It’s not always easy to pursue a new career path, particularly in a field that is evolving as rapidly as the social work profession has over the past decade. From new developments in social work practice to the evolving nature of key issues within the social work field, there is much that incoming social workers have to learn in order to get the lay of the land of their future profession.
With this in mind, TexasSocialWorkEDU has compiled several focused guides to help illuminate the social work profession in its current state, with information about its most vital debates, recent innovations, and areas of continued concern. These can help those who are just dipping their toes into the world of social work gain a richer understanding of what they have in store, potentially also enabling them to hone in on the area of social work practice where they’d most like to invest their efforts.
These guides were designed with a variety of MSW applicants in mind (and they include information that can be useful to those who are already working in the social work field). Take a look at our complete list of social worker resources and guides below to find information on the specific topics you wish to learn more about.
Best MSW Programs in Texas
Texas is home to many fantastic Master of Social Work programs that will equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to launch a thriving career as a social worker. This guide features a list of the top-ranking MSW programs in Texas to help you find the perfect school for you. With full-time and part-time options available, as well as in-person, online, and hybrid options, there should be excellent opportunities for anyone looking to obtain their MSW in Texas.
Most Affordable MSW Programs in Texas
Those who are intimidated by the high cost of graduate school will be relieved to learn that many of the accredited Master of Social Work programs in Texas are quite affordable, putting a high-quality social work education in reach for students of all economic backgrounds. These programs can be delivered in a variety of scheduling and formatting options to account for students’ outside needs, such as continued employment during school and childcare responsibilities.
Continuing Education in Texas
Beyond the preliminary requirements to receive one’s social work license in the first place, social workers in Texas are also expected to renew their licenses every two years. This renewal is contingent upon the completion of continuing education (C.E.) courses, which can enrich social workers’ knowledge of new developments in the field, provide new skills, and ensure that all practitioners are up-to-date on protocols and procedures in their day to day work. Take a look at this guide to learn everything you need to know about Texas’ C.E. requirements.
Scholarships and Grants in Texas
It’s no secret that funding one’s graduate education can be quite challenging, causing significant stress and even leading some potential applicants to abandon their pursuit of a Master of Social Work degree. However, thanks to the many scholarship and grant opportunities available in Texas, students have more opportunities than ever to find funding to support their educational paths. Finding these opportunities can be the tricky part, which is why this guide is here to provide a consolidated list for prospective applicants seeking financing support for Texas-based programs.
Mental Health Resources
The hard work of providing for others in need can come with its own host of mental health challenges, which social workers can manage through an array of self-care strategies. This guide provides tools to help social workers account for their mental health needs so that they can continue to approach their work with the enthusiasm and high energy it requires. It also provides an index of resources that social workers can consult when they’re in need of outside support.
D.E.I. Resources for Social Workers
Most social workers encounter a wide diversity of clients in their practice, with customs, values, and lifestyles that may be unfamiliar. In order to provide care that is free of bias, social workers are expected to be well-informed about diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that can help them reform their practices to be as welcoming as possible to people from all walks of life. This directory provides an index of resources for social work students and practitioners organized by subject to help illuminate the needs of different marginalized demographics in the U.S. so that all people in need have access to quality care. It also provides resources that can be of use to social workers who belong to marginalized demographics, offering tools of empowerment and solidarity-building that can connect them with other social workers with shared experiences.
Women in Social Work
Women across industries are subject to unequal working conditions along gender lines, and unfortunately, the social work profession is no different. This guide provides an overview of the barriers women continue to face in the field of social work as well as the efforts that have emerged to level out the playing field among care providers. It features a directory of resources to help women social workers tap into larger networks of like minded social workers, as well as educational materials to provide data-driven insights on womens’ status in the workforce and the actions being taken on the front lines of the fight for gender equality.
Resources to Help Veterans Become Social Workers
Veterans who wish to channel their own experiences into supporting others who have served in the armed forces can do tremendously impactful work as social workers. This guide is intended to help such individuals navigate the complex benefits available to them as veterans so that they can pursue the education and professional development they need to launch their careers. These include funding opportunities, personal consultations with trained experts, and networks of other veterans in graduate programs to strengthen and support their career efforts.