Why People are Studying Their Social Work Degree Abroad – a Look at Studying Abroad and Its Benefits
Choosing a career path is a big decision, whether it is your first career or you’re a little later in life and you’re looking to make a career change. There is a whole lot of soul searching and weighing of the pros and cons that typically takes place in order to come up with a decision that will challenge you, provide you with satisfaction, and the opportunity to get out into the workforce and find a job.
A social work career is one that is incredibly special. Not only will you be challenged in that it is a job and it will require all kinds of skills and knowledge, but there’s also the fact you’ll be working with the community to help families and provide them with the support services they need. This could mean you are involved in counseling adults, or perhaps you will be looking after the placement and needs of a child who has now been placed in protective care. Each day is different, and each day brings new challenges and rewards.
In order to get a job in social work, you will need your degree, which can lead to the next question. Do you want to pursue your degree here at home, or are you looking to provide your family with an immersive experience and study abroad? Pursuing a social work degree abroad isn’t a new concept and is relatively popular with students. Why is that? Well, let’s take a closer look at what its benefits are and what you can expect from the experience.
Studying at Home May Not Prepare You
Perhaps you have dreams of moving the family to a different country, which also means you will need to find work. The career of a social worker is one that is found in many countries around the world, which is part of why it makes sense to pick this path. What you need to be aware of, though, is the fact that if you study for your degree here at home, it may not be recognized in the country you wish to move to. Instead, it’s wise to pick the country you wish to live in, and then research degree programs.
Social work degrees are available in many different countries, which you’ll find through http://www.educations.com. You’ll quickly find that you can study in Australia, South Africa, Scotland, Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, and more. Plus, there’s the option to study online if you prefer. Students are provided with all kinds of flexible options so that you can really lay out a future that works for you.
Provide Your Family with the Opportunity to Explore Other Countries
While your social work degree will certainly take up a lot of time, there will also be time left for exploring and traveling. Studying abroad and bringing your family with you gives you a chance to introduce your kids to different cultures, cuisines, way of life, language, history, and sights. It’s the kind of experience that will have a lasting effect on your kids and may, in fact, help them to figure out their own future career path.
It Can Help You Get a Job at Home Later On
Now even though your plan is to study abroad, that’s not to say you can’t come home when you finish your course and then get a job at home. In fact, sometimes, what you have learned can help you to secure a job faster.
According to the United States Department of Labor, the field of social work is on the rise. So, even if you do decide you just want to study abroad but then come back home to work, you will have peace of mind knowing there is job growth. Between 2016-2026, the field is predicted to grow by 16%, which is much faster than the national job growth average. Studying abroad can give you that edge on your resume that will help you land a job fast, and even demand a higher rate of pay.
Learn a New Language
If you want to move to a country that speaks a different language, then you will also have the opportunity to build your portfolio further and learn another language. The same can be said for your kids who will get an immersive language lesson by not only learning a second language but then having the opportunity to use it and perfect it on a daily basis.
Get a Different Take on Things
While the basics and foundations of social work may be the same from country to country, there will be subtle differences that can prove to be interesting and even eye-opening to you. Different practices and techniques may be used that will help you to be that much more effective in your role as a social worker.
Travel Before You Start Your Career
Another huge benefit of studying abroad is the fact you can travel around this new country, and even neighboring countries, without having to worry about taking time off work. Traveling as a student is perhaps the best time to fit travel in.
Become More Independent and Stronger
Many people who study abroad, regardless of the degree they are pursuing, often comment on the fact it made them more independent and stronger overall. It’s a great way to build your own confidence, learn about your strengths and weaknesses, and give yourself a challenge that you just can’t get at home.
Help Secure Your Future in a Different Country
For those who don’t wish to just study in another country but also stay there and work there permanently, then it makes perfect sense. You’ll be able to learn the techniques, processes, and regulations of that country, and you can also start to network and build your contacts while you are still a student. All of this will help you to get a job that much faster when you graduate, allowing you to stay there and work in the country of your choosing.
Let’s Not Forget the Discounts
Let’s face it, the life of a student isn’t often glamorous as there are a lot of expenses but little to no income coming in. As an international student, you may be able to take advantage of various discounts at stores, restaurants, etc. These discounts can add up and make it possible for you to study abroad without having to make major sacrifices.
Studying Abroad Could be the Best Move You Make for Your Future
While getting a degree in any field is always going to be a step in the right direction as far as your career prospects go, studying abroad can really give you that extra leg up on the competition. Studying abroad opens your eyes to different cultures, socio-economic issues, challenges faced by people and will help you to learn more about yourself. It can be an eye-opening experience that makes you that much better equipped to handle the future.
Studying for your social work degree abroad is no exception and it will provide you with all the skills and knowledge you need to jump into a rewarding career path.
