Social Worker Requirements in California

Anyone wishing to become a licensed social worker in California must have a master's degree in social work from an accredited university, as well as additional coursework and hands-on experience.

Additional Coursework

The additional coursework required includes: child abuse assessment and reporting (7 hours), human sexuality (10 hours), spousal abuse assessment and reporting (15 hours), substance abuse and dependency (15 hours) and aging and long-term care (10 hours).

Hands-On Experience

A minimum of 3200 hours of supervised work experience and 104 weeks of supervision are required and must be taken while registered with the California Board of Behavioral Sciences as an Associate Clinical Social Worker.

Standard Written Exam

When the applicant fulfills all the requirements, the Board will confirm eligibility and then assign the candidate a notification to take the LCSW Standard Written Examination within one year.

Written Clinical Vignette Exam

When the applicant successfully passes the Standard Written Examination, they must then take and pass an LCSW Written Clinical Vignette Examination.

License Number

Upon successful completion of both examinations, the applicant must, within one year, apply for their Initial License Issuance to receive a license number to work in California.

References

• Department of Consumer Affairs