Career in Social Work
A Career in Social Work in Ireland
Social work is a regulated profession focused on human rights, wellbeing and social justice. Social workers support individuals, families and communities through difficult circumstances and work to improve the services and systems that affect their lives.
If you are considering social work as a career, this page and our ‘About Social Work’ [link to about sw page] page will help you understand the role, the qualifications you need and how to register to practise in Ireland.
What does a social worker do?
Social workers help people understand their options, access support and make informed decisions about their lives. They also advocate for fairer services and address barriers such as poverty, discrimination and inequality.
Social workers practise in many areas, including:
- Adoption
- Adult Mental Health
- Adult Safeguarding & Protection
- Ageing
- Child & Adolescent Mental Health
- Child Protection & Welfare
- Criminal Justice
- Disability Adult
- Disability Children
- Medical
- Primary Care
- Social Work Education
Is social work right for you?
Social work may suit you if you are interested in people, communities and social justice. You will need to listen carefully, communicate clearly and make thoughtful professional decisions.
Useful qualities include:
- Empathy and respect for others
- Strong communication skills
- Emotional awareness and resilience
- Critical thinking and sound judgement
- The ability to work independently and with others
- Good organisation and time management
- A commitment to ethical and inclusive practice
You do not need to have every skill fully developed before starting your studies. Professional education, practice placements and supervision will help you build them.
A realistic view of the profession
Social work can be meaningful and varied, but it can also be emotionally demanding. Social workers may support people experiencing distress, loss, abuse, inequality or major life changes.
Professional supervision, reflective practice and support from colleagues are important parts of safe and sustainable social work practice.
How to become a social worker in Ireland
1. Complete an approved social work qualification
‘Social worker’ is a protected title, so the routes to qualifying as a social work professional are regulated by CORU, the regulator. It’s important to enrol on a CORU ‘approved’ course. Routes include undergraduate and postgraduate study, depending on your previous education and experience.
Course entry requirements differ, so check them directly with each education provider.
2. Apply for CORU registration
After completing an approved qualification, you must apply to join CORU’s Social Workers Register. Registration is required to use the protected title of Social Worker in Ireland. Completing a course makes you eligible to apply, but registration is a separate step. Learn about applying for CORU registration.
3. Explore social work opportunities
Social workers are employed across public, private, community and voluntary services. Job requirements, salaries and benefits vary by employer and role.
Qualified outside the Republic of Ireland?
If you received your social work qualification outside the Republic of Ireland, CORU must assess and recognise it before you can register and practise as a social worker here. CORU is Ireland’s regulator for health and social care professionals, including social work.
The recognition and registration processes take time, so review the requirements before applying for roles or planning a move.
Visit the CORU International Applicants page for guidance on recognition, registration and how to apply and Read our information for Internationally qualified social workers here: [link to international qualification iasw page]
Already studying social work?
IASW student membership can help you connect with the profession while completing your qualification. Members can access professional resources, events and opportunities to learn from practising social workers.