Geriatric Social Workers

High School

Since you will need at least a bachelor's degree to advance in this field, prepare for college by taking a college prep curriculum. This should include math, science, and computer science classes. Other courses that will help you in this field include civics or government courses, in which you can learn about the enactment of laws, such as the Older Americans Act. Psychology and sociology courses will help you gain an understanding of human behavior and the process of aging as well as teach you methods for studying groups of people, such as the elderly. Take English classes to develop your writing, speaking, and researching skills—skills that you will need throughout your career.

Postsecondary Training

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology, or a related field is required for employment as a geriatric social worker, although many employers now require applicants to have a master’s degree. The Group for the Advancement of Doctoral Education in Social Work provides information on programs that offer the doctor of social work degree (D.S.W.) or Ph.D.'s in social work (visit its Web site at https://www.gadesocialwork.org). Accredited B.S.W. programs include courses in human behavior and the social environment, social welfare policy and services, social work practice, research, and field practicum. Most programs require two years of liberal arts study, followed by two years of study in the social work major. Students must also complete a field practicum of at least 400 hours.

Although no clear lines of classification are drawn in the social work profession, most supervisory and administrative positions require at least a master's degree in social work. Master's programs are organized according to fields of practice (such as mental health care), problem areas (substance abuse), population groups (the elderly), and practice roles (practice with individuals, families, or communities). They are usually two-year programs, requiring at least 900 hours of field practice.

Doctoral degrees are usually necessary for research and teaching. Many social workers with doctorates work in community organizations.

Other Education or Training

The National Association of Social Workers offers webinars and on-site continuing education (CE) opportunities. Past webinars included Older Adults Adjusting to New Life Challenges: How Social Workers Help, Professional Ethics and Social Networking, The Complexities of Elder Abuse, and Helping Families Face the Early Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. The Academy for Gerontology in Higher Education also provides CE classes and seminars. Contact these organizations for more information.