Job outlook for social work instructors in the United States

What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Social Work Instructor job market given the pandemic?

David Hage: I expect the need for social services to become even more prominent, given the COVID-19 pandemic. It is likely, and perhaps even unfortunately probable, that individuals, families, groups, and communities who are most vulnerable to the health-related, social, and economic consequences of the global pandemic will require additional social service supports to navigate increased problems related to several issues, including, but not limited to, poverty, management of disabilities, addictions, mental health-related questions, and many other population-specific challenges (United Nations, 2020).

For example, while children are participating in school remotely, their access to nutritional services and other essential supports will likely be reduced. They may be more likely to be abused and not have a school staff member detect the abuse, and therefore, suffer worse consequences or suffer longer (Elsevier Public Health Emergency Collection, 2020). Individuals susceptible to domestic violence will likely be more at-risk (NY Times, 2020).

People in general, and significantly older adults, will face increased social isolation and the challenges of anxiety and depression that accompany isolation, in addition to other material challenges (University of Michigan, 2020). The social work job market was projected to rise well before these problems emerged and will likely continue to reflect a demand for these needs to be met, especially as many social issues are on the rise.