Median pay
$45,930
per year
U.S. jobs
437,860
Social and Human Service Assistants
Typical entry
BSW or related bachelor's degree
Bachelor license
Usually not
What Does a Case Manager and Care Coordinator Do?
Case managers and care coordinators assess client needs, build service plans, and connect people to medical, housing, financial, and behavioral-health resources, then follow up to keep services on track. These roles sit at the center of the social-service system and are widely open to BSW graduates without a separate social work license.
Work Settings and Employers in This Career
- Hospitals and health plans
- Community health centers
- Behavioral-health agencies
- Housing and homeless services
- Managed-care organizations
What a Typical Workday Involves
- Complete intakes and needs assessments
- Develop, update, and monitor care plans
- Coordinate appointments, referrals, and services
- Track outcomes and follow up with clients
- Advocate with insurers and partner agencies
- Maintain clear, timely documentation
How a BSW Prepares You for This Career
Care coordination is one of the most accessible and portable BSW careers, with demand across healthcare, behavioral health, and housing. A BSW provides the assessment, ethics, and systems knowledge employers look for.
Compare programs in our national BSW ranking and state-by-state rankings, or check your state's licensing rules on the credentials page.
What Is the Pay and Job Outlook for Case Managers and Care Coordinators in 2026?
The BLS counts case manager and care coordinator jobs under the category Social and Human Service Assistants, which reported a median wage of $45,930 per year and about 437,860 jobs nationwide (May 2025). Employment in this large support category is projected to keep growing as demand for social services rises. Wages vary by state, setting, and experience.
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025; BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. National, cross-industry figures.