Spanning across institutions in both the public and private sector, social worker jobs are essential to our communities. The allied health clinicians who take these jobs play a crucial role in addressing societal issues, supporting individuals and families through challenges, and advocating for social justice. Whether you’re considering a career change or just starting your professional journey, becoming a social worker can be a rewarding path. Read the following blog covering the steps, best practices, and frequently asked questions to gain a comprehensive understanding of how to become a social worker and thrive in this meaningful career.
How do I become a social worker?
To become a social worker, the first step is to meet the prerequisites and apply to a bachelor’s degree program from an accredited school. From there, aspiring social workers typically earn their bachelor’s degree, complete field training, and pursue a master’s degree. See below for a full breakdown of social work educational requirements:
Meet Social Work Program Prerequisites
Given the responsibility social workers have and the resources available to train aspiring professionals, it’s important to narrow down qualified candidates. Depending on the bachelor’s program, you may be granted immediate admission, but some universities may require you to earn your spot. Based on the review of programs, high school and college applicants must present valid references, a resume, and a strong GPA. However, some programs may require a cover letter, mission statement, and volunteer hours.
Earn an Accredited Degree
When pursuing social work jobs, employers typically require you to have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. An accredited school is verified by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), a governing association shaping education in social work. While most programs are four years, there are online social work degree options. However, some may not be accredited by the CSWE.
Complete Field Work
A social work degree is not the only requirement for aspiring social workers—you must be exposed to the field you’re about to work in. Field work, otherwise known as practicum, prepares you with hands-on, real-world experience. Under the supervision of both your instructor and an experienced professional, you will assist with case management and advocacy work, among other tasks.Â
Based on the reports of various programs nationwide, you must meet the required fieldwork hours to graduate. By completing the supervised training, you will have met the pre-licensure requirements and gained confidence for future roles.
Earn a State License
Upon completion of a bachelor’s in social work and required field training, you can apply to take the social work certification license. However, depending on the state of practice, you may have to meet additional requirements to take the exam. This could mean additional fieldwork hours or even a master’s degree. To be proactive, seek an academic advisor to ensure you are on the right track. Another resource is the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), the organization responsible for administering certification exams in all states.
Consider a Masters In Social Work
A Master’s in Social Work (MSW) is often the gateway to advanced social work positions or employment in certain states. While a Bachelor’s in Social Work (BSW) from an accredited university can open doors to entry-level positions such as case management and welfare services, it lacks the advanced training and qualifications required for many roles. Due to this, many individuals apply to master’s programs immediately after graduating from their baccalaureate program.
States and employers often require an MSW so they are confident social workers are well-rounded, able to practice in a variety of settings, and potentially provide treatment. Given the liability in the field, states aim to ensure their social workers are prepared for the role, many of which involve high-stakes or life-or-death situations.
Meet Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain licensure, no matter your degree or state, completing continuing education (CE) requirements is non-negotiable. Depending on the state, credit hours, types of classes, and the length of time to complete varies. The reasoning behind CE requirements is to ensure social workers can maintain their knowledge, and skills, and stay updated on the latest practices. To review your state’s CE requirements, check with your state board and refer to the National Association of Social Workers’ website.Â
As a travel social worker, you will find yourself supported during the CE renewal process. The credentialing team at Barton Healthcare Staffing ensures clinicians are well-supported and knowledgeable about the required CE hours. Regular check-ins, either weekly or monthly, are a priority to help clinicians stay on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to become a social worker?
Generally, it takes 4–6 years to become a social worker. This is based on whether an aspiring professional chooses a bachelor’s, master’s, or accelerated master’s program. However, social worker educational requirements are one part of the timeline. While completing a degree in social work, candidates must meet state-level requirements, fieldwork and/or clinical hours, and pass the certification exam. As a social worker, you can also always choose to get some certifications that will maximize your salary: read more about those here!
Which state offers the highest social worker salary?
The social worker’s salary in California is the highest in the nation, with a mean of $93,200 annually. This figure is attributed to the cost of living and demand for community services. In the case of travel social workers, they have the ability to earn higher wages due to their negotiation advantage. To view open travel social worker jobs in California, click here.
What can you do with a degree in social work?
A degree in social work—particularly a master’s degree—can open the door to a variety of positions and work settings. According to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), social workers are most commonly employed at hospitals, rehabilitation centers, government agencies, and schools. Other common locations include prisons, research facilities, and even in congress. In the case that a social worker opts to own their own practice, they must become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). To learn more about the advanced occupation, click here.
How many questions are on the social worker licensing exam?
According to the ASWB, the exam administrator, there are 170 questions in total. However, only 150 questions count towards your score, with the remaining 20 as pre-test questions. Depending on the state of licensure, the passing threshold ranges from 90 to 107 correct answers out of the 150 questions.
Interested in what it takes to become a social worker with Barton Healthcare Staffing? Contact us today or check out our updated job board.