A professor of social work teaches social work-related courses to students at a college or university. In this career, your responsibilities may also include participation in other school faculty positions like department head. Many employers require that you complete a certain amount of research in your field of expertise and publishing your findings in approved journals or books. Your day-to-day duties include preparing curricula for your students, gauging where they are in their understanding of the material, and responding accordingly to ensure everyone succeeds. You present lectures on your material in a classroom or lecture hall, prepare and oversee lab assignments, and give tests.