Find MSW programs that teach rational choice theory

Social workers often apply a conceptual model known as rational choice theory to help guide clients' decision-making. Explore master of social work (MSW) programs that cover rational choice theory and learn how the specialization can impact your career trajectory.

Browse MSW programs that teach rational choice theory

What is rational choice theory in social work?

First developed by the famous economist and philosopher Adam Smith, rational choice theory seeks to explain the factors that drive people to make specific decisions. The model holds that people consider the potential benefits, risks, and costs associated with different decisions, and make choices that offer the best balance.

Social workers use rational choice theory when assisting clients facing important or potentially life-altering decisions. They help clients list and analyze the pros and cons of specific decisions and weigh associated factors and influences according to their potential impact.

When used correctly, rational choice theory can help clients make decisions that best represent their long-term interests.

What to expect from an online MSW that teaches rational choice theory

prepare students for advanced-practice social work careers. Graduate programs specifically prepare students to pursue licensure and eventually support clients, and studying rational choice theory can play an important role in achieving those ends.

MSW curricula integrate rational choice theory in various ways. Some cover it alongside other common theoretical paradigms, such as , , and social exchange theory. Others may offer standalone courses in rational choice theory, either as core requirements or electives.

Regardless of its curricular presentation, rational choice theory can broaden your perspectives and help you build a more diverse and responsive client service toolset.

What can you do with an online MSW that teaches rational choice theory?

Drawing on the three main recognized by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), here's an overview of how rational choice theory might function in various scenarios:

• Child, family, and school social workers: These professionals can use rational choice theory to help parents and children make important decisions about schools, educational pathways, relocation, family separation, and similar scenarios with long-term impacts.
• Healthcare social workers: A patient may need to choose between a more aggressive treatment that may cause serious side effects and a less effective treatment with fewer side effects. Rational choice theory can help the patient weigh their options and consider the situation from every angle.
• Mental health and substance use social workers: Rational choice theory can support addiction treatment by offering insights into the impulses that drive substance use and helping clients identify healthier behavioral pathways that better support their recovery efforts.

How much can you make with an MSW that teaches rational choice theory?

A rational choice theory social work specialization can have variable impacts on your earning potential, which depends on factors like:

• Location
• Licensure level
• Professional practice area

This breakdown summarizes salary data for various social work specializations, using BLS data for social workers from May 2023: