Grad School Question

[paperjam1015]

I just went to a grad school fair today. Feeling a little more optimistic about my future, but a little confused as to which degree to get. I have a BS in Pysch & Minor in Religion/Philosophy. Been doing Social Work for 5+ years and I feel as though I've maxed out where I can go with a BS degree. I'd like to go into counseling/therapy/mental health assessment.

My options are Master's in Social Work, psychology or counseling. I know I want to get a Master's Degree, and possible go on for a doctorate.

Anyone have any knowledge or input?

[Longshotss]

My brother-in-law and sister-in-law both have Master in Socail work, I have a MBA. From talking with them, I have discoved that there are a lot of social work jobs out there only for people with MSW's and one year experience, the pay is decent, you won't get rich, but they both really enjoy what they do, which is very important for a social worker. I would expect with a MSW you could expect to start out earning $40-$50K a year in a mid-level market area...

[paperjam1015]

Thanks for your reply!!!

Can you tell me what state they are in? Do you know if they are licensed?

[Longshotss]

Originally posted by paperjam1015
Thanks for your reply!!!

Can you tell me what state they are in? Do you know if they are licensed?

They are in Missouri and they are licensed.

[rolo99]

Here in Michigan social workers are registered, not licensed.

I went for the masters in Counseling and am a license professional counselor (M.A, L.P.C.) which I got in '93.

If I had to do it over, I'd get the MSW because it's a more widely recognized degree and a lot of jobs will only hire MSW's. It's getting better, but times are still tough for us "unknowns".

[paperjam1015]

hmm... Thanks ROlo...that's what I keep hearing...