How to Become a Licensed Social Worker in Each State

While processes vary by state, these steps apply nationwide:

1. Earn a Degree:
   • BSW: For entry-level roles (Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker).
   • MSW: Required for clinical licensure (Licensed Clinical Social Worker).
   • Accreditation: Ensure your program is CSWE-accredited.
2. Complete Supervised Hours (LCSW only):
   • 3,000–4,000 hours of post-graduate clinical supervision.
3. Pass the ASWB Exam:
   • Choose the exam matching your license tier (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Clinical).
4. Apply for Licensure: Submit transcripts, fees, and background checks to your state board.

Always verify state-specific rules at your state’s social work board.

What Are the Social Work License Requirements?

License	Education	Exam	Experience
LBSW	CSWE-accredited BSW	ASWB Bachelor’s	None
LMSW	CSWE-accredited MSW	ASWB Master’s	None
LCSW	CSWE-accredited MSW + clinical focus	ASWB Clinical	2–4 years supervised

How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Social Worker?

• LBSW: 4 years (BSW degree).
• LMSW: 6 years (4-year BSW + 2-year MSW).
• LCSW: 6–8 years (BSW + MSW + 2–4 years of supervision).

What Can You Do With a Social Work Degree?

Is a Master’s Degree in Social Work Worth It?

Yes, if you want to:

• Practice clinically (e.g., therapy, diagnosis).
• Earn $20K+ more annually than BSW holders.
• Qualify for leadership roles in healthcare or education.

Top Online MSW Programs: University of Southern California, Simmons University, Baylor University.

Social Work Careers for Licensed Professionals

1. Social Work Administrator
   • Role: Manage programs in nonprofits, hospitals, or government agencies.
   • Salary: $74,000/year (BLS).
2. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Worker
   • Role: Provide counseling, crisis intervention, and recovery support.
   • Setting: Rehab centers, outpatient clinics.
3. Child, Family, and School Social Worker
   • Role: Advocate for child welfare, assist families, and support students.
   • Salary: $50,000/year (BLS).
4. Community Social Worker
   • Role: Address systemic issues like homelessness or food insecurity.
   • Employers: NGOs, local government.
5. Medical and Public Health Social Worker
   • Role: Guide patients through chronic illness, hospice care, or insurance navigation.
   • Setting: Hospitals, rehabilitation centers.
6. Military Social Worker
   • Role: Support veterans and active-duty personnel with PTSD, family counseling, and benefits.

Three Reasons to Pursue a Career as a Licensed Social Worker

1. Enter a Growing Job Market
   • 9% projected job growth (2022–2032) due to rising demand in mental health and elder care (BLS).
2. Establish Autonomy in Your Work
   • Open a private practice, lead policy initiatives, or specialize in niches like trauma or oncology.
3. Make a Difference for Individuals and Communities
   • Advocate for marginalized groups, reduce systemic inequities, and empower clients to thrive.

Start Your Journey

1. Find CSWE-accredited programs: CSWE Program Directory.
2. Review your state’s requirements: ASWB State Boards.
3. Join the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) for resources and networking.

FAQ