Masters of social work vs. Masters in Psychology in Social Work: Which is Right for You?

Masters of social work vs. Masters in Psychology in Social Work: Which is Right for You?

Confused between MSW and Psychology? Discover the right path for your passion in social work or mental health.

Making a choice between the masters (MSW) and a master in psychology in social work depends a lot on your expectations of the career you want, how much time you are ready to spend studying, and interests about which you feel passionate. A MSW is usually a terminal degree for social workers, taking about two to three years after a bachelor's. It prepares students for various roles such as clinical social work, program coordinator, mental health consultant, or community outreach expert. After obtaining the MSW degree, it would be possible for one to become a licensed practitioner (LCSWs in several countries) and start off with practicing in no time.

Unlike an MSW, a master's in psychology in social work is mostly a stepping stone to a Ph.D. or a PsyD, which could add another 4-7 years until the program is finished. If your goal is to become a licensed psychologist, researcher, or both, lacing on your walking shoes is the right thought. Psychology gives a chance to avail in areas like clinical practice, forensic psychology, educational counseling, and neuropsychology in great depth but requires an intense amount of knowledge. 

The better option now really depends on the person's makeup and interests. If you want to be working directly with the community, maybe truly getting down to work with advocacy or helping people deal with real-life challenges, then an MSW is probably the right route. If you are drawn in by human behaviors, mental processes, and ways of scientific research that are of long-term interest, you would more likely fit in psychology.

Anyway, do take time to investigate both programs prior to making decisions. Look into the job roles, responsibilities, pay expectations, and career paths to identify the closest description for yourself "what clinical social workers do" or "career options with a psychology degree." No matter whether your focus is social work or psychology, either way, both areas offer respectable avenues through which you can make a difference.