How to Find a Career in Adoption

There are several paths you can take to pursue a career in adoptions. The licensing requirements for adoption professionals vary by state, but all players in the adoption process will need to understand the psychological dynamics and logistics of both domestic and international adoptions. Generally, you will need at least four years of college to work in the adoption field.

Instructions

1. Learn the basics. To work in the adoption field, you need a strong understanding of social work, psychology and law. Most career adoption professionals have a master's degree in social work or are attorneys, but you may work as a case manager or entry-level adoption social worker with a bachelor's degree.

2. Figure out what kind of work interests you. There are several different areas of the adoption field, including social worker, counselor, placement specialist and adoption attorney. Before you decide on a career path in the adoption field, consider what kind of work you enjoy the most: working directly with adoptees and their families, administrative work or legal representation.

3. Choose an adoption sector. Adoptions in the United States are made through both public and private agencies. If you are interested in helping abused and neglected children find permanent homes, consider a public agency. Private agencies generally pay more than state-funded ones, and you will generally be working with infants, as opposed to older children.

4. Work your way up in the industry. The laws and procedures governing adoption are complex and vary by state and even agency. Many adoption professionals start out as case managers before moving on to matching children with prospective adoptive parents or counseling families after placement.