Early Career Patterns for Social Work Graduates

Abstract

This study examines master’s of social work graduates’ early careers. Six cohorts graduating from 2002 through 2007 (N = 246) completed a questionnaire 9–15 months after graduation. Most reported adequate or exceptional preparation on both generalist and advanced concentration practice behaviors. Almost all direct practice graduates and 2/3 of macro graduates found employment doing functions for which they had prepared. However, 10% never worked in their practice method specialization, highlighting the relevance of skills in the generalist curriculum. Salaries were higher for macro graduates and for graduates performing macro functions (regardless of concentration). Nearly 1/2 of all graduates had moved jobs (and improved their salaries) within 15 months of graduation, but few moved into administrative functions or engaged in professional leadership activities.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mi Jin Choi

Mi Jin Choi is a doctoral candidate at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Paul Urbanski is assistant professor at Monmouth University. Anne E. Fortune is professor and associate dean at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Crystal Rogers is assistant dean at the University at Albany, State University of New York.

Paul Urbanski

Mi Jin Choi is a doctoral candidate at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Paul Urbanski is assistant professor at Monmouth University. Anne E. Fortune is professor and associate dean at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Crystal Rogers is assistant dean at the University at Albany, State University of New York.

Anne E. Fortune

Mi Jin Choi is a doctoral candidate at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Paul Urbanski is assistant professor at Monmouth University. Anne E. Fortune is professor and associate dean at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Crystal Rogers is assistant dean at the University at Albany, State University of New York.

Crystal Rogers

Mi Jin Choi is a doctoral candidate at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Paul Urbanski is assistant professor at Monmouth University. Anne E. Fortune is professor and associate dean at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Crystal Rogers is assistant dean at the University at Albany, State University of New York.