Career Paths & Salary Expectations
Explore social work specializations, salary ranges, and the return on investment for your BSW degree. Understand the financial landscape of social work careers.
Median Salaries by Specialization
Based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data for social workers in various practice settings.
Popular Career Paths
School Social Worker
Help students overcome barriers to academic success
Setting: K-12 schools
Median: $62,920
Healthcare Social Worker
Support patients and families in medical settings
Setting: Hospitals, clinics
Median: $72,030
Mental Health Social Worker
Provide therapy and support for mental health conditions
Setting: Community centers
Median: $68,290
Child & Family Social Worker
Protect children and strengthen families
Setting: Government agencies
Median: $51,270
Community Social Worker
Address community-wide social problems
Setting: Non-profits
Median: $43,940
Substance Abuse Social Worker
Help individuals overcome addiction
Setting: Treatment centers
Median: $68,290
Return on Investment (ROI)
BSW Degree Investment
- • Average cost: $40,000-$80,000 total
- • Entry-level salary: $35,000-$50,000
- • Career progression potential
- • Loan forgiveness opportunities
Advanced Standing MSW
- • 1-year program (vs. 2-year)
- • Higher salary potential: $55,000-$85,000
- • Clinical practice opportunities
- • Leadership and supervision roles
Financial Benefits & Opportunities
Loan Forgiveness
Public Service Loan Forgiveness for qualified positions
Job Growth
7% growth rate, faster than average
Benefits Package
Many positions offer comprehensive benefits