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Social Work Instructor Jobs in Philadelphia, PA (NOW HIRING)

Life Time, Inc.

Kids Instructor

Ardmore, PA · On-site

Fosters children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development by instructing organized ... Completion of all Kids On-Demand Required Learnings prior to first day of work * First Aid ...

Maxx Fitness Clubs

Group Fitness Instructor

Exton, PA · On-site

... social environment. Each of our 25,000+ square foot locations hosts state-of-the-art cardio ... work out peacefully.The Group Exercise Schedule is based on popular times and not only the ...

Maxx Fitness Clubs

Group Fitness Instructor

Exton, PA · On-site

$25/hr

... social environment. Each of our 25,000+ square foot locations hosts state-of-the-art cardio ... work out peacefully. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Responsible for providing a positive ...

Life Time, Inc.

Kids Academy Instructor

Wayne, PA · On-site

Fosters children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development by instructing organized ... Completion of all Kids On-Demand Required Learnings prior to first day of work * First Aid ...

Life Time

Kids Academy Instructor

King Of Prussia, PA · On-site

Fosters children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development by instructing organized ... Completion of all Kids On-Demand Required Learnings prior to first day of work * First Aid ...

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All JobsSocial Work Instructor JobsSocial Work Instructor Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Social Work Instructor information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$5

$16

$24

How much do social work instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for social work instructor in Philadelphia, PA is $16.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.12 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a PhD to teach social work?

A social work instructor typically does not need a PhD; a master's degree in social work (MSW) is usually sufficient for teaching at many institutions. However, some colleges or universities may prefer or require a PhD or doctoral degree for full-time or advanced teaching positions. Relevant experience, licensure, and teaching skills are also important considerations.

What is the difference between Social Work Instructor vs Social Worker?

AspectSocial Work InstructorSocial Worker
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in social work or related field, teaching certification (if applicable)Bachelor's or Master's degree in social work, state licensure
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, colleges, universitiesCommunity agencies, hospitals, schools, government
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, academiaHealthcare, social services, government agencies
Primary FocusTeaching, curriculum development, researchClient support, case management, advocacy

While both roles require social work credentials, Social Work Instructors focus on education and training future social workers, whereas Social Workers provide direct client services. The work environments differ, with instructors in academic settings and social workers in community or healthcare settings. Both roles are vital in the social services industry but serve different functions within the field.

What does a social work instructor do?

As a social work instructor, you teach courses on subjects like social services, family studies, and anthropology to students in college. You explain what social workers do, how conditions like autism affect the people social workers support, and how other people in a support network contribute to worker efforts. Social work instructors often teach topics like group behaviors, societal trends, cultural differences, and how to explain complex issues to people with mental disabilities. Some instructors develop original instructional materials, write books or articles, or research social work. On rare occasions, you may be asked to advise government agencies that provide social services.

What is a social work instructor?

Social work instructors are educators who teach courses related to social work in colleges, universities, or training programs. They are responsible for preparing and delivering lectures, developing curriculum, and evaluating students' progress. Many social work instructors also conduct research and stay current with trends and best practices in the field. Their goal is to prepare students for careers in social work, emphasizing ethical practice, cultural competence, and effective intervention strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social work instructor?

To thrive as a Social Work Instructor, you typically need an advanced degree in social work (MSW or PhD), substantial field experience, and a solid understanding of social work theory and practice. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), online teaching tools, and accreditation standards is often required. Strong communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help instructors engage students and foster a supportive learning environment. These skills ensure effective knowledge transfer, professional development for students, and adherence to educational standards in a dynamic academic setting.

How do social work instructors typically balance teaching responsibilities with staying current in the field of social work practice?

Social Work Instructors often balance their teaching duties with ongoing professional development to ensure their knowledge remains relevant. This may involve participating in conferences, engaging in research, maintaining licensure, or consulting with community organizations. Many institutions encourage instructors to integrate real-world case studies and up-to-date best practices into their curriculum. Collaboration with practicing social workers and interdisciplinary faculty is also common, helping instructors provide students with practical and contemporary insights. Balancing these responsibilities requires effective time management and a commitment to lifelong learning.
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Social Work Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Work Instructor job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, and 58% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,636 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty, Social Work

La Salle University

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

La Salle University rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Overview
Position Title Adjunct Faculty, Social Work Department 212430 - Social Work
Position Description/Posting Details
Posting Number A0051P Position Summary
La Salle's department of Social Work is looking for energetic and engaged part-time instructors for generalist social work courses in a growing BSW Program. Day and evening course offerings in a variety of delivery formats. Faculty teaching practice and field practicum courses must have the MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program and at least two years post-masters practice experience.
Essential Duties
Teach generalist social work courses.
Participate in assessment of student competencies.
Complete student letters of recommendation when appropriate and requested.
Prepare course syllabi in collaboration with lead professor.
Upload course materials in Canvas LMS in collaboration with lead professor.
Provide informal student advising.
Participate in part-time faculty meetings.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
Master's degree in Social Work or related field.
Practice and field practicum courses require at least two years post-Master's practice experience.
Knowledge of and commitment to diversity.
Commitment to the NASW Code of Ethics.
Ability to effectively use Canvas LMS.
Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of La Salle University.
Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience as a social work instructor in a higher education environment.
Doctorate in Social Work or related field.
Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours
Working day, evening, and weekend hours may be necessary.
Special Instructions to Applicant
This is a pooled position from which Adjunct Instructors will be selected when/if a need arises in the department. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted directly. These pools are closed down annually during the summer and you will receive notification that a refreshed application is needed for you to continue to be considered.
La Salle University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports a fully inclusive, equitable, and diverse working and learning environment. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

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