Master of Social Work vs. Master’s in Counseling: Choosing the Right Path for Your Career in Helping Professions

Generally, the time and cost required to complete a Master of Social Work (MSW) versus a Master's in Counseling can vary significantly based on several factors, including the institution, location, program format (online, in-person, part-time, full-time), and specific program requirements. 

Overall, both programs are about two years for full-time students. They both also range widely in cost from around $15,000 to over $50,000 in total tuition, depending on the public or private status of the institution and state residency.

Master of Social Work

A Master of Social Work (MSW) is broadly designed to prepare students for a wide range of roles in social services, from direct client interaction to community advocacy and policy reform. MSW programs typically emphasize an integrated approach considering a client's environment and systems, including their social, economic, and cultural contexts. This highly versatile degree allows graduates to work in diverse settings such as hospitals, schools, government, and nonprofits.

MSW programs may offer specializations such as clinical social work, school social work, child and family welfare, and mental health. Clinical tracks specifically prepare students to diagnose and treat mental illnesses, often leading to roles such as therapists or clinical social workers within various institutions. A significant aspect of MSW training is the focus on social justice, advocacy, and the ability to navigate and influence social policies.

Check out the program offered through Palo Alto University’s MSW program. 

• Practice with Children and Youth in School and Community Settings
• Practice with Adults in Public Behavioral Health Settings
• Leadership & Management Certificate

Master of Arts in Counseling

A Master’s in Counseling, which can include specializations like Clinical Mental Health Counseling or School Counseling, prepares graduates to work primarily in direct therapeutic roles with individuals, groups, and families. These programs focus on teaching counseling techniques and client-centered therapies designed to address mental health challenges. A typical curriculum might cover human development, ethical practices, psychological assessment, and therapeutic methodologies.

Check out the program offered through Palo Alto University’s MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Graduates are equipped to pursue licensure as counselors and have opportunities to work in settings such as private practice, community health organizations, schools, and residential treatment facilities. They are trained to provide psychotherapy and counseling, helping clients develop healthier cognitive and emotional processes.

Career Paths and Opportunities

MSWs and Master’s in Counseling degrees lead to licensure and professional certification in their respective fields. For MSW graduates, licensure typically includes titles such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), depending on the state. These credentials allow for clinical practice and involve assessment, therapy, case management, and crisis intervention.

For those with a Master’s in Counseling, licensure may involve becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). These professionals focus on therapeutic techniques for treating psychological problems and improving mental health.

Licensure and Employment Without Licensure

Master of Social Work (MSW)

• Licensure: Licensure is required for clinical social workers (LCSW) who wish to practice independently, especially in mental health and private practice settings. Non-clinical roles may not require licensure.
• Employment without Licensure is possible in roles like case management, community outreach, and non-clinical social work. These positions typically have lower salary expectations.
• Salary: Licensed clinical social workers generally have higher earning potential. For example, LCSWs earn from $50,000 to over $70,000 annually, while non-licensed social workers earn between $30,000 and $45,000, on average.

Master’s in Counseling

• Licensure: Counselors must be licensed (such as LPC—Licensed Professional Counselor) to practice independently, and is required in most settings that provide therapeutic services.
• Employment without Licensure is limited to roles such as behavioral interventionists or support roles in mental health settings. Salaries for these positions are generally lower.
• Salary: On average, licensed counselors earn between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on their specialty and location. Those who have licensure generally earn less.

Internships

Both degrees typically require internships or practicums as part of the curriculum to give students hands-on experience in their field of study.

Private Practice

Both licensed MSWs and Master’s in Counseling graduates can open private practices. However, they must meet state-specific licensure requirements, which include completing supervised clinical hours and passing licensure exams. Check out these resources for more information:

• How to Start a Private Practice in Counseling - CONCEPT Professional Training
• How to Become a Private Practice Therapist - CONCEPT Professional Training
• 10 Resources to Start a Career in Private Practice and Therapy

Job Titles and Demand

Master of Social Work (MSW)

• Potential Job Titles:
  • Clinical Social Worker
  • School Social Worker
  • Healthcare Social Worker
  • Child and Family Social Worker
  • Social Work Administrator
• Demand is high, especially in healthcare, school settings, and mental health. The MSW's broader applicability across various settings adds to job security.

Master’s in Counseling

• Potential Job Titles:
  • Mental Health Counselor
  • School Counselor
  • Marriage and Family Therapist
  • Substance Abuse Counselor
  • Career Counselor
• Demand is also high, particularly for mental health counselors and school counselors, given the growing awareness and normalization of mental health care.

Job Security

Both fields are experiencing significant demand that outstrips supply, primarily due to increased awareness of mental health issues and the aging population's need for more healthcare services. This high demand contributes to long-term job security. Investment in either degree is generally favorable due to the steady demand and the essential nature of these societal roles. Salary and opportunities can improve significantly with licensure and additional certifications or specializations.

Both fields offer substantial avenues for advancement and specialization. The best choice depends on your specific career goals and the types of clients or environments you are most passionate about serving.

Considerations for Prospective Students

When choosing these two paths, prospective students should consider their career goals and interests. Those drawn to systemic change, community work, and policy might find the MSW more fitting. At the same time, those interested in therapeutic practices and direct client care might prefer a Master’s in Counseling.

Both degrees require a commitment to ongoing education and development. Professionals in these fields must keep up with new research and evolving best practices to effectively support their clients.

Conclusion

Ultimately, both an MSW and a Master’s in Counseling are paths that offer the chance to impact individuals and communities profoundly. By understanding the distinct focus of each degree, prospective students can align their education with their career aspirations, ensuring that they are well-prepared to meet the challenges and rewards of their chosen field.

Blog Contributor Dr. Amanda Beltrani

Amanda Beltrani, PhD, is a licensed forensic and clinical psychologist. She obtained a master’s degree in forensic psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She then earned a doctoral degree in clinical psychology with an emphasis in forensic psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University. 

She completed an APA-accredited internship on the forensic psychology track at New York University-Bellevue Hospital. Dr. Beltrani has published over 15 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters on competency to stand trial, clinical assessment and decision making, serious mental illness, and barriers to implementing evidence-based practices. 

Currently, she is a staff psychologist at Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Center in New York City. She works on a secure ward, conducting forensic psychological evaluations for the Courts as well as treatment and intervention programs for patients with various psychological and legal issues. In addition, Dr. Beltrani works part-time for CONCEPT Continuing & Professional Studies at Palo Alto University, providing new or aspiring mental health professionals with information about various aspects of practice to elevate their career and professional fulfillment.

About Palo Alto University

Palo Alto University offers undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs with online, hybrid and residential options. An engaged faculty, who make significant contributions to their fields and thrive as mentors, prepare practitioners and students through rigorous educational programs, research and extensive hands-on clinical practice. When you put all of this together, PAU creates a legacy of confident, competent, and compassionate professionals who are at the forefront of psychology and counseling, making a difference in their communities.