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Social Services

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Scholarships Are Currently Available!

Social Services professionals help people overcome challenges and improve their lives. They work with individuals facing difficulties such as disabilities, mental health issues, or addiction, providing support and creating personalized plans to help them achieve their goals. Key skills for this role include empathy, patience, and strong communication abilities They advocate for social justice, help people navigate difficult situations, and strive to make a positive impact on society.

Salary Range

Education & Timeframe

  • Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s degree in social work, Sociology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
  • Advance Your Expertise: Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from an accredited program Duration: ~2-3 years
  • Gain Experience: Complete internships, volunteer work, or entry-level positions in social service agencies to gain specialized training and experience in providing support and assistance to individuals and communities Stay current with the latest social work practices, therapeutic techniques, and relevant research.

Scholarship Opportunities

  • The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org
  • The Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine
  • The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.
  • The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.

Academic Institutions

Additional Information

Career Choices & Growth

Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field: