child social worker education requirements

How to become a child social worker

The guide will outline what a child social worker does and how to pursue this career, as well as information that potential child social workers will want to know, such as salary ranges, the required skills and knowledge, and the overall job outlook for social workers in this field. 

• How to become a child sw
• What is a child social worker
• What do child social worker do
• Salary and outlook

Becoming a child social worker

Child social workers focus on assisting children, youth, and their families. Many child social workers are employed in child welfare positions. Other social workers in this field focus on providing mental health counseling to children, youth, and families.

In the child welfare context, social workers are employed in governments and nonprofits and play a critical role in protecting neglected, abused, or at-risk children. They may investigate and respond to children in need or provide support to particular groups of children, such as foster children or homeless youth. 

According to the NASW , “child welfare social workers specialize in building upon the strengths within a family and their community to help provide a safe and loving environment for children.”  

More broadly, child social workers also include many mental health professionals who focus on helping children, youth, and their families. These individuals often possess a masters in social work and focus on therapeutic support. This could include specialization in certain techniques for children, such as play therapy , or in a particular condition more common in children, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder . These child social workers are employed in government agencies, nonprofits, hospitals, and private practice. 

When considering this profession there is some important information to keep in mind.  

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree most child social workers possess a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) and child welfare workers should consider programs with Title IV-E funding opportunities .  Some child social workers hold bachelor’s degrees in a related field, such as early childhood education, human development or psychology.  Some entry level child welfare positions are available for those with bachelor’s degrees.
• Gain experience BSW and MSW students often gain experience working with children or in child welfare settings through internships or field placements. Many social work students also gain critical experience through coursework in areas such as social welfare and child development.
• Pursue a master’s degree to work in clinical settings or capacities, such as therapists, child social workers will need to possess a MSW. Even for child welfare positions in which a masters is not required, MSWs are paid more than BSWs and are qualified for a wider range of positions.  Those considering child welfare positions may want to explore Title IV-E funding opportunities to defray MSW costs.
• Earn licensure To work in private practice and in many healthcare positions, licensure as a clinical social worker is required. The specific requirements for clinical licensure vary by state, but generally require at least two years post-MSW experience, passing the ASWB clinical examination , and a specified number of hours of supervision by a licensed social worker. Social workers with clinical licensure earn more and have greater job opportunities.

What is a child social worker?

Child social workers are found in a variety of employment settings and provide a critical service for children, youth, and their families. This field is often divided into two main groups — child welfare social work and child, youth and family social work. The duties of child social workers will vary depending on the type of work being performed.

Child welfare workers are often found in child protective services or child welfare agencies and play a critical role in intervening and protecting children from harm. In some instances, child welfare workers are called upon to investigate alleged abuse or neglect and remove children from unsafe situations. This can involve determining whether children are being physically or sexually abused, or neglected, and collaborating with courts, schools, and other agencies to design a case plan.

Child welfare workers also help ensure that at-risk or vulnerable children end up in safe homes. This includes reunification efforts that are centered around helping parents better care for their children, as well as foster or adoptive placements. Child welfare workers also coordinate support that the parents and children may need moving forward. This care can come in a variety of forms, including therapy, educational services, or financial resources.

As part of the US Department of Health and Human Services with responsibility for addressing the needs of America’s children, the Children’s Bureau is a good resource for those interested in child welfare.

Child social workers outside of the child welfare setting also focus on improving the quality of life for children.  In addition to abused children or those in the foster system, these social workers assist children and youth with clinical mental health needs (such as PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, etc.). Child, youth and family social workers have an added focus on providing short-term and long-term individual or group therapy for children, youth and their families. These social workers are also found in a range of settings, from hospitals to schools to private practice.

Child, youth and family social workers have special expertise on the mental health needs and functioning of both children and families. Many will focus on specific treatment models that are adapted to help children, such as TFCBT for children with trauma. Others may focus on specific groups of children, such as those who have been adopted or lost a parent. To ensure the best outcomes, child social workers need to be able to effectively work with families.

Child social worker requirements and skills

Educational requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field, such as counseling or psychology,  may be sufficient for some entry-level child welfare positions
• Master’s degree in social work can be required for some positions 

Background knowledge

• Social service programs and resources available to children, such as Head Start or nutritional assistance programs
• Child abuse and neglect reporting laws and policies
• Child development milestones and impacts of childhood trauma
• Elements of family functioning, systems and dynamics
• Listening, empathy, and interpersonal skills
• Good organization skills, record-keeping and documentation
• Strong sense of ethics and professionalism
• Ability to engage children and families 
• Counseling and clinical mental health skills, including assessment and interventions
• Time management and ability to respond to crises 
• Written and oral communication, including advocacy

The NASW’s Standards for Social Work Practice in Child Welfare and Standards for the Practice of Social Work with Adolescents are helpful resources for those wanting to learn more.

What do child social workers do?

As this guide explores, child social workers perform different duties depending on specific job context.  Those wanting to learn more about the experiences of child welfare social workers may want to review this NASW report detailing the experiences of social workers from the child welfare specialty practice section. 

This hypothetical explores the work of a child, family and youth social worker in a community agency:

A youth has been referred by the juvenile justice system for mandatory treatment after getting into a fight at school.  The client is only 11-years old but has already had a life filled with hardship and trauma. In addition to the fight that led to the referral for services, the youth is experimenting with drugs, failing at school, and experiencing mental health struggles.

The child social worker has experience helping prior clients with complex sets of problems.  The very first step is engaging the youth in services. The social worker’s professional training has provided preparation for how to use empathy to forge connections with involuntary clients and the expertise necessary to work with children and youth.  

Through the use of the social work person-in-environment perspective, the child therapist is able to understand the connections between the range of issues that are impacting this youth.  The social worker recognizes that the physical altercation occurred in the context of a number of stressors related to the home, school and community environments. Ultimately, helping requires attention to these stressors in addition to the behavior that led to the encounter with the juvenile justice system.

The social worker chooses a therapeutic approach that takes into account the youth’s history of trauma, such as a trauma-focused intervention for youth in the juvenile justice system recommended by the National Child Traumatic Stress Network. In addition to individual therapy, the social worker also forges connections with the youth’s teacher and family members. This broader approach allows for educational support and the youth’s parents receive assistance in improving their skills.

The child social worker is called upon when the youth is in crisis. By responding with the right therapeutic approach and an array of resources to address needs beyond the criminal incident, this youth is given an opportunity for a new future.  This chance to make a positive change is part of the lasting reward for the child, youth and family social worker.

Child social worker job description

Child welfare social workers perform a vital role in protecting children, which can include:

• Responding to and participating in the investigation of reports of child abuse and neglect, including attending court hearings
• Providing counseling and therapeutic support to children and their families
• Arranging for children’s short-term and long-term care
• Connecting parents to support and resources for their or their children’s needs
• Creating case plans to address children’s future needs, such as reunification plans
• Responding to emergent needs of children and their families
• Completing documentation and maintaining case files

The Children’s Bureau’s guide for caseworkers is a good resource for those wanting more information about the duties and responsibilities of social workers in child protective services.

Child social workers more generally will provide a different scope of services that includes:

• Individual or group counseling for children and their families
• Assessing the social and psychological functioning of children and youths
• Helping parents and caregivers improve their parenting skills 
• Identifying resources and services to assist children and their families
• Advocacy to ensure children or youth receive appropriate care, education and health services
• Maintaining case history records and preparing reports on treatment
• Assisting in the coordinating other needed services, such as medical appointments or educational accommodations 

Additional child social worker special training and certifications

Child social workers can pursue different levels of certification through the NASW.  Child social workers at the BSW level may apply through the NASW to become Certified Children, Youth and Family Social Worker (C-CYFSW). This certification requires 20 contact hours of post-degree continuing professional education on bio-psycho-social issues, interventions, or aspects of working with children and their families, along with 1,500 hours of paid, supervised professional work experience after receiving a BSW.

Social workers with a MSW can follow the NASW’s process to become a Certified Advanced Children, Youth & Family Social Worker (C-ACYFSW). This certification requires 20 or more contact hours of professional education specific to children, youth and families; at least 2 years and 3,000 hours of paid, supervised, post-MSW experience; and a masters-level license.

Some students pursue Child Welfare Certificates while completing their degree in social work.  These certificates reflect that the student has built competences and in-depth knowledge specific to working with abused or neglected children. The coursework often includes topics such as child development, assessing abuse and neglect, and policies and laws pertaining to child services.  Depending on the school, these certificates can be earned by students pursuing their BSW and/or MSW.

Child social worker career outlook

New social workers benefit from a rapidly expanding job market. According to data prepared by the Bureau of Labor Statistics , job opportunities for child, family and school social workers are expected to increase by 9 percent between 2021 to 2031. 

BLS highlights that child and family social workers will be needed to work with families to help strengthen parenting skills, prevent child abuse, and find alternative homes for children whose biological families cannot care for them. Federal, state and local budget restrictions may however, limit employment growth among child, family and school social workers.

Those considering child welfare positions may want to consider participating in a Title IV-E program. This program provides stipends to defray education costs for students who are already employed in public child welfare agencies or preparing for employment in this setting after graduation, and can help provide a direct career pathway. More information about Title IV-E programs can be found through the Children’s Bureau and the NASW title IV-E guide .

Child social worker salary  

According to data compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the mean annual wage for child, family and school social workers in 2021 was $50,390. Social workers in individual and family services organizations earned less ($46,950) than their counterparts in state government ($52,890) and local government ($64,040).

A number of factors will significantly impact the salary child social workers can expect. Most prominently, a NASW study revealed that social workers with a MSW earn approximately $15,000 annually than those with a BSW.  

Social workers in certain states (such as the New Jersey, Connecticut or District of Columbia) and metropolitan areas (such as metro New York City or Los Angeles, CA) also earn more.  Those wanting to further explore the connections between geographic region and salary may want to reference this BLS report .  

Salary.com reported that the average Child, Family, or School Social Worker salary in the United States is $46,528 as of 2023, but the salary range typically falls between $41,586 and $51,903.

Frequently asked questions

Child social workers provides assistance and support to children and families who are experiencing difficult situations. Their primary focus is to promote the well-being of children and help families overcome any challenges that may be impacting their ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children.

They typically work with children who are at risk of abuse or neglect, or who have been removed from their homes due to safety concerns. They may also work with children and families who are dealing with issues related to poverty, housing instability, mental health, substance abuse, or domestic violence.

Earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work and obtain a state license or certification. It is also important for child social workers to have strong communication and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work effectively with families and other professionals in the community.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social workers is projected to grow 9 percent from 2021 to 2031 with a projected 74,700 job openings each year.

In order to be a successful child social workers, it is essential that they are able to understand, connect, and communicate with children, families and other professionals. They must also be knowledgeable about different cultures and demonstrate empathy and compassion.

Expert Advice – for child social worker

Find the latest interviews with subject matter experts and people working at the forefront of their field and get advice on child social worker directly from some of the world’s leading authorities. Learn more about all the different pathways and opportunities available in social work today.

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Home / Social Work Careers / Become a Child and Family Social Worker

Become a Child and Family Social Worker

As a child and family social worker, you’ll have the opportunity to make a difference in your community by advocating for children and parents alike. These types of social workers are responsible for connecting families in need with essential services as well as monitoring the well-being of children and their families. 

For people who want to work with children and help those in challenging circumstances, this may be an attractive career path. This guide is designed to help you learn more about child and family social work—including how to become a child and family social worker, what the career outlook looks like in this field and more.

What Does a Child and Family Social Worker Do?

Child and family social workers focus on assisting children and families, especially those with living situations that put the children at risk of neglect or abuse. Some common tasks fulfilled by social workers in this field include: 

• Identifying and monitoring the well-being of at-risk children
• Providing counseling to improve the social and psychological function of children and their families 
• Arranging adoptions and foster homes for children
• Assisting families through fostering and adoption processes
• Acting as a liaison between a school and its at-risk families

Steps to Becoming a Child and Family Social Worker

Becoming a social worker  is a big decision that requires completing specific educational and training requirements. Most states require a  master’s in social work (MSW)  and the completion of a social work licensing exam to become a social worker, but this may vary depending on where you live and what type of career you are pursuing.

If you’re thinking about becoming a social worker but aren’t sure what the process entails, read about child and family social worker requirements below.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

The first step to becoming a child and family social worker is completing your undergraduate studies. In addition to listening to lectures, completing assigned readings and performing research, earning a  bachelor’s in social work (BSW)  may require field experience or work placement. Field experience is designed to provide students with an opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations while allowing them to develop new knowledge.

Research Advanced Degrees

Although there are some social work positions available to those with a BSW, many prospective child and family social workers choose to continue their education with advanced degrees. To become a clinical social worker, an MSW is required. 

Whether you choose to enroll in-person or online, it’s important to choose an MSW degree program that fits your lifestyle and helps you meet your career goals. Many MSW degree programs offer specializations in child and family social work that may help you prepare for your future workplace.

Sponsored online social work programs

University of Denver

Master of social work (msw).

The University of Denver’s Online MSW Program is delivered by its top-ranked school of social work and offers two programs. Students can earn their degree in as few as 12 months for the Online Advanced-Standing MSW or 27 months for the Online MSW.

• Complete the Online Advanced-Standing MSW in as few as 12 months if you have a BSW; if you do not have a BSW, the Online MSW Program may be completed in as few as 27 months.
• No GRE Required
• Customizable pathway options include Mental Health and Trauma or Health, Equity and Wellness concentrations

Fordham University

Fordham’s skills-based, online MSW program integrates advanced relevant social work competencies, preparing students to serve individuals and communities while moving the profession forward. This program includes advanced standing and traditional MSW options.

•  Traditional and advanced standing online MSW options are available.
• There are four areas of focus: Individuals and Families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy.
• Pursue the degree on a full-time or part-time track.

Hawaii Pacific University

Master of social work.

The online Master of Social Work prepares aspiring social work leaders to develop a multicultural social work practice, advocate for social and economic justice, and empower diverse communities affected by systemic inequities within civilian and military-focused areas. 

• Learn how to develop a multicultural social work practice.  
• Pending accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
• Complete in 18 months full time, or in 36 months part time on the traditional track.
• Complete in 12 months full time or 24 months part time on the Advanced Standing Track. 

Simmons University

Aspiring direct practitioners can earn their MSW online from Simmons University in as few as 9 months . GRE scores are not required, and the program offers full-time, part-time, accelerated, and advanced standing tracks.

• Prepares students to pursue licensure, including LCSW 
• Full-time, part-time, and accelerated tracks 
• Minimum completion time: 9 months

Howard University

The online Master of Social Work program from Howard University School of Social Work prepares students for advanced direct or macro practice in culturally diverse communities. Two concentrations available: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice. No GRE. Complete in as few as 12 months.

• Concentrations: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice
• Complete at least 777-1,000 hours of agency-based field education
• Earn your degree in as few as 12 months

Syracuse University

Syracuse University’s online Master of Social Work program does not require GRE scores to apply and is focused on preparing social workers who embrace technology as an important part of the future of the profession. Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks are available.

• Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
• No GRE required
• Concentrate your degree in integrated practice or clinical practice

Case Western Reserve University

In as few as a year and a half, you can prepare for social work leadership by earning your Master of Social Work online from Case Western Reserve University’s school of social work.

• CSWE-accredited
• No GRE requirement
• Complete in as few as one and a half years

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Pass the ASWB Examination

To become a licensed social worker, you must pass the  Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination . The ASWB administers several different levels of social work exams: bachelor’s, master’s, advanced generalist and clinical. The exam you take depends on your education level and what type of social work you want to practice. Each level of the ASWB exam consists of 170 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within a four-hour window.

Before registering for the ASWB exam, be sure to check with your local social work licensing board for specific eligibility information.

Get Licensed

Once you’ve passed the ASWB exam, you’ll need to obtain  social work licensure  to begin your career as a child and family social worker. The process of obtaining licensure varies from state to state, but in general, it involves submitting an application and paying a licensing fee. After you complete the ASWB exam, your results will be forwarded to your local social work board for review.The type of social work licensure you obtain depends on which category of ASWB exam you took, as well as what licenses are available in your jurisdiction. For more information,  find your local licensing board website .

Apply for NASW’s Certified Advanced Children, Youth and Family Social Worker Credential

Some social workers may also choose to apply for the  Advanced Children, Youth and Family Social Worker Certification from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) . Obtaining this social work certification is an optional step that provides a clear way for MSW-level practitioners to signify that they are experienced with child and family social work. It also allows social workers to distinguish themselves from others in the field.

Child and Family Social Work Job Outlook 

The typical  social worker salary  differs based on where you live and what type of work you do. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on social workers,  the median child and family social worker salary in 2020 was $48,430 per year . BLS data also shows that the industry in which you work can have an effect on your potential earnings. For example, social workers who worked in local government had  higher median salaries  than social workers who worked in individual and family services. 

Regardless of your specialization, the BLS projects a positive job outlook for social workers. It is projected that  social work jobs will grow by 12% from 2020 to 2030 . This is faster than the average projected growth for all professions. 

Child and Family Social Worker FAQs

Before you enroll in a social work degree program, it’s important to research potential careers that might interest you. Below, we address some commonly asked questions about careers as a child and family social worker.

How long does it take to become a child and family social worker? While the amount of time it takes to become a social worker varies depending on the individual, it generally takes about four to six years to complete child and family social work requirements. Earning your bachelor’s degree takes roughly four years, and earning your MSW usually takes another two years. In addition, child and family social workers who want to work in a clinical setting are required to complete at least two years of supervised work experience before earning a license.

Is child and family social work a good career?  Social work may be a very rewarding career, but this perspective will vary based on the person. If you want to provide services to vulnerable youth and help families navigate complex situations such as finding foster care services or housing, then a social work career in child and family services may be a good fit for you.

Where do child and family social workers work?  Child and family social workers usually have an office as their base, but they are often out in the community performing outreach, visiting clients and developing programs that connect people to resources like food stamps and childcare. Some social workers may also work remotely on occasion, meeting with clients over video conference.

What skills make a good child and family social worker?  Crucial skills for social workers include active listening, critical thinking and effective communication. It is also important for child and family social workers to be empathetic and to have patience for their clients.

Last updated October 2021

Home / Discover Social Work Careers / How to Become a Child Welfare Social Worker

How to Become a Child Welfare Social Worker

Step 1: complete a social work degree, step 2: become licensed as a child welfare social worker, step 3: apply for a child welfare social worker job, step 4: learn about child welfare social worker salaries.

Child welfare social workers are critical pillars in safeguarding vulnerable children and families’ rights, safety, and well-being. It requires dedication, empathy, and a profound commitment to advocating for those who may not have a voice of their own. If you aspire to embark on this noble journey, here’s a comprehensive guide to becoming a Child Welfare Social Worker, from education to employment and beyond.

Below are the various social work degrees available for individuals who want to become child welfare social workers. Note that you must have at least an MSW to be licensed.

• BSW (Bachelor of Social Work): To become any social worker, you’ll need to become licensed through completing an MSW. But before getting your master’s, you must complete a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. This undergraduate program equips students with foundational knowledge in social work principles, ethics, and methodologies. Coursework may include child development, social welfare policies, and interventions for at-risk populations.
• MSW (Master of Social Work): Most aspiring Child Welfare Social Workers opt to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree to deepen their understanding and skills in the field and gain the licensing needed to practice as a social worker. An MSW program offers specialized coursework in child welfare, trauma-informed care, family dynamics, and intervention strategies. Additionally, MSW programs often incorporate supervised field placements or internships, providing hands-on experience in real-world settings.
• Doctorate Degree: Though social work doctorate degree programs aren’t accredited by the Council for Social Work Education (CSWE) , some professionals choose to pursue a doctoral degree in social work to advance their expertise and pursue research or academic careers. A Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) or a Ph.D. in Social Work allows individuals to delve into specialized areas of child welfare, contribute to scholarly research, and influence policy development.

All social workers must obtain licensure in order to earn the title of social worker and work in a clinical or professional setting. Here’s what you need to know:

Licensure Examination

To practice as a Child Welfare Social Worker, licensure is typically required. The specific licensure process varies by state but generally involves completing a certain number of supervised clinical hours and passing a licensure examination. The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) administers the licensure exam, which assesses candidates’ knowledge of social work principles, ethics, and practices.

State Requirements

Each state establishes its own requirements for social work licensure, including educational prerequisites, supervised experience hours, and continuing education obligations. Prospective Child Welfare Social Workers should familiarize themselves with the licensure requirements in their state and ensure they meet all criteria before applying for licensure.

Find out more about Getting a Social Work License in your state.

After obtaining the necessary education and licensure, aspiring Child Welfare Social Workers can explore various career opportunities in the field.

What Careers Can I Pursue as a Child Welfare Social Worker?

• Child Protective Services (CPS) Worker: CPS workers investigate reports of child abuse or neglect, assess family dynamics, and implement interventions to ensure children’s safety and well-being.
• Foster Care Social Worker: Foster care social workers support children placed in foster homes by providing case management services, advocating for their needs, and facilitating reunification efforts with birth families or permanent placements.
• Adoption Specialist: Adoption specialists assist prospective adoptive parents and birth families throughout the adoption process, including home studies, matching, and post-placement support.
• Family Support Specialist: Family support specialists work with at-risk families to strengthen parenting skills, access community resources, and prevent child maltreatment.

Where Can I Work as a Child Welfare Social Worker?

Child Welfare Social Workers can find employment opportunities in various settings, including:

• Government agencies (e.g., Department of Children and Family Services)
• Nonprofit organizations specializing in child welfare services
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Schools and educational institutions
• Community-based organizations serving children and families

While salaries for Child Welfare Social Workers vary based on factors such as education, experience, location, and employer type, the median annual wage for social workers , including those in child welfare, was $55,350 in May 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on factors such as geographic region, job responsibilities, and level of experience.

In addition to monetary compensation, many Child Welfare Social Workers find immense fulfillment in making a positive impact on the lives of children and families, advocating for social justice, and promoting systemic change to create safer and more supportive communities.

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Start a Child Welfare Social Work Career

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What Is Child Welfare Social Work?

Childhood should be a happy time, filled with memories of warmth, love, and carefree times. Unfortunately, not every child is blessed with loving parents and stable home lives. Some children are forced to cope with upheaval and problems at home, such as abuse, neglect, alcoholism, drug addiction, and poverty. Even in the United States, one of the most advanced countries in the world, some children still want for even the most basic of necessities, including food, shelter, health care, and appropriate clothing.

Child welfare social work is a field of social work that involves making sure children’s needs are taken care of. First and foremost, professionals in this field keep the best interests of all children in mind. They work hard to protect them from deplorable situations and make sure that their needs are met.

Working as a child welfare social worker can be both rewarding and very heart wrenching at times. In most cases, for example, you will be assisting children and families in need of assistance and support. On the other hand, however, you will inevitably run across at least a handful of heartbreaking cases in your career. These are the cases in which you may have to remove children from their homes, or worse yet, cases in which you witness children tolerating deplorable and even dangerous living situations.

Why Do We Need Child Welfare Social Workers?

Children who grow up in happy homes where all of their needs are met, typically grow up to become happy, stable, and well adjusted adults. On the other hand, those that grow up surrounded by unpleasant and dangerous situations often grow up suffering from mental and emotional unrest. They are plagued by the memories and images from their childhood, and some may even repeat the behavior that they witnessed, thinking that it’s normal. For example, studies show that children that grow up with abuse either go on to become abusers themselves or find themselves trapped in abusive relationships.

Although some families may see child welfare social workers as nothing more than nuisances, they serve a very important service. These professionals help ensure that troubled children are cared for properly and have their needs met, so they can grow up to become happy and well adjusted adults.

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What Do Child Welfare Social Workers Do?

If you pursue a child welfare social work career, you will find yourself working with children and families in need. Many times, you will deal with children that are in poor living conditions, but you will also find yourself working with children with special needs and behavioral problems as well.

One of the first duties of a child welfare social worker is to identify children or families that may be in need of their services. This might happen when the social worker receives a report of possible problems from such sources as mandated child abuse reporters, teachers, or simply anonymous citizens. In some cases, a child welfare may be able to spot a possible child in need, particularly if she works in a school or other facility that caters to children.

Signs that a child may be in need of the intervention of a child welfare social worker may vary. Children who are frequently getting in trouble, dealing with behavioral issues, or show signs of neglect or abuse are often the children that catch the eye of these types of social workers.

Abuse and neglect, however, are major concerns for most child welfare social workers. The signs of both neglect and abuse can be very subtle at times and difficult to spot to the untrained eye. As a child welfare social worker, you will be trained to recognize signs of neglect and abuse in children and investigate. Below are a few examples of identifying signs of neglect and different types of abuse.

• A child comes to school on a cold snowy day dressed in shorts, a t-shirt, and without a warm coat for the third time in a week. Upon further investigation, a child welfare social worker notices that the child has not bathed. After interviewing teachers and other school faculty members, the social worker also finds out that the child rarely has a packed lunch nor does he have money to buy lunch. The child welfare social worker then has reason to believe that the child is being neglected.
• A child that often comes to school with bruises and cuts misses school because she has a broken wrist. During the interview with a child welfare social worker, the child seems withdrawn and fearful, as if she’s going to get in trouble. At one point during the interview, she flinches when the social worker tries to put her arm around the child’s shoulder. By observing the physical injuries and actions of the child, the social worker has reasonable suspicion that the child may be being physically abused.
• Teachers report that a child has extreme behavioral problems in the classroom. Also, although he is very intelligent, the child constantly states that he is “stupid” or an “idiot”. A social worker notices that there seems to be little attachment and warmth between the child and parents during an interview, and that the parents seem to be overly critical. After witnessing this, the social worker might be able to assume that emotional abuse might be taking place.
• Other boys in a class report that one boy has been repeatedly touching them in their “private areas” during recess. During an interview with a child welfare social worker, the child exhibits sexual knowledge that is inappropriate for his age, and “playing” with dolls involved taking their clothes off and positioning them sexually. This behavior might indicate to the social worker that the child is being sexually abused.

After determining the possible problems that a child may be having, a child welfare social worker will then usually assess the child’s home life. This is usually done by interviewing the child, teachers, and family members, and most importantly, by visiting the child’s home. Home visits can also give a social worker insight on possible causes of problems in the child’s life. A thorough assessment can also give the child welfare social worker an idea of how at risk a child is in his current living conditions.

If a child is at a low risk of being immediately injured or otherwise hurt, the social worker will work closely with the child and family to remedy problems in the home. This usually involves setting goals and making a plan to better their situation and fix any problems that may be present. A poverty stricken family that can’t afford proper housing or food, for example, may be given help to find and utilize different government assistant programs.

Periodic evaluations are very important in child welfare cases. Child welfare social workers will frequently meet with children and their families in order to monitor their progress. If few or no positive changes are made, the social worker may then change the original plan and goals.

There may be some cases, however, in which a child welfare social worker may determine that a child’s health or general well-being is at risk. This may happen when the child is being abused, for instance, or when the parents deny that there are any problems in the household. In these situations, the social worker may need to make the decision to remove that child - and possibly any other children - from the home. When this happens, the social worker will arrange for a safe place for the child to stay, such as a foster home, and monitor his progress. In many cases, the social worker will also work with families who try hard to change their situations in hopes of being reunited with their children.

Where Do Child Welfare Social Workers Find Employment?

The majority of child welfare social workers find employment in government social work facilities, at the local, state, or federal level. Child and youth service offices and family services offices, for example, often hire these professionals.

Community health centers and schools might also hire child welfare social workers.

What Are the Education Requirements for a Child Welfare Social Worker?

If you are considering a child welfare social work career, you should complete a social work bachelor’s degree program. In most areas, you will also have to complete several hours of supervised fieldwork to graduate with this type of degree.

Find a social work degree program here .

The majority of these professionals also choose to earn master’s degrees in this area, since advanced degrees are now required by many employers and may be required for licensure in some areas. Even if a graduate degree is not required for entry level positions, you should consider completing a graduate degree program, especially if you wish to advance in this field.

What Is the Salary of Child Welfare Social Worker?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics splits social workers into four categories. One of those categories is child, family and school social workers. According to the BLS, as of May 2022, the median annual salary of a child social worker is $50,820 with the top 10 percent of child social workers earning roughly $81,920 and the bottom 10 percent earning roughly $36,380. The salary will depend on education and location. For example, New Jersey pays its child social workers an average salary of $75,590 while Pennsylvania’s annual average salary for the profession is $52,230.

2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics job market trends and salary figures for child, family, and school social workers are based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2023.

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How to Become a Social Worker: A Quick Guide

Social workers help improve lives. They assist individuals and families experiencing poverty, natural disasters, and homelessness. Tens of millions of Americans rely on social safety nets that social workers provide access to.

Social work lets you forge a career path in countless specialties and settings, including colleges, nonprofits, nursing homes, and government agencies. You can also become a licensed clinical social worker who counsels and treats mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders.

Learn about how to become a social worker, including the educational and licensure requirements and careers.

Featured Online Programs in Social Work

The vital role of social workers: an overview.

From 1880-1914, about 650,000 immigrants arrived every year in the United States, according to the Population Reference Bureau . Social work became a profession during the late 19th century to help immigrants improve their lives.

Today, social and economic programs exist to provide resources to vulnerable people and communities.

What is Social Work?

The social work profession helps improve people’s well-being and meet their needs. Social workers provide therapy or resources to help people and communities work through economic, social, or personal problems.

What do Social Workers do?

Social workers connect those experiencing problems with resources, programs, and assistance. You may think of social work as helping the poor, older people, or children find resources and acquire tools, but they serve all populations. You can also become a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy and treatment.

Who do social workers work with?

Social work lets you work with people experiencing problems in their lives. Child welfare workers help children, adolescents, and families. Justice and corrections social workers work with people who are incarcerated.

Social workers work in schools, child welfare agencies, and healthcare settings.

Steps to Become a Social Worker

The first step to becoming a social worker is to earn a college degree. Most social work positions require at least a bachelor’s in social work degree (BSW) from an accredited school. However, some states accept social workers with an associate degree. A BSW allows you to pursue entry-level social work jobs in most states but not clinical roles.

Many social workers hold advanced degrees, including a master’s in social work (MSW) or a doctorate. The educational level you reach depends on what you want to do as a social worker. For example, licensed clinical social workers treat people with mental conditions. They need at least a master’s degree and a state license.

At a minimum, it takes four years to become a social worker with a BSW degree and an additional 2-3 years to earn an MSW. Social work students also complete fieldwork. Clinical social workers usually need at least 3,000 supervised clinical hours of fieldwork to get licensed, but requirements vary by state.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work

Your first step in becoming a social worker is earning a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field. Social workers often complete a BSW or a sociology, psychology, or political science degree.

Schools awarded roughly 20,000 BSW degrees from 2019-20, according to a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) survey. You can earn a BSW in four years if you study full time.

Accredited BSW programs require fieldwork. You must complete at least 400 supervised hours of supervised fieldwork experience at the bachelor’s level.

A BSW helps prepare you to become a social work case manager, health educator, service coordinator, outreach worker, or research assistant. You may also qualify for advanced standing in an MSW program with a BSW.

Earn a Master’s Degree in Social Work

You can complete an MSW in 2-3 years —or quicker if you hold a BSW and qualify for advanced standing in the program. You will complete a minimum of 900 clinical supervised hours during your MSW studies.

No licensed clinical social worker can begin working without a master’s in social work degree (MSW). According to the CSWE , schools award about 76,000 MSW degrees every year.

An MSW degree opens the doors to careers as child, family or school social workers, medical and health social workers, and mental health and substance abuse social workers. Graduates can also pursue clinical social work licensure in their state.

Obtain Your Social Work License

States set their own requirements for social work licenses, so titles vary by state and jurisdiction. You need a college degree and supervised work experience to get licensed or registered.

You need at least an MSW to get licensed in New York and California. And in Arkansas and Idaho, you only need a BSW to become a licensed social worker (LSW).

The most common licenses are licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), licensed baccalaureate social workers (LBSWs), and licensed master social workers (LMSWs). Both LCSWs and LMSWs require a master’s degree.

Before applying for licensure, you must pass the required exam in your state. For instance, to become an LCSW, you must pass the Association of Social Work Board clinical exam.

Consider Professional Social Work Certifications

No state requires certification to become a social worker. Certifications validate specialized knowledge and skills in a specific area of social work. Earning certifications in social work may help you advance in your career by focusing on a specialized field and pursuing higher pay.

The National Association of Social Workers offers certifications in addiction and substance abuse, case management, clinical work, education, gerontology, healthcare, hospice and palliative care, the military, and youth and family. You need the required degree, clinical experience, and license to qualify for certification.

Career Paths for Social Workers

A BSW degree can offer access to entry-level social work jobs, such as case management, community outreach, health education, juvenile courts, and residential service coordination. You can get licensed as an LBSW with a BSW in certain states. Some states, such as Georgia, Florida, and New York, require that you have at least an MSW degree to work as a licensed social worker.

Social workers can apply for advanced opportunities after getting an MSW as a criminal justice social worker, school social worker, or clinical social worker. LCSWs can pursue independent practice with an MSW and a state license.

Social Worker Salaries

Your educational level and workplace determine what you get paid as a social worker.

Social workers in May 2021 made a median annual salary of $50,390, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, they can earn between $46,640-$61,190 in top-paying industries, which include local government and ambulatory healthcare services, state government, and individual and family services.

The bottom 10% of social workers make a median annual wage of $36,530, while the top 10% made more than $82,840 in 2021.

Healthcare and local government social workers earn over $60,000 in median annual wages. Other top-paying social workers include mental health and substance abuse social workers who earn an annual median salary of $57,800.

Source: BLS

Research How to Become a Social Worker by State

Each state sets their social work licensing requirements. In some states, you can pursue licensure with a BSW, while others require a master’s degree. Other requirements include getting the required experience and passing your state’s social work licensure exam.

• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Washington DC
• West Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Social Worker

How can i start a career in social work.

Research the right program for your social work career goals and make sure your degree meets your state’s requirements. Earning a BSW can set the foundation for a social work career. Depending on where you live, you may need to earn an MSW, get experience, and pass a state exam to become a licensed social worker.

What are the highest-paying social work careers?

Medical social workers typically earn higher pay in the field, with an average salary of over $60,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And the 90% percentile of medical social workers made about $75,000 a year.

What is the fastest path to becoming a social worker?

The quickest way to become a master’s-level social worker is to use your BSW toward an advanced standing seat. When you enroll in an MSW program with advanced standing you can graduate in less than two years.

Some states, such as New Mexico and Texas, allow you to become a licensed baccalaureate social worker after earning a BSW.

Can you become a social worker online?

Yes. Many colleges offer accredited BSW and MSW programs that function completely online. That said, you still need to complete your fieldwork in person to get licensed in your respective state.

Pursue your passion for helping others with a career in social work.

Discover schools with specialized programs that empower you to make a difference today.

How to Become a Social Worker: Qualifications & Requirements

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High job satisfaction, stability and a fulfilling career path make becoming a social worker the perfect opportunity if you’re looking to do good and make a positive change in your community.

Social work positions are consistently featured on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the 100 Best Jobs, with child and family social workers and clinical social workers earning a spot on the most recent list . The benefits of becoming a social worker are clear. Read on to understand the qualifications, educational requirements and opportunities for social workers.

Key Takeaways

• Becoming a social worker typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) for entry-level positions, while more advanced roles—like clinical social work—may require a master’s degree. Yet, licensing requirements vary by state.
• The demand for social workers is projected to grow significantly, with job opportunities expected to increase by 7% over the next decade. So, social work offers a stable career with a meaningful impact.

Responsibilities: What Social Workers Actually Do

Social work is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of careers . At a high level, social workers help people resolve their issues in order to improve their quality of life. But in reality, there’s no typical day in the field. One day you might be assessing a family’s situation and developing a plan of action, while the next day you could be involved in crisis management.

Social workers are needed at federal, state and local levels, and throughout diverse populations — from infants to the elderly and in small towns and big cities. You may work with individuals, families or groups of people.

Some of the responsibilities of a social worker include:

• Recommending resources
• Case management
• Legislative advocacy
• Community organization
• Reviewing and implementing policies
• Helping people with Social Security or welfare

With the right training and a degree in social work , you’ll be prepared to help people who are struggling with mental illness, addiction, poverty, homelessness and other matters.

Career Opportunities in Social Work

Where do you see yourself working? Are you interested in substance abuse counseling in a clinic or patient advocacy in the healthcare industry? The exact responsibilities of your job will depend on the career path you choose and where you want to work.

As you progress toward becoming a social worker, you’ll need to select a specialty as soon as you can since there are a variety of practice areas available.

Possible specialty areas include:

• Community Social Work
• Child and Family Welfare
• Mental Health
• Substance Abuse Social Work

Places where you might work include:

• Rehabilitation Clinics
• Government Agencies
• Mental Health Facilities

Research the focuses that you’re interested in and browse job opportunities to get an idea of what your role would entail. You may also be able to find internships where you can get a taste for a certain speciality in a hands-on way.

Qualifications & Requirements to Become a Social Worker

Knowing your ideal career path is the first step toward becoming a social worker. Once you’ve selected a specialty and a place where you’d like to work, you can start fulfilling the necessary requirements.

For an entry-level position, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW). Most of these positions consist of working in direct-service roles, like as a caseworker.

For more advanced roles, like clinical social work, a master’s degree is required. You don’t need to have a bachelor’s degree in social work if you’re interested in pursuing your master’s in the field.

Internships & Experience

Since social work is a field that involves a lot of face-to-face interaction, experience will be incredibly valuable to you and the community you serve. Most positions will require some level of experience. For example, in addition to a master’s degree, clinical workers need at least two years of experience.

Hands-on experience through an internship is a great way to develop your skills. Popular places to intern are at local nonprofit organizations, clinics or hospitals. But if an internship isn’t available to you in your chosen specialty, any experience you can get in your community will be beneficial and should satisfy experience requirements.

Depending on the state where you’re practicing, you may need to become a licensed social worker. You can find the license requirements for your state here .

To receive your license, you may be required to:

• Perform a certain amount of hours of supervised work
• Take and pass an exam
• Pursue continuous education opportunities

Once you’re licensed, your job title will also be dependent on where you are. A Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in the south could mean something totally different on the west coast. You may often see variations of the Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker job title listed as LISW, LCSW or LICSW.

Interested in clinical social work? Just know that licensing for this position is required in every state.

Since social workers help a variety of people in many different environments, the following skills are a must-have if you’re looking to enter the field:

• Communication and Listening Skills
• Empathy Skills
• Problem-Solving Skills
• Organizational Skills

Salary & Career Outlook for Social Workers

Social work involves helping others, so there will always be a need for people with the right education and experience.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , job opportunities in social work are expected to grow 7% over the next decade, which is faster growth than the average for other specialties.

In 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics listed the median pay for social work positions in various industries as:

Career stability combined with the satisfaction of helping those in need make becoming a social worker the ideal path for anyone with a passion for improving the lives of others.

To get started in the field, take a look at our online bachelor’s in social work degree program . It’s the perfect way to earn your degree in a convenient online structure, and you’ll have the required education to compete for entry-level positions or go on to pursue your master’s degree.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What degree is best for a social worker.

While the best degree for a social worker depends on your career goals and desired level of specialization, typically a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions.

What Makes You Qualified to Be a Social Worker?

The qualifications for social work include education, experience, and skills. Generally, you’ll need a degree in social work, hands-on experience (through internships or volunteer work), and essential skills like communication, empathy, problem-solving, and organizational abilities.

Can I Make Money as a Social Worker?

Yes, you can more than make a living as a social worker. With median pay at over $58,000 a year and a growing job outlook, social work provides good compensation and job fulfillment.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Being a Social Worker?

Like every career, social work does have advantages and disadvantages. The cons include challenges like emotional strain from difficult situations, heavy workloads, and navigating complex social issues. Yet, any social worker will tell you the pros outweigh the cons, because you can enjoy a diverse range of career paths, job stability, and the opportunity to make a positive impact—among many other things.

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How to Become a Social Worker

Social workers provide support to vulnerable individuals, families, and communities and serve as policymakers to improve healthcare and social services for all. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 9% growth for social work jobs between 2021 and 2031, faster than the national average.

Explore this guide to learn more about how to become a social worker.

Featured Online Social Work Degrees

Steps to become a social worker.

• Complete a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) or a related field.
• Pursue a master’s degree in social work (MSW).
• Complete fieldwork requirements.
• Apply for state licensure.
• Pass an ASWB examination.
• Consider additional certifications and credentials.

Social work offers an array of employment opportunities interacting with diverse populations in a variety of settings. The path to becoming a social worker depends on your professional goals and the licensing requirements in the state where you intend to practice.

The steps to a social work career begin with earning at least a bachelor’s degree and fulfilling licensing and certification requirements.

Earn a Social Work Degree

Your level of education determines what kind of social work career and licensing you can pursue. A bachelor’s in social work or a related field typically qualifies you for entry-level positions. A master’s enables you to pursue licensure and clinical positions in areas, such as mental health, child welfare, and school social work. More advanced clinical, administrative, and teaching roles require a doctorate in social work.

Bachelor’s Degree

Earning a bachelor’s in social work (BSW) or a related field, such as psychology or public health, can lead to entry-level employment in the helping professions, including community and family services, casework management, and substance abuse counseling.

Students can complete a BSW in four years depending on program requirements and whether you attend full or part time. Most degrees comprise 120 credits, including fieldwork and internship requirements. A BSW serves as the minimum educational requirement for initial licensure in most states and for entry into a master’s program in social work.

Master’s Degree

Most states require a master’s in social work (MSW) for all clinical positions and for independent practice. This degree typically requires 60 credits completed over 15-24 months. If you have a BSW accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE), you may qualify for advanced standing that allows you to complete the degree in one year.

The MSW curriculum consists of foundational courses and advanced study that prepares you for a variety of practice area specializations. Expect to complete up to 1,000 hours of fieldwork, including 500-600 hours in your chosen specialization. Most states require an MSW from a CSWE-accredited institution to qualify for licensure and begin social work practice.

Doctoral Degree

A doctorate in social work (DSW) can open doors to advanced clinical, administrative, and leadership positions. Unlike the research-based Ph.D. in social work, the DSW is a practice- oriented degree. Admission requirements vary by DSW program but generally include a CSWE-accredited MSW and at least two years of social work experience. The degree requires approximately 50 credits taken over 3-5 years.

Because DSW students typically hold an MSW and continue to work in professional practice while earning their degree, these programs do not include fieldwork requirements. Most programs involve a capstone project or portfolio presentation. Although a DSW demonstrates considerable expertise in social work, it is not a requirement for licensure or certification.

Complete Fieldwork Requirements

As an integral component of the BSW and MSW degrees, fieldwork helps you apply the knowledge learned in coursework to professional practice, preparing learners for workplace responsibilities.

Social work students gain field experience in an array of settings, such as hospitals, schools, community agencies, and correctional facilities. Placement sites must provide a licensed social worker to serve as the supervisor for the field experience, overseeing and evaluating student performance in the practice situation.

The CSWE requires 400 hours of field experience for its accredited BSW programs and 900 hours for accredited MSW programs. However, each state regulates the profession and licenses social workers differently, including standards for fieldwork and clinical contact hours.

Apply for State Licensure or Exam Approval

Licensure regulations vary by state, but most MSW-holders need a state license to practice. Many states require social workers with a BSW to obtain licenses as well.

Licensure candidates must submit an application to their state board, pay application fees, and receive approval to take the standardized exam administered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). Some states, such as Texas, only consider candidates for licensure after they take the ASWB exam. In these cases, candidates apply for approval to take the exam before applying for licensure.

For accurate information about licensure requirements, check your state board of social work website.

Pass an ASWB Examination

Licensure requires a passing score on the ASWB licensing exam. You must first obtain approval from your state social work regulatory board before you can register for the exam. Once you have registered and paid the fee for your exam level, you can schedule an exam date at one of the Pearson VUE testing centers. The ASWB offers online practice exams to help you become familiar with content areas and question formats.

The type of license required for your scope of practice determines which exam you must take:

Bachelor’s Exam

• Degree/Experience Required: BSW, no experience
• Exam Fee: $230
• Exam Focus: Knowledge and skills for basic, generalist practice

Master’s Exam

• Degree/Experience Required: MSW, no experience
• Exam Focus: Application of specialized knowledge and advanced skills

Advanced Generalist Exam

• Degree/Experience Required: MSW, two years of experience in a nonclinical setting
• Exam Fee: $260
• Exam Focus: Advanced generalist social work (including macro-level practice) in nonclinical settings

Clinical Exam

• Degree/Experience Required: MSW, two years of experience in a clinical setting
• Exam Focus: Application of specialized clinical knowledge and advanced clinical skills

Explore Requirements by State

Clinical social workers must have a license to work in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Nonclinical social workers must also obtain a license or certificate in most states. Licensed social workers usually need a master’s degree and at least two years of supervised, post-graduate work experience. State licensure boards ultimately determine who is eligible to become a licensed social worker, and consequently, the criteria for clinical and nonclinical positions vary from state to state. This directory allows you to browse the licensing and certification criteria for social workers across the country. To learn more, visit the state pages linked below.

Choose Your State Below

Read more about these online social work programs that are prominently featured on our site. Find information regarding accreditation, cost, admissions requirements, degrees offered, and program overviews to help you find the right online social work degree program for you.

Consider Additional Social Work Certifications

Although not required, social workers often pursue voluntary certification in their areas of specialization to advance in their careers and enhance their personal and professional reputations. Depending on where you work and your specialization, certifications can boost your earnings and make you more competitive in the job market.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) offers several professional social work and advanced practice specialty certifications, including credentials for clinical social workers; health social workers; gerontology social workers; and child, youth, and family social workers. Certification qualifications vary, but all credentials require either a BSW or MSW, licensure, and professional experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a social worker.

You need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field for an entry-level social work position. BSW degrees typically take about four years to complete if attending full time. Clinical positions require an MSW and licensure, which can take two years beyond the bachelor’s degree. Accelerated MSW programs can lead to a degree in 12-18 months.

How do I start a career in social work?

Once you earn your degree, you can use your college placement service, government employment listings, online professional communities, and other social media platforms that connect social workers with career resources and provide networking opportunities. Joining a professional association, such as the NASW, provides access to employment centers, job banks, and professional development resources to help you launch your career.

What skills are required to become a social worker?

A social work degree provides the foundational knowledge and organizational and leadership skills necessary to enter social work practice. As one of the helping professions, social work also requires empathy for at-risk individuals and vulnerable populations, good communication skills, and the ability to make informed decisions in difficult situations.

Can I become a social worker without a degree?

For entry-level social work jobs, you need at least a bachelor’s degree. Clinical positions require an MSW. However, if you want to enter a social work-related field without the requisite degree, you might consider becoming a community health worker, childcare provider, case manager aide, or teacher assistants. Volunteer work with nonprofit organizations and community centers also provides a pathway into the field.

Reviewed By: Danielle Golightly, LMSW

Danielle Golightly is a licensed social worker in Michigan with over 10 years of experience. She is currently the family advocate at a child advocacy center where she works with individuals and families from diverse backgrounds. Previously, Danielle served as a victim advocate at the same agency, providing crisis intervention and psychoeducation services to families impacted by child abuse. She has also supervised graduate-level social work students and mentored undergraduates throughout their internships.

Danielle is passionate about child welfare, victim advocacy, and trauma.

Danielle is a paid member of the Red Ventures freelance Education Integrity Network.

Take the next step toward your future in social work.

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Child Welfare Social Work Guide [Careers, Education & Salaries]

Weeks before a mother and her two children who have been placed in foster care are set to reunite, she’s arrested for getting into a physical altercation. Based on her history, there’s a good chance she could face jail time, making the reunification impossible. The situation will be heartbreaking for her children but will ultimately ensure that they remain in the most stable home possible. How do you break the news to them?

These are the kinds of dilemmas child welfare social workers encounter every day. While decisions can be tough, the fulfillment from ensuring that children are safe and given the best possible opportunity to succeed outweighs the challenges of this demanding field of social work.

Table of Contents

What is a Child Welfare Social Worker?

How to become a child welfare social worker, types of child welfare social workers, what child welfare social workers do, the challenges of child welfare social work, why people become child welfare social workers.

Child welfare social workers protect vulnerable youth and help disadvantaged families meet the needs of their children. As the  National Association of Social Workers (NASW)  explains, they “specialize in building upon the strengths within a family and their community to help provide a safe and loving environment for their children,” but also “intervene to protect children from harm” when necessary.

Due to the complexity and emotionally charged nature of their work (separating families by necessity, sometimes permanently, and balancing the at times conflicting interests of the child, his/her parents, and the child dependency court), child welfare social workers may find their daily responsibilities to be challenging. Despite these difficulties, professionals in this field often find their ability to provide compassionate support to parents while protecting children in need to be rewarding due to its profound impact, on an individual and societal level.

Job Description at a Glance

Some of the  child welfare social worker’s core responsibilities  include responding to cases of child abuse and neglect; removing children from home settings that are dangerous or do not meet certain standards; working with children and their families on a reunification plan in collaboration with child dependency courts; helping parents meet the needs of their children by connecting them with resources and helping them navigate programs, therapy and advising; and arranging for short- and long-term care of children whose families cannot take care of them.

Education Requirements

While child welfare social workers can work in entry level agency positions after receiving their  bachelor’s in social work , many employers prefer individuals who wish to progress to higher or more involved roles to have a  master’s in social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited institution , with a focus on children and families, according to the  NASW Standards for Social Work Practice in Child Welfare (PDF, 138 KB) . During their MSW program, students interested in child welfare should seek internships in relevant settings (such as a family welfare agency), and take courses in clinical social work methods, family dynamics, child development, poverty, and/or disadvantaged populations. Social workers who want graduate level training for child welfare social work positions should explore state-funded scholarships for MSW students focusing on child welfare.

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The  mean annual wage for child, family and school social workers is $52,370 , according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical salary range for professionals in this field is $32,300 to $80,290. Social workers who work for local governments earn a mean annual wage of $58,350 while state government employees earn $52,000 and social workers in individual and family services earn $45,360. Top paying states for this occupation include the District of Columbia, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Maryland.

According to NASW standards for practice, the requirements for professionals who want to work in child welfare vary by state, but can include:

• Complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited college or university.
• Gain experience through a child welfare-related internship or field placement.
• Pass the appropriate licensing exams and apply for state licensure.
• Complete continuing education requirements to retain licensure.

Sasha Chelsea McGowan, MSW, who works as a continuing services social worker in Contra Costa County, California, advised social work students to take classes that help them understand the populations involved in the child welfare system and how to address their needs. “I highly recommend that MSW students take an elective class on the history of social work in the United States, as the history of racial and socioeconomic oppression still runs strong in many of our impoverished and marginalized communities,” she said. “I also recommend taking any child welfare-specific classes offered that will go over safety planning, risk assessment, and the convoluted court system. A good basis in risk assessment, defining harm and danger to children, and how to make impartial decisions on extremely inflammatory subjects is key. We hire many individuals without specific child welfare training if they are able to master these tools.”

Field internships in settings that serve vulnerable children and families are also important. “I do recommend that students do an internship at a foster family agency if they are considering this field, because this job is not for everyone. […] If it is not possible to get an internship in the field, I would recommend getting experience at a group home, and/or shelter,” she said.

“A person interested in the position also needs to understand that they might have to wear different hats at times,” she added. “The responsibilities of this job vary from sometimes being an admin (answering phones and filing paperwork), to being a transporter, supervising visits, counseling clients and families, and writing reports and progress notes.”

For MSW students who are not placed in child welfare agencies during their internships, or for social work professionals who want to transition to this field, volunteer work can provide useful skills and experience. “There are many opportunities to volunteer with foster youth, and many job opportunities at lower levels enable people to work with these youth directly,” McGowan said. “Group homes are a good look into the intensity of trauma and reactivity that foster children can experience when deprived of stability. Additionally, there are critical county programs that are often looking for volunteers – the most significant of which is the CASA program (court appointed special advocate).”

An important benefit of pursuing child welfare social work during an MSW program is the opportunity to apply for government scholarships for people wishing to enter the helping professions. For example, the  Title IV E Stipend Program  is a federally funded program composed of a national consortium of social work and public service schools that offer financial support to students and working professionals who pursue degrees or training in public child welfare. The amount that students can receive through this program depends on the degree they are pursuing (BSW vs. MSW vs. professional training or continuing education) and their state of residence, but several of the social work students we interviewed highly recommend applying for benefits through this program.

“I would recommend that people be admitted under Title IVE concentration,” noted Katie Krause, MSW, who works for Contra Costa County Children and Family Services in California. “This concentration specifically prepares you for work in child welfare. I felt very prepared for my job as a result of my classes and internships. My 2nd-year internship was basically like a trial job. A lot of things are the same in each county, so it is pretty easy to transition between counties and units. In the title IVE concentration you are required to intern in child welfare.”

Through solid academic preparation, internships, and volunteer work, child welfare social workers can build a rewarding career devoted to protecting the safety and well-being of children while also giving their parents the support and compassion they need to make positive changes. Furthermore, by building strong social and collegial support systems at the beginning of their profession, practicing self-care on a regular basis, and maintaining an appreciation for the positive impact they have on families at the individual and larger systemic level, child welfare social workers can sustain energy and derive deep gratification from their accomplishments.

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Child welfare social workers can work for Child Protective Services and/or child welfare agencies at the county and state levels. There are often several different types of child welfare social workers on a given team that collaborate to identify and respond to cases of child abuse and neglect. Some of these are  “front-end” social workers  (also known as emergency response social workers), meaning they investigate incidents of child abuse and neglect at the site (often the child’s home), and will also return to remove children from abusive or insufficient care.

In contrast, “back-end” social workers (also known as continuing services social workers) work with children and their families after the child has been removed from his/her original home, to address the barriers the parents (or caretakers) are experiencing to provide their child(ren) with a minimum standard of care at home. Back-end social workers interact with child dependency courts to arrange for alternative living situations (foster families, adoption, and/or living with family members) for children whose parents are unable to properly care for them, and also set goals, benchmarks and deadlines for parents to meet before their children can be returned to them. Back-end social workers also work with foster families, adoptive parents and community organizations and resources to create and maintain a support system for vulnerable children.

Due to limited resources and staffing, some child welfare social workers may move between emergency/first response duties and continuing services, or fulfill both types of responsibilities simultaneously, depending on their availability and the needs of the agency.

Emergency First Responder (“Front-End”) Social Workers

First responder social workers, as their title indicates, are often the first individuals to respond to cases of child abuse and/or neglect. Child welfare agencies will often receive notifications from concerned members of the public about households with children who may not be receiving sufficient care. First responder social workers investigate these allegations of abuse or neglect and evaluate the situation. If maltreatment is discovered, emergency first responder social workers typically open a child welfare case, contact Child Protective Services to have a child removed and placed in the care of the Child Dependency Court, and document the evidence of maltreatment in reports for the courts and for back-end social workers who take on the case after the child’s removal from his/her home.

McGowan explained the general standards for adequate parental care in the context of child welfare services. “In the child welfare field, we are focused on one thing – minimum sufficient level of care,” she explained, “This is the community based (and judicially supported) standard of care that we require families to provide for their children in regards to their physical, emotional and developmental needs.”

McGowan noted that “minimum sufficient” is distinct from “ideal” or even “good” parenting – the child welfare social worker’s main concern is to ensure that children are reasonably safe, provided for in all essential areas (food, hygiene, schooling, medical and dental care, emotional well-being, etc.). In addition, the definition of minimum sufficient level of care can differ from community to community, as different counties will have different regulations around child care and neglect, expectations for school attendance, etc.

“To determine if a family is meeting this minimum standard [of care], we ask three questions,” she said. “Is the family providing for their child’s basic needs? Is the parent’s parenting practice, such as with physical discipline, within our community standard or outside of it? Does the parent’s behavior fall within reasonable limits, as judged by that same community?” If the response to these questions is no, then first responder social workers typically begin the process of opening a case and seeking to remove the abused or neglected children from their parents’ care.

Continuing Services (‘Back-End’) Social Worker

Once a child is placed in the care of the Child Dependency Court, back-end social workers take over the case. “[Continuing services social workers continue] to investigate to clarify the allegations of maltreatment and develop a case plan composed of services and behavioral change necessary to return a child to the care of a parent,” McGowan told OnlineMSWPrograms.com. Types of behavioral changes social workers might include in a family’s case plan could include parents’ cessation of physical and/or verbal abuse; elimination of substance abuse behaviors; addressing of physical, medical/dental, emotional, or academic neglect, and proper supervision behaviors.

After the development of a case plan that incorporates behavioral changes for the parents and ways to support the parents in making these changes, continuing services social workers monitor the family’s case and provide emotional support, advising, and resource connections throughout the process. Services and support that social workers might recruit to assist children and their parents include counseling and psychotherapy; guidance on how to apply for health care benefits, food stamps, etc.; and connections to supportive groups within the community (substance abuse therapy groups, educational resources, etc.). Continuing services social workers also report on the family’s progress to the Dependency Court, and update families on the status of their case in relation to the court.

Damoun Bozorgzadarbab, MSW, who worked as a family services social worker and an emergency response children social worker at Los Angeles County Child Protective Services, explained that, while social workers are invested in parents’ progress, and in the reunification of the original family, their first and foremost priority is the safety of children. “The roles and responsibilities of child welfare social workers is first to keep children safe, then to assure their well-being and do both of those things while making sure they have a chance at permanent families,” she said, “So while child welfare social workers link parents to all the providers who help address their issues to mitigate safety and risk (therapists, day care providers, substance use treatment program) they are also reporting to the courts on the progress of the parents.” If, after a period of time, parents are unable to meet the standards outlined in the case plan, continuing services social workers also start working on a plan for long-term foster care or adoption.

Due to the many responsibilities that back-end social workers have upon the opening of a child welfare case (i.e. in-depth investigation of child maltreatment allegations, development of case plan with behavioral changes for parents, continued monitoring of parents’ progress, and development of a long-term foster care or adoption plan if necessary), some child welfare agencies have different units of back-end social workers that focus on a specific area of continuing services. “[There] are specialized units that address the needs of children who are not able to reunite with their family of origin,” McGowan said. “In continuing services, I work with children younger than the age of 16 who were not able to reunify with their parents, and at age 16 they transfer to ‘transitions to permanency’ where a social worker with special training will work with them on skills for independence and transitioning to adulthood.”

As mentioned previously, child welfare social workers’ specific responsibilities depend on whether they are working front-end or back-end roles at their agency. However, in general, the core responsibilities of child welfare social workers are:

Investigative Work (in Collaboration with CPS and Dependency Court)

Both first responder and continuing services social workers investigate instances of child maltreatment and evaluate children’s situations against an established minimum standard. The  minimum sufficient level of care (MSLC) (PDF, 85 KB)  is typically determined through a combination of state, federal, and community standards, as well as each family’s unique circumstances. Specific items that child welfare social workers look at include whether children are safe; provided for in terms of food, clothing, and shelter; are able to attend school; are not being subjected to physical, emotional/verbal, or sexual abuse; and are not suffering from neglect.

When investigating cases of child maltreatment, child welfare social workers collaborate with Child Protective Services and the Juvenile Dependency Court, which is a specialized court that handles solely child welfare cases. “Child welfare has its own court system, the Juvenile Dependency Court,” said Krause. “This is completely separate from criminal court. … Social workers in all units will interact with dependency court judges as we frequently write reports. Social workers can be called to testify when parents contest the allegations or judge’s decision. Each party (parents, kids, social worker) is represented by an attorney in court. Our attorneys are called county counsel and they represent all social workers in the county.”

Case Plan Development

Once a child maltreatment is confirmed, child welfare social workers collaborate with Child Protective Services, behavioral therapists, case managers, agency staff, school administrators and teachers, and other relevant members of the community to develop an individualized case plan for the child and his/her parents. The case plan mainly focuses on the changes that parents need to make to regain custody of their children and can have several different elements.

“A case plan could include things such as: anger management, domestic violence support group and education, counseling, couple’s counseling, family counseling, parenting classes, drug testing, and in patient or outpatient drug programs,” Krause noted, “I refer parents to all of these services. I [also] really try to explain to families what is going on as best as I can since the attorneys don’t really do that. I try to encourage them and draw on their strengths rather than only seeing the problems. I like to see the big picture and really get to know the family.”

Case plans usually have certain deadlines for behavioral changes that parents must meet, and these deadlines can be stringent. “A huge barrier for our families is the court timelines. If your child is under 3 years old, parents have only six months to address the issues leading to CPS involvement before we move towards an alternative permanency option for the child such as adoption. This is also why we concurrently plan, and place infants primarily with family members or potentially adoptive parents,” McGowan explained. “This is based on the negative outcomes of children spending years in foster care without consistent caregivers in early childhood. With children over 3, parents have 12 months.”

Counseling and Psychotherapy

Child welfare social workers can provide emotional counseling and, in some cases, targeted but often short-term psychotherapy to children and their parents. The separation of a family is a traumatic experience for both child and parent, and child welfare social workers help both parties manage the difficult emotions around the separation, and to move toward a plan of action for reunification. For children in foster homes or adopted children who experience mental, emotional and behavioral issues as a result of their separation from their family, child welfare social workers can offer emotional support and therapy. They might also help parents address the mental and emotional reasons behind the behavioral problems that lead to the maltreatment of their child (substance abuse, neglect, domestic abuse, etc.).

“Every child that comes into contact with our system is assessed for therapy and additional mental health services,” Krause noted, “Almost all of the children who are removed from their parents participate in some sort of therapy. We also have a number of children with diagnoses that range from PTSD and depression to more complex diagnoses such as schizophrenia and bipolar.”

Coordination of Support Services for Child and Parents

In addition to providing individualized advising and therapy to children and their parents, child welfare social workers communicate with other parties that are concerned about and/or involved in a child’s well-being, including but not limited to school administrators and teachers, behavioral therapists, doctors and nurses, and staff at community centers. Maggie Olivares, ASW, who works as an agency social worker at EMQFamiliesFirst in Stockton, California, explained to OnlineMSWPrograms.com the many different people and organizations she collaborates with to help clients. “[Agency social workers at EMQFF] work with other individuals such as child protective services social workers, probation officers, teachers, therapists, mental health resources specialists, family specialists, TBS and WRAP, and mental health workers,” she said.

The aforementioned service providers meet periodically with the family and independent of the family to create, evaluate, and modify the reunification plan. “When a client has various services from different agencies, we hold meetings to discuss the services and treatment goals and objectives,” Olivares explained. “These meetings included Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), child and family team (CFT) meetings, WRAP meetings, and/or team decision meetings (TDMs). During these meetings we discuss each person’s role and task. Each individual meets the needs of the client and family in different ways depending on what role they have.” Below is a more detailed description of some of the collaborative services, programs, and meetings that child welfare social workers participate in with other human service providers.

• Wraparound Services (WRAP) :  Wraparound services are defined as community based, individualized, and comprehensive mental, emotional, behavioral and social services and support for people in need, such as vulnerable children and their parents. Wraparound services encompass an individual’s social, emotional, health, academic, and (where relevant) occupational needs, and recruit multiple providers from within the community (teachers, behavioral therapists, social workers, medical professionals, etc.).
• Child and Family Team (CFT) Meetings :  CFT meetings are between children, parents, and human service providers, during which both parents and their children set goals for making the necessary changes to successfully reunify, and providers work with the family to construct a plan for meeting these goals. Providers also offer resources and support to assist the family in meeting their goals by established deadlines.
• Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) :  IEPs are developed primarily by school personnel (such as teachers, counselors and school social workers) in response to the needs of specific children who are not performing well at school for mental, emotional, behavioral, familial and/or social reasons. Child welfare social workers may participate in the development or maintenance of these plans in cases when child abuse or neglect are factors in a child not meeting certain academic standards.
• Team Decision Meetings (TDMs) :  These meetings are held between different social service providers before every key decision in a child’s case (placing a child in a foster home or with an adopted family, reuniting children with their families, etc.). During these meetings, providers develop an appropriate course of action given the family’s circumstances and progress (if applicable), evaluate the benefits and risks of this course of action, and update one another on the progress of a family.

Resource Connections and Navigation Services

While child welfare social workers can provide mental health counseling and therapy, their main role is as a care coordinator and an evaluator of children’s mental, emotional, academic, and social needs. Furthermore, though they work closely with families in need, child welfare social workers’ interactions with their clients is necessarily limited, and thus part of their job is creating as comprehensive a support system as possible for children and parents by coordinating services from various community resources.

In her interview with OnlineMSWPrograms.com, Krause explained how one of her core responsibilities is assessing and then meeting the needs of children and families through resource coordination. “As a social worker, I assess each child [in the areas of emotional, mental, developmental, and social well-being]. We refer for mental health services, behavior support services, tutoring, extracurricular activities to work on social skills, and developmental assessments through the regional center,” she said. “I also act as the ‘broker’ and make sure that all service providers are communicating.”

Examples of such resources include but are not limited to after-school programs and tutoring, parent support groups, centers that provide subsidized food and clothing, individual counseling, community health clinics, emotional regulation and stress reduction groups, and substance abuse support groups.

Child welfare social work is a very challenging field that can be physically draining and emotionally taxing. Child welfare social workers cite limited resources, grueling schedules, the emotional ramifications of witnessing and supporting people through trauma, and the pressure of families’ well-being resting on their shoulders as being definite challenges in their line of work.

As simultaneous investigators, counselors, child and parent advocates, and care coordinators, child welfare social workers may find themselves being pulled in many different directions. Olivares described the varied and intensive responsibilities that child welfare social workers must balance on a daily basis. “This job is not an 8 a.m.-5 p.m. type of job and many times we work after hours and need to be flexible with our schedule. As a social worker there are a lot of responsibilities from completing reports and progress notes, transporting clients, coordinating and supervising visits, and collecting and filing all paperwork. We are responsible for keeping family and client files up to date, and completing walk-throughs and home visits,” she explained. “We also have to respond to crises and attend and coordinate meetings and assure services are being completed.”

Managing the interests and feelings of both child(ren) and parents and connecting emotionally with both parties can also prove difficult for social workers when children are unable to return to their parents. “It is heartbreaking to have to recommend that a child not be returned to their parents. I hate having to tell parents that they are not making enough changes and that I do not feel their child is safe with them. It is also tough to see what being torn apart does to families,” Krause said. “I firmly believe that most children belong with their parents in the long run. We regularly deal with challenges related to complicated court timelines, large caseloads, having to communicate with many service providers, and traveling out of county/state to see kids who are placed elsewhere.”

Bozorgzadarbab explained how the child welfare system’s prioritization of children’s safety and well-being is important, but also means that parents’ interests and background do not take precedence when deciding where their child is ultimately placed. “Parents who already have trauma in their history, mental illness and/or substance use and feel disempowered/marginalized, will now have to prove their ability to safely parent to a seemingly impersonal and all-powerful system,” she said. “The failures of the parents may be clinically understandable given the complex issues they have to face, but in a system where children have to be protected above all, these failures are not easily forgiven. Children could be well on their way to adoption before their parents can successfully remove safety concerns.”

Olivares told OnlineMSWPrograms.com how her clients’ past and present hardships can be challenging to witness. “As a social worker we work with clients who come from unfortunate and sad circumstances. All the clients have been taken away from their birth families and most have a lot of needs. Learning about their stories is always difficult to hear,” she said. Olivares also noted that placing children in foster homes and/or with adopted families can lead to complicated and at times emotionally difficult situations for all parties involved. “The hardest part of this job is when clients sabotage good homes because they test limits and can’t trust,” she said. “It is also hard to see young children build bonds and healthy attachments with foster families and then they are reunified with their birth family. Even though reunification is a positive thing, it’s also hard.”

To manage the aforementioned challenges, child welfare social workers urge social work students and professionals interested in this field to commit to self-care early and consistently. “[You] HAVE TO respect your limitations and engage in self-care,” Bozorgzadarbab said. “I can’t emphasize enough that you need ways to increase your emotional capacity for your own sake, for the sake of your loved ones and even for the sake of your clients. If your emotional and empathic abilities are depleted, unhappiness and isolation is a likely result and eventually making poor decisions at work follows–which in the case of CPS work can be devastatingly costly to a child.”

Bozorgzadarbab also explained how professionals in this field should work to build and maintain a strong support system of colleagues across the different disciplines that collaborate on a given family’s case (i.e. school staff, health care professionals, behavioral therapists, attorneys, etc.). “An attitude of appreciation for teamwork and respect for other professionals outside child welfare can go a long way,” she said. “The stressed out nurse at the hospital who’s short with you will also be your savior when the time comes. The police officer you may have just offended is the person you’ll need to rely on another day to safely transport your suicidal minor client. … I can give countless examples of why teamwork can save your career, but the bottom line is you can’t do good work by yourself so cultivate relationships to help positively impact the outcome for your minor clients and help your own sanity too.”

McGowan similarly emphasized the importance of a positive outlook and building a strong community of colleagues in staying motivated and fulfilled at work. “We set our own tone for our work, and with a supportive supervisor and a county aimed towards the future, we have the ability to do an enormous amount of good for our community.”

Though their work is often stressful, demanding, and fast-paced, many child welfare social workers feel that the challenges are equally balanced with the rewards, and that the gratification they receive from their daily work is in fact inseparable from the difficulties of their work.

“Overall, my work is incredibly rewarding, Krause said. “Although it is an uphill battle, I develop pretty good relationships with my families. I get to see the progress they make and see how their lives change for the better. … I also try to be timely, responsive and compassionate, as I understand that my job is incredibly important. We are dealing with real people and make important recommendations about whether or not children can safely be with their parents. That is huge.”

Olivares explained to OnlineMSWPrograms.com how seeing the positive progress her clients make has helped her maintain energy in her role. “I’ve been in my position for over 15 years and although I have had other job opportunities to move up in my position and leave foster care. I’ve chosen to remain in foster care and stay in my current position,” she said. “Although the job has many challenges, I overall enjoy doing what I do. This job does not get boring and every day I am doing something different. My favorite part has been seeing the potential of the clients with whom I work. It is also rewarding to see them thrive and overcome challenges. I have emancipated several youths from foster care, and it is very exciting to see them leave the system, go on to college and become successful. I especially enjoy working closely with the clients; assisting them in life-long goals and helping them meet their goals.”

Child welfare social workers may also find deep rewards in being advocates for parents, regardless of whether or not they succeed in their goal of reunification. Bozorgzadarbab explained how her job has given her many opportunities to empower parents and provide them with support, dignity and compassion during a very difficult time. “There are too many examples to list when I felt honored and humbled, be it by my coworkers or my clients. Two that stand out are: when a mother who had originally fought me on the removal of her five children thanked me for ‘saving’ them and told every social worker who came after me about the respect and dignity that I had shown her family,” she recalled. “I also felt rewarded when I stood up for cultural differences in an immigrant family and advocated hard for them to receive the agency’s educational resources instead of having to experience the removal of their child from their care.”

Become a Social Worker: Education and Licensure Requirements

Written by Rebecca Munday | Edited by Diana Zaremba | Reviewed by Melissa Bronstein | Last Updated: April 2024

Since the practice of social work first began in 1898, social workers have addressed psychological and social problems for individuals and communities, bringing awareness to the needs of underserved populations.

Today, the practice continues to expand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the field of social work will have about 53,800 openings every year between 2022 and 2032. Learn more about becoming a social worker and help others with their psychosocial needs.

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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Is a Social Worker?

Social work focuses on improving the well-being of people and their communities and helping meet their needs, including housing, food, employment, mental health care, and childcare.

Social workers help individuals, families, and groups navigate issues and improve their lives. They assess clients’ needs, advocate for resources in the community, connect clients to resources, manage case files, and respond to crises. Social workers work with people from many backgrounds, including:

• Active military, veterans, and their families
• Older adults
• Children and families
• Individuals experiencing homelessness
• People with mental health and substance use conditions
• Incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals

Employers in healthcare and the government hire most social workers. However, professionals work in various settings, such as private practice, correctional facilities, nonprofits, and education.

Steps to Become a Social Worker

Becoming a master’s level social worker takes 6-9 years. After completing your bachelor’s and master’s degrees, you must pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam, apply for a license, and gain experience. These steps vary based on what type of social work you choose and individual state licensure requirements.

1. Earn Your Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Degree

You can enter your university’s social work program with a high school or GED diploma, a GPA that meets their requirements, and a clean academic record. A bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) prepares you to enter a master’s in social work (MSW) program with advanced standing or get an entry-level position in social work. Coursework explores social welfare policy, research methods, and human behavior and the social environment.

2. Find an Entry-Level Job in Social Work

Finding an entry-level position in social work can help you continue working through your MSW degree so you can graduate with less debt. You can also get valuable experience with generalist social work as a case manager, care coordinator, policy analyst , or school social worker .

3. Earn Your Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree

Earning a master of social work (MSW) prepares you to apply for your licensed master social worker (LMSW), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or your state’s equivalent credential and practice in most areas of social work.

An MSW builds upon your knowledge of social work policy, practicing social work, and human behavior and the social environment. MSW programs accept bachelor’s degrees in related fields, such as psychology, biology, and political science. A BSW allows you to complete your MSW in about half the time.

4. Complete Field Placement or Supervised Experience Requirements

You must complete at least one academic year, or 900 hours, of field placement to earn your MSW. BSW graduates need to complete at least 400 hours, according to the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE).

Field placements provide experience in generalist social work, including case planning, interviewing, and maintaining case files. In most states, field placement does not meet the supervised experience you need to get your LCSW or any license that requires supervised experience post-degree.

5. Apply for Social Work Licensure

To apply for your social work license , you must complete the required education and experience, pass a background check, fill out an application, and pay the application fee. License requirements vary based on your state and license level. Note that license titles vary by state. Check with your state board for more information about requirements and to ensure you complete your application correctly.

• Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW): You can apply to be a licensed baccalaureate social worker (LBSW) or your state’s equivalent once you graduate with a BSW. This license makes you eligible to apply for entry-level positions, such as victim advocate and community support worker.
• Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW): Becoming a licensed master social worker (LMSW), or your state’s equivalent, allows you to practice generalist social work in most settings at the macro and mezzo levels independently. You can practice micro or clinical social work under an LCSW’s supervision. You need an MSW and a passing score on the ASWB master’s exam to receive your LMSW.
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): You must pass your ASWB clinical exam and complete between 1500 and 4000 hours of supervised experience in clinical social work to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or your state’s equivalent. An LCSW allows you to practice clinical social work, open your own practice, or independently work with people with mental health and substance use conditions.

6. Pass Your ASWB Exam

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam tests your knowledge of social work practice. You must pass your ASWB exam before receiving state licensure. The exams for each level require knowledge in some of the same areas, such as human development, diversity, and behavior in the environment. The percentage of the exam dedicated to each area varies by license. Learn more about what each ASWB exam focuses on below.

• Bachelor’s Exam: Concepts of abuse and neglect, assessment, human development, diversity, and the behavior in the environment; professional relationships, values, and ethics; and interventions with clients and client systems
• Master’s Exam: Assessment and intervention planning, interventions with clients and client systems, human development, diversity, and the behavior in the environment; professional relationships, values, and ethics
• Advanced Generalist Exam: Interventions processes and techniques for use across systems; professional values and ethics; human development, diversity, and the behavior in the environment; interventions processes and techniques for use with larger systems
• Clinical Exam: Psychotherapy, clinical interventions, and case management; assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning; human development, diversity, and the behavior in the environment; professional values and ethics

7. Advance Your Career as a Social Worker

To advance your career, you must complete continuing education to renew your license every two years. However, beyond that, you can decide how you want to grow your career to match your goals and interests. Learn more about advancing your career with specialty certifications, an LCSW, and opening your own practice.

• Complete Continuing Education to Renew Your License: You need to complete 3-48 hours of continuing education, depending on your state and licensure type, every two years to renew your license. Many states require a certain amount of continuing education units specific to ethics, domestic or child abuse, and substance use.
• Earn Specialty Certifications from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW): The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) offers certifications in areas such as leadership, clinical practice, and case management. Earn a certification from NASW to show that you meet national standards in your area of expertise.
• Earn your LCSW and Open an Independent Practice: Once you earn your LCSW, you can open your own practice to practice generalist and clinical social work. Independent practice allows you more freedom to choose the population you serve, the people you work with, and the rates you charge.

What to Consider Before Becoming a Social Worker

Salary is one of many factors you should consider when becoming a social worker. Research scopes of practice, specialties, and license requirements to learn more about your desired career.

State License Requirements

Requirements for each license level are similar between states, but they are not the same. Many states allow you to transfer education and experience, even your ASWB exam scores, from another state. If you plan your education and experience around where you want to work, it will be easier and faster for you to get your license and start practicing.

Level of Social Work

Deciding which level of social work you want to practice helps you know which license and education requirements you need to work toward. You can get a job in macro social work as a policy analyst or community support worker with a BSW. However, if you want to work in micro social work, you need a clinical social work license to counsel individuals through trauma and mental health and substance use conditions.

Consider the average salary for social workers in your specialty and compare it to the cost of living in cities and states where you want to live. This will help you understand the purchasing power and standard of living you could have as a social worker. Use these calculations to narrow down the specialties and work settings that interest you most.

Scope of Practice

Deciding how much independence and responsibility you want in your scope of practice helps you choose between becoming an LMSW or an LCSW . LMSWs can only independently practice direct or generalist social work and connect people to resources. They may provide clinical social work but must do it under the supervision of an LCSW.

Clinical social workers practice clinical social work and direct social work . They provide psychotherapy and assess and diagnose mental health and substance use conditions.

Career Path and Specialization

Choosing a social work career path and specialty helps you narrow down the education and experience requirements you need to meet. If you want to work with children and families in individual and family services, you can get an entry-level position as a case manager with a BSW. However, if you want to counsel people who have mental health or substance use conditions, you need an LCSW to assess, diagnose, and treat your clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Social Worker

What is a social worker.

A social worker is a trained professional who helps individuals, families, and groups with their psychosocial needs, such as mental health and substance use conditions, chronic medical conditions, crises, abuse, poverty, homelessness, and hunger. They identify people in need, maintain case files and records, connect individuals to resources, and provide psychotherapy.

How long does it take to become a social worker?

You can become a licensed master social worker (LMSW), or your state’s equivalent, in as little as six years. An LMSW qualifies you for most roles in generalist social work. If you want to become an LCSW, you will spend 8-9 years completing your bachelor’s degree, MSW, and supervised experience.

Are social workers in high demand?

Yes — social worker jobs are projected to grow 7% between 2022 and 2032, 4 percentage points higher than the job outlook for all occupations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects 11% job growth for social workers in mental health and substance use between 2022 and 2032.

Is it hard to become a social worker?

Becoming a social worker requires 6-9 years of education and experience to become licensed. Entry-level positions do not pay as well as other occupations, so passion and determination are key to becoming a licensed social worker.

Page last reviewed on April 8, 2024

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Becoming a Child Welfare Social Worker – 2024 Career and Schooling Guide

What is a child welfare social worker.

A child welfare social worker plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of children and families. In that regard, working as a child welfare social worker puts you on the front lines of protecting children from abuse, neglect, and other types of harm.

This doesn’t mean that child welfare social workers just remove children from dangerous home settings. Instead, these workers strive to provide the educational opportunities to families that foster personal growth, improve communication, and set parents and guardians up for success such that their children can stay with them in a positive and healthy environment.

What Does a Child Welfare Social Worker Do?

A child welfare social worker fulfills many different functions as part of their day-to-day job duties. Some of these duties involve direct contact with clients, such as assessing parents to determine their fitness to retain custody for their children.

Other tasks are much more menial, such as keeping and maintaining records related to each case. Some of the most common job duties for child welfare social workers are outlined below.

Investigate Allegations of Child Neglect or Abuse

One of the primary functions of a child welfare social worker is to act upon allegations of child neglect or abuse. To do so, child welfare social workers often conduct interviews with parents or guardians, the child that is suspected to have been abused, and any other members of the household. Likewise, part of the assessment phase is examining the home environment to ensure that it’s safe for children.

For example, if a home is found to be unsanitary, a social worker would note the cleanliness of the home, and if unsatisfactory, make it a condition that the home meet sanitation standards before a child is brought back onto the premises.

Arrange or Provide Educational Opportunities

In working to help keep families together in a safe and healthy environment, child welfare social workers often arrange for parents and guardians to participate in educational opportunities that will help them be better parents.

For example, if a young couple is found to be neglecting their newborn baby out of sheer ignorance for how to properly care for a newborn, it might be arranged for the couple to participate in a parenting class in which basic parenting skills are taught. In some cases, social workers might even teach these kinds of courses themselves.

Coordinate Services

In addition to arranging or providing educational opportunities for parents, social workers are often tasked with coordinating a variety of other services for children and their families. For example, if a child’s teachers have concerns because the child seems to go without a lunch more days than not, a social worker might coordinate with a local food bank to ensure the family has enough food.

Collaborate With Other Stakeholders

Often, mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect comes from a child’s teachers. As such, child welfare social workers often work very closely with educational institutions as part of the assessment phase to gather information in their investigation of the allegations.

However, the collaboration with teachers and others in the educational realm doesn’t stop there. Often, social workers will coordinate with schools to visit the child at school, observe his or her behavior in class, and devise strategies with teachers and administrators to provide the support the child needs to flourish.

Testify as an Expert Witness

Unfortunately, sometimes children must be removed from the home because the conditions simply are not conducive to a healthy childhood. In such cases, child welfare social workers may be asked to testify in family court as to their findings regarding the fitness of the home and the fitness of the child’s parents/guardians.

Where Does a Child Welfare Social Worker Work?

Child welfare social workers can be employed in any number of settings. Most commonly, they are employed by government agencies. For example, Child Protective Services, the Department of Family Services, or the Department of Health and Human Services are common places of employment for specialists in this field. In some locations, they might be employed by a law enforcement agency or even work in the court system.

Some workers with a background in child welfare might also work in the non-profit sector for adoption agencies, child advocacy organizations, or foster care agencies. Additionally, many child welfare social workers find employment in non-profit mental health centers as well as public and private schools.

Yet other workers in this field might work in private practice. In that case, they might be contracted by local or state agencies to provide social work services or they might strictly focus on providing social work services directly to clients.

Some child welfare specialists also work in the research field where they seek to identify why child neglect and abuse occur and devise solutions to address abuse and neglect.

Why are Child Welfare Social Workers Important?

As noted earlier, child welfare social workers are on the front lines of protecting children from neglect and abuse. Naturally, protecting children from emotional, mental, and physical abuse is one of the most important jobs a professional can have.

Beyond that, workers with a specialization in child welfare are important because they often hold the key for parents and guardians to become better caretakers for their children. As mentioned above, child welfare social workers are responsible for coordinating services like educational opportunities, monetary assistance, and other programs that help make parents more successful.

Additionally, these workers are important because they develop an understanding of the needs of the community, particularly as it pertains to raising children. Using their knowledge and understanding of critical problems is helpful in developing programs to address those problems and improve the way that children live.

What are the Requirements to Become a Child Welfare Social Worker?

Educational requirements.

Students interested in a career as a child welfare social worker must begin their studies by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in social work. These programs, which typically require 120 credit hours of coursework, usually take four years to complete.

Coursework within the degree program focuses on general social work topics, such as the principles of social work, psychology, child development, social work delivery systems, statistics for social workers, and social work practice.

Often, undergraduate students must also take a social work practice course, in which they begin to learn how to assess clients, how to arrange services for clients, and how to build trusting relationships with clients.

The purpose of an undergraduate program is to introduce students to the field. Likewise, these degree programs are designed to provide students with the essential knowledge and skills they need to start their career, albeit in an entry-level capacity.

Because bachelor’s studies are introductory level, admissions requirements tend to be fairly broad, with minimum high school GPA and standardized test scores often used most frequently to determine eligibility for admission.

The next step in one’s education as a child welfare social worker is a master’s degree. Depending on the program, students might spend anywhere from two to three years or more completing the graduation requirements for a master’s degree.

Coursework at this level is both more focused on social work than an undergraduate degree and more difficult as well. Upper-level courses in specific social work topics like diversity and oppression, macro human behavior, psychopathology, and research methods are often required.

Also required of many master’s programs in this field is fieldwork in the form of an internship. Though the internship requirements vary from one institution to the next, students can expect to be required to participate in 1,000 hours or more of supervised training as part of their graduation requirements.

Licensing/Certification Requirements

Typically, child welfare social workers must be licensed because they work directly with clients, including minors. To become a licensed clinical social worker, one must first complete undergraduate and graduate studies in social work in addition to clinical training, which often exceeds 3,000 hours of supervised work. What’s more, prospective licensees must take and pass a licensure exam.

The specific licensure requirements to become a licensed clinical social worker vary from state to state. Additionally, licensure requirements might even vary from one job to the next. Organizations like the National Association of Social Workers provide trainings, educational materials, and licensure information for workers in all 50 states.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Child Welfare Social Worker?

The length of time it takes to become a child welfare social worker depends on the level of education one pursues. As outlined in the previous section, a bachelor’s degree in social work typically takes four years to complete and provides students with the requisite knowledge and skills to obtain an entry-level position.

However, to have the greatest number of job opportunities, it’s important for students to pursue a master’s degree, which can take anywhere from two to three additional years of schooling after a bachelor’s degree, or a doctoral degree, which can take three to five years after a master’s degree.

In short, for some positions in this field, a four-year timeline is common. But for others, it might be 5-8 years of additional schooling.

What Does It Take to Become a Child Welfare Social Worker?

To be an effective child welfare social worker, one must possess certain personality traits, personal skills, and technical skills. Some of the most important of these include:

Intervention skills – Workers must possess the hard skill set of conducting investigations, assessing parents for fitness, and devising interventions to protect the safety of children.

Research skills – Child welfare specialists should possess hard skills related to research, including the ability to gather, analyze, and interpret vast amounts of information related to the social, physical, emotional, and mental health of children.

Understanding of psychopathology – Often, investigating potential child neglect or abuse requires social workers to understand the underpinnings of certain behaviors. Likewise, they must be able to accurately diagnose mental disorders as well as develop treatments for such disorders.

Empathy – Workers in this field should be able to see and understand situations from others’ perspectives and have the capacity for taking other people’s needs into account.

Organizational skills – Social work requires everything to be documented. As such, social workers must be highly organized in order to keep and maintain accurate records for every single case on which they work.

Communication skills – Child welfare social workers must be adept at speaking and listening to many different groups of people of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities, religions, and so forth.

Active listening skills – A large part of this job is simply listening to what others are saying and making them feel heard. Having active listening skills helps in that endeavor.

Driven – Because of the difficult nature of this work and the fact that cases often require many weeks, months, or even years of oversight, child welfare social workers must have the personality trait of being driven and committed to accomplishing long-term goals.

What are the Benefits of Being a Child Welfare Social Worker?

Employment in the field of child welfare social work offers a variety of benefits. Among the most commonly noted benefits of this occupation are:

Satisfying Work

Though the work is tough, social workers often cite job satisfaction as one of the best things about their job. Helping people to improve their lives is something that social workers can be highly proud of.

Variety of Work Settings

People with a background in child welfare social work can use that experience to work in a number of settings. Child welfare social workers might be employed in a non-profit mental health setting, in private practice, in public or private schools, and even in state or federal agencies, like the Department of Health and Human Services.

Low Educational Barrier

Although the highest paying careers in this field are reserved for those with a master’s degree or higher, there are many entry-level and mid-level positions available for workers with a bachelor’s degree.

Good Earnings Potential

As one gains work experience and additional education, the opportunity for making a good income increases.

Strong Jobs Outlook

The field of social work is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. That means more jobs will likely be available in more locations for child welfare social workers.

Opportunity for Growth and Advancement

Social work is a field that is constantly evolving. With so many opportunities to advance one’s knowledge and skills through education and training, there are likewise many opportunities for workers in this field to advance their careers.

How Much Does a Child Welfare Social Worker Make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , child social workers, of which child welfare social workers are a part, earned a median annual salary of $56,680 in 2022. However, the pay range for careers in this field is widely varied. For example, the lowest 10 percent of earners make $35,820 per year while the highest 10 percent of earners make $78,710 per year. There are a number of reasons for this disparity in income.

First, workers with a higher level of education and experience can command higher incomes. A child welfare social worker with a master’s degree and ten years of experience will therefore earn more money than one that has just graduated with a bachelor’s degree and has no employment history in the field.

Second, social workers that are employed in non-profit settings often earn less than those who work for a for-profit organization. What’s more, workers in this field that are self-employed in private practice often make even more money because they can set their own hourly rates.

Lastly, geographic location often influences income. That is, workers in urban areas tend to have higher salaries than those that work in rural areas. Part of this is due to the higher demand for services in highly populated areas while cost of living expenses also factors into higher earnings in urban areas.

What is the Job Outlook for Child Welfare Social Workers?

As a whole, the need for social workers is expected to grow rapidly through the next decade. In fact, a 2021 estimate by the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that growth in this field will be at a 9 percent rate, which is substantially higher than the average.

The growing need for additional child welfare social workers, specifically, can be traced to the increasing emphasis on better-preparing parents to raise children. Many organizations as well as state and federal agencies are placing a premium on parenting courses as a means of strengthening the skill set of parents. These courses are often taught by child welfare social workers.

Unfortunately, the need for workers in this field is increasing due to the incidence of child abuse as well. Child welfare social workers are needed to investigate claims of child abuse, find loving homes for children, and help children that have been removed from their biological homes to work their feelings and emotions related to abuse.

What Professions are Similar to Child Welfare Social Worker?

School counselor – School counselors help foster the academic and social skills students need for success in school and later in life. From providing individual counseling to helping students prepare for college entrance exams to teaching life skills, school counselors perform a wide variety of duties.

Social service manager – Social service managers oversee programs that help specific populations. For example, a social service manager might develop and supervise a program to provide after-school activities for at-risk youth. Managers must evaluate the efficacy of these programs, implement changes as necessary, and work with the community and other stakeholders to devise new programs that meet the community’s needs.

Psychologist – Psychologists undertake the scientific study of human behavior and use their knowledge and skills to help improve how people function. For example, a research psychologist might devise a study to better understand how Alzheimer’s disease develops in the hopes of identifying a cure. As another example, a psychologist in private practice might work with a depressed teenager to identify the cause of the depression and help them develop strategies for overcoming their depression.

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Social Work Education and Professional Development

A comprehensive social work education will give you the necessary knowledge, skills and ethical foundation to address complex social issues and support vulnerable people. It combines theoretical learning with practical application, covering areas such as psychology, sociology, law and crisis intervention. This educational pathway prepares future social workers to advocate for social justice , provide counseling and work within the social services system. 1

Although a formal education program provides a strong foundation in social work, continuous learning helps social workers stay up to date with best practices, legal standards and new intervention strategies. A lifelong commitment to learning maintains a high standard of professionalism in this dynamic profession and leads to better outcomes for clients. Continuous education in social work also allows professionals to adapt to their roles and specializations within the field. 2

Professional development for social workers adds to their skills and knowledge after their formal education. Examples include workshops, conferences, seminars and the pursuit of advanced certifications. These activities fulfill licensing requirements and encourage reflection, collaboration and knowledge sharing among professionals. 3

Social Work Education Programs

Social work education programs offer a structured pathway to a career in social work. Bachelor’s degree programs in social work (BSWs) provide foundational knowledge in social welfare policy, human behavior and direct service strategies. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions at social work practices. Accredited programs include extensive fieldwork components that offer direct practice in diverse settings. 1

Master’s degree programs in social work (MSWs) generally require two additional years of education and may be required for specialized or supervisory positions. These programs cover advanced skills in clinical assessment, intervention techniques and specialized areas such as mental health or child welfare. MSW programs typically require internships or fieldwork for hands-on learning. 1 An online MSW , like that at Yeshiva University Wurzweiler School of Social Work, provides ample opportunity for social work students to complete fieldwork even though the program is offered conveniently online. Through dialogue with diverse clients, you’ll be empowered to practice social work with true cultural sensitivity and responsiveness, fully understanding all facets of the client relationship.

Doctoral degrees in social work (PhDs or DSWs) focus on research and advanced practice leadership. These programs prepare graduates for roles in academia, policy development and high-level administrative positions that require original research and theoretical contributions to the field. 1

Social work certification programs and continuing education opportunities allow practicing social workers to gain specific skills and expertise. These programs include options such as hospice care, substance abuse counseling and school social work. 4

Key Skills and Competencies for Social Work Professionals

Professional social workers need a wide range of skills to serve and advocate for their clients in diverse populations and complex situations, including the following:

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Effective communication includes the ability to actively listen, clearly convey information and use empathy to build trust with clients. Social workers need strong interpersonal skills for conflict resolution and handling sensitive conversations. With good communication skills, social workers can foster constructive relationships with clients, their families, and other professionals. 5

Cultural Competence and Diversity Awareness

Social workers must understand and respect the cultural, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds of the people and communities they serve. They need to recognize personal biases, understand systemic inequalities and apply culturally appropriate strategies . By embracing diversity, social workers can provide more tailored and respectful services, improving client engagement and outcomes. 6

Case Management and Advocacy Techniques

Effective case management requires organizing, coordinating, and monitoring the services and resources needed to address a client’s specific needs. Social workers have to be advocates for their clients, helping them access necessary services, protect their rights and promote social justice. They work to help their clients receive immediate help and long-term support for sustainable improvement in their circumstances. 7

Professional Development Opportunities

Social workers have many opportunities for professional development to improve their skills, advance their knowledge and invest in their career growth. These opportunities range from traditional settings to online platforms, and they’re often tailored to different learning needs and professional goals. 3 You can find professional development resources for social workers on LinkedIn, in industry newsletters and on websites like for the National Association of Social Workers.

Workshops, seminars and conferences are face-to-face gatherings that help social workers stay informed about the latest research, techniques and policies in the industry. Conferences often feature keynote speeches from experts, panel discussions and case-study presentations. 3

Online learning is a flexible, accessible method for continuing professional education. Webinars and online courses allow social workers to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. They can use these opportunities to balance their professional development with their work and personal commitments. These platforms often cover many different topics, such as specific therapeutic techniques and policy changes. 3

Mentorship and supervision programs connect less experienced social workers with seasoned professionals who provide guidance, feedback and support. Mentorship, training and supervision help new social workers apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and build confidence and effective practices in their roles. 8

Continuing Education Requirements and Regulations

The exact requirements vary by state, but social workers need to earn a degree from an accredited social work program. They then need to pass a national examination and meet specific state requirements, which generally include supervised clinical hours. To become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) , candidates must have a master’s degree from an accredited program, pass a licensing exam and complete a certain amount of supervised clinical hours. 9

To renew their licenses, social workers must meet continuing education credit requirements, which also vary by state. Typically, these requirements involve completing a certain number of continuing education credits within a set renewal period, often 48 hours every two years: These credits can be earned through activities such as attending workshops, seminars and conferences or completing courses offered by accredited providers. 10

Make Meaningful Progress in Your Career

Yeshiva University’s online Master of Social Work program will prepare you to make a positive difference in the lives of others through our extensive tradition of service. The accredited online Master of Social Work program will help prepare you to become an LCSW. You’ll receive personal attention from our experienced faculty, and the education you receive will equip you to work in different fields and roles. Schedule a call with an admissions outreach advisor today to learn more.

• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from allpsychologyschools.com/degrees/social-work/
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from socialworkers.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=qrXmm_Wt7jU%3D&portalid=0
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from careers.socialworkers.org/professionaldev/default.asp
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from tealhq.com/certifications/social-worker
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from linkedin.com/advice/3/how-can-good-communication-skills-help-advance-fuxlf
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from socialworkers.org/Practice/NASW-Practice-Standards-Guidelines/Standards-and-Indicators-for-Cultural-Competence-in-Social-Work-Practice
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from linkedin.com/advice/0/how-can-you-provide-high-quality-case-management-services-vtivc
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from linkedin.com/advice/3/what-different-types-models-supervision-mentoring-social
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from forbes.com/advisor/education/social-work/social-work-license-requirements/
• Retrieved on April 15, 2024, from socialworkers.org/Practice/NASW-Practice-Standards-Guidelines/NASW-Standards-for-Continuing-Professional-Education

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Exploring special education teacher certification: Requirements and exam preparation

The teacher shortage is real and students with disabilities, including those in less wealthy and rural districts, are often the most impacted.

Take the case of Nico Mossa, a seventh-grader with disabilities in Wake County, N.C.

Nico is a fun-loving kid with autism and a seizure disorder who requires necessary accommodations. 1 However, when school started in July 2023, his class didn’t have a qualified special education teacher for five months.

While the district launched a search to fill the position, his mom worried that mandated services, which were outlined in his individualized education plan (IEP), were not being implemented. If Nico had a seizure in class, there was no guarantee the instructional aide or substitute assigned to his class would know where to find his medication or how to administer it.

Additionally, the certified special ed teacher next door had to juggle lesson planning responsibilities, their class, and Nico’s class—which resulted in a fragmented learning experience for students. 1

In this guide, we cover the career outlook for special education teachers. You will also learn about the steps to obtain special education certification, including exams and state requirements.

Career Opportunities

The career outlook for special education teachers is exceptionally promising, as indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics which projects around 33,500 new job openings between the years 2022 and 2023. 2

However, experts emphasize that this estimate may be conservative, given the demand; the United States currently serves over seven million students requiring special services or accommodations, highlighting a significant need for skilled special education professionals. 3,4

Although some challenges exist, including financial support gaps in certain states, the overall trend is toward increased awareness and early identification of disabilities, leading to a foreseeable surge in the demand for qualified special education teachers. 4

This growing recognition of the importance of special education services is paving the way for exciting opportunities in this rewarding field.

Unlocking the path: Essential steps for special education certification

Embarking on a career in special education is a profound commitment to empowering lives and shaping futures.

The journey to becoming a certified special education teacher requires dedication, compassion, and hands-on training.

Individuals who join the profession often teach the same cohort of students for multiple years and find they develop positive relationships with their students, families, caregivers, and community.

The importance of special education teachers like Brian Skinner

By the time students land on special education teacher Brian Skinner’s caseload, they have often convinced themselves they cannot excel at subjects like reading and math and decide to give up.

As 2023 Kansas Teacher of the Year, Skinner is driven to instill a belief that his students can succeed, and they do. 5

If you pursue a path toward special education certification, you, too, can become a champion of educational equity for students with special needs. Through advocacy, specialized instruction, and interventions, you will be able to create inclusive learning environments where your students will thrive. 6

Your role could include various settings, from resource rooms to mainstream classrooms where special education and regular students learn together. Crafting Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) under federal laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), you'll ensure each student receives a free, appropriate education tailored to their needs. For instance, a student with ADHD might get extended time on learning activities or a modified exam. 1

Types of special education certifications

Because your students’ needs will vary greatly, you’ll want to consider gaining additional expertise in the areas you want to impact most.

Many online master’s degree programs offer specializations in areas, such as autism spectrum disorders or transition services for graduating students with disabilities.

Another option is to choose a specialization after teaching in a special education classroom for a few years and complete a certification program offered through organizations like the National Association of Special Education Teachers.

Other certifications include:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder : Acquire strategies in behavior management and social skills development tailored for individuals across the autism spectrum 7,8
• High Incidence Disabilities: Support students with learning disabilities and ADHD
• Low Incidence Disabilities: Specialize in supporting students with less common disabilities such as traumatic brain injuries 7,8
• Inclusion in Special Education : Learn how to integrate students with disabilities into general education settings effectively 7,8
• Secondary Education Transitions : Prepare students with disabilities for life after high school through vocational training and independent living skills 7,8

Earning these qualifications can set you apart from other candidates and enhance opportunities for career advancement.

Prerequisites for certification

Fulfilling the prerequisites for special education certification mandates a robust educational foundation:

• Educational Background: Complete a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with an approved teacher preparation program. You may need to include official transcripts with your job applications 9
• Cumulative GPA: A GPA of 3.0 or higher demonstrates academic rigor and commitment 9
• Professional Resume or CV: Showcase your qualifications, achievements, and any education-related work experiences. Then, apply to special education teaching positions for which you are qualified 9
• Pass Required Exams: Most states require teachers to take and pass a standardized exam before earning their initial special educator teaching license 9

Field experience and student teaching

Gaining practical experience is one of the best ways to prepare for a career in special education and complement what you learn in a degree program. In fact, most states require you to complete student teaching before you become a certified special education teacher.

Under the supervision of a seasoned educator, you get the chance to teach students in special education programs, get feedback on your teaching strategies, and gain insights into how various technologies are used to support learners.

If you want to expand your knowledge of diverse learning needs and strategies, consider an assistant teaching role in a special education classroom. 7 This can help bridge gaps between classroom theory and actual practice.

Finally, volunteering with programs that serve individuals with disabilities also provides valuable hands-on training. 7

Through these experiences, you will build essential skills, confidence, and empathy, all of which are crucial for success in the field of special education.

Background checks and clearance

School districts seek to hire the most qualified special education teachers, with a demonstrated commitment to child safety and ethical conduct. Background checks enable employers to assess whether job candidates are highly qualified and eligible to work with children.

According to Checkr, every U.S. state has laws mandating criminal background checks for K-12 teachers, while 38 states extend this requirement to other school employees who directly interact with children but without supervision. 10

To gain additional information about job candidates, schools may conduct screenings, such as: 10

• Criminal background check
• Education verification
• Verification of previous employment
• Professional license checks
• Driving record checks

Some states require teachers to undergo background checks every few years to ensure no disqualifying convictions have occurred since their initial pre-employment screening and that any professional licenses remain active. 9 Employers must follow local, state, and federal regulations when conducting these background checks.

Certification exams

Each state has its own guidelines concerning these exams. You can check with your state Board of Education to find the licensing requirements for your state. Many states use the Praxis II exams, which test your knowledge in specific areas.

The special education Praxis II exam tests core knowledge and applications. You have two hours to complete 120 questions that cover the following content categories: 11

• Development and Characteristics of Learners
• Planning and the Learning Environment
• Instruction
• Foundations and Professional Responsibilities

State-specific requirements

Prospective special education teachers must research the specific certification requirements in their state or the state where they plan to teach. They should be sure to research what exams are mandatory, the passing scores needed, and any additional coursework or practical experience requirements.

Besides the Praxis exam, you may have to take tests covering topics related to hearing impairment, American Sign Language, mild to moderate disabilities, or early childhood.

Other state assessments include:

• Content Exams: If you want to work in a high school, you may be required to take exams covering content areas such as English, social studies, or math
• edTPA : The Education Teacher Performance Assessment evaluates a teacher candidate's readiness for the classroom, including planning, instruction, and assessment practices. As of Fall 2017, 18 states have either adopted statewide policies requiring a performance assessment for aspiring teachers or are actively considering such a step 12

After fulfilling certification requirements, you'll be on your way to a fulfilling career as a special education teacher, where you can impact students' lives and help shape the future of education.

Take the first steps toward special education certification

If you’re passionate about inclusive education, you could help alleviate the teacher shortage and ensure that students like Nico Massa receive the high-quality instruction and support services mandated by federal law.

The University of Kansas School of Education and Human Sciences offers top-ranked special education master’s and certificate programs that can help you become the qualified education specialist that each of your students needs. 13

With a committed faculty and progressive curriculum that keeps up with the changing demands of the modern and inclusive classroom, KU’s online master’s is an unmated opportunity that offers tremendous career benefits for those in the field.

Schedule a call with a KU admissions outreach advisor today to learn how joining a KU special education online master’s-level program can help you excel and make a true difference.

• Retrieved on April 18, from www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2023/01/26/schools-struggle-to-retain-special-ed-teachers-advocates-say-invest-more-in-them/
• Retrieved on April 18, from bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/special-education-teachers.htm
• Retrieved on April 18, from motherjones.com/politics/2023/12/how-americas-broken-promise-to-millions-of-students-became-the-status-quo/
• Retrieved on April 18, from pbs.org/newshour/show/whats-driving-a-special-education-teacher-shortage-and-how-schools-are-responding
• Retrieved on April 18, from iheart.com/podcast/269-how-we-teach-this-141528755/episode/s8e2-demystifying-special-education-with-2023-141528765/
• Retrieved on April 18, from parentcenterhub.org/iep-speceducator/
• Retrieved on April 18, from tealhq.com/certifications/special-education-teacher
• Retrieved on April 18, from naset.org/career-center/inclusive-board-certified-inclusive-education-specialist-bcies-program
• Retrieved on April 18, from masters-in-special-education.com/how-to-become-a-special-education-teacher/
• Retrieved on April 18, from checkr.com/resources/articles/teacher-background-checks
• Retrieved on April 18, from ets.org/content/dam/ets-org/pdfs/praxis/5354.pdf
• Retrieved on April 18, from aacte.org/faq/edtpa/
• Retrieved on April 18, 2024, from usnews.com/education/online-education/education/online-special-education-rankings

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