Social Work Teachers, Postsecondary
Social work teachers instruct students in social work theory, practice, and ethics at colleges and universities. They develop curricula, teach courses on topics like casework and community organizing, and may conduct research on social issues. These educators work in academic departments, preparing the next generation of social workers.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against social work teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A week includes preparing and teaching multiple classes, grading assignments and exams, and holding office hours to advise students. Instructors develop course materials, update lesson plans, and may supervise student internships or field placements. Research activities like literature reviews, data analysis, or publication writing occupy remaining time. Committee meetings and departmental responsibilities also factor into the schedule.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIA. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy understanding how people solve problems and why social systems function as they do, making investigation and analysis appealing. You thrive when helping others learn and care about supporting students' professional development in service-oriented fields.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $122,600 | $133,340 | $134,840 | 50 |
| Kansas | $68,860 | $108,610 | $114,120 | 50 |
| Delaware | $80,800 | $100,550 | $133,440 | 50 |
| South Carolina | $74,390 | $100,400 | $103,560 | 80 |
| New York | $77,890 | $98,700 | $107,500 | 1,840 |
| Maryland | $79,310 | $97,110 | $120,510 | 230 |
| Texas | $70,090 | $83,440 | $104,270 | 90 |
| Minnesota | $63,370 | $82,470 | $90,730 | 360 |
| Utah | $66,570 | $81,850 | $122,110 | 100 |
| California | $74,160 | $81,500 | $107,870 | 230 |
| Maine | $64,930 | $80,250 | $95,430 | 90 |
| Connecticut | $61,460 | $79,960 | $103,270 | 150 |
All 43 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Clinical Social Work Licensing Examination — Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)
- Masters Social Work Licensing Examination — Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)
- Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM) — National Association of Social Workers
- Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) — American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against social work teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1113.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.