How to Write a Resume for Admission to a MSW Program

Essential social worker skills include the ability to relate to many types of people.

If you have worked in social work or a related area and want to advance in your career, gaining a Master of Social Work degree gives you an advantage. For acceptance to a MSW program, you may need to provide a résumé showing you have the education, experience and skiills potential employers look for in a social worker.

Instructions

1. Open a blank document in your word-processing program and begin typing your résumé by stating your name, address, telephone number and email address at the top of the page.

2. Add the subheading "Education." Underneath, on separate lines, clearly state each qualification with the name of the institution and the year you gained it. For an MSW program, your undergraduate degree is the most essential information here. You do not need to provide every educational qualification prior to college, but include anything that demonstrates your aptitude for social work, such as social science subjects.

3. Add the subheading "Experience." Underneath, on separate lines, clearly state every job or voluntary role relevant to the MSW program, with location and year. Include practical placements undertaken as part of your first degree or other courses. Example: "2005-2006. Volunteer Counselor. St. Matthew's Homeless Outreach, San Francisco."

4. Add a short description next to each experience, focusing on skills, tasks and responsibilities relevant to social work. Example: "Listened to homeless persons talking about their problems, provided practical advice, mentored less experienced volunteers."

5. Add the subheading "Skills." List your skills underneath, perhaps with further subheadings, such as "Computer Skills" and "People Skills." Remember that social work includes practical and administrative skills as well as personality-related skills, so list items such as "Microsoft Office," "Personnel Recruitment" and "Internet Research" as well as skills like "Listening," "Teaching" and "Leadership."

6. Edit your résumé. Use bold or underlined type to make the subheadings stand out. Check for grammar and spelling, as social work requires proven writing and communication skills.

Tips & Warnings

• Clear, clean presentation demonstrates your professional attitude. Use size 12 font, a readable typeface such as Times New Roman or Arial, and spaces between paragraphs and sections. Print on plain white or lightly colored resume paper.

References

• University of Michigan School of Social Work: Social Work-Related Skills
• U-Life: Career Services--Social Work Sample Résumés