Generalist Practice Work Settings

BSW graduates from Penn State Greater Allegheny are equipped to work effectively with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and diverse community populations. With a strong foundation in diversity, ethical practice, field education, technology, and theory, our graduates are prepared to perform in various entry-level practice settings as professional, generalist social work practitioners. Below is a sample of potential practice settings for BSW graduates:

  • Adolescents and Young Adults
  • Aging and Older Adults
  • Child Welfare
  • Community Development
  • Community Organizing
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
  • Domestic Violence
  • Economic Justice
  • Environmental Justice
  • Forensic Social Work
  • Healthcare
  • Housing
  • Human Rights
  • Developmental Disabilities
  • LGBTQIA+ Populations
  • Philanthropy
  • Poverty
  • Public Policy
  • Research
  • Substance Use Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • School Social Work
  • Social Justice
  • Social Welfare

Occupational Quick Facts: Social Workers
2024 Median Pay

$55,000 per year
$26.44 per hour
Typical Entry-Level Education See How to Become One
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training See How to Become One
Number of Jobs 2024 730,000
Job Outlook (2024-2034) 13% (Faster than average)
Employment Change (2024-2034) 95,000

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024

The lowest 10 percent of social workers earned less than $35,000 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $90,000 annually.