How to Become a Social Worker

Aspiring social workers must complete a bachelor's degree, either a bachelor's in social work (BSW) or another field. Most states require those seeking licensure to earn a degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program.

A BSW prepares graduates for a baccalaureate social worker (LBSW) license or equivalent. This license allows the holder to engage in generalist practice. BSW admission requirements vary but typically require a high school diploma or GED certificate.

Earning a master of social work (MSW) prepares students for state licensure as a licensed master social worker (LMSW), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or equivalent licensure. MSW programs require a 1-2-year commitment depending on whether students enter the program with a BSW that gives them advanced standing.

Many MSW programs offer specializations such as child and family, school social work, or mental health. Most states require only a BSW for licensure to practice as a generalist. However, clinical social workers typically require a CSWE-accredited MSW or the equivalent for licensure and supervised clinical experience. Furthermore, advanced education often leads to higher pay, more career opportunities, and a larger scope of practice.

During field placements, social workers learn how to apply classroom learning to real-world contexts. CSWE-accredited baccalaureate and master's programs require supervised field placements by an experienced social worker. State boards require this experiential learning as part of licensure requirements. BSW enrollees complete at least 400 hours of supervised field instruction. MSW students complete at least 900 hours of supervised field experience.

While all states require social workers to obtain a license, the requirements vary. All candidates must complete a social work degree, apply for a license through the state licensing board, and receive approval to sit for the ASWB licensing exam. Candidates must pay a license application fee, pay the exam fee, and schedule a testing appointment. ASWB overviews state-by-state licensure application requirements.

Social workers must pass an ASWB exam to demonstrate their competence to practice. A social worker's exam level depends on their degree, license type, and the state where they intend to practice. The cost of associate, bachelor's, and master's exam registration is $230. The fee for advanced generalist or clinical exam registration is $260. Each examination consists of 170 multiple-choice questions. Test-takers must complete the computer exam in four hours.

Finding employment in the social work field is the next step. A BSW paves the way for entry-level social work jobs. BSW-educated practitioners gain the necessary experience to build their careers and pursue accelerated MSW programs. After you complete your MSW, experience as an LMSW, or independently practicing LCSW, experience can help you qualify for leadership positions, higher pay, or certification.

Licensed social workers can qualify for certification in areas like clinical, case management, gerontology, and hospice and palliative care. While this step is optional, specialized training and certification can enhance a social worker’s career options and increase pay. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the field’s largest membership organization, administers specialty certification for social workers with a BSW or MSW.