How Do I Become a Certified Social Worker?

To become a certified social worker, otherwise known as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, you will need to complete a Master's degree program, clinical internship and pass a state exam. Certified social workers may do a wide range of work, including mental health, marriage, family and substance abuse counseling. Many social workers are employed by government agencies, but some choose to go into private practice or work for a private non-profit agency.

Education

Although you can work in a limited capacity as a social worker with a Bachelor's degree in social work (BSW), psychology, or sociology, certified social workers must complete a Master's in social work (MSW) program. Many social workers choose to take their education to the next step and complete a Ph.D.

A Master's degree in social work takes two to four years to complete. The program will include both classroom work and no less than 900 hours of internships and field work. If you have a BSW, you may be able to complete your Master's degree in fewer than two years.

Once you have completed an MSW, you will need additional clinical experience before you can apply to become a licensed clinical social worker. The requirements vary by state, but generally, you will need no less than two years of field experience beyond your Master's degree. During these two years, you must be supervised by a qualified licensed clinical social worker who will document your progress.

After you have completed your post-Master's degree field experience, most states will require you to take a clinical examination that tests your knowledge of social work and ethical principles, as well as the laws and regulations of your state.

If you wish to practice social work in a specific area such as family therapy or mental health counseling, you will need additional Master's degree-level coursework in this area and to take an accreditation exam covering the principles of your field.

Once you are a licensed clinical social worker, you will need to take continuing education courses every year to keep your certification current. These classes will keep you up to date on legal developments and ethical standards in the social work field.