How to Become a Licensed Social Worker in Colorado
Colorado requires a Master's in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program, passing the ASWB exam, and 3,360 hours of supervised clinical experience over at least 24 months to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). The entry-level Licensed Social Worker (LSW) requires the MSW degree and exams. The whole process takes a minimum of 8 years (4 years of a bachelor's degree + 2 years of an MSW + 2 years of supervised hours), and LCSWs earn a median salary of $65,080 in Colorado.
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If you're considering a rewarding career helping individuals, families, and communities navigate life's challenges, becoming a licensed social worker in Colorado offers excellent opportunities. Colorado's social work licensing system recognizes two professional levels, both requiring graduate education and demonstrated competency through examination.
This comprehensive guide walks you through Colorado's social work licensing process, covering educational requirements, exam preparation, salary expectations, and career prospects. Whether you're starting a career as a social worker or relocating to Colorado with existing credentials, you'll find the essential information you need to plan your path forward.
Colorado Social Work License Types
Colorado offers two levels of professional social work licensure, both administered by the Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners through the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). Unlike some states, Colorado doesn't offer a license for Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) graduates, meaning all licensed social workers in the state hold master's degrees.
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
The LSW represents your entry into Colorado's licensed social work profession. With an LSW, you can practice social work under general supervision but can't provide clinical services independently. This license allows you to gain the supervised experience needed for clinical licensure while working in various social work settings.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
The LCSW is Colorado's advanced clinical license, allowing you to practice independently, provide psychotherapy, diagnose mental health conditions, and bill insurance for services. Most LCSWs work in private practice, healthcare settings, or in clinical roles that require autonomous decision-making.
| License Type | Education Required | Clinical Hours | Total Timeline | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensed Social Worker (LSW) | Master's in Social Work (MSW) | None required | 6 years (4 + 2) | $55,000-$62,000 |
| Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) | MSW + 3,360 supervised hours | 3,360 over 24+ months | 8+ years (4 + 2 + 2) | $65,080 |
Education Requirements for Colorado Social Work Licenses
Both Colorado social work licenses require a Master's in Social Work (MSW) from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Your MSW program must include supervised field practicum experience, typically 900-1,200 hours completed during your graduate studies.
What About BSW Graduates?
While Colorado doesn't license BSW-level social workers, your bachelor's degree in social work still has value. BSW graduates can work in many social service positions that don't require licensure, such as case management, community outreach, and program coordination roles. Additionally, BSW graduates often complete their MSW in less time through advanced-standing programs, which can take 12-18 months instead of the standard 2 years.
Finding CSWE-Accredited Programs
Colorado is home to several excellent MSW programs, both on-campus and online. You'll want to verify CSWE accreditation before enrolling, as only graduates from accredited programs qualify for licensure. Many working professionals choose CSWE-accredited online MSW programs that offer flexible scheduling while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
How to Get Your LSW in Colorado
Earning your LSW involves completing your education, submitting a comprehensive application with background check, passing Colorado's jurisprudence exam, and passing the ASWB Masters exam. The entire process typically takes 4-6 months after MSW graduation.
Step 1: Complete Your MSW Degree
Your MSW program takes approximately two years of full-time study (or longer if you're attending part-time). You'll complete coursework in social work theory, research methods, policy analysis, and specialized practice areas, along with your required field placement hours.
Step 2: Submit Your Application Package
After graduating, you'll submit a comprehensive application through the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). Your complete application includes:
- Official transcripts showing MSW degree completion
- Verification of CSWE program accreditation
- Criminal background check results (CBI and FBI)
- Completed application forms with required fees
- Professional references as specified by the board
Application processing typically takes 4-6 weeks once all materials are submitted. Incomplete applications delay the process, so ensure you submit all required documentation together.
Step 3: Pass the Colorado Jurisprudence Exam
Before taking the ASWB exam, you must pass Colorado's open-book jurisprudence exam. This exam covers state laws, regulations, and ethical standards specific to social work practice in Colorado. The exam ensures you understand Colorado-specific requirements, scope of practice, mandatory reporting laws, and professional conduct standards. You can access the exam online after your application is processed.
Step 4: Pass the ASWB Masters Exam
The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) administers the standardized licensing exam used nationwide. For LSW licensure in Colorado, you must pass the ASWB Masters Level Exam, which assesses knowledge and skills at the master's level of social work practice.
The exam contains 170 multiple-choice questions (150 scored, 20 pretest items) covering human development, assessment, intervention planning, direct and indirect practice, and professional ethics. You'll have four hours to complete the exam at an approved testing center.
How to Get Your LCSW in Colorado
Your LCSW represents the culmination of your clinical training. The process requires accumulating supervised clinical hours, maintaining documentation, and demonstrating advanced clinical competency through examination.
Step 1: Obtain Your LSW License First
You must hold an active LSW license before beginning to accrue supervised clinical hours toward LCSW licensure. Hours completed before LSW licensure don't count toward your LCSW requirements.
Step 2: Complete 3,360 Hours of Supervised Clinical Experience
Colorado requires 3,360 hours of post-master's supervised clinical experience, accumulated over a minimum of 24 months. These hours must include direct clinical work with clients, using social work knowledge and skills to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health and psychosocial issues. At least 1,680 hours (half of your total) must involve direct client contact for treatment, diagnosis, assessment, or counseling.
Your supervised hours must include at least 96 hours of face-to-face clinical supervision with a qualified LCSW supervisor. Colorado accepts both individual and group supervision, though up to 48 of your 96 supervision hours may be group supervision. The remaining 48 hours must be individual supervision, which provides personalized feedback and guidance on your clinical development.
Step 3: Pass the ASWB Clinical Exam
For LCSW licensure, Colorado requires passing the ASWB Clinical Level Exam, which tests advanced clinical knowledge, including diagnosis, treatment planning, and psychotherapy skills. Most LSW holders take the Clinical exam after completing or nearing completion of their supervised hours.
The Clinical exam is more advanced than the Masters exam and specifically assesses competencies needed for independent clinical practice, including differential diagnosis, evidence-based treatment selection, and complex case management.
Step 4: Submit Your LCSW Application
Once you've completed your hours and passed the Clinical exam, you'll submit your LCSW application to DORA. This includes detailed documentation of your supervised hours, supervisor verification forms, and additional application fees. Your supervisor must attest to the quality and nature of your clinical work throughout the supervision period.
Understanding Supervision Requirements
Quality supervision is essential to your development as a clinical social worker. Colorado has specific requirements for the quantity, quality, and structure of your supervised experience.
Required Hours Breakdown
Colorado's LCSW supervision requirements include:
- Total clinical hours: 3,360 hours of post-master's supervised clinical experience
- Minimum timeframe: 24 months (you can't complete requirements in less than 2 years, even if working full-time)
- Direct clinical practice: At least 1,680 hours (half of your total) must involve direct client contact providing treatment, diagnosis, assessment, or counseling services
- Supervision hours: At least 96 hours of clinical supervision with a qualified LCSW supervisor
- Supervision format: Both individual and group supervision count, though up to 48 of your 96 supervision hours may be group supervision (the remaining 48 must be individual)
Qualified Supervisors
Your clinical supervisor must meet specific qualifications:
- Hold an active Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) license in good standing with Colorado
- Have at least two years of post-LCSW clinical experience
- Complete any supervisor training required by the Colorado State Board
- Provide regular, ongoing supervision throughout your training period
Supervision Structure and Content
Adequate supervision is regular, structured, and focused on clinical skill development. Your supervisor will review your clinical work, provide feedback on assessment and intervention skills, help you navigate complex ethical situations, and ensure you're developing the clinical judgment needed for independent practice. Supervision typically occurs weekly or biweekly and should include case discussion, skill-building, and professional development guidance.
Finding a Supervisor
Many social workers find supervisors through their employers, particularly those working in healthcare settings, mental health agencies, or large social service organizations. If your employer doesn't provide supervision, you can arrange private supervision by paying a supervisor directly, typically $75-$150 per hour. The Colorado chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) maintains resources to help you connect with qualified supervisors in your area.
Preparing for the ASWB Exam
The ASWB exams are comprehensive, computer-based tests covering social work knowledge, skills, and ethics. Proper preparation significantly improves your chances of passing on your first attempt.
Exam Format and Content
All ASWB exams contain 170 multiple-choice questions (150 scored, 20 unscored pretest items). You'll have four hours to complete the exam, which covers human development and behavior, assessment and intervention planning, direct and indirect practice, and professional values and ethics. The Clinical exam includes additional content on diagnosis, psychotherapy theories, and advanced treatment modalities.
Study Resources
The ASWB offers official study guides and practice tests designed explicitly for each exam level. Many social workers also use third-party study programs, join study groups with other exam candidates, and review their MSW program materials. Plan to study for 8-12 weeks before your exam date, dedicating several hours per week to focused preparation.
Pass Rates and Retaking
National pass rates for ASWB exams typically range from 70% to 80%, depending on the exam level and candidate preparation. If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam after a 90-day waiting period. Many candidates who retake the exam after thorough additional preparation pass on their second attempt.
Colorado Social Work Salaries (2025)
Social work salaries in Colorado vary by specialization, experience level, and geographic location. According to the most recent data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), Colorado social workers earn competitive salaries compared to those in many other states.
| Social Work Specialty | Entry Level (10th Percentile) | Median Salary (50th Percentile) | Experienced (90th Percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mental Health & Substance Abuse Social Workers | $46,350 | $65,080 | $85,310 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $44,840 | $62,740 | $94,680 |
| Child, Family & School Social Workers | $45,830 | $53,930 | $98,740 |
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence your earning potential as a Colorado social worker:
- License level: LCSWs typically earn 15-25% more than LSWs due to their clinical expertise and independent practice abilities
- Practice setting: Healthcare and psychiatric settings often offer higher salaries than community-based organizations
- Geographic location: Metropolitan areas like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder typically offer higher salaries to offset living costs
- Experience: Seasoned social workers with specialized skills command premium salaries
- Private practice: LCSWs in private practice set their own fees, with established practitioners often exceeding median salary figures
Employment Outlook in Colorado
Colorado's social work job market remains strong, with consistent demand across multiple sectors. As of 2024, Colorado employs more than 14,000 professional social workers across various specializations. The state's growing population, increased awareness of mental health issues, and aging demographics all contribute to steady demand for qualified social workers.
Where Colorado Social Workers Find Employment
Social workers in Colorado find opportunities in diverse settings:
- Healthcare systems and hospitals (Children's Hospital Colorado, UCHealth, Centura Health)
- Community mental health centers serving urban and rural populations
- School districts throughout the state
- Veterans Affairs facilities supporting military families
- Private practice serving individuals, couples, and families
- Child welfare agencies and foster care systems
- Substance abuse treatment centers addressing Colorado's opioid crisis
- Aging and long-term care facilities
Professional Development Opportunities
The Colorado chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW-CO) offers valuable resources for career development. Membership provides access to continuing education courses, networking events, job listings, consultation opportunities, and advocacy efforts supporting the profession. NASW-CO also offers guidance on Colorado-specific licensing regulations and professional standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to work as a social worker in Colorado?
You don't need a license for all social work positions in Colorado. Many entry-level case management, community outreach, and program coordination roles are open to BSW graduates without licensure. However, you must have an LSW or LCSW license to use the title "Licensed Social Worker" or provide clinical services. If you plan to diagnose mental health conditions, provide psychotherapy, or bill insurance, you'll need LCSW licensure.
How long does it take to become an LCSW in Colorado?
The complete timeline from starting your education to LCSW licensure typically takes at least 8 years. This includes four years for your bachelor's degree, two years for your MSW, and a minimum of 2 years (24 months) to accumulate the required 3,360 supervised clinical hours. The timeline can extend to 9-10 years if you attend school part-time or accumulate clinical hours more slowly. Some people complete the bachelor's and MSW portions faster through advanced standing programs (if you have a BSW) or accelerated formats, but Colorado's mandatory 24-month supervision period can't be shortened.
Can I accumulate supervised hours while working part-time?
Yes, you can accrue supervised clinical hours on a part-time basis, but remember Colorado requires a minimum of 24 months to complete your 3,360 hours. This means even if you work full-time in a clinical setting, you can't complete your hours in less than two years. Part-time work extends this timeline proportionally. For example, working 20 hours per week in clinical practice would take approximately 3-4 years to accumulate the required hours.
Does Colorado accept social work licenses from other states?
Colorado participates in the Social Work Licensure Compact, which facilitates license portability for social workers moving between participating states. If you hold a compact privilege in another member state, you may be eligible to practice in Colorado under certain conditions. However, this isn't automatic reciprocity; you still need to meet Colorado's requirements.
For social workers licensed in non-compact states or seeking full Colorado licensure, you may qualify through licensure by endorsement. This process requires demonstrating that your education, examination, and experience meet or exceed Colorado's standards. You'll submit verification of your out-of-state license, official transcripts, proof of passing the ASWB exam, and documentation of supervised hours. The board reviews each application individually to determine equivalency.
Contact the Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners directly to discuss your specific situation, especially if you've been practicing in another state and want to understand which requirements you may already meet.
What's the difference between an LCSW and other mental health professionals in Colorado?
LCSWs, Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs), and psychologists all provide mental health services in Colorado, but they differ in training and approach. Social workers receive unique training in systems thinking, social justice, and connecting clients with community resources. This holistic approach distinguishes social work from other mental health professions.
How much does the licensing process cost?
Licensing costs include application fees (typically $100-$300 per license level), ASWB exam fees ($260 per exam attempt), jurisprudence exam fees, and background check costs. If you need to pay for private supervision, expect to budget $75-$150 per supervision hour. While these costs add up, many employers offer tuition reimbursement, licensure support, or supervision as part of employment benefits.
Do I need continuing education to maintain my Colorado social work license?
Yes, Colorado requires all licensed social workers (both LSWs and LCSWs) to complete continuing professional development for license renewal. You must complete 40 Professional Development Hours (PDH) during each two-year renewal cycle through Colorado's Continuing Professional Competency (CPC) program.
The CPC program requires you to complete a self-assessment using the board's competency rubric, develop a professional development plan based on identified needs, and complete 40 PDH in approved activities. These activities can include workshops, conferences, online courses, supervision training, and other educational experiences that enhance your social work competencies. You must maintain documentation of your completed PDH and submit compliance information with your renewal application.
Can I open a private practice with just an LSW license?
No, you need LCSW licensure to practice independently in Colorado. LSWs must practice under supervision and can't bill insurance independently, diagnose mental health conditions, or provide clinical services without oversight. Many social workers gain experience working in agency settings while accumulating their LCSW hours, then transition to private practice after obtaining clinical licensure.
What happens if I move to Colorado with clinical hours from another state?
Colorado may accept some supervised clinical hours completed in other states, but this depends on several factors, including whether your supervision met Colorado's standards and whether you were licensed in the other state while accumulating hours. Contact the Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners early in your planning process to determine which hours may transfer and what additional requirements you'll need to meet.
Are there volunteer opportunities to gain experience before applying to MSW programs?
Absolutely. Volunteering in social service settings strengthens your MSW application and helps you confirm that social work aligns with your career goals. Consider volunteering with organizations such as the University of Colorado Hospital, Jefferson County Human Services, or local nonprofits serving the populations you're interested in supporting. These experiences provide valuable insights into day-to-day social work responsibilities and help you build professional connections.
Key Takeaways
- In Colorado, an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program is required for all social work licenses; there's no BSW-level license available.
- The LSW requires your MSW, background check, Colorado jurisprudence exam, and the ASWB Masters exam. The LCSW additionally requires 3,360 supervised clinical hours over at least 24 months, as well as the ASWB Clinical exam.
- At least 1,680 of your clinical hours must be direct client contact, and you need 96 hours of supervision (at least 48 individual, up to 48 group)
- Colorado LCSWs earn a median salary of $65,080, with mental health and substance abuse social workers earning similar amounts, and some specializations reaching $90,000+.
- The complete path from bachelor's degree to LCSW takes at least 8 years (4 + 2 + 2), though the timeline extends if you study part-time or accumulate hours more slowly.
- Both LSWs and LCSWs must complete 40 Professional Development Hours every two years through Colorado's CPC program to maintain active licensure.
Schools with Master's Programs Accepting Students in Colorado
Ready to Start Your Social Work Career in Colorado?
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Explore Additional Colorado Mental Health Licensing Options
- Colorado Psychologist Licensing
- Colorado Counselor Licensing
- Colorado Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Explore Additional Social Worker Careers
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
