

3. Investigate specializations in social work that you think will be in demand in the near future.

4. Talk to social workers in your area to get an idea about the benefits they receive.

5. Compare the salaries and benefits of public versus private institutions.

6. Plan accordingly if you want to open a private practice. Remember that you will be responsible for overhead expenses and various types of insurance if you are self-employed.

Tips & Warnings

• Realize that competition is strongest in cities. Consider opportunities in more rural areas.

on 11/22/2005 Read social work job openings in your newspaper or by visiting job sites that specialize in the social services like www.SocialService.Com.