03/10/2026
Social Workers are educated. I mean really educated.
In order to use the words "social worker" in a professional capacity, a person must earn a degree in social work from a CSWE (Council on Social Work Education) accredited program. In order to earn that degree you must complete all course work and a practicum supervised by a professional outside of the program as well as one inside the program. Both supervisors must agree on the competency and standard of your work, your effort and your intention to practice according to the core values.
To earn a bachelor’s degree in social work you must complete courses in human behavior, theory, policy development, ethics and research, +400 hrs. of supervised practice.
To earn a master's degree in social work you must complete courses in advanced clinical practice (with individuals, families, group and organizations), special populations, advocacy and leadership, cultural studies, analysis, +1000 hours of supervised practice.
To become a LCSW (licensed clinical social worker) you must complete a master's or doctoral program in social work +3000 supervised post-graduate hours in direct clinical practice.
This alone does not guarantee you a social work LICENSE.
At every level you must then take and pass a state sanctioned, nationally approved test from ASWB (Association of Social Work Boards) to be a "licensed social worker".
Next time you see one of us.....TALK TO US WITH YOUR INSIDE VOICE!!!