The master's degree in counseling curriculum teaches students the tools to enter the field of counseling as related to emotional or psychological issues. Students might take courses and internships in advanced counseling skills, counseling theory, cultural counseling and adolescent counseling.
In the master's of social work degree program, students learn how to assist families in getting the resources they need to improve their lives socially. The curriculum provides courses in psychology, sociology, social work and economics.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2008, elementary and secondary school counselors earned a median $57,000, while substance abuse and behavior disorder counselors earned a median $37,000.
According to Pay Scale, as of 2010, median salaries for a social worker (MSW) are $40,000 per year, for an executive nonprofit director over $76,000, and a for social work supervisor over $50,000.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be an increased need for both counselors and social workers. The number of substance abuse counselors should grow by 21 percent by 2018, and educational counselors by 14 percent. The number of social workers should increase by 16 percent, particularly in aging population and child abuse casework specialties.