Find MSW programs that teach about hospice social work

A hospice MSW program can prepare you with the skills to help clients stay comfortable and make the most of their remaining time. Learn more in our guide.

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Why earn an MSW that teaches hospice social work?

Focus on end-of-life care

Hospice/older adult care MSW tracks allow you to learn the nuances of hospice social work from experts in the field.

Gain hands-on field experience

To apply your skills, complete your MSW with a real-world internship at a hospice or older adult care facility.

Learn on your schedule

Earn an MSW on your own time — while maintaining your professional and personal commitments.

To provide high-quality end-of-life care, you must exhibit a unique social work skill set. Whether you want to begin or advance your hospice social work career, an online MSW program can help you achieve your professional goals. Read on to learn more about hospice MSW programs.

Browse MSW programs that teach about hospice social work topics

Prestigious

An immersive cohort-based learning experience that is designed to optimize learning outcomes and ensure global networking opportunities.

Flexible

Choose your path with a range of completion options and class times.

Equivalent to on-campus

Earn the same degree and complete the same curriculum as on-campus students.

What is hospice social work?

Hospice social workers assist clients and their families with end-of-life planning. While client needs vary, hospice social workers may:

Advocate for client needs and wishes
Help clients understand their treatment plan
Help families process their loved one's situation
Connect clients with support services
Counsel clients around end-of-life emotions, finances, and legal stipulations

What to expect from an MSW degree that teaches hospice social work

Depending on your state and employer, a may be required to become a hospice social worker. Selecting a program with specialty tracks or courses in hospice care can help you gain the knowledge you need for this field. Most hospice MSW programs also cover foundational content, including:

and public policy
Multicultural perspectives
Real-world practicum experience

While an MSW program that teaches hospice social work can benefit most aspiring social workers, a hospice track is designed for those who want to work with older or critically ill populations. Many MSW graduates become licensed clinical social workers, though some may earn different licenses depending on their career goals and state of residence.

What can you do with an MSW degree that teaches hospice social work?

Though many hospice MSW graduates aspire to practice independently as licensed social workers, some pursue other career paths, such as community center managers or hospice facility managers. Some of the top jobs you can get with an MSW include:

Healthcare social worker

Hospice social workers typically fall within the healthcare social work category. Healthcare social workers help clients address the mental and emotional impacts of illness, connect them to support groups and/or services, and coordinate client care with other healthcare personnel such as doctors and nurses.

Required license: All states require clinical social workers to acquire the appropriate license in their state. Some states may also require non-clinical social workers to have a license.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $62,940
BLS Projected annual job growth (2023-33): 10%, faster than the average 4% for all occupations

Social and community service manager

Social and community service managers oversee programs that support . Duties may include directing staff who provide services, identifying areas of need in the community, and analyzing program effectiveness. Social and community service managers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, but some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree.

Required license: N/A
BLS median annual salary (2023): $77,030
BLS Projected annual job growth (2023-33): 8%

Medical and health services manager

Medical and health services managers — sometimes called healthcare administrators or executives — manage entire healthcare departments or facilities. Their duties include staying abreast of healthcare laws and regulations, developing goals, preparing budgets, directing staff, and representing the department or facility.

Required license: Varies by state; a license is required in all states for nursing home administrators.
BLS median annual salary (2023): $110,680
BLS Projected annual job growth (2023-33): 29%

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Frequently asked questions

What is a hospice social worker?

A hospice social worker is a who counsels clients and their families dealing with end-of-life circumstances. Hospice social workers are trained to help with the various challenges that advanced age and critical illness create, including anxiety, grief, financial concerns, and end-of-life plans.

How do you become a hospice social worker?

To become a hospice social worker, you must earn a bachelor's or master's degree in social work or a closely related field and a license to practice in your state of residence. Education requirements for licensure vary by state.

What will you learn in a degree about hospice social work?

A hospice social work master's degree program teaches foundational social work skills and hospice-specific knowledge. If you enroll in a hospice specialization, you may also be able to complete practicum hours in a hospice facility.