College of Professional Studies
School of Social Work

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Field Instruction | School of Social Work

Is Social Work For You?

What is Social Work?
Social work is a profession committed to social justice and to the enhancement of the quality of life for all people. All social workers are trained in interventions that:

• Provide case management services to families and individuals
• Counsel groups, families, and individuals on life transitions and life problems
• Link clients with the resources and services they need to enhance the quality of their lives
• Change the institutions and organizations that impact people's lives
• Improve current and create new policies that support the well-being of communities, groups, families, and individuals.

Where Would I Be Employed as a Social Worker?
There are numerous employment opportunities with social workers pursuing careers in a wide range of social and human service settings including:

As a professionally trained social worker, you would develop the knowledge and skills needed to work with a variety of populations including infants, children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly, addressing their needs as individuals, and as members of families and communities. You would acquire the skills you would need to assist families, groups, communities and individuals with cultural sensitivity and competence.

What Personal Qualities Do I Need?
Not everyone possesses the personal qualities needed to be a social worker. Individuals pursuing a social work career need to possess:

• a desire to make a difference in the lives of others
• a concern for people
• good interpersonal communication skills
• an ability to relate to others empathically
• an ability to approach others non-judgmentally
• an appreciation for human diversity
• a willingness to work collaboratively with clients. colleagues, and other professionals
• an ability to problem solve
• a willingness to make challenging decisions
• a commitment to social justice
• a respect for the privacy of others
• personal integrity

What Kind of Education Will I Need?
The baccalaureate degree in social work (BSW) will best prepare you for a beginning career in social/human services. With a degree from a BSW program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, you will qualify to sit for the Illinois licensing exam post graduation. The BSW degree will give you the most career flexibility and opportunity.


For More Information About Pursuing A Career in Social Work
Consider making an appointment with a BSW faculty member to discuss your interests in social work and professional social work education. Dr. Donette Considine can be reached at 630-844-7842 or by e-mail at dconsidi@aurora.edu.

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For more information about the BSW Program, please contact:
Dr. Donette Considine, dconsidi@aurora.edu, 630-844-7842