How to Become a Certified Social Worker in Wisconsin
Social workers work to improve the quality of people's lives by helping them deal with family and personal problems, issues with unemployment or housing, and problems with relationships. They work in a variety of settings throughout the community. To become a certified social worker in Wisconsin, a person must earn a bachelor's or master's degree in social work from an accredited college or university and pass a national exam. Read on to learn what's involved in becoming a certified social worker in Wisconsin.
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Things You'll Need
- Application to an Accredited Social Work Program
- Application for Social Work Certification
Instructions
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Earn a bachelor's or master's degree in social work from an accredited college or university. The University of Wisconsin at Madison offers both bachelor's and master's level programs. The university also offers a doctoral program for those interested in conducting research or teaching at the college level. Part time programs in social work are offered at the University of Wisconsin in Eau Claire.
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Participate in all field experiences required by your social work program. Most schools require at least two semesters of field experiences where students will come in contact with individuals and families in a variety of settings. Expect to intern in school settings, medical facilities, or in programs that promote the well being of children and families.
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Pass the national exam in social work issued by the Association of Social Work Boards, also known as the ASWB. The ASWB's website has online practice exams and detailed outlines of what to expect on the exam. There is also a listing of testing sites in the state of Wisconsin. Register for the test at least six months in advance.
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Complete the Wisconsin social work application form at the State of Wisconsin Department of Regulation & Licensing's website. A temporary license in social work can be obtained if you have met all of the educational requirements to become a social worker, but haven't taken the national exam.
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Tips & Warnings
There are several levels of social worker certification in the state of Wisconsin. A basic social work certificate allows you to work in entry level settings where psychotherapy is not involved. A master's degree is required to perform psychotherapy.
