Sam Medley

Sam is a freelance writer with a passion for learning about any and everything he can. When not reading or writing, he can be found helping his wife tend to the bees, ducks, chickens, and plants that populate their little Kentucky homestead.

How Long Does It Take to Get an MSW in Illinois?

Becoming the adept social worker so many people need requires training. Many impassioned advocates pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) to learn skills like case management and clinical intervention, but how long does it take to get an MSW? For full-time students with no prior social work experience, it typically takes two years to […]

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Written by Sam Medley

What Is an MSW Degree?

No matter what kind of social worker you want to be, you’ve probably seen one phrase again and again as you’ve investigated your future career: MSW degree. But what is an MSW degree exactly? On the surface, that’s a relatively easy question to answer. An MSW, which stands for Master of Social Work, is an

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How Much Do Social Workers Make in Illinois?

Embarking on a career in social work means doing a lot of research and reflection. But after deciding what type of social work you’ll find the most rewarding or what kind of agency you’d like to work for, you’ll also want answers to more practical questions. How much do social workers make in Illinois is

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Written by Sam Medley

What Is an LSW License?

In Illinois, all social workers must have a license. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) issues two types of social work licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license. Licensed Social Worker (LSW) license. LCSWs, of course, are licensed to perform clinical social work, but what is an LSW license? An LSW license

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What Do You Learn in Illinois MSW Programs?

A Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is often considered the gold standard of the field. In Illinois, you must have an MSW to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). And even when an MSW isn’t necessarily required, employers frequently prefer candidates who have one. But what do you learn in an MSW program

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Editor’s Choice: Top Picks for the Best MSW Programs in Illinois

In Illinois, the title of social worker is protected. If you’re planning on becoming one, you don’t just need a degree. You need a degree that meets the state’s rigorous licensing regulations. According to the Illinois chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, all Licensed Social Workers (LSWs) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs)

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The Most Affordable MSW Programs in Illinois

Master’s-level social workers are some of Illinois’ most dynamic and trusted human service professionals. They design programs that keep people afloat. They provide trauma-informed care to the state’s most vulnerable people. And when inequitable policies bar whole communities from health and happiness, they hold lawmakers accountable. But for many people who want to earn a

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Resources for Veterans Becoming Social Workers in Illinois

In a lot of ways, veterans make the perfect social worker. They know what it’s like to move away from their support networks and build new ones. They’ve built bonds with people from all walks of life. And throughout their careers, they’ve seen true leadership in action. But just as importantly, they’ve also likely seen

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Continuing Education Resources for Illinois Social Workers

As a social worker, keeping up with current events and the latest research isn’t just a great way to find new career opportunities. It’s your duty. The vulnerable people you serve deserve to have an impassioned and informed advocate on their side. But on top of that, Licensed Social Workers (LSWs) and Licensed Clinical Social

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Illinois Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Degree Programs

Bachelor of Social Work degree programs (BSW) from accredited Illinois universities prepare future social workers for graduate programs, professional licensing, and ethical social work practice as established by the National Association of Social Workers and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). According to the Council on Social Work Education (CWSE), baccalaureate programs

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Written by Sam Medley