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Is it better to major in Social Work than Sociology if you want a career in social work?

I got accepted into UC Riverside (as well as their honors program) and was originally Waitlisted at Cal State Long Beach. Recently, I was admitted into Long Beach in their Social Work program.

I'm unsure whether I should stay with Riverside when I got accepted into my desired major at Long Beach. I know you can work in social work with Sociology, but is it as good as just studying Social Work?

I know at the end of the day, I have to make the choice. However, hearing other thoughts and opinions would be much appreciated. Thank you!

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Ann’s Answer

Hi Stephanie - This is a tough one. If you are 100% certain you want to be a Licensed Social Worker, then I recommend getting a degree in social work, because it will be a faster path. If you think that's what you want to do but want to explore the world of social sciences then I recommend choosing the school you like the most and is the most affordable. I hope that helps! Good luck!
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Laura’s Answer

As a LCSW and clinical social worker I recommend studying social work over sociology. I think the knowledge you will gain in a social work program will translate much better to social work jobs. Studying social work and gaining a BSW can also fast track getting your MSW. For example at Cal State Long Beach you can complete your MSW program in 1 year instead of 2.
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Naomi’s Answer

It's definitely a hard choice. I am normally a supporter of exploring during undergrad and studying a major that really interests you. If you like sociology and like UC Riverside better, I would recommend going there and then going for your MSW after undergrad.
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Karen’s Answer

Getting a bachelor degree is so wise! Is is likely only the beginning of your educational journey depending on your career choices -- and they will likely evolve and change! Sociology and Social Work are similar in that you will learn to understand dynamics of society and human behavior and how they are intertwined. Sociology studies will be foundational and offer wonderful transferable skills such as problem-solving, evaluating evidence, forming reasoned arguments, thinking creatively and considering different viewpoints. Take a close look at the courses/ programs of study for both degrees. These can be found on the institutions' websites. If you can - physically visit each school (many schools allow for you to even conduct a virtual tour), go to the departments, talk to faculty, get the vibe of the program, campus -- overall. Ask questions about career paths and maybe even current partnerships that the schools have with employers/ agencies! That will likely help you make the decision of where / what you want to study. You will have more of an idea of "fit." Think about informational interviewing now as well. this is where you talk to people in some different jobs/careers for which you have an interest to discover their pathway. How did they get to that place? You may be surprised to hear about all of the various majors of study! That being said -- you could do the same. Study SW or Sociology and then end up on Wall Street , becoming a lawyer, marine biologist, etc!! Do think about the various career paths with either of your choices. Nonprofits, state and federal agencies, hospitals .... many options!
If becoming a licensed social worker is the ultimate goal, you will certainly be required to have additional training, certification, Master Degree anyway. Get the foundational degree you desire most. Your passion will help guide you.

Karen recommends the following next steps:

Informational Interviewing = https://www.careeronestop.org/JobSearch/Network/informational-interviews.aspx
Jobs with Bachelor in Sociology https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/sociology-degree-jobs
Thank you comment icon You rock! This advice is very helpful. Franklyna
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Stephanie !

First, congratulations on being accepted into Cal State (I am an alumnus (of CSU Sacramento) too) !

In order to work as a Social Worker you will need a Masters in Social Work plus certification. Yes, it is better to major in social work. My advice is to stay with Long Beach. You will most likely have sociology oriented courses within your social work studies, but you will need a Master degree and the certification for a career. Keep in mind that today Social Workers are clinical therapists, they do therapeutic work with clients and you will need to know the history, applications and techniques to work with human behavior. You won't get the same if you major in sociology. Social Work is not the same as sociology.

As a social worker you will need to be prepared to work with a wide range of people. You may also get an internship as a social work major that will give you hands on experience, hopefully doing direct services for the clients or patients. So I recommend staying as a social work major at CSU Long Beach. There is a lot to learn and from what I know about CSU Long Beach, it is a strong and highly admired school.

Best wishes to you in your studies and I hope this advice supports your best plans for your career !
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