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Step 1
Do your research. There are a variety of occupations and settings for social workers. You may like one field, while another will not hold your interest. Some careers include medical social workers, family social workers, child and school social workers, mental health social workers and substance abuse social workers. If you have a hard time choosing, it's OK to figure it out as you get your degree, but it's good to keep informed.
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Step 2
Get a bachelor's degree. This is the minimum requirement for most social-work careers. A degree in social work is best. However, majoring in a similar field such as psychology can work. Consider going to school with the intent of majoring in social work and minoring in psychology for a good foundation. If you have a few open electives, try branching out to find what else you can learn and bring to your career as a social worker.
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Step 3
Find an internship or volunteer opportunity. While earning your degree, it is in your best interest to find an internship in the field you want to go into. Volunteering is another good way to add to your experience. These opportunities are a good steppingstone for your career. It might become your big break. If not, you can always begin networking. Keep in touch with your supervisors and they can tell you of other opportunities available.
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Step 4
Get licensed. The requirements differ from state to state, but it is common for states to focus on skills in sensitivity, communication, diversity and ethics, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, which also says that two years of supervised experience in clinical social work is required to become licensed.
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Step 5
After receiving your undergraduate degree, consider graduate school. While it is not a common requirement for career in social work, it is a good way to advance in your career. Getting a master's can provide you an opportunity to work in management or administration.
