Career roadmap
How to Become a Social Worker
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a social worker, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a social worker: (1) volunteer in human services, (2) earn a BSW, (3) get licensed, (4) gain experience, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years (BSW); 6 years for MSW. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a social worker
Volunteer in human services
Shelters, schools or youth programs.
Earn a BSW
Or a related degree.
Get licensed
Pass the ASWB exam if required.
Gain experience
Child welfare, schools or agencies.
Advance
Earn an MSW and LCSW.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field is typical for entry roles; a master’s in social work is required for clinical practice.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years (BSW); 6 years for MSW |
Certifications and licenses
- Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW): Entry-level license in many states.
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW): Master’s-level license.
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): Clinical license after supervised experience.
- School social work certification: Required for school roles in many states.
Skills to build now
Start with case management, risk and safety assessment, and interviewing, and practice empathy and boundaries. Learning the social worker vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Case Aide: Support caseworkers.
- Social Worker: Manage cases.
- Clinical Social Worker: Provide therapy with an LCSW.
- Supervisor or Director: Lead programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Social Worker training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a social worker?
Most people need about 4 years (BSW); 6 years for MSW of training. A bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field is typical for entry roles; a master’s in social work is required for clinical practice.
Do you need a degree to be a social worker?
Yes. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, usually a BSW or a related field, and clinical social work requires a master’s degree and a license.
What certifications are available for social workers?
Common credentials include Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), and School social work certification. States license social workers at bachelor’s, master’s and clinical levels, with exams from the Association of Social Work Boards.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 21-1021 (Child, family, and school social workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Child, family, and school 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.