The high school graduate is considering a career as a clinical social

QUESTION

The high school graduate is considering a career as a clinical social worker. What is true of the level of education required?

1. Clinical social work is highly dependent upon on-the-job training, so no formal post-secondary education is required.
2. Clinical social work requires a baccalaureate degree in social work and a 3-year residency program.
3. Clinical social work is open to those with bachelor’s degrees in any related field.
4. Clinical social work requires a master’s degree in social work.

ANSWER:

Correct Answer: 4

While there are various entry levels into social work, clinical social work requires a master’s degree in social work. It cannot be achieved through on-the-job training. A baccalaureate degree is available in social work, but there is no avenue of entering clinical social work through a residency program. Those persons holding bachelor’s degrees in related fields such as psychology and sociology may be qualified for some entry-level jobs in social work, but do not have the qualifications to be a clinical social worker.