What is the difference between a BSW and an MSW degree?
The BSW is obtained after completing the social work major at a four year college. The MSW degree is obtained after completing two years of graduate school in a school of social work, after obtaining a BA degree. Students who do well in their BSW program are eligible to enter their MSW program with Advanced Standing, which means they can obtain their MSW degree in one year rather than two. Students who major in psychology or minor in social work are not eligible to enter the Advanced Standing program. In general, an MSW degree will give you a higher salary and allow you to specialize in a particular area, as well as giving you clinical skills to be able to do psychotherapy. To have a private practice, or work anywhere as a psychotherapist, you need an MSW degree.
