eric answers:

It depends on exactly what degree you pursue and where you pursue it. In most cases, an MSW or MSC (masters in counseling or social work) takes about two years.

eric answers:

Depends on the school. Are you talking about a highly ranked private college or a community or junior college? There’s a big difference. Also, be aware that just because you have the minimum required to teach somewhere, that doesn’t mean that people with additional and/or more advanced degrees won’t also be applying for the position too.

eric answers:

You actually probably know the answer to this if you really look around you and see what peple do and how they work and what degree they have. I woiuld trust this.

However, the difference between social work and counseling is greater than discussed here. I disagree that it is about what state you live in and/or clinical vs. Non clinical. First off there are many social work programs that are VERY clinical (I would argue more clinical than some counseling programs – of course the meaning of the term clinical is very vague sometimes referring to working in a clinic, sometimes to work with individuals, sometime to a focus on pathology). As for which state – this refers more to the fact that some states do not licence MA level counselors. Also comparing BA level social workers to MA level counselors is ridiculous (compare BSW’s to BA level psych majors – there is no comparison).

Social work is a profession that is concenred with person environent fit and social justice – it is concerned with making socieity work – which includes the skills used by “counselors” but also policy, research, group work, community orgnizing, and administration. Social work is respected not just because it has been around a long time but becuase of the strong accreditation, well developed internship process, and critical thinking skills developed in workers.

Counseling is a nobal profession as is social work. I think you would be successful in both given your experience. If you want more flexibilty in your career do social work (opens up more doors to administration and such).

DA

eric answers:

Interesting difference in majors. Have you started college yet? I did my undergrad work in Social Work and all transferred into my Masters program.
I had obviously many counseling classes, both group and individual. I took many substance abuse classes and received a certificate in Women’s Studies, which helped me be able to focus mainly working with women. Oh also many many mental health classes. But it depends on if you want to be a general counselor or specialize in a certain area. Feel free to IM or email me, after reading my profile God Bless Reggie