How to Become a Social Worker in Iowa for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The job outlook for social workers in Iowa is strong, with a projected job growth of 14.2% from 2022 to 2032 and an average of 600 job openings each year. Despite this demand, many aspiring social workers face challenges understanding the education, licensing, and career pathways needed to enter the field.

This article is designed for future social workers in Iowa who want clear guidance on how to start and advance their careers. Using up-to-date data and practical advice, it addresses common obstacles and offers step-by-step solutions. Whether you are just beginning your journey or looking to specialize, you’ll find actionable information to help you succeed in Iowa’s growing social work profession.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Social Worker in Iowa

Strong job outlook: Social work positions in Iowa are projected to grow by 14.2% from 2022 to 2032, with about 600 job openings each year, offering steady opportunities for new graduates.

Education and licensure requirements: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work from an accredited program is required, along with passing the ASWB exam for your chosen license level.
Types of licenses: Iowa offers three main licenses-LBSW, LMSW, and LISW-each with specific education, exam, and supervised experience requirements.
Essential field experience: BSW students must complete at least 400 hours, and MSW students up to 900 hours, of supervised internships or practicums to qualify for licensure.
Continuing education: Social workers in Iowa must complete 27 hours of continuing education every two years, including ethics and specialized topics, to maintain their license.

What does a social worker do in Iowa?
What are the educational requirements for becoming a social worker in Iowa?
What are the licensing requirements for social workers in Iowa?
How much do social workers make in Iowa?
What is the job outlook for social workers in Iowa?
What social work specializations are in demand in Iowa?
What career advancement opportunities exist for social workers in Iowa?
How do I get field experience and internships in social work in Iowa?
How can urban planning expertise enhance social work practice in Iowa?
How can marriage and family therapy training diversify my social work practice in Iowa?
How Can Integrating Mental Health Counseling Enhance My Social Work Practice in Iowa?
What local organizations and networking opportunities are available for social workers in Iowa?
What is the cost of becoming a social worker in Iowa?
What financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available for social work students in Iowa?
How can behavior analysis certification boost my social work career in Iowa?
Other Things You Should Know about Becoming a Social Worker in Iowa

What does a social worker do in Iowa?

A social worker in Iowa plays a vital role in supporting individuals and families across diverse communities, addressing the state’s unique social challenges. Their responsibilities include:

Client assessment and intervention. Social workers evaluate clients’ needs and strengths, tailoring approaches especially for rural areas with limited healthcare access. They provide counseling, crisis intervention, and develop personalized care plans.
Case management. They coordinate with agencies such as the Iowa Department of Human Services to connect clients with housing, healthcare, employment, and education resources, ensuring smooth service delivery.
Advocacy. Social workers champion client rights by facilitating access to public benefits, influencing policy, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams focused on mental health, substance abuse, and domestic violence.
Specialized roles. Many work in schools, healthcare settings, and child welfare agencies, offering targeted support to students, patients, and vulnerable children.
Use of technology. Telehealth and remote counseling help overcome transportation barriers and provider shortages in rural communities, expanding access to mental health services.
Support for the aging population. Social workers assist elderly clients with elder abuse prevention, caregiving, and end-of-life planning, responding to Iowa’s growing senior demographic.
Collaboration with state programs. They engage with initiatives like the Iowa Family Support Network to connect families of children with special needs to peer support and educational resources.

This range of duties reflects the diverse ways social workers address the needs of Iowa’s communities, offering practical, client-centered support across multiple settings. Are you one of those wondering, "Is a social worker a therapist?" It’s important to know that while some social workers, especially those with clinical licenses, can provide therapy and counseling, the profession is broader.

Social workers often focus on connecting clients to resources, advocating for systemic change, and addressing social and economic challenges, whereas therapists typically concentrate on providing psychological treatment and talk therapy. In Iowa, clinical social workers may serve as therapists, but many social workers work in roles beyond therapy, supporting individuals and communities in a variety of ways.

In 2023, Iowa had approximately 5,600 social workers distributed across various fields. The largest group, 3,020, were child, family, and school social workers, followed by 1,290 healthcare social workers, 990 mental health and substance abuse social workers, and 300 in other social work roles. A chart breaking down these numbers by field provides a clear view of the social work landscape in Iowa.

What are the educational requirements for becoming a social worker in Iowa?

To become a social worker in Iowa, you need to follow a structured educational path that prepares you for the realities of the profession and meets state requirements.

Earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program. This is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions and for obtaining the licensed bachelor social worker (LBSW) credential.
Complete supervised fieldwork or internships. Practical experience in community agencies, healthcare, or school settings is a core part of every BSW program and is required for licensure.
Pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree for advanced roles. An MSW from a CSWE-accredited institution is necessary for higher-level positions, including eligibility for the licensed master social worker (LMSW) and licensed independent social worker (LISW) credentials, with the LISW also requiring supervised clinical experience.
Choose programs that align with Iowa’s needs. Seek out schools offering strong field placements and specialized training in areas such as rural social work or mental health.
Maintain licensure with continuing education. Iowa requires 27 hours of continuing education every two years, including at least three hours in ethics, to keep your license active.

For those interested in the field but lacking formal credentials, exploring how to become a social worker without qualifications can reveal entry-level opportunities in supportive roles, such as service coordinators or assistants. While these positions have a more limited scope than licensed social work, they offer valuable experience and a pathway to further education if you decide to pursue full licensure in the future.

This approach ensures you gain the academic background and hands-on experience needed to serve Iowa’s communities effectively, while also highlighting options for individuals who are considering nontraditional entry points into the profession.

What are the licensing requirements for social workers in Iowa?

Meeting Iowa’s licensing requirements for social workers involves a series of steps that ensure you are well-prepared for professional practice across different levels. Here’s what you need to know:

Educational credentials

To start, you must earn a degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). For entry-level roles, a bachelor of social work (BSW) qualifies you for the licensed bachelor social worker (LBSW) credential. For advanced positions, a master of social work (MSW) is required, and many candidates choose online MSW programs that meet CSWE standards for added flexibility.

Supervised experience

Advancing to higher levels of licensure requires documented supervised experience. For the licensed independent social worker (LISW) credential, you must complete at least 4,000 hours of post-master’s supervised clinical experience, typically over two years, under the supervision of an approved LISW supervisor.

Examination and application

Each license level requires passing the appropriate Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam: the bachelor’s exam for LBSW, the master’s exam for LMSW, and the clinical exam for LISW. You’ll need to submit official transcripts, documentation of supervised experience (for LISW), and exam results as part of your application. A background check and payment of the application fee are also required.

Renewal and continuing education

Licenses must be renewed every two years. To maintain your license, you need to complete 27 hours of continuing education per renewal period, including at least three hours in ethics. Staying current with these requirements ensures you remain eligible to practice and up to date with best practices in the field.

Following these steps can help you move confidently through Iowa’s licensing process and open doors to new opportunities in social work, whether you’re just starting out or advancing your career.

How much do social workers make in Iowa?

Social workers in Iowa earn salaries that reflect their level of education, area of specialization, and work setting. In 2023, the annual mean wage for social workers in Iowa was $56,380, which is just below the state average for all occupations. Salaries can vary significantly depending on your field, with those in specialized roles earning the highest average at $70,290 per year.

While healthcare social workers and those working in child, family, and school settings typically earn between $52,000 and $60,000, advancing your education and credentials-such as obtaining a master's in social work degree or clinical licensure-can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Urban areas may offer slightly higher salaries, but rural positions sometimes come with additional benefits like loan forgiveness or signing bonuses.

Compared to the national average for social workers, which stands at $67,050, Iowa’s salaries may be lower, but the state’s cost of living helps your earnings go further. Also, while the pay may not always match the state average, many social workers in Iowa find deep fulfillment in their roles. The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities often outweighs purely financial considerations.

For a detailed breakdown of average salaries by specialization, see the chart below. This can help you identify which path aligns best with your financial and professional goals as a social worker in Iowa.

What is the job outlook for social workers in Iowa?

Iowa’s job outlook for social workers is especially strong, with employment projected to grow by 14.2% between 2022 and 2032. This rate is more than double the state average for all occupations, reflecting a rising demand for social services in areas such as mental health, substance abuse, healthcare, and child welfare.

Over the next decade, Iowa expects to add about 880 new social worker positions, with an average of 600 job openings each year as a result of both growth and replacement needs. This steady demand means that individuals entering the field can look forward to a stable job market and a variety of opportunities across the state.

What social work specializations are in demand in Iowa?

To align your career with the most needed social worker roles Iowa offers, it’s important to focus on specializations that address the state’s demographic and social challenges. Prioritizing these areas can improve both your job prospects and your impact in the field.

Mental health and substance abuse social work. This is Iowa’s fastest-growing specialization, with a projected job growth of 21.3% between 2022 and 2032 and an average of 110 job openings each year. Demand is rising due to increased awareness of behavioral health and the opioid crisis. Social workers in this field provide therapy, crisis intervention, and case management in clinics, hospitals, and community programs.
Healthcare social work. With a projected growth rate of 16.3% and about 130 annual job openings, healthcare social work is in high demand as Iowa’s population ages. These professionals help patients and families navigate medical systems and access vital resources, often working in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
Child, family, and school social work. This specialization remains a cornerstone of the profession, with 11.4% projected growth and the highest number of annual job openings at 320. Social workers in this area protect vulnerable children, support families, and advocate for students, especially in rural communities where services may be limited.
Gerontological social work. As Iowa’s senior population grows, social workers specializing in aging-related issues such as mobility, caregiving, and elder abuse prevention are increasingly essential. These roles often intersect with healthcare and community support services.
School social work. Addressing bullying, truancy, and family crises, school social workers help students overcome barriers to learning and well-being, making this a critical area for those passionate about education and youth development.
Policy and community organizing. For those interested in advocacy and systemic change, this specialization focuses on program development and influencing legislation to improve social services across Iowa.

Pursuing a master’s in social work with a focus on these high-demand fields can significantly boost your employability in Iowa. Many masters of social work careers offer specialized coursework and field placements tailored to the state’s needs. Choosing a specialization that matches Iowa’s licensing requirements and provides hands-on experience ensures you are ready to step into roles where skilled social workers are needed most.

For a detailed breakdown of projected job growth and annual openings by specialization, see the chart below. This data can help you decide which path best matches your goals and the needs of Iowa’s communities.

What career advancement opportunities exist for social workers in Iowa?

Social workers in Iowa have a range of career advancement opportunities, from clinical specialization to leadership, policy, and academic roles. Advancing in the field often means building targeted expertise, pursuing higher education, and developing skills that address Iowa’s evolving needs.

Clinical Specialization

Obtaining clinical licensure (LISW) is essential for those who want to provide independent mental health services. This credential opens doors to roles in hospitals, private practices, and mental health centers-settings where demand is especially high in rural areas. Specializing in areas like psychotherapy or telehealth can further increase job prospects and earning potential. Many social workers find the challenge of completing supervised hours worthwhile, as it leads to greater autonomy and the ability to focus on advanced practice areas such as trauma therapy.

Leadership and Management Roles

Social workers can move into supervisory or managerial positions by developing skills in program management, policy compliance, and team leadership. Experience overseeing casework and mastering Iowa-specific regulations, such as Medicaid expansion rules, is valuable. These roles offer higher salaries and greater influence within organizations serving vulnerable populations.

Policy, Advocacy, and Administration

For those interested in systemic change, careers in government or nonprofit agencies are available. Social workers can focus on public health, elder care, or substance abuse initiatives, and experience in policy analysis and program development is highly valued. Engaging with advocacy groups or local think tanks can provide practical exposure and valuable networking opportunities.

Advanced Education and Academic Careers

Earning a Master of Social Work is often required for clinical and leadership advancement. Those interested in academia or research can pursue doctoral degrees, opening doors to teaching and research positions. At the University of Iowa, for example, about 75% of social work PhD graduates secure academic or research roles, while 25% move into policy, administrative, or advanced practice positions within a year of graduation1. Iowa’s universities offer programs that emphasize rural social work, community engagement, and other local priorities.

Specialization in Rural and Aging Services

Focusing on rural populations or aging services addresses growing needs in Iowa’s demographics. Developing expertise in telehealth, elder advocacy, or hospice care creates niche opportunities, and the state’s increasing elderly population makes geriatric social work a promising field for long-term career stability.

Professional Development and Networking

Active involvement in organizations like NASW-Iowa helps social workers stay current on best practices and regulations, while connecting with mentors and job openings. Cross-disciplinary skills-including grant writing and cultural competence-enhance adaptability and qualifications for diverse roles.

Social workers who combine advanced credentials, specialized skills, and strong professional networks are well-positioned to advance their careers and make a lasting impact in Iowa’s communities.

How do I get field experience and internships in social work in Iowa?

Gaining field experience and internships in social work in Iowa is a crucial step toward building a successful career. Accredited BSW and MSW programs in the state require supervised internships or practicums, ensuring students develop practical skills and meet the educational requirements for licensure. These placements allow you to work in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, community agencies, or mental health clinics, giving you valuable hands-on experience.

Many universities have partnerships with local organizations and government agencies, making it easier to secure placements that align with your interests. Networking with faculty, attending career fairs, and connecting with alumni can help uncover both well-known and hidden internship opportunities. Programs like the Iowa Department of Human Services Child Welfare Internship Program provide paid, mentored experiences that are especially valuable for those interested in child and family social work.

Participating in internships that serve rural or underserved populations can be particularly rewarding, as they expose you to unique community challenges and help you develop a broader skill set. Involvement with statewide initiatives or attending professional events can also expand your network and lead to additional opportunities.

Before starting your internship, confirm that your placement is approved by your academic program and meets the Iowa Board of Social Work’s supervision standards. Proper documentation of your supervised hours is essential for the licensure process. For those planning their future, exploring LCSW salary information can provide helpful context about earning potential and career advancement after completing your field experience in Iowa.

Completing your field experience in Iowa not only prepares you for state licensure and local practice but also connects you to a profession with a broad national presence-over 750,000 social workers were employed across the U.S. in 2023.

How many social workers are currently employed?

How can urban planning expertise enhance social work practice in Iowa?

Integrating urban planning principles can provide social workers with strategies to address community infrastructure, spatial distribution of resources, and local policy challenges. By understanding urban development trends and sustainable design, practitioners can collaborate with professionals from allied fields to promote more effective and comprehensive community interventions. This interdisciplinary approach fosters innovative solutions to challenges such as housing accessibility, public safety, and community health, ultimately strengthening support systems within Iowa’s diverse environments. For guidance on developing these complementary skills, consider exploring how to become an urban planner in Iowa.

How can marriage and family therapy training diversify my social work practice in Iowa?

Incorporating marriage and family therapy training can broaden your clinical skill set and expand career options beyond traditional social work roles. This specialized training enables practitioners to address intricate familial dynamics and system-level issues using targeted therapeutic approaches. By integrating these methods, social workers can enhance interdisciplinary collaboration and offer more comprehensive support to clients dealing with relational challenges. For detailed insights on merging these career paths, explore how to become a marriage and family therapist in Iowa.

How Can Integrating Mental Health Counseling Enhance My Social Work Practice in Iowa?

Incorporating mental health counseling training can refine assessment techniques and broaden clinical intervention strategies, enabling social workers to address complex client needs more comprehensively. Advanced knowledge in mental health counseling equips practitioners with targeted approaches for managing co-occurring challenges and fosters effective collaboration with specialized care providers. Exploring supplementary training—such as reviewing the education requirements for mental health counselors in Iowa—can diversify a social worker’s skill set and enhance client outcomes through integrated service delivery.

What local organizations and networking opportunities are available for social workers in Iowa?

Social workers in Iowa can build a strong professional network and access valuable resources by engaging with a variety of local organizations and events.

Iowa Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW Iowa): Offers continuing education, advocacy efforts, and opportunities for legislative engagement, helping social workers connect and grow professionally. There are also specialty groups within NASW Iowa offer targeted support and networking in fields such as child welfare, school social work, healthcare, and gerontology.
Iowa Board of Social Work Examiners: Provides updates on licensure requirements, ethical standards, and training sessions for compliance and statewide networking.
University of Iowa School of Social Work: Hosts career fairs, panel discussions, and community projects that link students and alumni with agencies and employers.
Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS): Facilitates specialized training and networking events focused on child welfare, mental health, and substance abuse services.
Iowa Social Work Conference: Brings together professionals statewide for workshops, keynote sessions, and discussions on clinical practice, ethics, and emerging issues.
Iowa Mental Health and Substance Use Conference: Encourages interdisciplinary collaboration with sessions on treatment methods, policy updates, and advocacy strategies.
Local agencies and nonprofits: Organize smaller networking and training events that address challenges like homelessness, domestic violence, and rural health disparities.

Getting involved in these organizations and events helps social workers in Iowa stay current with best practices, expand their professional connections, and discover new opportunities for career advancement and community impact.

What is the cost of becoming a social worker in Iowa?

The cost of becoming a social worker in Iowa includes tuition, fees, and licensing expenses. In-state tuition for a BSW program typically ranges from $8,500 to $14,000 per year, while a master’s program such as the MSW at the University of Iowa is about $14,000 annually for residents and $30,000 for nonresidents. Plan to spend an additional $1,000 to $1,500 each year on textbooks and supplies. Since field placements are often unpaid, it’s important to budget for living expenses during internships.

Licensing costs include an initial application fee of around $100, the ASWB exam fee of $260 to $300, and $50 to $70 for background checks. License renewal is required every two years at a cost of about $75, and continuing education expenses can range from $100 to $300 annually. You may also need professional liability insurance, which typically costs $150 to $250 per year, and membership dues for organizations such as NASW, which are about $100 annually.

To help manage expenses, consider enrolling in in-state programs, applying for state and federal financial aid, and seeking scholarships from local agencies or professional organizations. Employer tuition reimbursement, part-time study, and online program options can also make it easier to balance education costs with your income.

What financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available for social work students in Iowa?

Social work students in Iowa have access to a wide range of financial aid, scholarships, and grants to help offset the cost of their education and reduce reliance on student loans.

Federal Aid: Completing the FAFSA early is essential for accessing Pell Grants and federal work-study, both of which do not require repayment.
State Programs: Iowa offers options like the Iowa College Student Aid Commission’s loan repayment programs for those working in shortage areas, and the Iowa National Guard Educational Assistance Program for eligible students.
University Scholarships and Assistantships: The University of Iowa School of Social Work and other institutions provide scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students, including awards for first-generation students, those with financial need, and those committed to specific fields like gerontology or school social work. Graduate assistantships may waive tuition and provide stipends in exchange for teaching or research duties.
Departmental and Local Awards: Schools such as the University of Northern Iowa offer scholarships based on academic excellence, leadership, service, and financial need. Local organizations like the Iowa Social Work Education Consortium and the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines also sponsor scholarships for students focused on social justice and human services.
Specialized Grants and Loan Forgiveness: Programs like the Title IV-E Foster Care Program and the National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program offer funding for students who commit to working in underserved communities or specific practice areas after graduation.
Professional Associations: The Iowa Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers provides smaller scholarships, continuing education funding, and networking opportunities that can lead to additional support.
Employer Assistance: Some Iowa nonprofits and agencies offer tuition reimbursement or scholarships for employees pursuing social work degrees.

On a national level, the average loan debt among MSW graduates is about $38,500, making it especially important to seek out scholarships, assistantships, and grants whenever possible.

What is the average loan debt among MSW graduates?

How can behavior analysis certification boost my social work career in Iowa?

Integrating behavior analysis certification into your social work practice can create a competitive advantage by broadening your skill set and opening doors to specialized roles in mental health, education, and community services. This dual expertise enables professionals to design and implement targeted behavior modification strategies, facilitating better outcomes for clients with developmental or behavioral challenges. Additionally, acquiring certification in behavior analysis allows social workers to collaborate more effectively with interdisciplinary teams, thereby enhancing program evaluations and intervention designs. For professionals considering this pathway, explore our guide on how to become a behavior analyst in Iowa to understand the certification process and the unique career prospects it offers within Iowa’s evolving social service landscape.

What do social workers say about their careers in Iowa?

Studying social work at the University of Iowa gave me a strong foundation in both theory and practical skills. Working with local nonprofits through the university’s partnerships allowed me to see firsthand how effective support systems can improve community well-being. This experience made me confident in my ability to make a meaningful impact. Ethan
Participating in Iowa’s state-run child welfare program as a social worker provided me with valuable insights into the challenges families face. The structured training and ongoing support helped me develop resilience and empathy, which are crucial in this field. It’s rewarding to know my work contributes to safer, healthier environments for children. Christine
Joining a nonprofit focused on mental health in Des Moines introduced me to diverse client needs and innovative approaches to care. The collaborative environment encouraged continuous learning and reinforced my commitment to advocacy and client-centered practice. Practicing social work here has been both professionally fulfilling and personally enriching. Anne

Other Things You Should Know about Becoming a Social Worker in Iowa

How stressful is being a social worker in Iowa?

Being a social worker in Iowa is highly stressful due to heavy caseloads, emotional demands, rural isolation, and frequent policy changes that affect service availability. Social workers often manage more cases than recommended, face complex client needs, and navigate fluctuating funding, all of which contribute to burnout risks and professional strain.

How does the local licensing board in Iowa support students?

The Iowa Board of Social Work supports students by providing clear licensing pathways for LBSW, LMSW, and LISW credentials, ensuring transparency and reducing stress. It mandates continuing education focused on self-care, ethics, and crisis intervention to build resilience. The board collaborates with educational institutions to enforce qualified supervision and mentorship during field placements, enhancing practical learning and reducing burnout. Additionally, it offers resources like application checklists and exam guides, streamlining the licensing process and helping students navigate professional requirements effectively.

How does the need for social workers change over time in Iowa?

The need for social workers in Iowa changes over time due to demographic shifts, public health issues, and economic fluctuations. As Iowa’s population ages and mental health awareness grows, demand increases for specialists in elder care, healthcare, and behavioral health integration. Rural economic challenges and the opioid crisis also drive higher needs for social services in affected communities.

To navigate these evolving demands, social workers should focus on developing expertise in high-need areas such as gerontology, substance abuse treatment, child welfare, and integrated behavioral health. Gaining practical experience through internships or field placements in both rural and urban settings can improve readiness for Iowa’s diverse social work landscape. Joining local professional organizations like the Iowa NASW chapter offers access to peer support, continuing education, and networking opportunities, which are essential for career sustainability and professional growth.

Managing work-related stress is critical; adopting self-care practices and seeking supervisory support can mitigate burnout and compassion fatigue. Social workers should also cultivate cultural competence to effectively serve Iowa’s varied populations, including Native American communities and urban centers. Staying informed about state policies and funding changes through local news and legislative updates helps professionals anticipate shifts in resource availability and community needs. Regular participation in workshops and trauma-informed care training enhances adaptability to emerging challenges.

By aligning specialization choices with state trends, engaging with professional networks, and prioritizing well-being, social workers in Iowa can maintain resilience and effectiveness despite changing social and economic conditions.

Can you get paid for social work internships in Iowa?

Yes, you can get paid for social work internships in Iowa, but such opportunities are not guaranteed and vary widely by agency and placement. Larger organizations, healthcare systems, and some state programs like the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) Internship Program occasionally offer paid positions or stipends. Students should proactively seek these roles by researching internship sites carefully and leveraging connections through educational institutions and professional associations.

To increase the chances of securing paid internships, students should engage with their university’s career services and social work departments to identify agencies known for compensation. Applying for scholarships and grants targeted at social work field placements can also alleviate financial burdens when unpaid internships are the only option. Furthermore, asking prospective internship sites about reimbursement for transportation or other expenses can provide additional financial support.

Managing stress during internships is equally important. Social work students should utilize campus counseling services, peer support groups, and workshops focused on self-care and professional development. Techniques such as mindfulness, time management, and setting clear boundaries help prevent burnout. Networking through organizations like the Iowa Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) can provide mentorship and insider knowledge about paid opportunities and coping strategies.

Balancing academic requirements, field hours, and personal responsibilities requires careful planning. Students in rural areas should explore community-based agencies that, despite limited pay, offer valuable experiential learning. In urban centers, higher caseloads may increase stress but also present more paid internship openings. Ultimately, combining financial aid, institutional support, and professional networking equips Iowa social work interns to navigate both economic and emotional challenges effectively.

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