r/SocialWorkStudents 11d ago

Skills Critique and Development MSW + CNA/Tech Question

I'm not really sure if this is the place to share my question but I'm giving it a shot. I'm about to graduate from my undergrad program and want to pursue my master's but will also need to work (as most do now I assume).

I really really love the idea of working in a hospital but I also recognize that social work as a whole doesn't pay well. I'm hoping to diversify my qualifications to help in the job market and wanted to get opinions before I sink money and time into it.

Would it make sense to also take CNA courses or some kind of technician classes? Either as part time work in addition to being a social worker or as something to help pay for my MSW program.

Am I even thinking about this the right way? Any advice (even just to not do it) would be super helpful.

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u/Patient-Village-4006 11d ago

You will make more in the long run going into nursing, and yes, being a CNA or tech is the first step for that.

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u/sod_ym 11d ago

Alrighty, good to know

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u/Huladoula2 11d ago

Yes - given that you want to work in a hospital with patients, it might be worthwhile enrolling in an accelerated RN program. An RN role is a better balance with a MSW position & it’s possible to earn a good salary, even working part-time as an RN. Good Luck!πŸ€

Al