Is it Worth It? Career Paths and Differences Between Licensed and Unlicensed Social Workers

Are you considering a career in social work? Are you interested in the professional opportunities that might be available to you in this field? If you’ve answered “yes” to either of these questions, then reading this article is for you! It’s important to explore career options and understand the ways in which your personal values and goals align with potential future employment fields. Social work is one of the most influential and helpful vocations. Learn why social work exams are necessary for your specific interest in the field.

What Is Social Work?

Social work is a profession that is focused on serving the needs of varied communities. Social workers apply research, advocacy, and expertise to help clients with a range of challenges, including but not limited to issues related to relationships, work, and health. Social workers would earn a bachelor’s degree in social work from an accredited university and subsequently a master’s degree from a graduate-level university program. Many employers prefer to hire masters-level social workers who have an enhanced skill level. You can find a variety of jobs online including social work travel jobs or through career services at the school of social work program that you’re attending to pursue employment in one of the following focus areas;

• child and family
• mental health
• social justice
• administration
• education 
• policy 
• program development
• community organization

Bachelors in Social Work (BSW)

Most states require a baccalaureate degree for licensure as a social worker. It’s best to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. As part of your baccalaureate studies, you’ll complete a core curriculum, liberal arts requirements, and a concentration in your area of interest. In addition to social work training, you can complete electives, such as classes in health, criminal justice, or psychology. Once you’ve earned this degree you can continue your education to pursue your master’s degree and then acquire your license to practice social work. 

Master’s in Social Work (MSW)

A master’s degree in social work focuses on specialized social work educational tracks either micro ( working with people)or macro (policy and administration).  Most programs  require a bachelor’s degree before earning a master’s degree, with options for extended BSW/MSWcombination programs which allow you to complete your education more quickly. While you don’t need a Ph.D. to become a social worker, the MSW provides a strong foundation for further study. After earning a bachelor’s degree, you can apply to an accredited MSW social work program. Some employers also require a master’s degree before hiring social workers. In addition to social work training or experience, you can focus your studies on a specific area of interest, such as health policy, children and families, aging, or community development. Many social work programs offer various career options and programs, so you can choose a specialization that fits best with your interests and future goals. 

Steps to Becoming a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

To become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) you will need to complete the following steps:

1. First, earn your Bachelor’s degree in a closely related field such as Sociology, Social Work, Psychology, or Counseling. 
2. Apply for a Master of Social Work in a CSWE-accredited master’s program with the degree concentration you wish to focus on.
3. Accumulate the required number of supervised clinical hours,a general approximation is roughly 3,000 hours of employed clinical social work practice of which 100 hours must be supervised by an LCSW and 2,000 of which must be direct contact hours with 
4. After the completion of accumulating your clinical hours, you will need to apply for and pay the associated fee, for the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Level exam.
   1. This exam not only requires you to have a working knowledge of all of the areas of social work but it also requires that you have an understanding of the questions and what the test takers are asking for.
5. A few states will also require you to pass a jurisprudence exam.
6. After passing any jurisprudence exam, as well as the ASWB test you are now eligible to receive your new title of Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from the state board.
7. When it is time to renew your license, you must provide proof that you have completed 40 contact hours of continuing education, though the number of hours could vary in your state.

Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

Licensed Independent Social Workers can work as independent practitioners, who are not affiliated with any specific organization. Licensed Independent Social Workers receive extensive training in a variety of areas, such as gerontology, child welfare, and substance abuse. Licensed Independent Social Workers can provide social services to a wide range of populations, such as youth in foster care or adults with disabilities. Some LISWs work for government agencies, others for non-profits, and others for corporations. The role of an LISW can include conducting in-depth assessments, such as interviews and assessments of clients, such as children, adults, and seniors. An LISW can help clients navigate the social services system and can also help them plan for their future.

Other Careers in Social Work

Social workers can also pursue careers in related fields, such as college admissions counseling and community service work. Other career options for social workers include: 

• HR managers
• College professors
• DEI specialists
• Entrepreneurship
• Consulting
• Applied behavior analyst 
• Registered behavior technician                
• Management/supervisor 
• Quality assurance
• Administration  
• Project evaluation

Social work is a dynamic profession that can provide a variety of career options and opportunities. Social workers have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others, which makes this profession one of the most fulfilling vocations available.

Looking for Online Courses to Become a Licensed Social worker?

We prepare you to take the social work exam the way that the test makers want you to take it. We have helped hundreds of social workers pass their LGSW /LMSW Exam with a 88% first-time pass rate using our virtual Social Work Exam Prep materials and study guide. Study online with audio, visual, and tactile course materials that can be reviewed and studied at your convenience. Get started now!