Where will your master’s degree in Social Work take you?

The University of Louisville’s online Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) program prepares students for a rewarding career in the field of helping others, becoming change makers and giving back to their community. Within the highly ranked and accredited MSSW program, offered through the Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work & Family Science, students have the option of customizing their degree to align with their specific interests by choosing from one of five specialization paths. The five specializations include Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Gerontology, Mental Health, Military Social Work and Health and Cancer Social Work. Upon completion of UofL’s online Master’s in Social Work degree, graduates will be eligible to become Certified Social Worker (CSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in their respected state. As requirements vary by state, students are encouraged to view the licensing requirements for their specific state(s) in which they wish to practice in, prior to completing their degree.  

As within any field of study, the job opportunities vary depending on a student’s interest of study. Earning your MSSW with a specialization will better prepare graduates for the diverse and ever-changing field of social work. The following information highlights the specific specializations within the MSSW degree and highlights the various places of employment graduates can work post-graduation. 

Alcohol & Drug Counseling Specialization: 

The Alcohol & Drug Counseling specialization prepares graduates with the knowledge and background needed to secure and succeed in a career as a substance abuse counselor or case manager. As substance abuse continues to climb throughout the United States, graduates within the Alcohol and Drug Specialization are prepared with the knowledge and skills to combat the epidemic. The coursework also fulfills some requirements needed to earn the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) certification. Some occupational career paths post-graduation include: 

• Medical, psychiatric, and substance abuse hospitals 
• Outpatient substance abuse clinics 
• Inpatient detoxification and rehabilitation facilities  
• Residential intellectual and developmental disability, mental health, and substance abuse facilities 
• Private practice 
• Physicians’ offices 

Gerontology Specialization: 

Gerontology specialization empowers students to become leaders in the dynamic field of aging and social work. This specialization is geared towards meeting the demand for social workers trained to respond to the needs of older adults and their families. Students who graduate with their MSSW specialization in Gerontology will benefit from field practice in a variety of gerontology programs as well as affording graduates the opportunities to network with professionals and build meaningful relationships with older adults. Some occupational career paths post-graduation include: 

• All-inclusive care for the elderly facilities 
• Specialized senior assistance programs 
• Hospices 
• Nursing homes 
• Residential care facilities 

Mental Health Specialization: 

The Mental Health specialization delivers the necessary preparation and knowledge for anyone considering entering the mental health field as a social worker. Studies in this specialization focus around theories on the progression and cause of mental illness as well as diagnostic and assessment skills, all in the context of social work practice. Students will learn about the available mental health services and policies and experience the field firsthand with an advanced practicum rotation. Some occupational career paths post-graduation include: 

• Private practice 
• Hospitals  
• Mental health clinics 
• Rehabilitation treatment facilities 
• Community health organizations 
• Residential care facilities 

Military Specialization: 

The Military Social Work specialization prepares students to support active-duty service members, veterans and their families. Coursework focuses on theoretical perspectives and policy implications relevant to these groups, as well as programs and application of interventions to ameliorate them. Some occupational career paths post-graduation include: 

• Military bases and units 
• Medical facilities 
• Military support centers 
• Veteran Affairs health centers 
• Community service organizations  
• Private practices 

Health and Cancer Social Work Specialization: 

The Kent School of Social Work and Family Science offers the first specialization in health and cancer social work in the nation. The high rate of cancer on local, national and global levels and the potential shortage of oncology social workers are creating a demand for skilled practitioners. Responding to the growing need for social workers who are trained in cancer care, this program will prepare students with the knowledge and skills to meet the psychosocial health needs of persons with cancer and their families. Students will learn how to apply skills such as assessment, counseling, palliative care, program planning and evaluation in cancer care settings. Our students work in a variety of health settings in the full range of care for cancer patients.  

This specialization requires an approved specialized practicum placement. Therefore, students must submit additional documentation and receive approval to pursue the specialization. Some occupational career paths post-graduation include: 

• Hospice  
• Cancer treatment centers 
• Private practice 
• Hospitals  
• Rehabilitation treatment facilities 
• Community health organizations 

Social work continues to be a growing and resilient profession nationwide. Employment is projected to increase 11% through 2033, outpacing the average growth rate across all occupations. With a median annual salary of $58,300 and an estimated 92,828 job openings each year, the field offers strong opportunities for both entry and long-term career advancement. The online Master of Science in Social Work degree is designed for the next generation of social workers, preparing them to promote social justice and be positive change agents in their community. Whether you are looking to work in a hospital, residential treatment center or a wide variety of other occupational career paths; earning your master’s degree from University of Louisville will position you for a successful career in social work. If you are interested in learning more about the various specializations or the program as a whole, you can explore the program page.