Social workers work in a variety of settings, including mental health clinics, schools, child welfare and human service agencies, hospitals, settlement houses, community development corporations, and private practices. They generally work full time and may need to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

For an outlook on careers and opportunities in Social Work, visit the Occupational Outlook Handbook's summary on Social Workers.

For a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of social workers, see the Occupational Outlook Handbook's Similar Occupations to Social Workers.

Additional resources

Volunteer Opportunities

The Leadership and Engagement website publishes an extensive list of area non-profits offering service and volunteer opportunities for students.

View Opportunities

Career resources for UI undergraduate students

The Pomerantz Career Center provides high-quality resources and services to students, alumni, and employers. The site has information designed to help you move through the various stages of the job search process, including the Handshake@UIowa website as well as information on upcoming employer visits, internships, and careers after college.

Meet with a career coach

Plan for your future.

All undergraduates can meet with a career coach to explore interests, skills, strengths, and values as you plan for after graduation.

Participate in a mock interview

Practice, practice, practice.

Experience first-hand what an interview might be like by participating in a Mock Interview where you can practice interviewing, ask questions about the interview process, and be critiqued by volunteer employers from surrounding communities.

Attend a career fair

Find your next opportunity.

Network with employers and learn more about job and career opportunities in a variety of areas right here on campus.

Write an effective resume

Stand out to future employers.

Learn the level of detail needed to get noticed in the applicant pool and by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) software, including tips on how to format your resume, effective use of power verbs, a formula for crafting bullet points, and more.

Find or create an internship

Get on-the-job experience.

We'll guide you through the process of finding an internship, creating your own opportunity, and evaluating internship offers.

Explore majors and careers

Start the career exploration process.

Learn more about how your personal attributes impact potential success and satisfaction with different career options and work environments. Or, start by exploring career fields and find majors that align with your interests and skills.