Job Opportunities, Financial Assistance Plentiful for Those Planning to Work With Older Adults!

Social work with older adults and their caregivers is a rapidly growing specialty, thanks to national demographic trends brought about by the aging of the “Baby Boom” generation. Job market research indicates that the next three to four decades will bring numerous opportunities for social workers specifically trained to work with the aging population. Clinical practice settings vary widely, from hospitals and hospices to outpatient clinics, psychiatric settings, social service agencies, housing programs and programs focused on wellness. And there are numerous community practice opportunities as well, in program development, advocacy and social policy.

The image of a nursing home setting as the “only” job for geriatric social workers is simply outdated, if it was ever accurate to begin with!

Even students who don’t begin their careers with a specific interest in gerontology may well find themselves working with older adults in the future. And, because this is a life stage that most students haven’t yet experienced firsthand, it is critical that MSW education include a focus on these specialized skills.

At GSSW, PROGRESS offers concentration year and advanced standing students a competency-based program including specialized field education in gerontology, as well as monetary stipends. PROGRESS students and others interested in health related social work may also be eligible for the Barnett Trust Scholarship.