Being a social worker is a rewarding profession. However, at times, helping others out can come at the expense of ourselves. Even though social work is a prestigious occupation, it is also an overly exhausting responsibility. Social workers can often, at the end of the day, feel drained and mentally sapped. For example, if you work as a mental health social worker, you may need to assist your patients as and when the need arises. Sometimes, it might mean being there for them at odd hours. Investing so much of yourself into your occupation can lead to exhaustion and depletion. It is best if you take time off to relax and unwind.
While shouldering such a challenging task, furthering your studies can seem impossible. And we agree, it is a challenging thing to do. However, it is also one of the most important things to take up if you wish to advance your career.
If you are confused about whether you should opt for a full-time or part-time degree program or whether an on-campus or online course is a better fit, then read ahead. We have highlighted some crucial pointers that can help you make a wise decision while choosing a study program. It is all a matter of weighing your options against your circumstances and then picking a study schedule that suits you best!
- Your Financial Situation:
Furthering your studies will require some amount of cash. And if you are short on it, there might be a slight problem. However, most post-graduates take up part-time degree programs that also allow them to work while studying. It is the best option for students who have financial constraints or face financial crises. You can fund your degree through your ongoing job, and consequently, it does not become a burden. You do not have to delve into the hassle of taking up huge student loans or borrowing money for your studies.
Moreover, choosing part-time degree programs means choosing fewer courses per semester. You can spread out the degree cost over years since part-time degrees often require more time to complete. If you cannot quit your job, you can also look into online degree options such as a Master of Social Work (MSW) program. There are several accredited Council on Social Work Education – CSWE online MSW programs you can look into to find the one that suits you best. Studying under an online program is an appropriate option for social workers who work full-time.
- Availability Of Programs:
Promisingly, you have no option of taking up part-time degree programs if the only courses universities around your area offer are full-time. Aim to enroll in a particular university or college. You may only have to go with the programs they offer. That also naturally becomes a constraint. However, most institutes today have online programs and part-time courses due to the growing demand. With an online degree, you pretty much do not have to worry about the class schedules and timings. You can take up classes whenever you want, at your ease, through an online student portal.
- Duration Of The Course:
Each situation has its pros and cons. While part-time courses offer you the luxury of choosing a few subjects each semester, the years it takes to finish a part-time degree naturally increases. It takes around 32 months to complete a part-time master’s in a social work program.
On the other hand, a full-time degree may put a strain on the work required of you each semester. However, you can wrap up the degree in as little as 16 months. If you want to finish your degree as soon as you can to, for example, take up a job role you have in mind, consider enrolling in a full-time program.
- The Level Of Commitment:
Being a social worker may already be a full-time commitment for you. If you have a family and many friends you need to look after, managing a full-time study program may get tricky. Such programs demand complete focus. It would be best if you committed to spending 12-hours weekly on attending classes. Add to it the assignments and projects you will have to submit. It just turns into a whole different level of a tiring experience.
On the other hand, part-time programs may require you to take either one or two classes a week, which only amounts to a few hours of study. Suppose you already have a full-time job and are too occupied with your social work responsibilities. In that case, we believe it is best to opt for a part-time degree.
Conclusion:
The job of a social worker is inherently tiring, both physically and mentally. Being a social worker, it is crucial that you also give time to other aspects of your life to maintain a healthy balance. Choosing to further your studies by opting for a master’s degree is a wise decision. However, it would be best if you weighed all your options before over-committing yourself through a full-time study program. If you have an around-the-clock job as a social worker, it is best to take up a part-time studying program. This way, you can manage your schedule conveniently and juggle between your aspirations and responsibilities without turning them into a burden.