Social Work is a profession committed to the enhancement of human well-being, the alleviation of poverty and oppression, and the promotion of social justice. The profession practices in a wide variety of settings including family services, child welfare, criminal justice, psychiatric
and medical centers, chemical dependency treatment, community organizations, advocacy groups, and public policy planning.
Social work degrees range from the associate to the doctorate. Graduates may work in direct practice (micro-level work with individuals) or in administration and planning (macro-level work with systems and institutions). Licensure requirements and other practice regulations vary by locality.