missouri social work license continuing education requirements

Missouri Social Work License Requirements and Schools: Learn How to Become a Social Worker in MO

Written by Maura Deering Last Updated: July 2023

Highly ranked master of social work (MSW) programs, straightforward licensing requirements, and a growing need for more social workers make Missouri an excellent choice for beginning your social work career.

This guide outlines Missouri social work license requirements, details salary expectations, and lists the top MSW programs to help you decide if Missouri is a good fit for your academic and practice goals.

Missouri Social Work Licensure Requirements

The Missouri Division of Professional Registrations’ Committee for Social Workers issues social work licenses at four levels: licensed bachelor’s social worker (LBSW); licensed master social worker (LMSW); licensed advanced macro social worker (LAMSW); and licensed clinical social worker (LCSW).

LBSWs can practice non-clinical social work under supervision. After gaining experience, LBSWs can request permission from the social worker committee to practice independently. LMSWs can practice general social work without supervision and begin logging experience for their LCSW credentials.

LCSWs can offer clinical social work services, and LAMSWs can work independently in community organization and policy development and can practice clinical social work if supervised by LCSWs.

Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)

Missouri licensure requirements for LBSWs include:

• Bachelor of social work (BSW) from a Council for Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program
• Official college transcripts
• Fingerprints for a criminal background check
• Passing score on the Association of Social Work Board (ASWB)’s bachelor’s exam

NOTE: Applicants who want to take the ASWB exam prior to completing their BSWs can submit a letter from their program indicating they are on track to graduate on time. Licensed LBSWs who want to practice without supervision complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience within 24-48 months and ask the social worker committee for permission to practice independently.

Licensed Social Worker (LMSW)

Missouri licensure requirements for LMSWs include:

• Master of social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program
• Official MSW transcripts
• Passing score on the ASWB’s master’s exam

NOTE: Applicants who want to take the ASWB exam prior to completing their MSWs can submit a letter from their program indicating they are on track to graduate on time. Once licensed, LMSWs can provide general, non-clinical social work. Those pursuing LAMSW or LCSW credentials can practice advanced or clinical social work under supervision.

Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW)

Missouri licensure requirements for LAMSWs include:

• LMSW license
• Registration of supervision by a LAMSW or LCSW with the social worker committee
• Documented 3,000 hours of supervised macro social work experience within 24-48 months
• Passing score on the ASWB’s advanced generalist exam

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Missouri licensure requirements for LCSWs include:

• Master of social work (MSW) or doctorate in social work from a CSWE-accredited program
• Registration of supervision by an LCSW with the social worker committee
• Documented 3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work experience within 24-48 months
• Passing score on the ASWB’s clinical exam

NOTE: Licensure candidates who want to take the ASWB clinical exam prior to completing their supervised hours can apply after completing 2,250 hours within an 18-month timeframe.

Featured Online Social Work Programs

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

How Long Does it Take to Become a Licensed Social Worker in Missouri?

Each licensure level has its own time frame. LBSWs generally earn a four-year BSW degree, while LMSWs typically spend two years completing their MSW, in addition to four years for their BSW.

LAMSWs and LCSWs who earn a master’s degree need about six years of education, but those who opt for doctorates need 2-4 more years on average. LAMSWs and LCSWs must also devote 2-4 years to completing their 3,000 postgraduate supervised experience hours.

Timelines can vary depending on full- or part-time enrollment, accelerated or online learning, and whether a BSW-holder qualifies for advanced standing in an MSW program.

Out of State Licensing Reciprocity in Missouri

Missouri provides licensing reciprocity on an individual basis to social workers who hold active licenses in other states and have been licensed for a year or more. Applicants submit a reciprocity application to the social worker committee, along with fingerprints for a criminal background check and license verification from the state(s) in which they are licensed.

Active license-holders from other states who’ve been licensed for less than one year should contact the committee for information and instructions.

How to Renew a Social Work License in Missouri

Missouri social work licenses renew every two years. Renewal requires 30 clock hours of continuing education during each renewal period. The continuing education hours must include three hours of ethics and two hours of suicide prevention training.

The social worker committee allows completion of continuing education hours through in-person classes, including live interactive webinars, or self-study. The committee accepts up to 15 hours of self-study coursework, as well as employer-provided and -documented continuing education training.

Salary Expectations for Social Workers in Missouri

The table below lists average wages for Missouri social workers in different specialty areas. For comparison purposes, the nationwide median salary for social workers equals $50,390 per year, or $24.23 per hour. National average salaries for child, family, and school social workers ($56,680), healthcare social workers ($62,760), mental health and substance abuse social workers ($60,130), and social workers, all other ($64,360) exceed average annual salaries in Missouri.

Missouri’s cost of living — which ranked as the fourth-lowest in the country during the first quarter of 2023 — and affordable housing can offset the state’s comparatively lower salaries.

Source: BLS, 2022

Accredited Master’s of Social Work Programs in Missouri

• Enrollment Type: Full Time, Part Time
• 2023 Tuition: $668 per credit hour
• 2023 Tuition: $19,840 per program
• 2023 Tuition: $425 per credit hour in-state; $710 per credit hour out-of-state
• Available Concentrations: Children and Families; Gerontological Social Work; Military Social Work
• 2023 Tuition: $695 per credit hour
• Available Concentrations: Clinical; Community and Organization
• 2023 Tuition: $1,120 per credit hour
• Available Concentrations: Clinical; Policy, Planning, and Administration in Human Services
• 2023 Tuition: $435 per credit hour in-state and online; $1,192 per credit hour out-of-state
• 2023 Tuition: $488-$732 per credit hour in-state; $732-$1,225 per credit hour out-of-state
• Available Concentrations: Family Practice; Leadership and Social Change
• 2023 Tuition: $614-$921 per credit hour in-state; $921-$1,460 per credit hour out-of-state
• Full Time and Part Time: Children, Youth, and Families; Mental Health; Social Impact Leadership
• Full Time Only: American Indian and Alaska Native; Health; Individualized; Social and Economic Development (Domestic or International)
• 2023 Tuition: $23,420 per semester

Professional Organizations for Social Workers in Missouri

Joining a professional organization can help you advance your career. These groups provide networking opportunities through conferences and workshops, offer continuing education and professional development resources, and promote job opportunities in the field. Many also advocate on behalf of their members for higher salaries and better working conditions.

Here are three organizations serving social work professionals in the state.

• National Association of Social Workers – Missouri Chapter : NASW represents more than 132,000 professionals across the country. The Missouri chapter provides detailed information on licensure and renewal in the state, hosts an annual conference, and lobbies the state government for policies that benefit social workers and their clients. Members also receive discounted tuition for continuing education courses.
• Missouri Society for Clinical Social Work : MSCSW serves clinical social workers in the state. It offers continuing education workshops and trainings, an online forum for collaborating with other clinical professionals, and a mentoring program for new social workers. The society also publishes a quarterly newsletter and maintains a variety of mental health resources on its website.
• School Social Workers Association of Missouri : SSWAM works exclusively with social workers employed by schools and other educational organizations. The association hosts an annual networking conference and continuing education seminars throughout the state. The group’s website features a job board and a listing of social work programs in Missouri.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

• $ 0.00 0 items

Continuing Education for Missouri Social Workers

Attention : Several states and disciplines have relaxed requirements regarding live / in person Continuing Education due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please check with your board to see the most current requirements.

CE requirements for MO social workers:

• 30 clock hours, including 3 hours of ethics, 2 hours in suicide training, and 3 hours related to diversity, inclusion, etc. every 2 years
• Course must contribute directly to the advancement of professional skills and scientific knowledge of a licensed individual.
• Maximum of fifteen (15) hours for self-study programs (i.e., audio or video recordings, electronic, computer, or interactive materials or programs)

2022 and 2023 Renewal Cycle Information

The State Committee for Social Workers voted that for the 2022 and 2023 renewal period, the 15-hour limit of correspondence courses have been waived. All licensees will still be required to do the required hours of continuing professional education, but these hours can be any combination of live programs, webinars and correspondence courses and other approved methods. Other hourly limits for credits for publications, etc. remain in place. Do not forget that you are now required to complete 2 hours in suicide, 3 hours in ethics, and 3 hours related to diversity, inclusion, etc.

CE Approvals

The Missouri State Board accepts programs offered by ASWB approved sponsors.

At Health, LLC, Provider #1707, is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved as ACE providers. State and provincial regulatory boards have the final authority to determine whether an individual course may be accepted for continuing education credit. At Health, LLC, maintains responsibility for this course. ACE provider approval period: 5/3/2023-5/3/2026.

MO social workers can earn fifteen (15) of their continuing education credits online through athealth.com.

View the course catalog

State laws can change. Practitioners are responsible for determining their state’s licensure requirements. To view the Missouri continuing education regulations, click the button below.

CE Requirements for Missouri Social Workers

Page last modified or reviewed by athealth.com on Jul 31, 2023 .

Ethics Courses

Ethics and risk management in counseling, ethics and risk management: confidentiality in the digital world, ethics in counseling: staying on track, suicide assessment, treatment, and management, adults with neurodevelopmental disorders, assessment as advocacy, assessment of autism spectrum disorder in early childhood, child custody evaluations, college accommodations, digital ethics and security, domestic violence for mental health providers, domestic violence: counseling clients involved with violent intimate partners, dual relationships: ethical and clinical aspects of dual relationships in psychotherapy, ethical and legal issues in assessment, ethical and legal issues in psychotherapy, ethical and legal issues in substance abuse treatment, ethical and legal issues: mandated reporting of child abuse and neglect, ethical boundaries and custody evaluations, ethical considerations in the assessment and management of suicide risk, ethical issues with fees, billing, and collections, ethics and countertransference, ethics and risk management: e-mail communication - issues for mental health counselors, ethics and risk management: licensing board adjudications/sanctions and gifts from clients, ethics and risk management: medical errors in behavioral health, ethics and risk management: repercussions of sexual misconduct, ethics and risk management: sexual boundary violations, ethics and risk management: social media and the internet, ethics and risk management: the challenge and dilemma of technology, ethics and risk management: use of technology in behavioral health care, ethics and self-disclosure: adapting to new technologies, ethics: confidentiality, ethics: money and the therapeutic relationship, ethics: nine ethical values of master therapists, ethics: receiving gifts from clients - ethical and therapeutic issues, ethics: spiritual issues in clinical practice, ethics: termination of psychotherapy, guardianship and conservatorship evaluations, hipaa compliance kit, 9th edition, human trafficking, privacy, confidentiality, and privileged communication, sexual harassment prevention, sexual harassment prevention for illinois practitioners, summit 2023 ethics and assessment, teletherapy, truth and myths about the standard of care in psychotherapy, using artificial intelligence in suicide risk assessment, youthful offender evaluations.

Missouri – Featured Online Programs in Social Work

Missouri Social Work Schools

By SocialWorkGuide.org Staff Last Updated: Aug 30, 2023

As of 2019, Missouri boasts a population of 6.1 million people. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2.8 million residents work in the state, many employed in office and administrative support jobs. While the state’s economic growth rate ranks below the national average, careers for social workers in the state continue to thrive. The BLS projects a positive outlook for social work professionals between 2016 and 2028. Projected growth for child, family, and school social workers, for example, is more than twice the national average , or 14%.

In this guide, we provide detailed information on education and licensure requirements for social workers in Missouri. Degree-seekers and prospective social workers can use this information to find the most economical and practical route to a career in the field. All information included in this guide comes from the Committee for Social Workers , the governing body for social workers in Missouri.

In This Article

How to become a social worker in missouri, steps for becoming a licensed social worker in missouri, licensed baccalaureate social worker (lbsw), licensed master social worker (lmsw), licensed clinical social worker (lcsw), licensed advanced macro social worker (lamsw), social work license reciprocity in missouri, licensing renewal and continuing education information, missouri social worker jobs and salary information, social work associations in missouri, frequently asked questions, featured online programs in social work, educational paths.

The Missouri Committee for Social Workers offers four different licenses for social workers. The minimum education requirement to become a licensed social worker is a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW), while advanced licenses require a master’s degree in social work (MSW). The following guide details the different education options for individuals seeking licensure as social workers.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

To receive a licensed baccalaureate social worker (LBSW) license in Missouri, you must hold a BSW from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). In Missouri, 22 BSW programs currently hold CSWE accreditation. BSW programs introduce students to the social work profession by exposing them to human behavior, social work theory, and research courses. Most BSW programs also require field practice, which allows students to gain hands-on social work experience.

Master of Social Work (MSW)

To practice advanced social work under a licensed master social worker , licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or licensed advanced master social worker license in Missouri, you must possess an MSW from a CSWE-accredited college or university. Twelve universities and colleges in Missouri offer CSWE-accredited MSW programs. Most MSW programs offer advanced standing to students who already possess a BSW, enabling them to complete the graduate program in one year as opposed to the two years it normally takes.

The Missouri Committee for Social Workers issues four licenses: the licensed baccalaureate social worker (LBSW), licensed master social worker (LMSW), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and licensed advanced macro social worker (LAMSW). Each license carries its own set of requirements, as described below. In Missouri, you must hold one of these licenses to use the title “social worker.”

To become an LBSW in Missouri, you must possess a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. An LBSW license initially allows a social worker to practice general, non-clinical social work under the supervision of a more advanced social worker. After a certain amount of experience, however, an LBSW can request permission from the committee to practice independently. After meeting the educational requirement for an LBSW license, you can pursue licensure by following the steps below.

1. Submit an LBSW Application to the Committee.

As the first step in the licensure process, you must complete the Application for Licensure-LBSW/LMSW and submit it to the committee. As part of the application process, you must request that your college or university send an official transcript to the committee to verify your BSW. The application forms include instructions for completing the required background check. You must also provide a letter from your program indicating that you are on track to graduate in time, a passing score from the ASWB examination (see step two), and proof that you have completed two hours of suicide prevention training. The fee for the LBSW application varies based on the time of year it is submitted.

2. Pass the ASWB Bachelor’s Exam.

LBSW candidates must pass the 170-question ASWB bachelor’s exam before becoming licensed. You can register for this test once the committee processes your LBSW application and notifies the ASWB that you can take the exam. As of July 2020, the registration fee for the exam is $230.

3. Receive your LBSW License from the Committee.

After satisfying the requirements outlined above, you can receive your LBSW license and begin working under supervision. After completing 3,000 hours of supervised experience within a period of 24-48 months, an LBSW may request permission from the committee to engage in independent practice.

To become an LMSW, you must possess an MSW from a program accredited by the CSWE. An LMSW license allows a social worker to practice general, master’s-level social work independently. It also allows a social worker to earn the supervised experience needed for an LCSW license . The following steps outline the procedure for earning an LMSW license in Missouri.

1. Submit an LMSW Application to the Committee.

Up to 60 days before your MSW graduation, you can submit the Application for Licensure-LBSW/LMSW to the committee. The application includes instructions for completing the criminal background check required for licensure, and you must also arrange for your program to send the committee a copy of your MSW transcript. The fee for the LMSW application varies depending on the time of year.

2. Pass the ASWB Master’s Exam.

To receive an LMSW license, you must pass the ASWB Master’s Exam , a 170-item test on the master’s-level practice of social work. The fee for this exam is $230 as of July 2020. You cannot register for the master’s exam until the board reviews your LMSW application and notifies you that you are eligible for the test.

3. Receive your LMSW License from the Committee.

After you have submitted all the required application materials and passed the ASWB master’s exam, the committee grants your LMSW license. After this point, you can begin independently providing general social work services and more advanced practice under supervision if working towards an LCSW or LAMSW license.

LCSWs in Missouri may independently provide clinical social work services. To be eligible, you must hold an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program or a doctorate in social work. To begin the process of becoming an LCSW, you must already possess an LMSW license. Once you hold an LMSW license, follow the steps below to become licensed as an LCSW.

1. Register for Supervision.

To become an LCSW, you must complete a certain amount of clinical experience under a committee-approved supervisor. Supervisors must be LCSWs who have been practicing for at least five years and hold at least 16 hours of completed training in supervision. Prior to obtaining the required experience, LCSW candidates must complete the Registration of Supervision form and pay a fee. The committee provides a listing of qualified supervisors who have already been approved.

2. Gain the Required Experience.

Aspiring LCSWs must complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work experience as an LMSW. This experience must take place in no less than two but no more than four years to count towards licensure. During this time, you must receive at least two hours of individual supervision every two weeks. If you change supervisors, you must register a new plan with the committee and receive approval before working under your new supervisor.

3. Submit an LCSW Application to the Committee.

LCSW candidates must complete the Application for Licensure-LCSW/LMASW and submit it to the committee. This form contains instructions for completing the required background check and also includes a form for your supervisor to fill out. If you would like to take the required licensure exam before finishing your supervised hours, you can submit this application once you have completed 2,250 hours in an 18-month period.

4. Take and Pass the ASWB Clinical exam.

Missouri requires the ASWB clinical exam to become an LCSW. You can register for the test after the committee reviews your LCSW application and grants you approval. As of July 2020, the exam fee is $260. The exam contains 170 multiple-choice questions, 150 of which are scored. Your results will be sent to the committee approximately two weeks after your test date.

5. Receive your LCSW License from the Committee.

After completing the above requirements, you receive your Missouri LCSW license. LCSWs may practice clinical social work independently immediately after becoming approved by the committee.

The process for becoming an LAMSW is similar to the LCSW licensure process. All LAMSW candidates must first obtain an LMSW license and complete a certain amount of supervised experience under this license. A social worker with an LAMSW license may practice advanced, macro-level social work (e.g., policy development, community organization) independently. LAMSWs cannot provide clinical social work services unless supervised by an LCSW. Below are the steps to obtaining an LAMSW license once you are an LMSW.

Supervised work experience is required to become licensed as an LAMSW. Before beginning to accrue this experience, however, you must register your supervision with the committee. Supervisors may be either LAMSWs or LCSWs who have been licensed and practicing for at least five years and who hold at least 16 hours of approved supervisor training.

After registering your supervision with the committee, you can begin accruing the 3,000 hours of supervised macro social work experience required for licensure. You must complete this experience in no less than two but no more than four years. During this time, you must receive two hours of individual supervision every two weeks from your committee-approved supervisor.

3. Submit an LAMSW Application to the Committee.

After completing your supervised experience, you can submit the Application for Licensure-LCSW/LAMSW to the committee. You must provide fingerprints for a background check and your supervisor must provide documentation that you have completed your supervised hours.

4. Pass the ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam.

Missouri requires a passing score on the ASWB Advanced Generalist exam to become an LAMSW. You may register for the exam after the committee reviews your LAMSW application and grants you permission to test. The exam, which consists of 170 multiple-choice questions, costs $260 as of July 2020.

5. Receive your LAMSW License from the Committee.

After completing the above requirements, you receive your LAMSW license. LAMSWs may practice non-clinical social work independently after becoming licensed, but can only practice clinical social work under the supervision of a committee-approved LCSW.

Missouri offers licensure by reciprocity for social workers licensed in other states who meet the criteria for one of the Missouri social work licenses. To be eligible, you must have been licensed in your current state for at least five years with no disciplinary actions against you. To apply, complete the Application for Licensure by Reciprocity and provide the required supplemental documentation (e.g, ASWB exam scores, verification of current license). As of July 2020, the fee for applying for licensure by reciprocity is $60.

Missouri social workers must renew their licenses every two years. During each renewal period, licensed social workers must complete 30 hours of continuing education (CE) activities. Three of these hours must be in professional ethics and two must be in suicide prevention. In addition to organized CE activities, social workers can also earn hours through self-directed activities, such as publishing academic works or giving presentations. For more information about the committee’s CE requirements, see their continuing education guidelines document .

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Missouri Chapter provides a listing of continuing education opportunities available in different areas of the state, along with opportunities at national conferences.

The BLS reports that as of May 2019, social workers in Missouri make an annual mean wage of $46,843 , which is $7,033 more than the annual mean wage for all other occupations in the United States. Salaries for social workers in Missouri vary among locations, with Kansas City’s professionals earning the most per year at $66,780. On the lower end, social workers in the North Missouri nonmetropolitan area make $36,970.

Those social workers earning the most across the state fall under the “social workers, all other” category, with an average annual salary of $60,770 . The highest earners in this category typically work in local and state government positions.

Missouri’s cost of living ranks as the sixth lowest in the U.S. , based on 2020 statistics. With an annual mean wage of $47,820 for all occupations in Missouri, social workers can expect to live comfortably in the state.

Data from the BLS as of May 2019

The National Association of Social Workers,Missouri Chapter

The NASW provides continuing education opportunities and works on issues of workplace safety, compensation, and education debt relief in Missouri.

School Social Workers Association of Missouri

SSWAM provides professional development and networking opportunities for social workers in education.

The Missouri Society for Clinical Social Work

The MSCSW promotes the development of Missouri clinical social workers by offering professional development opportunities, advocating for the field, and connecting members.

Can I begin practicing independently once I become registered as an Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW)?

Yes, once you complete the process outlined above to become an LCSW in Missouri and the committee issues your license, you qualify to practice social work without any supervision.

For the 3,000 hours of work experience required for licensure as an LAMSW or LCSW, can I countexperience I gained years ago?

Yes, as long as the supervision was registered with the board and completed in a period of 2-4 years.

What kinds of qualifications are required of the person supervising my experience for LAMSW or LCSWlicensure?

Supervisors may be either LAMSWs or LCSWs who have practiced at that level for at least five years and completed at least 16 hours of approved supervisor training. Only LCSWs may supervise social workers applying for their LCSW license.

What kind of degree do I need to practice social work in Missouri?

To practice social work in Missouri, you need either a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) or a master’s degree in social work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited school.

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.

University of Missouri

College of health sciences.

School of Social Work

Educational webinars

Clock hour and continuing education unit (ceu) certificates.

Would you like to receive a contact hour (clock hour) or CEU certificate? If yes, please complete the following:

• Fill out the  Clock Hour/CEU Request Form .
• Complete the quiz for the webinar you are requesting credit (which can be found below the webinar video).

Clock hour certificates are processed FREE of charge and will be sent via email from the MU School of Social Work. Clock hour certificates are appropriate for MO social work licensure requirements.  Learn more .

CEU certificates require a $10 processing fee and will be emailed from MU Extension (look for an email from: [email protected] — be sure to check your spam!). Your CEU request will not be processed until a payment is received.

• If you have requested CEUs and would like to pay the $10 processing online, please  use this link to pay now .
• If you’ll be sending a check for CEUs, please make payable to University of Missouri, and send to: Lindsay Ficken, MU School of Social Work, 724 Clark Hall, Columbia, MO 65211

Note: Our certificates are for Missouri Social Workers. If you are an LPC or professional participating from out-of-state, contact your state accrediting board to make sure MO SW contact hours are accepted.

Access to the webinars is currently password protected. If you would like to view one of our recorded webinars, please contact Alicia Dotzler at  [email protected] .

Available webinars

• The Brain Body Initiative
• Older adult experiences during a global pandemic: a study of mental health, social supports, and resiliency
• Trouble in the field: serving Missouri’s farmers and ranchers in times of high distress
• Evidence-based formulation of risk and clinical response with suicidal clients
• The intersection of queer identities in mental & physical health: a social work perspective
• Behavioral health of older Missourians
• Trauma informed care: what it looks like to be a trauma informed agency
• Motivational interviewing
• Co-occurring disorders & evidence-based interventions
• Trauma informed care & trauma specific interventions
• Trauma informed care part 2
• How to involve family in youth treatment
• Identification and treatment of anxiety and depression
• Excel: telling your story with numbers
• Grief and loss from a social work perspective
• Grief and loss part 2

Continuing Education Requirements for Missouri Licensed Social Workers (And How to Stay on Track)

As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Missouri, it is your responsibility to adhere to continuing education requirements each period in order to renew your license. Beyond license renewal being key to you maintaining your practice, continuing education is essential to stay abreast of what is happening in your field – something your clients will always appreciate you taking seriously. Education is how we all continue to learn and further hone our skills and expertise, so it’s certainly something to be celebrated. Though education is fantastic, keeping on track with the many hours you need to fulfill can be a challenge. Thankfully, there is a fantastic resource available to help you with that. Before we dive into the resource, let’s start by outlining what is required of Missouri LCSWs in order to renew their license. 

Licensee Requirements for Missouri Licensed Social Workers

In the state of Missouri, licensed clinical social workers are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years in order to renew their license. All of those hours need to come from formal learning programs that specifically relate to the development of a licensee (which does include up to 15 hours of self-study programs). For a detailed list of acceptable formal learning, visit page 9  here .

There are three topic areas that must be included within a licensee’s 30 hours of continuing education: three hours in ethics (presented by a qualified professional), two hours in suicide prevention, and three hours in diversity and inclusion (effective as of the 2022 cycle).  Final note: up to 10 hours can be carried over into the next renewal cycle, should a licensee exceed the required 30 hours.

Key Takeaways: 

• LCSWs in Missouri are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years
• 15 hours can come from self-study programs
• Three hours must be in ethics, two in suicide prevention, and three in diversity and inclusion 

Given licensed social workers are likely to achieve their continuing education certificates in increments, from various workshops, conventions, agencies, and institutions, there is a lot of documentation to keep track of (potentially 30 or more certificates throughout the course of two years). As proof is required when you apply for renewal, it’s imperative you keep all of those certificates in a safe place – easily accessible and easy to track your progress. CE Hub is the safe place you need to work through your continuing education with ease. 

What is CE Hub? 

CE Hub is an app built specifically for social workers. Recognizing the difficulty that is storing continuing education certificates and keeping track of your hours, CE Hub was created to take the stress out of continuing education requirements. Instead of worrying throughout the period that you may not be on track, or perhaps that you may have lost a document or two, CE Hub provides you the peace of mind you need to enjoy the learning process. Using the platform is simple: you sign up, upload your continuing education certificates as you obtain them, then CE Hub handles the rest. All of your continuing education credits are tracked for you, and you even receive a reminder when it’s time to renew your license. Alleviate the stress of continuing education requirements by taking advantage of CE Hub today! 

Disclaimer: this content is for informational purposes only. Licensees should always confirm their continuing education requirements with their respective governing agency. In the state of Missouri, LCSWs can clarify anything about their license by contacting the  Committee for Social Workers at the number (573) 751-0885 or via email  at  [email protected] .

Reference Links :

https://www.sos.mo.gov/cmsimages/adrules/csr/current/20csr/20c2263-2.pdf

https://pr.mo.gov/socialworkers.asp

• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (57)
• Licensed Professional Counselors (57)
• Marriage and Family Therapists (57)
• Psychologists (57)
• Resources (11)

Recent Posts

Ce licensing requirements per state in the us, top 4 apps for mental health professionals in the us, an updated guide on how to use the ce hub app by lani chin, ce hub app allows mental health professionals to be more productive: here’s how, the most common continuing education requirements for mental health professionals, recent comments, related articles.

by CE Hub | May 25, 2022 | News , Resources

As a mental health practitioner, you need our CE Hub App as it allows you to be far more productive. This bold statement isn’t just here to grab your attention (although our marketers sure hope it does), but it says a lot about our team of innovators, doers and time...

by CE Hub | Mar 15, 2022 | Licensed Clinical Social Workers , Licensed Professional Counselors , Marriage and Family Therapists , News , Psychologists , Resources

Each state certainly has their own unique continuing education requirements. The variance can be in the number of hours required, the renewal cycles, what constitutes an approved course or program, how many hours can be from distance learning, and more. So far, we've...

Most Commonly Required CE Topics for Mental Health Professionals

Every state has their own CE topics for mental health professionals and licensing requirements for psychologists, marriage and family therapists, licensed clinical social workers, and licensed professional counselors. Some states have requirements that are completely...

The U.S.’s Strictest States When It Comes to Continuing Education Requirements for Mental Health Professionals

As a mental health clinician, you've been there and got the t-shirt (and grey hairs) when it comes to sorting out your continuing education certificates to fulfil your state licensing requirements. However, if you practice in the following states below, your CE...

The Average Continuing Education Requirements for Mental Health Professionals in the U.S.

If you have ever been curious about the average continuing education certificate requirements for psychologists, marriage and family therapists, licensed clinical social workers, or licensed professional counselors in the U.S., look no further. 

The Most Lenient Continuing Education Requirements for Mental Health Professionals in the U.S.

by CE Hub | Mar 14, 2022 | Licensed Clinical Social Workers , Licensed Professional Counselors , Marriage and Family Therapists , News , Psychologists , Resources

As a mental health professional in the U.S. you know all about the red tape and headache of continuing education certificate requirements and state licensing! Our CE Hub App founder, Dr Lani Chin has done her research and created an app that safely stores and tracks...

A Continuing Education Certificate App That’s Tried, Tested and Talked About

by CE Hub | Mar 14, 2022 | Licensed Clinical Social Workers , Licensed Professional Counselors , Marriage and Family Therapists , News , Psychologists

Our latest app testimonials blog from mental health professionals in the USA who use CE Hub to store their continuing education certificates.

From ‘Just’ Lani, to CE Hub Founder: Meet The Woman Who Makes Continuing Education Certificate Storage Better

by CE Hub | Feb 4, 2022 | News

We sat down – albeit virtually – with CE Hub’s Founder, Lani Chin, to find out more about her story and how this innovative continuing education certificate app came about – it’s anything but boring.

Part 2: Continuing Education Certificates To Include in 2022

by CE Hub | Jan 6, 2022 | Resources

Interested in how storytelling and childhood fairy tales can reflect psychological dynamics? This CE Hub approved continuing education certificate course is for you. 

Part 1: Free Continuing Education Certificates To Include in 2022

Clearly Clinical is one of our top free continuing education certificate courses that you should include in your 2022 to-do list. Here’s why…

Framing Continuing Education Certificates the CE Hub Way

by CE Hub | Nov 18, 2021 | News

CE Hub’s origins as a continuing education certificate app are humble, deeply rooted in human error, and hopelessly devoted to solving the dreaded administrative task of license renewals for mental health professionals.

5 Reasons Why The Continuing Education (CE) Hub App Is A Mental Health Practitioner’s Best Friend

by CE Hub | Nov 2, 2021 | News

As a mental health practitioner, you seriously don’t have time for admin, filing and working out continuing education credits – you’re helping better communities, after all! Here’s 5 reasons why the CE Hub App is your best friend.

We Take The ‘Searching’ Out of Continuing Education Certificates – Ask Joe Sanok

by CE Hub | Oct 14, 2021 | News

We asked Joe Sanok to review our CE Hub App which helps clinical psychologists, counselors, therapists, and academics just like yourself better manage your time, giving you one less thing to spend meaningless hours on. CE Hub helps you conveniently store all of your continuing education documents and allows you to track your progress along the way for when it’s time for your license renewal or audit. 

Click, Scan, Repeat: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use The CE Hub App

by CE Hub | Sep 27, 2021 | News

Continuing Education Certificates In The Palm of Your Hand Things like cassette tapes, flip phones, and printed maps should be left back in the 90’s and 00’s - along with printing, filing, and finding some way to organize your education certificates. Of course, as a...

by CE Hub | Oct 4, 2022 | News , Resources

Say goodbye to old-school filing systems, and hello to the CE Hub App, where you can easily access and track CE licensing requirements for each US State. Below, you will find a state-by-state breakdown in which each state is listed along with its CE licensing...

by CE Hub | Aug 26, 2022 | Resources

Take it from one app to another; this month we’re sharing our top 5 apps for mental health professionals in the US. As you may well know, we’re all about streamlining and working smarter with our time - not harder - therefore, it should come as no surprise then that...

by CE Hub | Jul 18, 2022 | Resources

A Video Tutorial and Step-by-Step Guide On Our Continuing Education Certificate App for Mental Health Professionals  It’s been over a year since the CE Hub App launched in the US as the app which conveniently stores your continuing education certificates and tracks...

• User Registration

Licensing Exams

Licensure Exam

In order to qualify for licensure in social work in the state of Missouri, applicants must sit for and receive passing scores on the requisite ASWB exam, per statute. (Association of Social Work Boards) For more information on the exam process, see below. This is provided for information only.

Is there an examination for each tier of licensure?

Yes, for the LBSW, LBSW-IP, LMSW, LCSW, LAMSW. Refer to the following Statute Section for each of the respective license: LBSW & LBSW-IP-337.665(2), LMSW-337.644(2), LCSW-337.615(3),and LAMSW-337.645(3).

What score must I obtain to pass the examination?

Review Rules Section 20CSR 2263-2.050(4)(D) and contact the State Committee for Social Workers at 573.751.0885 to verify the current passing score for Missouri applicants on the "Baccalaureate", "Masters", "Clinical" & "Advanced Generalist" Association of Social Work Board Examination.

How do I prepare for the examination?

There are several publications to review:

For the LMSW, LCSW, and LAMSW:

• The Social Work Dictionary - 6th Edition ($59.99)
• DSM-IV (Not an NASW Press Publication)
• Social Work Desk Reference ($85.00)
• Encyclopedia of Social Work - 20th Edition ($495.00)
• Current Controversies in Social Work Ethics: Case Examples ($15.99)

All of these are valuable resources when reviewing for the test. To place an order for any or all of these publications contact NASW-MO chapter office at [email protected] (NASW members receive a 15% discount on select publications when ordered through Missouri Chapter).

For the LBSW & LBSW-IP:

All are valuable resources when reviewing for the test. To place an order for either of these publications contact NASW-MO chapter office at [email protected] (NASW members receive a 15% discount on select publications when ordered through Missouri Chapter).

There are preparation courses available online as well.

NASW has a live, virtual Licensure Exam program for potential licensees. - Virtual Licensure Exam Prep Course

If you cannot attend on a specific day, there is an on-line self-paced option. - PassItPro - NASW Social Worker License Exam Prep Program

Social Work Licensure by State

Last Updated: April 2023

Social workers fulfill a key role in our society by providing aid and resources to people and communities.

To become a social worker you need a license, but licensure requirements vary by state. This guide breaks down social work licenses by state, including education, experience, and renewal requirements.

Social Work Licensure State-by-State Requirements

A | C | D | F | G | H | I | K | L | M | N | O | P | R | S | T | U | V | W

Alabama Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Alabama State Board of Social Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Education Requirements:

• LBSW: Bachelor of social work
• LMSW: Master of social work
• LICSW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Alabama

Supervised Experience Requirements: To practice as a LBSW, candidates need at least four supervised hours per month for 24 months of supervision. To practice as an LICSW, candidates must complete at least 24 months of supervised practice in addition to four supervised hours per month. You must complete all of these requirements within 36 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers must complete 30 continuing education hours every two years, including two hours relating to ethics. Additionally, LICSWs need three hours in clinical social work education and three hours in supervision education if they oversee other social workers’ supervision hours.

License Renewal Information: Alabama social workers must renew their licenses every two years. The application costs $100.

Alaska Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Alaska State Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• LCSW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Alaska

Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify as a LCSW, candidates must complete 3,000 hours of clinical social work experience. This must be supervised by a licensed social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist. These candidates must also participate in 100 hours of direct supervision and a maximum 50 hours in group supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers should enroll in 45 continuing education hours every two years. That includes at least:

• Three hours in professional ethics
• Six hours in substance abuse
• Six hours in cross-cultural education relating to Alaska Natives

License Renewal Information: Social workers must renew their license every two years. It costs:

• LBSW: $225 for licenses issued on or before June 30, 2021; $112.50 for licenses issued on or after July 1, 2021
• LMSW: $275 for licenses issued on or before June 30, 2021; $137.50 for licenses issued on or after July 1, 2021
• LCSW: $325 for licenses issued on or before June 30, 2021; $162.50 for licenses issued on or after July 1, 2021

Arizona Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners

Find social work programs in Arizona

Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify for an LCSW license, candidates must complete 3,200 hours of supervised postgraduate experience. No more than 1,600 of those hours should be through direct client contact, with a maximum of 400 hours in psychoeducation. Candidates must also complete at least 100 hours of clinical supervision as prescribed by board rule.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must complete at least 30 continuing education hours to renew their license every two years. That includes at least three hours of behavioral health ethics/mental health law and three hours of cultural competency.

License Renewal Information: Social workers must pay $325 to renew their license.

Arkansas Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Arkansas Social Work Licensing Board

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)

• LSW: Bachelor of social work

Find social work programs in Arkansas

Supervised Experience Requirements: When working toward their LCSW qualification, social workers must complete at least 4,000 supervised hours over 24 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: Arkansas social workers must complete 30 continuing education credits every two years to renew their license.

License Renewal Information: The cost to renew a social work license in Arkansas comes to $80 every two years.

California Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: California Board of Behavioral Sciences

Types of Licenses: Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• ASCW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in California

Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals with an ACSW license need 3,000 total supervised hours over a minimum of 104 weeks to earn their LCSW license. This includes 2,000 hours of clinical and 1,000 of non-clinical work.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers must complete at least 36 hours of continuing education credits, including at least six hours in law and ethics. Before the first renewal cycle, social workers only need 18 hours of continuing education credits.

License Renewal Information: California requires social workers to pay $220 to renew their license.

Colorado Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Colorado State Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Provisional Licensed Social Worker (SWP)

• LSW: Master of social work
• SWP: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Colorado

Supervised Experience Requirements: Becoming a LCSW requires at least 3,360 hours of supervised work experience over 24 months. This includes at least 1,680 hours of professional work that involves treatment, diagnosis, testing, assessment, or counseling.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers need at least 40 professional development hours to renew their license in odd-numbered years.

License Renewal Information: Licensed social workers must pay $67 to renew their license.

Connecticut Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Connecticut State Department of Public Health

Types of Licenses: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Connecticut

Supervised Experience Requirements: To become a licensed clinical social worker, candidates must carry out 3,000 hours of post-master’s social worker experience, including at least 100 hours of experience under professional supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Connecticut requires social workers to complete at least 15 hours of continuing education hours each year, including one hour of training on cultural competency.

License Renewal Information: Social workers must pay $195 as part of their renewal application fee.

Delaware Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Delaware Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Delaware

Supervised Experience Requirements: The state board requires social workers to complete at least 1,600 hours of work under professional supervision of a licensed social worker, psychologist, or psychiatrist to qualify for LCSW licensure.

Continuing Education Requirements: Continuing education requirements vary for each license.

• LBSW: 20 hours
• LMSW: 30 hours
• LCSW: 40 hours
• At least six hours of professional ethics
• At least one hour in mandatory reporting
• No more than 10 hours from self-directed activity

License Renewal Information: All social workers must renew their licenses in January of odd-numbered years. The board notifies social workers of the renewal fee at the time of renewal.

Florida Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling

Types of Licenses: Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• CMSW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Florida

Supervised Experience Requirements: Certified master social workers must complete three years of experience in social work, including two years of supervised work at the post-master’s level. To qualify for the LCSW license, candidates should engage in at least two years of supervised clinical experience. That includes at least 1,500 hours of psychotherapy face-to-face with clients, and one hour of supervision every two weeks.

Continuing education requirements: Florida social workers should enroll in 30 hours of continuing education to maintain their license. For licensed clinical social workers, this includes:

• Two hours of medical errors training
• Three hours on ethics and boundaries or telehealth
• Three hours on laws and rules
• Two hours on domestic violence
• Four hours on qualified supervisor training
• Three hours on ethics and boundaries

License Renewal Information: Licensed clinical social workers must pay $120 to renew their license, whereas certified master social workers owe $155.

Georgia Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists

Types of Licenses: Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Georgia

Supervised Experience Requirements: Master’s social workers should carry out their first two years of practice under direction and supervision. For clinical social workers, the state requires them to work for a minimum of 3,000 hours in post-master’s supervised experience over the course of 3-9 years. The first 2,000 hours must be under supervision and direction in the practice of clinical social work.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers carry out 35 hours of continuing education credits every two years, including at least five relating to professional ethics.

License Renewal Information: It costs $110 to renew social work licenses in Georgia every two years.

Hawaii Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Professional and Vocational Licensing Division

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Hawaii

Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers only need to complete supervised experience at the LCSW level. They must undertake at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work in an agency setting in 2-5 years. These hours should include:

• A minimum of 2,000 hours of assessment, clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy
• A maximum of 900 hours of client-centered advocacy, consultation, and evaluation
• A minimum of 100 hours of direct face-to-face supervision

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers at all three levels must complete 45 continuing education hours, including three hours of ethics courses.

License Renewal Information: Social workers must renew their license every three years. The cost to renew depends on the type of license.

Idaho Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Idaho Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Idaho

Supervised Experience Requirements: In general, social workers must complete at least 100 supervised hours of face-to-face contact with the supervisor. For social workers who wish to pursue licensure as independent practitioners, they must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised social work experience in 2-5 years.

Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years, social workers should enroll in 20 continuing education hours, including one hour of ethics education.

License Renewal Information: Licensed clinical social workers must pay $90 to renew; all other social workers owe $80 to renew.

Illinois Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Illinois

Supervised Experience Requirements: For the LCSW qualification, candidates with master’s degrees must complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience. Those with a doctorate in social work only need to undertake 2,000 hours of supervised work.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must take on 30 hours of continuing education every two years. This should include three hours related to ethical practice and three hours covering cultural competence.

License Renewal Information: Social workers in Illinois must renew their license every two years. The cost to renew is $60.

Indiana Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Indiana Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Indiana

Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals who wish to earn the LCSW credential must undergo two years of full-time supervised clinical social work after earning their master’s degree, which amounts to 3,000 hours in total. Additionally, candidates should show proof they completed at least four hours of face-to-face supervision each month.

Continuing Education Requirements: In Indiana, one renewal cycle lasts two years. Social workers must complete at least 40 hours of continuing education credits for each renewal cycle, or 20 credits each year. This should include 20 hours of Category 1 training — workshops, seminars courses —each renewal cycle. Professionals must also complete two hours of ethics per renewal cycle.

License Renewal Information: The fee to renew a professional social work license every two years in Indiana is $50.

Iowa Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Iowa Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

• LISW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Iowa

Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers pursuing the LISW qualification must complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical practice, including 1,500 hours of direct client contact. They should also take into account at least 110 hours of direct supervision, including at least 24 hours of direct observation of client interaction.

Continuing Education Requirements: Every two years, social workers in Iowa must complete 27 hours of continuing education credits to maintain their licensure.

License Renewal Information: Fees vary for each level of social worker:

Kansas Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Kansas Behavioral Science Regulatory Board

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW)

• LSCSW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Kansas

Supervised Experience Requirements: LSCSW candidates must have completed at least two years of postgraduate supervised professional experience totalling 3,000 hours. That includes 1,500 hours of direct client contact conducting psychotherapy to clients, in addition to at least 100 hours of face-to-face clinical supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers at every level in Kansas must participate in 40 hours of continuing education during each renewal period. In addition:

• LMSWs and LSCSWs must include at least six hours on the assessment and treatment of mental disorders
• All new social workers must complete at least six hours of training in safety awareness for their first renewal cycle

License Renewal Information: All social workers pay a maximum of $150 to renew their license.

Kentucky Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Kentucky Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• CSW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Kentucky

Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers pursuing LCSW licensure should undertake supervised clinical experience. They can do so full time, participating in at least two years of experience at least 30 hours per week. Or they can complete these requirements part-time over three years, engaging in 20 hours per week.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in Kentucky renew their license every three years. Licensed social workers must complete 15 continuing education hours during the renewal period. Certified social workers and licensed clinical social workers must take on at least 30 hours of continuing education during that three-year period.Additionally, licensed clinical social workers who supervise others should complete a three-hour clinical social work supervision course. Every six years, all social workers must enroll in at least six hours of continuing education in a training program in suicide assessment, treatment, and management.

License Renewal Information: The fees for renewal vary, depending on the type of license:

Louisiana Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Registered Social Worker (RSW); Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• RSW: Bachelor of social work

Find social work programs in Louisiana

Supervised Experience Requirements: To obtain the LCSW qualification, social workers should complete 3,000 hours of postgraduate social work supervised experience, including 96 face-to-face supervision hours.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in Louisiana should participate in 20 hours of continuing education each year. Specific requirements include:

• Three hours in the area of social work ethics every two years, for all social workers
• 10 hours in the area of clinical social work for LCSWs
• Three hours in the area of clinical supervision for LCSWs who supervise others

License Renewal Information: The fees for renewing social work licensure vary:

Maine Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Maine State Board of Social Worker Licensure

Types of Licenses: Conditional Licensed Social Worker (LSW-C); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Master Social Worker – Clinical Conditional (LMSW – CC); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• LSW-C: Bachelor of social work
• LMSW-CC: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Maine

Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify for a LCSW credential, candidates can fulfill two options for supervised work:

• Candidates with a graduate degree in a clinical concentration must complete two years of social work experience with 96 hours of consultation in a clinical setting
• Candidates with a graduate degree with a non-clinical consultation should have completed four years of social work experience with 192 hours of consultation in a clinical setting

Continuing Education Requirement: All social workers should take part in 25 continuing education hours for renewal every two years. Those with the LSW-C qualification should participate in at least six hours of social work ethics and at least six relating to psychosocial assessment. All other social workers must complete at least four hours of social work ethics education.

License Renewal Information: License renewal fees cost $70 in Maine.

Maryland Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker – Clinical (LCSW-C)

• LCSW-C: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Maryland

Supervised Experience Requirements: The board requires individuals pursuing a LCSW qualification to engage in two years, or at least 3,000 hours, of supervised social work experience. They must complete this in 2-6 years. For the LCSW-C qualification, at least 1,500 of those hours should occur with face-to-face contact. Candidates should also participate in 100 hours of direct supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Most social workers must complete 40 continuing education credits every two years; LBSWs need only 30 credits. All social workers in Maryland should enroll in at least three credits of ethics-related continuing education.

License Renewal Information: Fees for renewal of social work licensure are:

• LCSW-C: $275

Massachusetts Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Massachusetts Board of Registration of Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker Associate (LSWA); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

• LSWA: An associate degree — or at least 60 credits of college education —in the fields of social work, psychology, or counseling; a bachelor’s degree in any field; at least 1,000 hours of education in social work theory and methods in courses and programs approved by the board

Find social work programs in Massachusetts

Supervised Experience Requirements: Licensed social workers should participate in at least 3500 hours of work supervised experience for at least two years. Candidates for the LICSW qualification must engage in 3500 hours of clinical social work services for at least two years after being licensed as a LCSW.

Continuing Education Requirements: The board sets different continuing education hours for each qualification, which social workers must complete every two years:

• LSWA: 10 continuing education hours
• LSW: 15 hours
• LCSW: 20 hours
• LICSW: 30 hours

License Renewal Information: The fees for license renewal in Massachusetts vary:

Michigan Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Michigan Board of Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Registered Social Service Technician (RSST); Licensed Bachelor’s Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW)

• RSST: Associate degree in social work

Find social work programs in Michigan

Supervised Experience Requirements: Both LBSW and LMSW candidates must complete 4,000 hours of supervised experience after completing their degrees.

Continuing Education Requirements: LBSWs and LMSWs should participate in 45 hours of continuing education every three years to renew their license. This includes five hours of ethics-related courses and two hours of courses relating to pain management.

License Renewal Information: Social workers across all levels must pay $81 to renew their license in Michigan.

Minnesota Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Minnesota Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

• LGSW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Minnesota

Supervised Experience Requirements: Most social workers must participate in supervised practice.

• For LSWs and LGSWs in non-clinical practice, this involves a one-time requirement of 100 hours of supervision for the first 4,000 hours of practice
• For LGSWs and LISWs, supervised practice is required until they earn the LICSW qualification. This includes 200 hours of supervision over 4,000 to 8,000 hours of practice. Out of those hours, at least 1,800 must be direct clinical client contact.
• LISWs in non-clinical practice and LICSWs do not need to undertake supervised practice.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers should complete 40 continuing education hours, with the following specifications:

• Two hours in social work ethics
• Four hours in cultural responsiveness
• 12 hours in clinical content for LICSWs
• Six hours of supervision content for licensing supervisors

License Renewal Information: Social workers in Minnesota need to renew their license every two years. The fees for renewal depend on the type of license:

• LICSW: $325

Mississippi Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage and Family Therapists

Find social work programs in Mississippi

Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers pursuing the LCSW qualification should engage in two years of supervised practice. They must participate in at least 1,000 hours in direct client contact, completing the whole process in 2-3 years.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must enroll in 40 hours of continuing education. Specifications include:

• Four ethics hours
• Two cultural diversity hours
• One mandated reporting hour

License Renewal Information: LSWs must pay $75 to renew their license. LMSWs and LCSWs should pay $110 to renew.

Missouri Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Missouri Division of Professional Registration Committee for Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW)

• LAMSW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Missouri

Supervised Experience Requirements: LCSW and LAMSW candidates must dedicate 3,000 hours to supervised experience in 24-48 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers of all qualifications in Missouri should engage in 30 continuing education hours. That includes three hours of ethics, two hours of suicide prevention, and three hours related to diversity and inclusion.

License Renewal Information: All social workers must pay $65 to renew their license every two years.

Montana Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Montana Board of Behavioral Health

Types of Licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Education Requirements: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Montana

Supervised Experience Requirements: Candidates need 3,000 hours of supervised experience in 24 months after graduating. At least half of those hours should have included direct client contact.

Continuing Education Requirements: LCSWs in Montana should complete 20 hours of continuing education credit annually to renew their license. At least two of these hours should relate to suicide prevention.

License Renewal Information: Licensed clinical social workers owe $149 at the time of renewal.

Nebraska Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Certified Master Social Worker (CSMW); Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP); Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP)

• CSW: Bachelor of social work
• CSMW: Master of social work
• LMHP: Master of social work
• LIMHP: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Nebraska

Supervised Experience Requirements: To use the title of licensed clinical social worker in Nebraska, individuals need to hold both an LMHP and CSMW license. Both qualifications involved supervised work experience.CMSW candidates must carry out 3,000 hours of supervised social work experience under a provisional certificate. To qualify for the LMHP and LIMHP credentials, candidates should also fulfill 3,000 hours of supervised mental health supervised experience.

Continuing Education Requirements: The renewal period for licensure in Nebraska lasts two years. During this time, licensees and certificate holders need 32 hours of continuing education, including four hours relating to ethics. LIMHPs should also enroll in at least six hours relating to diagnosis and treatment of major mental disorders.

License Renewal Information: The cost to renew a license depends on the type of credential:

• CSMW without LMHP or LIMPH: $125
• CMSW with LMHP or LIMPH: $50

Nevada Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Nevada

Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify for both LISW and LCSW licensure, candidates must participate in 3,000 hours of supervised work after obtaining their graduate degree. They can gain this experience through an internship, to which they should dedicate at least two years.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in Nevada must fulfill their continuing education requirements every two years.

• LSWs and LMSWs enroll in 30 hours of continuing education, including two hours of suicide prevention, two hours of cultural competency, and four hours relating to ethics
• LCSWs and LISWs complete 36 continuing education credits. That consists of two hours of suicide prevention, two hours of cultural competency, and four hours relating to ethics

License Renewal Information: Renewal costs vary, depending on the level of license:

• LSW and LMSW: $125
• LCSW and LISW: $187.50

New Hampshire Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: New Hampshire Board of Mental Health Practice

Types of Licenses: Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Find social work programs in New Hampshire

Supervised Experience Requirements: These licensed social workers carry out 3,00 hours of post-graduate supervised clinical experience over the course of two years. They should also engage in 100 hours of supervision, or one hour per week of individual face-to-face sessions.

Continuing Education Requirements: To renew their license, social workers in New Hampshire must complete 40 hours of continuing education credit and 40 hours of collaboration.

License Renewal Information: LICSWs owe the board $298 to renew an active license every two years.

New Jersey Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: New Jersey Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in New Jersey

Supervised Experience Requirements: Aspiring clinical social workers in New Jersey must engage in 3,000 hours of direct supervision in 2-4 years after graduation. A minimum of 1,920 hours should involve face-to-face client contact, and half of those 1,920 hours must involve psychotherapeutic counseling.

Continuing Education Requirements: All New Jersey social workers complete continuing education hours every two years to renew their license. All social workers must enroll in five hours in ethics, three hours in social and cultural competence, and one hour in prescription opioid drugs. The total number of hours varies for each type of social worker:

• CSW: 20 hours
• LSW: 30 hours
• LCSW: 40 hours, including 20 credits directly related to clinical practice

License Renewal Information: Renewal fees have been waived for the 2023 fiscal year. However, normally these fees are:

New Mexico Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: New Mexico Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

• BSW: Bachelor of social work

Find social work programs in New Mexico

Supervised Experience Requirements: To become a licensed independent social worker, candidates need at least 3,600 hours of supervised work experience and 90 hours of supervision completed in 2-5 years after graduating with a master’s degree. Candidates must document one hour of supervision for every 40 hours worked.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must enroll in 30 continuing education hours. At least six of these hours should relate to cultural awareness.

License Renewal Information: Renewal fees depend on licensure level:

New York Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: New York State Office of the Professions

Find social work programs in New York

Supervised Experience Requirements: Those aiming to pursue LCSW licensure must have at least three years of full-time supervised post-master’s clinical social work experience. For those working part time, the supervised experience should not exceed six years.

Continuing Education Requirements: Both LCSWs and LMSWs must enroll in at least 36 hours of continuing education credit every three years to renew their credentials.

License Renewal Information: The license renewal process for New York social workers costs $179.

North Carolina Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Certified Master Social Worker (CMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Certified Social Work Manager (CSWM)

• CSWM: Bachelor or master of social work

Find social work programs in North Carolina

Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals working toward their LCSW qualification must engage in at least two years of post-graduation clinical work and a minimum of 100 supervision hours. Candidates should carry out at least one hour of supervision for every 30 hours of practice; they can complete up to 25 of these hours in a group setting.CSWM candidates should participate in at least 100 hours of supervision regularly, which includes up to 50 hours of group supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must complete continuing education to renew their license every two years. Specifically, they need 40 hours of credit, including four hours in ethics.

License Renewal Information: Fees for renewal vary, depending on the level of licensure:

North Dakota Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: North Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners

Find social work programs in North Dakota

Supervised Experience Requirements: Aspiring clinical social workers in North Dakota should have 3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work practice. They should complete these hours in a maximum of four years after graduating with a master’s degree.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in South Dakota need at least 30 credits of continuing education every two years to keep their license active, including at least two credits in ethics.

License Renewal Information: All licensed social workers must pay $75 to renew their license.

Ohio Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW); Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervision (LISW-S)

• LISW-S: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Ohio

Supervised Experience Requirements: To earn designation as a LISW, candidates must complete two full years and 3,000 hours of supervised work experience. Aspiring LISWs must complete one hour of individual or group supervision for every 20 hours of supervised work or 150 hours of supervision total.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers should accrue 30 hours of continuing education every two years. That requirement includes three hours relating to social work ethics.

License Renewal Information: Renewal for LSWs costs $83.50; renewal for LISWs costs $103.50.

Oklahoma Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Oklahoma State Board of Licensed Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Social Worker with Administrative Specialty (LSW-ADM); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• LSWA: Bachelor of social work
• LSW-ADM: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Oklahoma

Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals who pursue qualifications as an LSW or LCSW must take part in supervised work experience. This process involves 4,000 hours of supervised experience and 100 hours of direct supervision. LCSWs should also have at least 3,000 hours of direct contact with clients as part of their supervised work.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers enroll in at least 16 hours of continuing education each two-year renewal period to maintain their license.

License Renewal Information: Licensees pay $100 every 24 months to renew their social work credentials.

Oregon Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Registered Baccalaureate Social Worker (RBSW); Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• RBSW: Bachelor of social work

Find social work programs in Oregon

Supervised Experience Requirements: The LCSW designation in Oregon requires candidates to complete 3,500 hours of supervised postgraduate experience, including 2,000 hours directly working with clients. LCSW candidates should also participate in 100 hours of supervision, with up to 50 hours of group supervision. Candidates must complete these requirements in two years.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must enroll in continuing education every two years to maintain their license. The specifications, however, vary:

• RBSW: 20 continuing education credits in total, including three ethics credits, three cultural competency credits, and two credits covering suicide risk, assessment, treatment and management
• LMSW: 30 continuing education credits in total, including four ethics credits, four cultural competency credits, and two credits covering suicide risk, assessment, treatment and management
• LCSW: 40 continuing education credits in total, including six ethics credits, six cultural competency credits, and two credits covering suicide risk, assessment, treatment and management

License Renewal Information: Fees for renewal depend on many factors, including whether a licensee has an active, semi-retired, or inactive status. For social workers who hold active licensure, the fees for renewal cost:

Pennsylvania Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors

Find social work programs in Pennsylvania

Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers aiming for their LCSW credential must complete 3,000 hours of supervised work experience. Additionally, they should complete at least two hours of supervision for every 40 hours of supervised work experience. They can complete up to half of the required supervision hours in a group setting.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers at every level in Pennsylvania must complete 30 clock hours of continuing education every 24 months. This should consist of at least three hours related to ethical issues and two hours covering child abuse recognition and reporting.

License Renewal Information: The renewal fee for all social workers in Pennsylvania, regardless of license, costs $95.

Rhode Island Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Rhode Island Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker (LICSW)

Find social work programs in Rhode Island

Supervised Experience Requirements: LICSW candidates must engage in 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised practice, including 1,500 hours of direct clinical work with clients. These candidates should also participate in at least one hour of supervision for every 20 hours of client contact. To qualify for LICSW licensure, candidates should complete this process in 2-6 years.

Continuing Education Requirements: In Rhode Island, licensed social workers should take 30 continuing education credit hours every two years to maintain their license. At least three of these hours should pertain to ethics and three should relate to cross-cultural practice.

License Renewal Information: The fee to renew a social work license costs $70.

South Carolina Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Social Worker – Clinical Practice (LISW-CP); Licensed Independent Social Worker – Advanced Practice (LISW-AP)

• LISW-CP: Master of social work
• LISW-AP: Master of social work

Find social work programs in South Carolina

Supervised Experience Requirements: To apply for LISW licensure, candidates should complete 3,000 hours of practice under clinical supervision within 2-4 years of graduation. They should also participate in at least 100 hours of direct clinical supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers in South Carolina must enroll in 40 continuing education hours every two years to maintain licensure.

License Renewal Information: The renewal fee for all active licensure costs $90 for all social workers in South Carolina.

South Dakota Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: South Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Social Work Associate (SWA); Social Worker (SW); Certified Social Worker (CSW); Certified Social Worker in Private or Independent Practice (CSW-PIP)

• SWA: Bachelor of social work
• SW: Bachelor of social work
• CSW-PIP: Master of social work

Find social work programs in South Dakota

Supervised Experience Requirements: Social workers must complete either two years of full-time or four-years of part-time supervised experience to qualify for the CSW-PIP license. During that time, they should also engage in four contact hours of direct supervision each month.

Continuing Education Requirements: All licensed social workers in South Dakota should complete 30 continuing education hours over the two-year renewal period.

License Renewal Information: The cost for renewal depends on the level of licensure:

• CSW-PIP: $210

Tennessee Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Tennessee Board of Social Workers

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Advanced Practitioner Social Worker (LAPSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• LAPSW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Tennessee

Supervised Experience Requirements: Both LAPSW and LCSW candidates must complete 3,000 hours of supervised work experience within 2-8 years. They should participate in 100 hours of direct supervisor contact, with one supervision hour to every 30 practical work experience hours. Candidates can participate in a maximum of 40 hours of group supervision.

Continuing Education Requirements: Tennessee sets specific continuing education requirements for each licensure level every calendar year:

• LBSW: Nine continuing education hours, including three in professional ethics and four in social work
• LMSW: 12 continuing education hours, including three in professional ethics and seven in social work
• LAPSW and LCSW: 15 continuing education hours, including three in professional ethics and 10 in social work

License Renewal Information: The biennial cost to renew social work fees depends on the type of license:

• LMSW, LAPSW, and LCSW: $95

Texas Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Texas State Board of Social Work Examiners

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Master Social Worker – Advanced Practitioner (LMSW-AP); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); Independent Practice Recognition (IPR)

• LMSW-AP: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Texas

Supervised Experience Requirements: Individuals pursuing either the LMSW-AP or LCSW credentials must gain supervised work experience to qualify for licensure. They should complete 3,000 of supervised work and 100 hours of direct supervision over 24-40 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: Licensed social workers in Texas should complete at least 30 hours of continuing education credits every two years. Those hours should include six hours in professional ethics and three hours in cultural diversity and competency.

License Renewal Information: The fee for renewal varies:

• LBSW and LMSW: $141
• LMSW-AP and LCSW: $163

Utah Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Utah Division of Professional Licensing

Types of Licenses: Social Service Worker (SSW); Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• SSW: Bachelor of social work, or a bachelor’s degree in another area

Find social work programs in Utah

Supervised Experience Requirements: For individuals with a bachelor’s degree not related to social work, the board requires 2,000 hours of supervised social work experience. LCSW candidates should also complete 4,000 hours of supervised clinical social work. At least 1,000 of those hours should relate to mental health therapy.

Continuing Education Requirements: The licensure renewal period lasts two years. During this time, social workers must complete continuing education hours. The specific requirements depend on the level of licensure:

• SSW/CSW: 20 hours, including six hours in professional ethics, law, or technology, and two hours in suicide prevention
• LCSW: 40 hours, including six hours of professional ethics, law, or technology, and two hours in suicide prevention

License Renewal Information: Social workers need to pay a fee to renew their license every two years:

• CSW/LCSW: $93

Vermont Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Vermont Office of Professional Regulation

Types of Licenses: Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Find social work programs in Vermont

Supervised Experience Requirements: For social workers to qualify as LICSWs in Vermont, candidates should complete 3,000 hours of supervised practice, including 2,000 direct service hours in psychotherapy. Candidates must also participate in at least one hour of face-to-face supervision for every 30 hours of supervised practice.

Continuing Education Requirements: The license renewal period for social workers in Vermont lasts two years. During this time, LMSWs need 10 hours and LICSWs need 20 hours for their continuing education requirements. For both licenses, at least 1.5 hours should relate to ethics of social work practice.

License Renewal Information: Social workers in Vermont must pay $150 every two years to renew their license.

Virginia Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Virginia Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW); Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Virginia

Supervised Experience Requirements: LCSWs must complete 3,000 hours of post-master’s degree work experience, including 1,380 hours of face-to-face clinical contact with clients. They should also meet with their supervisors 1-4 per week for a total of 100 hours. The state requires LCSW candidates to complete these obligations in 2-4 years.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers in Virginia must renew their qualifications every two years to maintain licensure. The renewal process involves enrolling in the following continuing education credits:

• LBSW/LMSW: 15 hours, with at least three hours pertaining to ethics and standards of practice
• LCSW: 30 hours, with at least six hours pertaining to ethics and standards of practice

License Renewal Information: Fees for renewal differ, depending on the license:

Washington Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Washington State Department of Health

Types of Licenses: Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

• LASW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Washington

Supervised Experience Requirements: Washington state requires both LASWs and LAWs to complete supervised experience for full licensure.

• Licensed advanced social workers should complete at least 3,200 hours of surprised work experience, including 800 hours of direct client contact. They should also fulfill 90 hours of direct supervision, including 50 hours with a licensed social worker and 40 hours with a licensed mental health practitioner.
• Independent clinical social workers must complete 4,000 hours of supervised work experience over at least three years. This must include 1,000 hours of direct client contact and 130 hours of direct supervision with a LICSW and a licensed mental health practitioner.

Continuing Education Requirements: Each year social workers in Washington must complete 18 hours of continuing education. These 18 hours should include six hours of suicide assessment and treatment and six hours of professional ethics and law.

License Renewal Information: All social workers in Washington must pay $116 to renew their license every year.

West Virginia Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: West Virginia Board of Social Work

Types of Licenses: Licensed Social Worker (LSW); Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW); Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Find social work programs in West Virginia

Supervised Experience Requirements: Only LAWs in West Virginia must complete supervised work experience to gain full licensure. Requirements include 3,000 hours of supervised practice and 100 hours of face-to-face supervision. Candidates can complete up to half of these direct supervision hours in a group setting.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers must engage in 30 continuing education hours during each two-year license renewal period. At least two of these hours should pertain to mental health conditions of veterans and their families.

License Renewal Information: For all licensees, the fee to renew their state credentials every two years costs $76.

Wisconsin Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker (CAPSW); Certified Independent Social Worker (CISW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

• CAPSW: Master of social work
• CISW: Master of social work

Find social work programs in Wisconsin

Supervised Experience Requirements: Aspiring LCSWs must fulfill 3,000 hours of supervised social work experience, including 1,000 hours of face-to-face client contact. CISWs must also complete 3,000 hours of supervised social work practice to qualify for licensure.

Continuing Education Requirements: Social workers at all levels should engage in at least 30 hours of continuing education every two years. At least four of these hours should relate to ethics and professional boundaries.

License Renewal Information: All social workers in Wisconsin must pay $60 to renew their license.

Wyoming Social Work License Requirements

State Licensing Board: Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board

Types of Licenses: Certified Social Worker (CSW); Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW)

Find social work programs in Wyoming

Supervised Experience Requirements: To qualify for the LCSW credential, candidates need 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience and at least 100 hours of face-to-face individual clinical supervision. Within the 3,000 hours of supervised work experience, LCSW candidates should complete 1,200 direct client contact hours. The board requires that candidates complete these requirements in 18-36 months.

Continuing Education Requirements: All social workers should enroll in at least 45 continuing education credits during the two-year renewal period. The board also requires that these hours include:

• Three hours related to professional ethics
• Three hours related to suicide assessment and intervention

License Renewal Information: In Wyoming, certified social workers must pay $100 to renew their license without a background check. LCSWs must pay $125 to renew.

Types of Social Work Licenses

You can obtain several social worker licenses . Licensed social worker definitions and requirements also vary by state. Which one you pursue depends on yourdepends on your location, degree, and career trajectory.

Each social work license qualifies you for different jobs within the field. For example, a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed master social worker have different career options — LCSWs can run a private practice and diagnose mental health conditions while LMSWs cannot.

Licensed Baccalaureate of Social Work (LBSW)

A licensed baccalaureate of social work certification is the first step toward becoming a practicing social worker. LBSWs work in supervised clinical and nonclinical settings but cannot provide clinical services.

To get an LBSW, you must earn a bachelor’s social work degree from an accredited program, pass the ASWB exam, and fulfill your state’s requirements. All states require supervised practice prior to earning an LBSW, typically between 2,000-4,000 hours.

Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW)

Earning your MSW license allows you to practice as a non-clinical social worker. LMSW allows you to become a social worker in most states, and it’s often a step toward clinical practice. LMSWs may provide case management in social service agencies or work in policy or community development.

Getting an LMSW license requires up to 4,000 hours of generalized social work practice following graduation from an accredited master’s social work program. Candidates must apply for licensure in their state and meet all state requirements, including passing the ASWB exam.

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)

The LGSW license allows master’s or doctoral graduates to practice social work in a couple of states. Licensed graduate social workers can provide clinical social work services but only under supervision of a clinical social worker.

LGSWs may choose to teach social work education at both the community college level. For some professionals, this license can help prepare them for jobs as independent clinical social workers later in their careers. To become LGSWs, candidates need an accredited graduate degree in social work and pass the ASWB master’s exam.

Licensed Master Social Worker – Advanced Generalist (LMSW – AG)

The LMSW – AG license is the most highly regarded nonclinical license. It demonstrates advanced experience in nonclinical, macro social work. These licensed social workers have completed two years of non-clinical supervised practice in addition to the hours earned in the LMSW.

The LMSW – AG is a terminal license for nonclinical social workers. Advanced Generalists apply social work processes to improve community health through interventions, policy development, and research. Earning the LMSW – AG requires passing the ASWB exam for generalists. Many states have more stringent guidelines for the license, including additional practice hours and exams. Candidates must be graduates from an accredited master’s program.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

LCSW is the terminal license for clinical social workers. Licensed clinical social workers provide clinical assessments, treatment, and interventions. LCSWs frequently maintain a private practice where they diagnose mental health conditions and provide psychotherapy. They also work in treatment centers, group homes, or government agencies. It is the only license in most states that allows social workers to provide clinical services.

The LCSW license requires 4,000 hours of supervised clinical practice. LCSWs must possess a master’s or doctoral degree from an accredited program, pass the ASWB clinical exam, and meet continuing education requirements in their state.

Social Work License Reciprocity

Professional license reciprocity allows you to transfer your license to another state. There is no nationally recognized system of social work license reciprocity, but most states provide reciprocity if all social work requirements are met. Generally, licensed social workers do not need to repeat requirements to transfer their license. Most states accept original ASWB exam scores. Social workers may need to provide evidence of supervised professional experience, so it is important to maintain thorough records.

Social work licenses vary by state, so you may not be able to directly transfer your title. If there are differences between the state licensure requirements and your experience, the licensing board requires you to complete those requirements before granting licensure. You may need to take specific courses in ethics or state law and provide a letter of recommendation from your previous licensing board. You also need to fulfill state insurance requirements.

Take the next step toward your future in social work.

Explore schools offering programs and courses tailored to your interests, and start your learning journey today.

• What Is Social Work?
• How Long Does it Take to Become a Social Worker?
• LMSW vs. LCSW: What’s the difference?
• Macro, Mezzo, and Micro Social Work
• Associate Degree in Social Work (ASW)
• Online BSW Programs
• Online Clinical MSW Programs
• Advanced Standing Online MSW Programs
• Online MSW Programs with No GRE Required
• SocialWork@Simmons
• Howard University’s Online MSW
• OnlineMSW@Fordham
• Syracuse University’s Online MSW
• Online Social Work at CWRU
• Is an Online Master’s in Social Work (MSW) Degree Worth it?
• MSW Programs in California
• MSW Programs in Colorado
• MSW Programs in Massachusetts
• MSW Programs in New York
• MSW Programs in Ohio
• MSW Programs in Texas
• MSW vs LCSW
• What is a Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree?
• What Can I Do with an MSW Degree? MSW Career Paths
• HBCU MSW Programs – Online and On-Campus Guide
• DSW vs. Ph.D. in Social Work
• Ph.D. in Social Work
• Social Work Continuing Education
• Social Work Licensure
• How to Become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
• Community Social Worker
• Child and Family Social Worker
• Forensic Social Worker
• Geriatric Social Worker
• Hospice Social Worker
• Medical Social Worker
• Mental Health Social Worker
• Resources for Military Social Workers
• Oncology Social Worker
• Psychiatric Social Worker
• Resources for School Social Workers
• Social Work Administrator
• Social Work vs. Therapy
• Social Work Salary
• Social Work Collaborations
• Social Work Career Pathways
• Social Work vs. Sociology
• Benefits of a Part-Time MSW Program
• MSW vs. MPH
• Social Work vs. Counseling
• Social Work vs. Psychology
• Bachelor’s in Psychology Programs Online
• Master’s Degree in Counseling
• Become a School Counselor
• School Counselor Salary
• Become a Mental Health Counselor
• Advantages of Veterinary Social Work
• Practicing Anti-Racism in Social Work: A Guide
• Social Work License Exam Prep
• Theoretical Approaches in Social Work: Systems Theory
• Social Learning Theory
• Sarah Frazell on Racism
• Lisa Primm on Macro Social Work
• Jessica Holton on Working With Clients Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• Cornell Davis III on Misperceptions About the Child Welfare Field
• Morgan Gregg on Working with Law Enforcement
• Social Work Grants
• Social Work Scholarships
• Social Work Internships
• Social Work Organizations
• Social Work Volunteer Opportunities
• Social Worker Blogs
• Social Work Podcasts
• Social Workers on Twitter
• Ethnic and Minority Social Work Resources
• Resources for LGBTQIA Social Work
• Mental Health Resources List

Home / Social Work Licensure / Become a Social Worker in Missouri

Become a Social Worker in Missouri

Start your social work career alongside the scenic Ozark National Riverway, the St. Louis Arch and a state-wide network of over 15,500 social workers , according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Missouri also has one of the highest concentrations of jobs for healthcare social workers across the United States. 

This guide for how to become a social worker in Missouri explains educational requirements, how to get licensed, social work organizations to join and more. Once you complete the steps to become a social worker in Missouri, you can embark on a meaningful, fulfilling career helping others in the Show Me State.

Information below was retrieved May 2022 and is only meant to be a high-level overview. Requirements may change, always check with the state licensing board for complete and up to date information.

Sponsored Online Social Work Programs

Howard University

Master of social work (msw).

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.

University of Denver

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

info SPONSORED

Common Steps to Become a Mossouri Social Worker

Before becoming a social worker in Missouri you must obtain a bachelor’s degree in social work and a social work license, depending on what career path you choose. Missouri offers four types of social work licenses, and there may also be additional requirements such as a background check and clinical supervision based on your goals. Below are the steps on how to obtain social work licenses in Missouri, which was summarized from the Missouri Committee for Social Workers .

1. Earn a CSWE-accredited social work degree

To become a licensed social worker in Missouri, you will have to complete a BSW or Master of Social Work (MSW) program accredited by the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE). You can pursue these degrees in Missouri through various formats, including full time, part time and online.

2. Fulfill your social work supervised experience requirement and pass your national/state exams

Missouri has four levels of social workers, according to the state’s licensing board, with increasing requirements:

Licensed baccalaureate social worker (LBSW) : A person with an accredited bachelor’s degree in social work that has passed the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) bachelor’s exam. 

Licensed master social worker (LMSW) : A person with an accredited master’s degree in social work that has passed the ASWB master’s exam. 

Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) : A person with an accredited master’s or doctorate degree in social work that has passed the ASWB clinical exam. Those looking to attain this license must have also earned 3,000 hours of supervised social work experience.

Licensed advanced macro social worker (LAMSW) : A person with an accredited master’s or doctorate degree in social work that has passed the ASWB advanced generalist exam. Those looking to attain this license must have also earned 3,000 hours of supervised macro social work experience.

3. Get licensed

Once you’ve completed your hours and experience, you may apply to become a licensed social worker in Missouri.

Learn more on how to become a social worker .

Social Work Degree Programs in Missouri

There are 23 accredited BSW and MSW degree programs in Missouri. A bachelor’s degree in social work online or on campus may enable a student to enter an advanced standing program in an MSW program, where you may be able to complete an MSW in about one year. A BSW also prepares students for entry-level social work positions. There are 16 accredited BSW programs in Missouri.

In order to obtain higher-level licenses in Missouri, however, a minimum of an MSW is required. Some individuals further their education and experience in social work by pursuing Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degrees.

Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs in Missouri

MSW programs in Missouri teach students advanced social work theories and practical knowledge. MSW programs may include coursework on topics such as human development, social work policy and intervention. There are four fully accredited MSW programs in Missouri.

Online MSW Programs in Missouri

Missouri offers online MSW programs that are fully accredited. The online MSW program offers the same curriculum and coursework traditional on-campus Missouri programs do. Students are taught by the same professors and also complete fieldwork as part of the program.

Social Work Licenses in Missouri

Missouri has four types of licenses for social workers: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW). While you may practice entry-level social work under the title of “social worker” with a bachelor’s degree, the Missouri Committee  requires an MSW or DSW to practice more specialized social work. All information on LBSW, LMSW, LCSW and LAMSW requirements below was retrieved from the Missouri Committee for Social Workers .

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) in Missouri

Becoming an LBSW allows you to practice general, non-clinical social work under the supervision of an advanced social worker.

• Education Requirement: Bachelor of Social Work Degree
• Field Requirements: None
• Exams: ASWB Bachelor’s Exam
• License Renewal: 40 hours of professional development in continuing education

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Missouri

Becoming an LMSW allows you to practice general, master’s-level social work independently.

• Education Requirement: Master or Doctor of Social Work Degree
• Exams: ASWB Master’s Exam

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri

Becoming an LCSW allows you to practice both clinical and macro/administrative social work services without supervision after licensure.

• Field Requirements: 3,000 of supervised clinical social work
• Exams: ASWB Clinical Exam

Licensed Advanced Macro Social Worker (LAMSW) in Missouri

Becoming an LAMSW allows you to practice both clinical and macro/administrative social work services without supervision after licensure.

• Field Requirements: 3,000 of supervised macro social work
• Exams: ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam

Social Work Salaries in Missouri

Information on the above social work salaries in Missouri was retrieved from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Missouri in May 2022.

Missouri Social Work Scholarships

For those just starting on their path to social work, there are state-wide scholarships and programs in place to assist you. While each state has different offerings, below are some grants and loans to help you become an LBSW, LMSW, LCSW or LAMSW in the state of Missouri.

• Charles and Wilba Cowger Peace Scholarship  
• Eleanor J. and and John W. Watt Scholarship for Social Work  
• Anita Bridges Cruzan Social Work Scholarship

Missouri Social Work Organizations

There are countless local and national associations and organizations with goals to promote, develop and protect the practice of social work and social workers. Better social work means better solutions for issues such as welfare, child welfare, elderly welfare, health care reform and other issues affecting the disadvantaged populations in Missouri and beyond.

• National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Missouri Chapter : Over 1,400 members represent NASW throughout the state, living and working in rural, suburban and urban counties. This chapter works in a wide range of settings amongst diverse populations. 
• School Social Workers Association of Missouri : Established in 1980, the School Social Workers Association of Missouri was started by volunteer school social workers who saw the need to advance, grow and strengthen the profession. 
• Missouri Society for Clinical Social Work : This society provides quality continuing education and professional development for Clinical Social Workers in the St. Louis Area. The organization continues to grow with its membership to support the needs of clinical social workers through networking forums, events and advocacy.

Does Missouri offer social work license reciprocity?

Missouri allows licensure by endorsement. Out-of-state applicants must have an equivalent social work license in another state, meet the educational prerequisites for the equivalent Missouri social work license, provide their official ASWB exam scores and pay application fees on the Missouri Committee for Social Workers site.

What are the social work continuing education requirements in Missouri?

Social workers must renew their license every two years. Additionally, licensees must earn 30 hours of continuing education including three hours of professional ethics and two in suicide prevention. To renew, complete the online renewal form (PDF, 226 KB) and pay the associated fee.

What is the best way to look up my social work license in Missouri?

Search for your social work license at the Missouri Committee for Social Workers site search . The site’s options will allow you to search your name and find your license number, license status and details surrounding your professional information.

Last updated in May 2022.

• Free State Social Work, LLC The Smart Resource for Online Continuing Education
• We ♥ Social Work
• How It Works
• Approval Information
• Browse Courses
• Your Account

Missouri Social Work Continuing Education

Welcome missouri social workers.

Free State Social Work is approved as a continuing education provider by the  Association of Social Work Boards Approved Continuing Education Program  (provider #1235) and the  National Board for Certified Counselors  (provider #6605).  We are also approved by the  Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board  (provider 10-001) and the  Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling  (CE Provider # 50-13565).

Does the Missouri Board accept courses from ASWB-approved continuing education providers?

How many hours can i earn with on-line ce courses, 2024 and 2025 renewal cycle information.

T he State Committee for Social Workers voted that for the above renewal period(s), the 15-hour limit of correspondence courses have been waived. All licensees will still be required to do the required hours of continuing professional education, but these hours can be any combination of live programs, webinars and correspondence courses and other approved methods. Other hourly limits for credits for publications, etc. remain in place. Do not forget that you are now required to complete 2 hours in suicide, 3 hours in ethics, and 3 hours related to diversity, inclusion, etc.

How Can I Get Started?

All of our courses are $5.99 per credit hour.  We also offer an unlimited package. One year of unlimited courses is $74.99 and two years of unlimited courses are $124.99 .   Click here for more information about how to get started  or you can  browse our complete course catalog .

Where Can I Review Missouri Social Work Continuing Education Requirements?

You can review Missouri social work continuing education requirements at https://pr.mo.gov/socialworkers-education.asp

You can also contact the board at: Missouri Committee for Social Workers 3605 Missouri Boulevard PO Box 1335 Jefferson City, MO 65102-1335 573-751-0885

Please remember that we have done our best to research your state’s licensing guidelines. Licensing regulations can change frequently including guidelines about how many hours you can earn on-line. Most jurisdictions require a certain number of hours in ethics and other areas of practice. The final authority for approving any continuing education activity rests with your state board. Even those states that endorse the ACE program may have exceptions in terms of the courses that they will accept. It is ultimately your responsibility to understand the licensing regulations in your state.

Does Free State Social Work offer Missouri Social Work CEUs?  Trainings? Contact Hours?  Credit Hours?

Different jurisdictions have different definitions.  For some jurisdictions, the term CEU consists of ten credit hours.  At Free State Social Work, we offer continuing education credit hours and we estimate that each credit hour will require one hour of reading.

At Free State Social Work, we offer great online continuing education for social workers, counselors, and therapists.

All of our courses are $5.99 per credit hour. Please browse our complete course catalog or use the category links below.

We also offer an unlimited package! One year of unlimited courses is $74.99 and two years are $124.99. Click here for more details about our unlimited packages . If you would like to sample one of our courses, you can try a free course here .

Browse Courses By Category

• Anti-Racism, Anti-Discrimination
• Cultural Competence
• Domestic Violence
• End of Life
• Ethics for Counselors
• Homelessness
• Human Trafficking
• Implicit Bias
• Suicide Prevention
•       New Jersey Approved

Licensing requirements by state or province

In the United States and Canada, social work license requirements are set by individual states, provinces, and territories.

Other data by state/province

Licensed social workers in the U.S. and Canada

Continuing competence requirements