How to Become a Social Worker: Complete Career Guide 2025
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To become a social worker, you'll need at least a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) for entry-level positions, though many specialized roles require a master's degree (MSW). Clinical social workers must obtain state licensure, typically requiring 2,000-4,000 hours of supervised experience and passing the ASWB exam. According to May 2024 BLS data, social workers earn median salaries between $58,570 and $69,480 depending on specialization, with strong job growth projected through 2032.
If you're the kind of person who wants to make a real difference in people's lives, a career in social work might be perfect for you. Social workers provide critical support to individuals, families, and communities facing challenges like poverty, mental health issues, addiction, abuse, and major life transitions. It's demanding work, but it's also one of the most rewarding careers you can choose.
The field is growing rapidly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social workers is projected to grow much faster than average, driven by increased demand for healthcare and social services, greater awareness of mental health needs, and an aging population requiring support services.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about becoming a social worker, from education requirements and licensing steps to career options and salary expectations.
Table of Contents
What Is Social Work?
Social work is a profession dedicated to helping individuals, families, groups, and communities enhance their well-being and meet basic human needs. Social workers focus on empowering vulnerable and oppressed people, addressing social problems, and working toward social justice.
Unlike counselors or therapists who primarily focus on mental health treatment, social workers take a broader approach. They connect clients with resources, advocate for policy changes, coordinate care across multiple systems, and address the environmental factors affecting people's lives.
Social workers practice in diverse settings, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, mental health clinics, child welfare organizations, nursing homes, courts, prisons, and private practices. The profession values social justice, dignity and worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence.
Education Requirements
Your educational path in social work depends on your career goals and the level of responsibility you want. Here's what you need to know about each degree level.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
A BSW is the minimum requirement for entry-level social work positions. These four-year programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and include both classroom instruction and supervised field education.
What you'll study: Human behavior and the social environment, social welfare policy, research methods, social work practice with individuals and families, cultural diversity, and ethics. You'll complete at least 400 hours of supervised field practicum.
Career options: Case manager, community outreach worker, group home worker, intake coordinator, or social service assistant. BSW graduates can work with children and families, in community organizations, or in healthcare settings under supervision.
Advantage of CSWE-accredited programs: If you plan to pursue an MSW later, graduating from a CSWE-accredited BSW program often allows you to enter advanced standing MSW programs, cutting a year off your master's degree.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
An MSW opens doors to clinical practice, leadership roles, and specialized fields. Most MSW programs take two years of full-time study, though advanced standing programs for BSW graduates can be completed in one year.
What you'll study: Advanced clinical practice, policy analysis, research methods, program evaluation, and specialized topics based on your concentration. You'll complete 900+ hours of supervised field placement across two internships.
Common concentrations:
- Clinical social work and mental health
- Child welfare and family services
- Healthcare and medical social work
- School social work
- Community organization and policy practice
- Substance abuse treatment
- Gerontology and aging services
Career advancement: An MSW is required for clinical social work, supervisory positions, private practice, and most specialized roles. It's also necessary if you want to obtain clinical licensure (LCSW).
Doctoral Degrees (PhD or DSW)
Doctoral degrees in social work are designed for those pursuing research, teaching, policy development, or executive leadership positions. These aren't required for clinical practice.
PhD in Social Work: Research-focused degree emphasizing theory development, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and scholarship. Graduates typically work in academia or research institutions.
Doctor of Social Work (DSW): Practice-focused doctoral degree for experienced clinicians and administrators. Emphasizes advanced clinical practice, program development, and organizational leadership.
Can You Practice Social Work Without a Social Work Degree?
In some states and settings, you can work in social service positions with a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, or a related field. However, you cannot call yourself a social worker or obtain licensure without a degree from a CSWE-accredited program. Many employers prefer or require social work degrees even for non-licensed positions.
Licensing and Certification
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories regulate the practice of social work. While requirements vary by state, most follow similar patterns. For more information on state licensing, see the following region lists:
Types of Social Work Licenses
| License Level | Typical Requirements | What You Can Do |
|---|---|---|
| Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) | BSW degree + passing the ASWB Bachelor's exam | Non-clinical practice under supervision |
| Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) | MSW degree + passing the ASWB Master's exam | Non-clinical practice, some supervised clinical work |
| Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) | MSW + 2,000-4,000 supervised hours + ASWB Clinical exam | Independent clinical practice, diagnosis, psychotherapy |
| Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) | Additional experience beyond LCSW (some states only) | Full independent practice, private practice, supervision |
The ASWB Examination
The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) develops and maintains the licensing examinations used by all regulatory boards. There are four exam levels corresponding to different license types:
- Bachelor's exam: 170 questions, 4 hours, for entry-level BSW practice
- Master's exam: 170 questions, 4 hours, for MSW graduates seeking non-clinical licensure
- Advanced Generalist exam: 170 questions, 4 hours, for advanced non-clinical practice (less common)
- Clinical exam: 170 questions, 4 hours, for clinical social work licensure
Exam fees typically range from $230 to $260. Many states require additional application fees ranging from $50 to $300.
Supervision Requirements for Clinical Licensure
To become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), you'll need to complete supervised clinical experience after earning your MSW. Requirements vary by state but typically include:
- Hours required: 2,000 to 4,000 hours (most states require 3,000)
- Timeframe: Usually must be completed within 3-6 years
- Supervision ratio: Typically 1 hour of supervision per 20-40 client contact hours
- Supervisor qualifications: Must be an LCSW with several years of experience
During this period, you'll work in clinical settings providing direct services like psychotherapy, assessment, treatment planning, and case management under the oversight of a licensed supervisor.
Continuing Education
All states require continuing education to maintain social work licensure. Requirements typically range from 20 to 48 hours every 1-2 years, depending on your state and license level. Many states require specific training in ethics, cultural competency, or suicide prevention.
Career Pathways and Specializations
Social work offers incredible diversity in career options. Here are some of the major specializations you can pursue.
| Professions | Job Responsibilities |
|---|---|
 Child/Pediatric Social Worker | Child welfare social workers protect children from abuse, neglect, and unsafe living conditions. They investigate reports, assess home environments, coordinate family services, and, when necessary, arrange safe placements for at-risk children. The career typically requires a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW), though many roles—primarily licensed or supervisory positions—require a Master of Social Work (MSW) and state licensure. Median salaries are $58,570 annually. The work is emotionally challenging but deeply rewarding for those committed to child safety and family wellbeing. |
 Family Social Worker | Family social workers earn $50,820 median salary. Learn education requirements, licensing steps, and career paths. BSW to LCSW roadmap inside. |
 Probation Officer | Learn how to become a probation officer. Explore degree requirements, certifications, training, and salary data ($64,520 median) in this complete guide. |
 Victim Advocate | Quick Answer Victim advocates support crime survivors through crisis intervention, legal system navigation, and connection to essential resources. Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or criminal justice, with many advocates holding master's degrees. According to May 2024 BLS data, social workers in categories that include victim advocacy earn median salaries between $58,570 and $69,480 Continue Reading |
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
These social workers protect vulnerable children, strengthen families, and support students' academic and social success. They work in schools, child protective services, foster care agencies, and family service organizations.
Key responsibilities: Assessing family situations, coordinating services, developing treatment plans, advocating for children's needs, facilitating adoptions and foster placements, providing counseling to students, and connecting families with community resources.
Settings: Public schools (K-12), child welfare agencies, family counseling centers, juvenile justice systems, adoption agencies, and early intervention programs.
May 2024 median salary: $58,570 annually
Healthcare Social Workers
Healthcare social workers help patients and families navigate medical challenges, understand diagnoses and treatment options, coordinate care, and access resources. This is one of the highest-paying social work specializations.
Key responsibilities: Discharge planning, connecting patients with home health services or medical equipment, counseling patients and families facing serious illness, coordinating care between multiple providers, addressing financial barriers to treatment, and end-of-life planning.
Settings: Hospitals, outpatient clinics, hospice programs, rehabilitation facilities, dialysis centers, organ transplant teams, home healthcare agencies.
May 2024 median salary: $68,090 annually
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
These social workers provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for individuals dealing with mental illness, addiction, or co-occurring disorders. Clinical social workers make up a large portion of the mental health workforce.
Key responsibilities: Conducting psychosocial assessments, providing individual and group therapy, developing treatment plans, crisis intervention, case management, connecting clients with psychiatric services, and advocating for mental health resources.
Settings: Community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment programs, private practice, employee assistance programs, correctional facilities, veterans' services.
May 2024 median salary: $60,060 annually
School Social Workers
School social workers address barriers to students' academic success by providing counseling, connecting families with resources, and addressing issues like attendance, behavior problems, mental health concerns, and home instability.
Key responsibilities: Crisis intervention, developing behavior intervention plans, coordinating special education services, running support groups, home visits, truancy intervention, connecting families with community resources, and advocating for students' needs.
Settings: Public and private schools (elementary through high school), school districts' central offices, alternative education programs.
Note: Included in the Child, Family, and School category with a median salary of $58,570.
Clinical Social Workers
Clinical social workers provide psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals, couples, families, and groups. With an LCSW license, you can maintain a private practice and bill insurance independently.
Key responsibilities: Diagnosing mental health conditions, providing evidence-based therapy (CBT, DBT, trauma-focused treatment), crisis intervention, treatment planning, and coordinating care with psychiatrists and other providers.
Settings: Private practice, community mental health agencies, hospitals, clinics, employee assistance programs, military, and veteran services.
Community and Social Service Specialists
These social workers focus on program development, policy advocacy, community organizing, and addressing systemic issues affecting vulnerable populations.
Key responsibilities: Developing and managing social service programs, conducting needs assessments, grant writing, community outreach, policy advocacy, coordinating services across multiple agencies, and program evaluation.
Settings: Nonprofit organizations, government agencies, community action programs, foundations, and advocacy organizations.
May 2024 median salary: $69,480 annually (All Other Social Workers category)
Additional Specializations
Social work offers many other specialization options:
- Geriatric social workers: Support elderly clients and their families with aging issues, long-term care planning, and end-of-life decisions
- Hospice and palliative care social workers: Provide emotional support and practical assistance to patients with terminal illnesses and their families
- Military and veterans' social workers: Address unique challenges facing service members, veterans, and military families
- Forensic social workers: Work in criminal justice settings, courts, prisons, and with offenders
- Occupational social workers: Provide employee assistance programs and workplace mental health services
- International social workers: Focus on global issues, refugee services, and humanitarian aid
Salary and Job Outlook
Social work salaries vary significantly based on your education level, licensure status, specialization, years of experience, and geographic location. Here's what you need to know about compensation in the field.
National Salary Data (May 2024)
| Specialization | Employment | Median Salary | 10th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Social Workers | 759,740 | $61,330 | $41,580 | $99,500 |
| Child, Family, and School | 382,960 | $58,570 | $40,580 | $94,030 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | 185,940 | $68,090 | $45,030 | $100,870 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse | 125,910 | $60,060 | $39,620 | $104,130 |
| All Other Social Workers | 64,940 | $69,480 | $44,530 | $112,740 |
Factors Affecting Salary
Education and licensure: Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) typically earn significantly more than non-licensed social workers. Those with MSW degrees earn higher salaries than BSW graduates.
Experience: Entry-level social workers start in the $40,000-$50,000 range in most areas, while experienced clinical social workers can earn $80,000-$100,000+ annually, especially in private practice or specialized clinical roles.
Geographic location: Urban areas and states with higher costs of living typically offer higher salaries. Healthcare settings generally pay more than educational or nonprofit organizations.
Practice setting: Private practice clinical social workers can earn well above median salaries, particularly when building an established client base. Healthcare and specialized clinical positions often pay more than case management or child welfare roles.
Job Growth Projections
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth for social workers through 2032. Factors driving demand include:
- Increased awareness and reduced stigma around mental health
- A growing elderly population requiring aging services and healthcare coordination
- Ongoing substance abuse epidemic and need for addiction treatment
- Emphasis on integrated healthcare and coordinated care models
- Continued need for child welfare and family support services
- Recognition of social determinants of health in healthcare delivery
Healthcare social work and mental health specializations are expected to see particularly strong growth as healthcare systems increasingly recognize the importance of addressing patients' psychosocial needs alongside medical treatment.
The field of social work continues to show strong growth potential. For detailed statistics on job growth projections and salary trends across different social work specializations, see our comprehensive social work employment outlook data.
From Psychology Degree to Social Work
Many people with bachelor's degrees in psychology wonder if they can become social workers. The short answer is yes, but there are important considerations.
Working in Social Services With a Psychology Degree
You can work in many social service positions with a bachelor's degree in psychology. Common roles include case manager, behavioral health technician, residential counselor, youth services worker, and program coordinator. However, you cannot legally call yourself a social worker or obtain social work licensure without a degree from a CSWE-accredited social work program.
Pursuing an MSW With a Psychology Degree
If you have a bachelor's degree in psychology (or another related field), you can apply to MSW programs. You'll enter the traditional two-year program rather than advanced standing, which is reserved for BSW graduates from CSWE-accredited programs.
What MSW programs look for in psychology applicants:
- Relevant coursework in human behavior, research methods, and social sciences
- Volunteer or work experience in social services settings
- Strong understanding of social work's mission and values
- Commitment to social justice and working with vulnerable populations
- Letters of recommendation from professionals who can speak to your suitability for social work
Bridge Programs and Foundation Courses
Some universities offer bridge programs or foundation courses for students without social work backgrounds. These programs help you build foundational knowledge in social work theory, ethics, and practice before starting your MSW coursework.
Is an MSW Right for You?
Consider an MSW if you want to provide direct clinical services, obtain independent licensure, work in healthcare or school settings that require social work credentials, or take a systems-level approach to helping people rather than focusing solely on individual psychology.
A psychology degree might be a better fit if you're more interested in research, cognitive processes, experimental psychology, or eventually pursuing a PhD in psychology rather than clinical practice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Social Worker
Here's a clear roadmap for launching your social work career, from education through licensure.
Step 1: Earn Your Bachelor's Degree (4 Years)
Choose between a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program or a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology, or a related field. A BSW gives you more direct career options and can shorten your MSW program if you decide to pursue graduate education.
What to do during undergrad: Volunteer or work in social service settings, complete internships, join social work organizations, shadow practicing social workers, and maintain strong grades for graduate school applications.
Step 2: Consider Your Career Goals
Decide whether you want to pursue clinical social work (requiring an MSW and clinical licensure) or work in non-clinical roles. This determines whether you need to continue to graduate school immediately or can enter the workforce with your bachelor's degree.
Step 3: Pursue an MSW (1-2 Years, if applicable)
If your goals require an MSW, research CSWE-accredited programs, prepare for the GRE if required, gather strong letters of recommendation, and write a compelling personal statement explaining your commitment to social work.
During your MSW program: Choose a concentration aligned with your career goals, excel in your field placements, build relationships with supervisors who might provide post-graduate supervision, and consider your licensing plans.
Step 4: Complete Field Education Requirements
BSW programs require at least 400 hours of supervised field education. MSW programs typically require 900+ hours across two field placements. These internships provide hands-on experience and help you build professional connections.
Step 5: Apply for Initial Licensure
After graduating, apply for your state's entry-level social work license (LBSW with a BSW or LMSW with an MSW). Requirements vary by state but typically include:
- Application and fees ($50-$300)
- Official transcripts from a CSWE-accredited program
- Passing the appropriate ASWB examination ($230)
- Background check
- Sometimes letters of reference or verification of fieldwork
Step 6: Gain Supervised Clinical Experience (2-4 Years, for LCSW)
If you're pursuing clinical licensure, work in a clinical social work position under an approved LCSW supervisor. Document your hours carefully and ensure your supervision meets your state board's requirements. This typically takes 2-4 years of full-time work.
Step 7: Obtain Clinical Licensure
Once you've completed the required supervision hours, apply to take the ASWB Clinical exam. After passing, you'll receive your LCSW license and can practice independently, potentially opening a private practice.
Step 8: Maintain Licensure Through Continuing Education
Complete required continuing education hours (typically 20-48 hours every 1-2 years), renew your license on schedule, and stay current with best practices and emerging research in your field.
Timeline Overview
- Entry-level social work (BSW only): 4-5 years (bachelor's degree + initial licensure)
- Licensed master social worker: 6-7 years (bachelor's + MSW + LMSW licensure)
- Licensed clinical social worker: 8-10 years (bachelor's + MSW + supervised experience + LCSW)
Essential Skills and Competencies
Successful social workers combine technical knowledge with strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence. Here are the key competencies you'll need to develop.
Core Professional Skills
Active listening: The ability to fully focus on clients, understand their concerns, and respond appropriately without judgment.
Empathy and compassion: Genuinely caring about clients' well-being while maintaining professional boundaries.
Communication: Clearly explaining complex information, writing detailed case notes and reports,and advocating effectively for clients.
Cultural competency: Understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences. Recognizing how culture, race, ethnicity, and other factors shape people's lives.
Problem-solving: Assessing complex situations, identifying resources, and developing practical solutions to help clients overcome challenges.
Organization and time management: Managing large caseloads, documentation requirements, multiple deadlines, and competing priorities.
Clinical and Assessment Skills (for Clinical Social Workers)
Clinical assessment: Conducting comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments, identifying mental health conditions, and understanding diagnostic criteria.
Treatment planning: Developing evidence-based treatment plans, setting measurable goals, and selecting appropriate interventions.
Therapeutic techniques: Applying various therapy modalities (CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-focused approaches) based on client needs.
Crisis intervention: Responding effectively to emergencies, assessing safety risks, and de-escalating difficult situations.
Systems and Advocacy Skills
Systems thinking: Understanding how individuals exist within families, communities, and larger social systems. Recognizing how policies and structures affect people's lives.
Resource coordination: Knowing what services exist in your community and how to connect clients with appropriate resources.
Advocacy: Speaking up for clients' rights and needs, challenging unjust policies or practices, working toward systemic change.
Personal Qualities
Emotional resilience: Managing the emotional demands of social work, including exposure to trauma and difficult situations, without burning out.
Professional boundaries: Maintaining appropriate relationships with clients, knowing when to refer out, and practicing self-care.
Ethical decision-making: Applying the NASW Code of Ethics to complex situations, recognizing ethical dilemmas, and consulting appropriately.
Commitment to lifelong learning: Staying current with research, pursuing continuing education, reflecting on your practice, and seeking to improve.
Social workers interested in crisis intervention and criminal justice can pursue victim advocacy careers, providing trauma-informed support, court accompaniment, and resource navigation for survivors of crime and violence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree do you need to be a social worker?
You need at least a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program to become a licensed social worker. For clinical practice and most specialized roles, you'll need a master's degree in social work (MSW). Some entry-level social service positions accept degrees in psychology or related fields, but you can't obtain social work licensure without a social work degree.
How long does it take to become a social worker?
It takes 4-5 years to become an entry-level social worker with a BSW and state licensure. Becoming a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) typically takes 8-10 years total, including earning a bachelor's degree, completing an MSW program, and accumulating 2,000-4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience.
What's the difference between a BSW and an MSW?
A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a four-year undergraduate degree that prepares you for entry-level social work positions. A Master of Social Work (MSW) is a graduate degree (typically two years, or one year for BSW graduates in advanced standing programs) required for clinical practice, specialized roles, and supervisory positions. MSWs earn higher salaries and have more career advancement opportunities.
Do social workers need a license?
Yes, all 50 states require licensure to practice social work. Requirements vary by state and level of practice. Entry-level licenses (LBSW or LMSW) require a social work degree and passing the appropriate ASWB exam. Clinical licensure (LCSW) additionally requires supervised clinical experience and passing the ASWB Clinical exam.
How much do social workers make?
According to May 2024 BLS data, social workers earn median salaries ranging from $58,570 (child, family, and school social workers) to $69,480 (specialized roles), with an overall median of $61,330. Healthcare social workers earn a median of $68,090. Salaries vary significantly by education level, licensure, specialization, experience, and location. Licensed clinical social workers in private practice can earn substantially more.
Can I become a social worker with a psychology degree?
You can work in many social service positions with a bachelor's degree in psychology, but you cannot obtain social work licensure without a degree from a CSWE-accredited social work program. However, you can apply to MSW programs with a psychology degree and become a licensed social worker after completing the two-year graduate program.
Is social work in demand?
Yes, social work is a growing field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment growth for social workers to be much faster than average through 2032, driven by increased awareness of mental health needs, an aging population, ongoing substance abuse challenges, and healthcare systems' growing recognition of social determinants of health.
What's the difference between a social worker and a therapist?
Social workers take a person-in-environment approach, addressing not just mental health but also social, economic, and environmental factors affecting clients' lives. They connect people with resources, coordinate services, and advocate for systemic change. Therapists typically focus more narrowly on mental health treatment. However, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) do provide therapy and counseling, making the distinction less clear in clinical practice. Many therapists are actually clinical social workers.
Can social workers diagnose mental illness?
Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) can diagnose mental health conditions as part of their clinical practice. However, entry-level social workers with BSW or LMSW licenses typically cannot make formal diagnoses. The scope of practice varies by state, so check your state's regulations.
What's the hardest part of being a social worker?
Many social workers report that managing heavy caseloads, dealing with bureaucratic constraints, and experiencing compassion fatigue or vicarious trauma are challenging aspects of the profession. Working with clients facing severe poverty, abuse, or mental illness can be emotionally demanding. However, most social workers find that the rewards of helping people overcome challenges outweigh these difficulties.
Can social workers open private practices?
Yes, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) can open private practices and bill insurance independently. However, you must first complete your supervised clinical hours, obtain your LCSW license, and often get credentialed with insurance panels. Some states require additional supervision or experience before you can practice completely independently.
What's the job outlook for social workers in schools?
School social work is a growing field as schools increasingly recognize the importance of addressing students' mental health and social-emotional needs. Many states have moved toward requiring or strongly recommending social workers as part of school-based mental health teams. However, positions may be subject to school district budgets and funding cycles.
Key Takeaways
- Social workers need at least a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) for entry-level positions, while clinical practice requires a master's degree (MSW) and state licensure.
- All 50 states require social work licensure, with clinical licensure (LCSW) requiring 2,000-4,000 hours of supervised experience and passing the ASWB Clinical exam.
- May 2024 median salaries range from $58,570 to $69,480 depending on specialization, with healthcare and specialized clinical roles earning higher salaries.
- The field offers diverse career paths including child welfare, healthcare, mental health, schools, substance abuse treatment, and clinical private practice.
- You can pursue social work with a psychology degree by enrolling in a two-year MSW program, though you can't obtain licensure without a CSWE-accredited social work degree.
- The complete path to becoming a licensed clinical social worker typically takes 8-10 years from starting your bachelor's degree through obtaining LCSW licensure.
Ready to Start Your Social Work Career?
Explore accredited BSW and MSW programs that match your career goals and location. Find CSWE-accredited programs offering the specializations and format that work for your schedule.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Social Workers are based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
