FAQ
Healthcare Social Worker FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a healthcare social worker.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a healthcare social worker: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about healthcare social workers
Do healthcare social workers need an MSW?
Most hospital roles require one.
Is the field growing?
Yes, BLS projects faster-than-average growth.
Where do they work?
Hospitals, hospices, clinics, dialysis centers and home health.
How much does a healthcare social worker make?
The median annual wage for healthcare social workers was $67,880 ($32.63 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $46,220 and the highest 10% earned more than $100,360.
How long does it take to become a healthcare social worker?
Most people need about 6 years (BSW + MSW) of training. A master’s degree in social work is typical, plus supervised experience and a state license.
Do you need a degree to be a healthcare social worker?
Yes. BLS lists a master’s degree as typical. Most hospital roles require an MSW and a state social work license.
Is healthcare social worker a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +8.5% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 16,900 openings each year. Upsides include faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that emotional cases and end-of-life care.
What skills does a healthcare social worker need?
Key technical skills include psychosocial assessment, discharge planning, crisis counseling, and insurance and benefits. Employers also value empathy, communication, and advocacy.
What certifications are available for healthcare social workers?
Common credentials include Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM), and Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker. States license social workers; most healthcare roles require at least an LMSW, and clinical roles require an LCSW.
Still deciding?
Try the Healthcare Social Worker fit quiz, compare with Social Worker, or explore Healthcare Social Worker training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 21-1022 (Healthcare social workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Healthcare social workers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.