Orange County is ramping up efforts to integrate social workers into more collaborative roles within schools and public safety agencies. New initiatives, like the Orange County Citizens Safety Task Force are bringing the best minds in the county’s social services and behavioral health community together with faith-based community leaders and other organizations to focus on gun violence prevention. All the while, there’s the perennial problems that come with homelessness and domestic violence, and the full spectrum of child welfare services that so many rely on through the Florida Department of Children and Families. All of it calls for skilled social workers to lead efforts in Orlando and throughout the greater Orange County area. This growing focus on social workers in both traditional and innovative roles is a testament to how vital they are in supporting the community’s most vulnerable populations.
From the massive Orange County Mental and Behavioral Health System to local nonprofits tackling food insecurity, housing instability, and domestic violence, the need for skilled BSW and MSW graduates has never been greater in Orlando, Alafaya, and throughout the greater Orange County area. Whether it’s working alongside law enforcement in crisis intervention programs or advocating for better mental health resources, it all starts with earning your BSW or MSW degree and stepping into a career that truly makes a difference.
Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus: Advocating for Older Adults in Orange County
When you think of social work advocacy, Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, a remarkable leader in social justice for older adults, stands out as an Orange County icon. Known for founding the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) in 1958, her mission was to improve the quality of life for retired individuals—a mission that still thrives today. While her legacy might seem to have a national scope, much of her advocacy work took root in Orange County.
Dr. Andrus, a former educator and principal, was inspired to act after discovering that many older adults were living in poverty and without adequate healthcare. In fact, she herself encountered a retired teacher living in dismal conditions, which spurred her to create the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) and later AARP to offer more comprehensive benefits for all older citizens.
Her tireless work in Orange County not only expanded healthcare access but also pushed for improved social programs for seniors. Dr. Andrus’ vision contributed to the growth of affordable housing for older adults and established the first group health insurance plan for retired individuals. Today, her influence is still seen in Orange County’s vibrant network of senior services and advocacy programs, many of which prioritize the rights, health, and social well-being of aging populations.
Dr. Andrus’ pioneering efforts in social justice provide an inspiring example of the difference one person can make, especially in local communities. Her work reminds us that true advocacy starts with recognizing a need and fighting tirelessly for meaningful change.
CSWE-Accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) & Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Degrees in Orlando and Throughout Orange County
Are you ready to begin your journey toward a fulfilling career as a social worker in Orange County, Florida? Whether you’re aiming to work in clinical settings or a non-clinical generalist or specialist role, the path to becoming a licensed social worker in Florida begins with earning a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited degree.
In Florida, all levels of social work licensure require a Master of Social Work (MSW). If you’re starting fresh or transitioning from another career, a traditional two-year MSW program is your path.
But if you already hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), you’re in a strong position to pursue an advanced-standing MSW program, reducing your study time to just one year. Many BSW graduates also find rewarding roles in non-clinical settings like social services and community organizations where an MSW and licensure isn’t required.
To work as a Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW), a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, or ultimately, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida, your MSW must come from a CSWE-accredited program. Of course, each license level has its own experience and exam requirements too. The journey may be challenging, but the opportunities to make an impact are endless.
For those looking to become a social worker in Florida, Orange County offers one school with a CSWE-accredited BSW and MSW program:
Ana G. Mendez University
Liberal Arts Division
Orlando, FL
Other locations include Tampa and Miami Lakes.
- MSW (online, on-campus)
Ana G. Mendez University’s Master of Social Work prepares students for clinical social work practice, equipping them to serve vulnerable populations in the U.S., and around the world. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum, including courses in social policy, human behavior, and clinical interventions. Students benefit from hands-on experience through three internships, totaling 900 hours of supervised field practice. For eligible students, an Advanced Standing track is available, allowing up to 27 credits to be transferred for prior BSW coursework.
University of Central Florida
College of Health Professions and Sciences
Orlando, FL
Other locations include Daytona Beach and Clermont
- MSW (online, on-campus)
- BSW
The University of Central Florida offers BSW and MSW programs that prepare students for impactful careers. The BSW program focuses on generalist practice in various settings, including healthcare and community services, while the MSW program emphasizes advanced clinical practice, helping individuals, families, and communities facing health and mental health challenges. Students can choose full-time, part-time, or online tracks, and gain hands-on experience through internships at over 850 partner agencies nationwide. These programs offer flexibility and strong career prospects, supported by UCF’s extensive community partnerships