Social Service Managers: Schools and Careers

About Social Service Managers

Social service managers plan and organize the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. They manage the budget and oversee aspects of the program such as participant involvement, benefits and program requirements. Some may supervise social workers, probation officers or counselors.

Social Service Manager Responsibilities

• Coordinate with other agencies
• Evaluate the performance of employees
• Create and oversee administrative procedures
• Implement staff training programs
• Document all services provided and prepare reports
• Complete new client assessments in order to develop a plan
• Provide information and referrals for appropriate services
• Attend interagency case management meetings
• Provide crisis intervention when necessary

Social service managers need good communication and organization skills. Compassion, patience and a desire to help other people are important aspects of the job.

Employment Outlook

In 2007 the median annual earnings for social service managers was $54,530. In 2006 their were approximately 130,000 jobs in the profession. From 2006 to 2016 the employment growth rate is projected to be much faster than the average for all occupations. The expected rise in employment is primarily due to the projected increase in demand for social services such as public welfare, child protective services and family services.

The need for assistance will also increase due to the growing elderly population. In addition, many employers are increasingly relying on social services assistants. The number of jobs in public and private social services agencies can fluctuate based on need and government funding levels.

Social Service Manager Education, Certification, and Licensing

Many colleges and universities offer bachelor's and master's degrees in social work. Master's degree programs offer the knowledge and skills required to perform clinical assessments, manage large caseloads, supervise a department and utilize social services to meet the needs of clients. Typically the master's degree programs are completed in two years and include at least 900 hours of supervised field training or participation in an internship. Part-time programs may take four years to complete. Some colleges offer master's degrees in social services policy or administration.

Usually master's degree programs do not require a bachelor's degree in social work. However, most master's degree programs provide advanced standing for those that have a bachelor's degree from an accredited social work program. For those without a bachelor's degree in social work, classes in subjects such as sociology, psychology, social work, biology, political science and economics are recommended. Also, learning a second language can be helpful.

Manager and supervisory positions for social services agencies or departments typically require an advanced degree and related work experience. Those with a bachelor's degree in the subject are prepared for direct service positions such as a caseworker.

All the states have licensing, certification or registration requirements for social work practice and for the use of professional titles. The standards for licensing vary by state. Those with a master's degree in social work and have experience may be eligible for a credential from the Academy of Certified Social Workers or the Qualified Clinical Social Worker credential.

Resources for Social Service Managers

• National Association of Social Workers
• Council on Social Work Education
• Association of Social Work Boards

Major Employers of Social Service Managers

The primary employers are state and local governments.

Schools for Social Service Managers are listed in the column to the left.

The Top Cities tab shows employment statistics for Social Service Managers by major metro area.

The Top Industries tab shows which industries have the most jobs for Social Service Managers, along with salary data by industry.

The Find Schools tab lets you search for schools by field of study, degree level, and location.