Educational Requirements for Clinical Oncology Social Work

Acquiring a degree in clinical oncology social work takes years of schooling and certification.  Someone who wishes to work in the field should be dedicated, sincere and compassionate, as they will be helping people through some of the toughest times of their lives.

Job Description

Someone who is entering the field of clinical oncology social work will be helping cancer patients and their families through a very difficult time. They assist patients and their families in working through problems that arise from having cancer. They also provide resources on treatment options and help fill in any gaps in communication between the doctor and patient. It is important for a clinical oncology social worker to acquire a good deal of knowledge on all aspects of cancer, which is done through research and education.

Education

A clinical oncology social worker must acquire a master's degree in social work and be accepted into an accredited doctoral program. In order to be accepted into the doctoral program, they must have completed all of the necessary examinations and assignments required to specialize in the area of clinical oncology social work.

Experience

A social worker looking to specialize in clinical oncology must complete a year of clinical experience that takes place in a clinical social work setting. They must also volunteer at some type of cancer treatment center, such as a hospital or hospice center. They must prove to have done research on clinical oncology topics by participating in or heading a research project on clinical oncology social work.