ADN to MSW

[diva216]

Hi every1! I'm in need of advice. I'm currently an RN, ADN and have been for a year. I know that I want to be a social worker, underpaid or not, I've always wanted to, so that's not the issue. The issue is whether I should get my bsn then msw, or my bsw then msw? The goal was after I got my bsw that I could do some kind of social work job and/or rn prn while going for my msw :/ Anyone know the time frame for either? costs?

I've been debating going back to school, but it's now or never! I'm 26 with no children so I feel it's the perfect opportunity. Thanks in advance!:)

[Jennybird]

I realize this post is quite old, but wanted to respond with my thoughts for those of you who may be having a similar RN vs SW concerns.

I received my MSW in 2007 and have been working for as a gerontological social worker/case manager in a residential setting since. I am a strong advocate for my residents and have had the opportunity to develop strong relationships with them and I truly feel I am helping to provide a better q uality of life for them, empowering, educating them, etc. In other words, I am fulfulled as a social worker in this role. However! Along the way I have had many encounters with other disciplines wherein I feel like I'm essentially viewed as a non-professional, which has caused me to feel like even though I am making an impact on clients, I feel as if I am an authority on nothing. I'm just a "helper." Even though I have extensive education and knowledge--but it's not recognized as readily as other professions. The field of social work unfortunately is (in my experience) under-valued and under-appreciated by other professions and by society. Hence the extremely low pay. You hear teachers complain ab their low pay--I'd like for them to see my paycheck!! Anyhow, of course I didn't go into SW for the $. So please, do not think this post is all ab pay inequity. It's just that it's a low professional blow to feel under respected no matter how hard you work and how much of a difference you make.

The world needs social workers--this is why I got into the profession, but I simply have a hard time feeling continually under- respected, under-valued and under paid. If social work is your passion, go for it! You will make a difference in the lives of many! But if you are more sensitive to the inequities that I feel are inherent in the profession, you may want to reconsider your choice.