Pros & Cons of Being a Social Worker: Is an Online Master of Social Work Degree Worth It for 2025?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Choosing a career in social work is both inspiring and complex — it’s a path fueled by a desire to help others, yet it comes with emotional, financial, and professional challenges. Many aspiring social workers wonder not only if they are suited for this demanding field but also whether pursuing an online Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is worth the investment. With rising tuition costs, burnout concerns, and a wide range of career paths to consider, it is easy to feel overwhelmed when deciding if this is the right move.

This guide breaks down the pros and cons of being a social worker and takes a close look at whether an online MSW degree can help you meet your career and personal goals. By covering job expectations, salary outlook, required skills, emotional demands, and the advantages and drawbacks of online programs, this article will help you make a well-informed decision.

Key things you should know about being a social worker:

Social workers play a critical role in helping individuals and communities cope with challenges like mental health, poverty, abuse, and addiction.
The average salary for a social worker in the U.S. is $61,330 per year, though this can vary based on specialization, location, and experience.
A career in social work can be emotionally rewarding but also demanding, requiring strong resilience, empathy, and communication skills.

What are the main roles and responsibilities of a social worker?
How much is the average salary for social workers?
What are the biggest benefits of being a social worker?
What are the top industries demanding social workers in the U.S.?
What are the main disadvantages of being a social worker?
What are the different types of social workers and their average salaries?
What are the advantages of getting an MSW online vs. on-campus?
What distinguishes an MSW from a psychologist?
How can you manage the cost of an online MSW program?
Can you become a licensed social worker with an online MSW?
What are the licensing requirements for social workers by state?
How is the job outlook for social workers in the next 5 to 10 years?
Can interdisciplinary training enhance your social work practice?
Other things you should know about being a social worker

What are the main roles and responsibilities of a social worker?

Social workers play a crucial role in supporting individuals, families, and communities through various challenges. Their work spans diverse fields, from mental health and healthcare to child welfare and community services. Below are the main roles and responsibilities that social workers typically take on in their day-to-day work:

Assessing client needs and challenges: Social workers evaluate individuals, families, and communities to identify their needs and develop personalized care plans. This includes gathering information through interviews, observation, and collaborating with other professionals to create effective support systems.
Providing counseling and support: Social workers offer therapeutic counseling to individuals and families dealing with emotional, mental, or behavioral issues. They help clients develop coping strategies, work through crises, and improve their mental well-being by guiding them through difficult life situations.
Connecting clients to resources: Social workers help clients access services and resources such as housing, healthcare, financial assistance, and legal support. They act as advocates, ensuring clients receive the services they need, and may also assist in navigating complex systems like government agencies or healthcare providers.
Developing intervention plans and strategies: Social workers create intervention plans tailored to address specific challenges faced by their clients. These plans often involve setting goals, tracking progress, and adjusting strategies as necessary to ensure long-term success and stability for individuals or families.
Advocating for social change: In addition to direct service, social workers often advocate for broader social change by addressing systemic issues such as poverty, inequality, and injustice. They work with policymakers, community organizations, and other stakeholders to improve social policies and public services that affect their clients.

You may find case management vs social work confusing. Learn more about their differences in terms of responsibilities, requirements, and pay, among other things.

How much is the average salary for social workers?

The average salary for social workers in the United States is approximately $61,330 per year, which breaks down to about $29.49 per hour, according to recent national data. This figure represents the median across various social work roles, including child and family services, healthcare social work, school social work, and mental health or substance abuse social work. While this salary provides a stable income for many, it’s important to note that social workers often enter the field motivated by a passion for helping others rather than by high financial compensation. For those interested in specialized paths, learning the steps to become a disability social worker can help clarify the education, skills, and certifications needed to support individuals with disabilities effectively.

Salaries for social workers can vary significantly depending on the specific role, geographic location, level of education, years of experience, and the type of employer. For example, clinical social workers and those with specialized certifications or master’s degrees (MSW) typically command higher salaries compared to entry-level or non-licensed positions. Urban areas and states with a higher cost of living may also offer more competitive pay, though they often come with increased caseloads and job demands.

Factors that affect a social worker’s salary:

Education level (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree)
Licensure or certification (e.g., LCSW, LMSW)
Years of experience in the field
Work setting (hospital, school, government agency, private practice)
Geographic location and cost of living

Social workers earn around $61,330 per year..png

What are the biggest benefits of being a social worker?

Becoming a social worker offers many unique and fulfilling benefits, making it an appealing career choice for those passionate about helping others. While the profession comes with challenges, it also provides significant rewards, both professionally and personally. Here are some of the biggest benefits of working as a social worker:

Making a tangible difference in people’s lives: As a social worker, you directly impact individuals, families, and communities by providing support, guidance, and resources to help them overcome challenges. This sense of purpose and contribution to society is often cited as one of the most fulfilling aspects of the profession.
Job security and growth opportunities: With the growing need for social services in various fields, such as healthcare, education, and mental health, social workers are in high demand.
Diverse career paths and specializations: Social work offers a wide variety of specializations, including child welfare, healthcare, mental health, aging, and school systems. This diversity allows social workers to find a path that aligns with their interests and skills while ensuring that their work remains engaging and dynamic.
Emotional rewards and personal growth: The emotional satisfaction that comes from helping others navigate challenging situations is a unique benefit of social work. The role encourages personal growth as social workers often develop deep empathy, resilience, and problem-solving skills while making meaningful connections with clients.
Flexible work environments and job settings: Social workers can work in various settings, from hospitals and schools to government agencies and private practice. Many also have flexible work hours, which allows for a better work-life balance, especially in fields like healthcare or counseling.

What are the top industries demanding social workers in the U.S.?

Social workers play a vital role across many industries, providing support, advocacy, and services to individuals, families, and communities in need. While the demand for social workers spans a wide range of settings, some industries offer particularly strong job prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities for career advancement. Here are the top industries for social workers in the U.S.

Educational Services; State, Local, and Private ($67,620): Social workers in educational services support students’ academic, social, and emotional development within schools, colleges, and universities. They help address issues like bullying, truancy, and mental health, and often collaborate with teachers, families, and administrators to create individualized support plans. Educational social workers, however, are different from educational psychologists. You may also need to know the difference between educational psychologist vs school psychologist.
Local Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals ($65,920): Social workers in local government provide services such as child welfare, protective services, housing assistance, and public health outreach through city or county agencies. This role often involves working with diverse populations, handling crisis interventions, and ensuring that individuals and families can access essential community resources.
State Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals ($59,630): State government social workers are employed in areas like child protective services, juvenile justice, public assistance, and disability services. Their work typically includes conducting assessments, managing caseloads, and collaborating with law enforcement or court systems to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations.
Individual and Family Services ($51,430): Social workers in individual and family services focus on helping at-risk children, families in crisis, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. They often work in nonprofit agencies, providing counseling, case management, and connections to housing, food, healthcare, and other vital supports. Social workers who work with families should not be confused with marriage and family therapists (MFTs). For one, MFTs have different educational requirements. You may also want to ask "how long does it take to become an MFT?"
Community Food and Housing, Emergency and Other Relief Services ($49,980): These social workers serve people experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, unemployment, or recovery from disasters. They typically work in shelters, food banks, job training programs, and emergency relief organizations, helping clients navigate complex systems to regain stability and independence.

As you can see, social workers have opportunities to make a meaningful impact across a wide range of industries, each with its own unique work setting, challenges, and rewards. The chart below summarizes these key industries, highlighting average salaries and job responsibilities to help prospective social workers compare career paths and make informed decisions about their future.

What are the main disadvantages of being a social worker?

While social work is a rewarding profession, it is not without its challenges. The emotional demands, workload, and external factors can make the job difficult for many social workers. Understanding the potential downsides of the profession is crucial for those considering this career path. Below are the main disadvantages of being a social worker:

Emotional and psychological stress: Social work often involves dealing with emotionally intense and distressing situations, such as abuse, neglect, mental health crises, and death. This can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, and emotional exhaustion, especially for those working in high-stress areas like child protective services or crisis intervention.
Heavy caseloads and high expectations: Social workers frequently manage large caseloads, which can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed and unable to provide the level of attention each client deserves. This high workload can also contribute to stress and burnout over time.
Low salary compared to workload: Although social work can be deeply fulfilling, the compensation does not always align with the responsibilities and emotional demands of the job.
Dealing with bureaucratic hurdles: Social workers often face challenges with bureaucratic systems, including limited resources, outdated policies, and slow-moving procedures. Navigating these barriers can be frustrating, especially when trying to help clients access essential services or support.
Exposure to difficult and unsafe situations: Social workers working in fields like child welfare, domestic violence, or substance abuse treatment may encounter dangerous or violent situations while interacting with clients. This can sometimes pose safety risks, requiring social workers to work under high pressure and maintain constant vigilance.

What are the different types of social workers and their average salaries?

Social work is a diverse and growing field, offering a variety of specialized roles that serve different populations and needs. Understanding the main types of social workers and their average salaries can help students and career changers choose the path that best fits their skills, passions, and financial goals. Below is a breakdown of key social work specialties, their work settings, and typical earnings:

Child, Family, and School Social Workers ($58,570): Child, family, and school social workers help protect vulnerable children, strengthen family relationships, and improve students’ academic and social outcomes. They typically work in schools, child welfare agencies, and family service organizations, addressing issues like abuse, neglect, truancy, and behavioral challenges. Many aspiring professionals research how to become a child and family social worker to understand the required education, licensing, and specialized training needed for success in this impactful career path.
Healthcare Social Workers ($68,090): Healthcare social workers assist patients and families in navigating the emotional, financial, and logistical challenges of illness, injury, or disability. They often work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, or hospice care, coordinating services, providing counseling, and helping patients access needed resources.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers ($60,060): Mental health and substance abuse social workers provide counseling, crisis intervention, and treatment planning for individuals struggling with mental health conditions or addiction. They typically work in mental health clinics, rehabilitation facilities, hospitals, or private practices, often collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
Social Workers in Aging and Geriatrics ($67,283): Geriatric social workers focus on supporting older adults and their families with issues related to aging, such as dementia care, healthcare access, housing transitions, and end-of-life planning. They work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, senior centers, and home healthcare agencies, advocating for the dignity and quality of life of elderly clients.
Clinical Social Workers ($86,857): Clinical social workers are licensed professionals who diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through therapy and counseling. They often work in private practice, mental health clinics, hospitals, or community agencies and may specialize in areas such as trauma, grief, or family therapy.

These diverse social work specialties each offer unique opportunities to make a difference while providing varying levels of salary and job responsibilities. Many healthcare social workers focus on this area through master of social work specializations, which prepare them with advanced skills to handle complex medical and psychosocial cases. The table below summarizes the types of social workers, their average earnings, and primary work settings, helping future professionals explore which role aligns best with their career goals.

What are the advantages of getting an MSW online vs. on-campus?

As more students look to advance their education while balancing personal and professional responsibilities, many are turning to online Master of Social Work (MSW) programs. While traditional on-campus MSW programs offer in-person interactions and structured environments, online programs offer flexibility and convenience that can be better suited for certain individuals. Below are the key advantages of pursuing an MSW online compared to an on-campus program:

Flexibility in scheduling and location: One of the biggest advantages of an online MSW is the flexibility it offers. Students can complete coursework on their own time, without the need to attend classes at set times or commute to campus, making it easier to balance studies with work or family commitments.
Lower overall cost: Online MSW programs often come with lower tuition fees compared to their on-campus counterparts, making many online MSW programs affordable for students seeking budget-friendly graduate education. Additionally, students can save money on commuting, housing, and campus fees, which can significantly reduce the total cost of the degree.
Access to a wider range of programs: Online learning allows students to choose from a variety of MSW programs across the country or even internationally, offering more options for specialization. This expanded access makes it easier to find a program that aligns with a student’s career goals and interests, even if that program isn't available locally.
Self-paced learning opportunities: Many online MSW programs offer a self-paced format or more flexible deadlines, allowing students to work through the material at their own speed. This flexibility can be particularly advantageous for those who may need more time to absorb the content or wish to complete courses more quickly.
Comfortable learning environment: For students who prefer to study in their own space, online MSW programs offer the benefit of a personalized, comfortable learning environment. This setup allows students to work in their preferred location, minimizing distractions and creating a more productive atmosphere for focused study.

What distinguishes an MSW from a psychologist?

An MSW prepares professionals to address social challenges through comprehensive case management, advocacy, community engagement, and resource coordination, whereas a psychologist typically focuses on clinical assessment, therapeutic interventions, and research-driven diagnostics. MSW programs emphasize practical field training and interdisciplinary collaboration to promote social justice and direct community impact, whereas psychology programs provide extensive study of human behavior and mental processes within clinical, counseling, or academic settings. For a deeper exploration of these distinctions, refer to MSW vs psychologist.

How can you manage the cost of an online MSW program?

Online MSW programs vary widely in tuition and fees, making it essential to evaluate direct costs alongside indirect expenses such as textbooks, technology fees, and field placement travel. Prospective students should research scholarship opportunities, federal student aid options, and employer tuition reimbursement plans to help manage their financial investment. Additionally, consider programs that offer flexible payment plans or cost-saving alternatives that align with your fiscal goals. For those exploring affordable pathways in advanced education, review the cheapest psychology masters online programs to compare overall cost-effectiveness and long-term value.

Can you become a licensed social worker with an online MSW?

Yes, you can become a licensed social worker with an online MSW, provided the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Most states require social workers to earn an MSW from an accredited program before they can apply for licensure, whether the program is completed online or on campus. The key is ensuring that the online MSW program meets the same educational and clinical training standards as traditional, in-person programs, especially when comparing MSW vs MFT degree programs to determine which path best aligns with your career goals in social services or therapy.

It is also important to note that each state has specific licensure requirements, which may include passing an exam (such as the ASWB Clinical Exam), completing a set number of supervised clinical hours, and meeting other state-specific criteria. Many accredited online MSW programs provide opportunities for field placements and internships, which are essential for licensure eligibility. However, students should verify that the program offers suitable arrangements for completing these practical experiences, as some states may require in-person fieldwork hours.

What are the licensing requirements for social workers by state?

What do you need to become a social worker with a license? Licensing requirements for social workers vary by state and can depend on the level of social work and the specific roles individuals wish to pursue. To become a licensed social worker, candidates must meet certain educational, examination, and supervised experience requirements. Below is an overview of the common licensing requirements:

Educational Requirements: In most states, aspiring social workers must have a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW) from an accredited program by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Some states allow candidates with degrees in related fields (like psychology or sociology) to become licensed after completing additional coursework or experience.
Licensure Levels: Each state typically has multiple levels of licensure based on the education and experience of the social worker. Some states offer an LISW designation, which typically requires additional post-graduate supervised clinical experience and possibly another exam. This designation allows social workers to practice independently in clinical settings.
Supervised Practice and Field Experience: For higher-level licenses, such as the LCSW, most states require a significant number of supervised practice hours, which can range from 2,000 to 4,000 hours (typically completed over 1–2 years). These hours are usually obtained by working under the supervision of a licensed social worker in a clinical setting. Additionally, the field placements completed during an MSW program may count toward the required clinical hours, but candidates typically need to complete more hours of direct service with clients after graduation.
Examination Requirements: All states require candidates to pass a licensing exam, which is often administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). The exam generally tests knowledge of social work principles, ethics, and practice. Candidates seeking clinical licensure (e.g., LCSW) will need to pass the ASWB Clinical Exam, which assesses their ability to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. Some states may require additional exams, such as state-specific laws or ethics exams.
Renewal and Continuing Education: Once licensed, social workers must renew their licenses every 1–3 years, depending on state regulations. To maintain licensure, most states require social workers to complete continuing education (CE) hours on topics such as ethics, cultural competency, and emerging best practices in the field. The specific number of CE hours required varies by state and license type.

How is the job outlook for social workers in the next 5 to 10 years?

The job outlook for social workers over the next 5 to 10 years is highly promising, with overall employment projected to grow 7 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This steady growth is driven by increasing demand for healthcare and social services, rising mental health awareness, an aging population, and the ongoing need for child and family services. As societal challenges continue to evolve, social workers will play a critical role in supporting individuals, families, and communities in navigating complex issues.

In addition to the projected growth, there will be about 67,300 job openings for social workers each year on average over the decade, largely due to workers retiring, transitioning to other roles, or leaving the labor force. This means that not only are new jobs being created, but replacement needs will continue to provide opportunities across a wide range of social work specialties. While social work focuses on helping individuals and communities, some students compare the field to HR specialist career requirements to better understand the differences in skills, qualifications, and job functions. Students and professionals considering an MSW or clinical licensure can feel confident that strong job prospects await them in the coming years.

Key drivers of social work job growth:

Increased demand for mental health and substance abuse services
Expansion of healthcare and eldercare services for an aging population
Continued need for child welfare and family support programs
Greater emphasis on community-based and preventive care
Workforce turnover and retirements are creating new openings

The demand for social workers and psychologists is expected to grow by 7%..png

Can interdisciplinary training enhance your social work practice?

Expanding your academic focus beyond a traditional MSW can introduce innovative perspectives that benefit client care and therapeutic outcomes. Integrating advanced training in psychology supports a deeper understanding of mental health assessment and evidence-based intervention strategies. Social work professionals who explore complementary disciplines, such as clinical psychology, can refine their skills in diagnosing and managing complex emotional and behavioral issues. For those considering further specialization, pursuing opportunities like PsyD programs online APA accredited may provide valuable insights and enhance interdisciplinary collaboration in practice.

Here’s what graduates have to say about their MSW degrees:

Becoming a social worker has allowed me to truly make a difference in people's lives. Every day, I work with individuals and families facing difficult challenges, and the personal satisfaction I get from helping them overcome these hurdles is unparalleled. I’ve never felt more connected to my community. — Kate

The flexibility and variety in social work have been a game-changer for me. I’ve worked in everything from child welfare to mental health counseling, and each new challenge has taught me valuable skills. The constant learning and growth in this career have made it incredibly rewarding. — Seth

What I love most about social work is the emotional connection I get to build with my clients. While the work can be tough, knowing that I’m helping someone through their most difficult moments makes it all worth it. It’s an honor to support people on their journeys toward healing. — Jade

Key Findings

Social workers earn an average salary of $61,330 per year, or approximately $29.49 per hour.
The employment of social workers is projected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Online MSW programs provide flexibility and convenience for students who need to balance work or personal commitments with their studies.
The path to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) often requires additional supervised clinical hours, which can take several years to complete.
On average, 67,300 social work openings are expected each year over the next decade due to retirements and workforce expansion.

Other things you should know about being a social worker

Is social work a high-stress or high-turnover career?

Social work can be a high-stress profession, primarily due to the emotional demands of the job. Social workers frequently deal with clients facing severe crises, such as abuse, mental illness, or homelessness, which can lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout. The high turnover rate in certain social work sectors, like child welfare or healthcare, is also linked to these stressors. Many social workers leave the field after a few years due to emotional fatigue, heavy caseloads, and low compensation, though others find satisfaction in the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. The high turnover can also contribute to staff shortages and increased workload for those who remain.

Are online MSW degrees respected by employers?

Yes, online Master of Social Work (MSW) degrees are generally respected by employers, provided that the program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). As the demand for flexible education options increases, many reputable schools now offer online MSW programs that meet the same rigorous standards as traditional on-campus programs. Employers typically focus on the accreditation of the program, the social worker's practical experience through field placements, and their licensure status. However, prospective students should research specific employers and states to ensure that their online degree will be recognized for licensure and job eligibility.

Do social workers earn more with a master’s degree?

Yes, social workers generally earn more with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree compared to those with only a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). An MSW opens up opportunities for higher-paying positions, such as clinical social work, management roles, or specialized fields like healthcare or school systems. Social workers with an MSW can qualify for licensure at higher levels, such as the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), which typically offers more significant earning potential. The average salary for social workers with an MSW is higher than that of those with a BSW, as the degree provides the necessary skills for more complex and specialized roles within the field.

How does social work make a difference in communities?

Social work plays a critical role in making a difference in communities by supporting individuals and families facing challenges that affect their well-being. Social workers advocate for those in need, connect clients to essential resources like healthcare and housing, and provide emotional and psychological support to help people overcome crises. They work across various settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, and government organizations, to address issues such as mental health, substance abuse, and child welfare. Through these interventions, social workers help to build stronger, more resilient communities by empowering individuals and promoting social justice, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care and services they deserve.