How to Get a Social Work License in Florida: 2025 Requirements and Top MSWPrograms
Becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida is a rewarding journey that combines education, supervised experience, and a commitment to helping others. This guide outlines the steps to licensure in 2025, explores salary trends, highlights high-demand specializations, including telehealth opportunities, and provides detailed information on BSW and MSW programs in Florida, tailored to the state’s unique requirements.
How to Become Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida (2025)
Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW) in Florida
The CMSW is an administrative credential in Florida, distinct from the LCSW, and does not permit clinical practice. To qualify:
- Earn a CSWE-accredited MSW or doctorate. Complete three years of social work experience, including two years post-master’s supervised by an LCSW or CMSW.
- Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam. Submit an application ($205 fee) to the Florida Board.
This license suits roles in policy, case management, or program administration, offering a non-clinical career path.
Register as a Clinical Social Worker Intern (RCSW-I)
After your MSW, apply to the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling to become a Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern (RCSW-I).
Requirements include submitting transcripts, a $150 fee, and a letter from a board-approved LCSW supervisor who will oversee your clinical hours. This license is valid for up to five years and cannot be renewed.
Complete Florida’s 3,000-Hour Supervision Rule
Florida mandates two years of post-master’s supervised experience, totaling at least 3,000 hours. This includes:
- 1,500 hours of face-to-face psychotherapy with clients.
- 100 hours of supervision over a minimum of 100 weeks, with at least one hour of supervision every two weeks.
- Supervision must be provided by a licensed LCSW, making this one of the more rigorous requirements compared to other states.
Pass the ASWB Clinical Exam
- Once your supervised hours are verified, register for the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Exam ($260 fee). This multiple-choice test assesses your ability to diagnose, treat, and manage mental health cases ethically.
- Upon passing, submit your score to the Florida Board.
Apply for LCSW Licensure
- Submit your final application to the Florida Board with a $180 fee, proof of supervised experience, and transcripts. You’ll also need to complete an 8-hour Florida Laws and Rules course before licensure.
- After approval, your LCSW license will be issued, renewable every two years by March 31 of odd-numbered years (next renewal: March 31, 2027).
Social Work License Reciprocity in Florida
Florida does not offer automatic reciprocity for social work licenses from other states. However, you can apply for licensure by endorsement if you hold an equivalent license elsewhere. The Florida Board reviews applications individually, requiring:
- Verification of your current license.
- Proof of meeting Florida’s education, experience, and exam standards.
- Completion of the Florida Laws and Rules course.
Out-of-state LCSWs may also practice telehealth in Florida by registering under specific guidelines.
Licensing Renewal and Continuing Education in Florida
LCSW and CMSW licenses expire every two years (next deadline: March 31, 2027). Renewal requires:
- 30 Continuing Education (CE) Hours: Including 25 general hours, 2 hours on medical errors, 3 hours on ethics and boundaries, and additional hours (e.g., domestic violence, laws and rules) every third renewal (six years).
- Fees: $120 for LCSWs, $155 for CMSWs.
First-time renewals are exempt from CE requirements. CE credits must be from board-approved providers and reported via CE Broker.
BSW Programs in Florida
A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a stepping stone to an MSW and entry-level social work roles. Below are some CSWE-accredited BSW programs in Florida.
| School | Format | Enrollment Type | 2025 In-State Tuition |
| Florida State University (FSU) | On-Campus | Full-Time, Part-Time | $216 per credit |
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | On-Campus | Full-Time, Part-Time | $212 per credit |
| Florida Atlantic University (FAU) | On-Campus | Full-Time, Part-Time | $203 per credit |
| Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) | On-Campus | Full-Time, Part-Time | $204 per credit |
| University of South Florida (USF) | On-Campus | Full-Time, Part-Time | $211 per credit |
MSW Programs in Florida
| School | Format | Enrollment Type | 2025 In-State Tuition |
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | On-Campus, Online | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $487 per credit |
| Florida State University (FSU) | On-Campus, Online | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $479 per credit |
| University of South Florida (USF) | On-Campus | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $431 per credit |
| Florida International University (FIU) | On-Campus | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $455 per credit |
| Florida Atlantic University (FAU) | On-Campus | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $371 per credit |
Online MSW Programs in Florida
| School | Enrollment Type | 2025 In-State Tuition |
| University of Central Florida (UCF) | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $487 per credit |
| Florida State University (FSU) | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $479 per credit |
| University of South Florida (USF) | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $431 per credit |
| Barry University | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $647 per credit |
| Florida International University (FIU) | Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing | $455 per credit |
Note: Online programs often include in-person field placements arranged locally.
Suggested: LMSW vs. LCSW: What’s the Difference?
Salary Insights for LCSWs in Florida (2025)
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $50,160 | $24.12 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $62,990 | $30.28 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers: | $54,540 | $26.22 |
| Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW | $78,825 | $37.90 |
| Social Work Administrators: | $69,600 | $33.46 |
High-Demand Specializations in Florida
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse: With rising awareness, LCSWs specializing in therapy for anxiety, depression, and addiction are in high demand, particularly in urban centers.
- Healthcare Social Work: Hospitals and clinics seek LCSWs to support patients with chronic illnesses or end-of-life care, boosted by Florida’s large retiree population.
- Child and Family Services: Addressing issues like foster care and domestic violence remains critical, especially in rural areas.
Telehealth Opportunities in Florida
Florida’s 2019 Telehealth Bill allows LCSWs to provide remote services, expanding access to care. In 2025:
- Eligibility: Out-of-state LCSWs can register to offer telehealth to Florida residents, meeting specific standards (e.g., patient evaluations, record-keeping).
- Demand: Telehealth is booming for mental health support, with employers like Thrive works and Chrysalis Health hiring LCSWs for hybrid roles ($65+ per session).
- Advantages: Flexibility and broader client reach make telehealth a game-changer for LCSWs building private practices.
Must Read: How to become a Social Worker in Alabama
Why Pursue an LCSW in Florida?
Florida’s unique 3,000-hour supervision rule ensures LCSW are well-prepared for clinical challenges, while its diverse population offers varied career paths. Whether you choose a top MSW program like FSU’s online track or dive into telehealth, the state’s growing need for mental health professionals makes 2025 an ideal time to start. Ready to make a difference? Begin with your MSW and take the first step toward a fulfilling LCSW career in Florida.
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