How to Become a Social Worker in Delaware for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Starting a social work career in Delaware presents promising opportunities, with employment for social workers projected to increase by 13% from 2020 to 2030. This growth reflects the state's commitment to enhancing social services and addressing the needs of its diverse communities. However, many aspiring social workers encounter confusion regarding the educational requirements, licensure process, and practical steps necessary to build a successful career in Delaware.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, will walk you through the key steps to becoming a social worker in Delaware. From meeting educational qualifications to navigating licensure processes, we’ll provide the clarity and guidance you need to build a successful career in the state.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Social Worker in Delaware

• Employment for social workers in Delaware is projected to grow 13% by 2030, with rising demand in mental health, healthcare, and family services.
• Social workers in Delaware earn an average of $71,870 annually, with salaries ranging from about $57,000 to over $90,000 based on experience and specialization.
• To become licensed in Delaware, candidates must earn a BSW or MSW from a CSWE-accredited program, pass the ASWB exams, complete supervised experience, and meet continuing education requirements.

Table of Contents

1. What does a social worker do in Delaware?
2. What are the educational requirements for becoming a social worker in Delaware?
3. What are the licensing requirements for social workers in Delaware?
4. How much do social workers make in Delaware?
5. What is the job outlook for social workers in Delaware?
6. What social work specializations are in demand in Delaware?
7. What career advancement opportunities exist for social workers in Delaware?
8. Can I transition from social work to behavior analysis in Delaware?
9. How can interdisciplinary expertise in social work and urban planning enhance my career in Delaware?
10. How do I get field experience and internships in social work in Delaware?
11. Can additional training in mental health counseling enhance my social work practice in Delaware?
12. What local organizations and networking opportunities are available for social workers in Delaware?
13. What is the cost of becoming a social worker in Delaware?
14. What financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available for social work students in Delaware?
15. How can combining marriage and family therapy with social work advance my career in Delaware?
16. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Social Worker in Delaware

What does a social worker do in Delaware?

Social workers in Delaware take on diverse roles, addressing both individual and systemic needs within the state. Their responsibilities include:

• Conduct Comprehensive Assessments: Evaluate physical, emotional, social, and economic conditions to create personalized intervention plans for clients.
• Coordinate Resources: Work with community resources, healthcare providers, and social programs to manage cases across urban and rural areas.
• Advocate for Clients’ Rights and Benefits: Help clients navigate bureaucratic systems to ensure they receive appropriate services and benefits.
• Provide Counseling and Crisis Intervention: Address mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which are notably prevalent in Delaware.
• Engage with State Frameworks: Collaborate with state agencies like the Division of Family Services and Delaware Behavioral Health Consortium to improve client outcomes.
• Utilize Federal Initiatives: Access funding from programs like the Social Services Block Grant to support various social services across the state.
• Promote Social Justice: Address systemic inequalities, focusing on vulnerable populations and working toward equitable access to services.
• Support Family Strengthening: Work closely with families to improve overall well-being, including parenting skills, family dynamics, and child protection efforts.

What are the educational requirements for becoming a social worker in Delaware?

Becoming a social worker in Delaware involves specific educational requirements, with a focus on accredited programs and licensure exams. Here are the key steps:

1. Earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): A bachelor's in social work from a CSWE-accredited program is the minimum requirement for entry-level social work roles in Delaware.
2. Pass the ASWB Bachelor’s Level Exam: After completing the BSW, candidates must pass the ASWB bachelor’s level exam to qualify for the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) designation.
3. Pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW): For clinical or advanced practice positions, candidates must complete an MSW, which includes 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience.
4. Pass the ASWB Clinical Exam: After gaining the necessary clinical hours, candidates must pass the ASWB clinical exam to obtain the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensure.
5. State-Specific Training and Field Placements: Delaware-based programs often offer state-specific training and provide easier access to internships and field placements.
6. Continuing Education: To maintain licensure, social workers must complete continuing education focused on ethics and cultural competence.

What are the licensing requirements for social workers in Delaware?

To become a licensed social worker in Delaware, candidates must meet specific educational, examination, and supervised experience requirements, depending on the desired licensure level. Here are the licensing requirements for social workers in Delaware:

Educational Prerequisites

Delaware mandates a bachelor of social work for entry-level practice and a masters in social work for clinical roles, reflecting a national trend toward advanced qualifications. However, this raises questions about barriers for those unable to pursue graduate education despite possessing valuable practical skills. The emphasis on accredited programs, while ensuring quality, may limit alternative pathways. For those exploring masters of social work careers, understanding this requirement is crucial.

Licensing Levels and Experience

The tiered system, including licensed bachelor social worker (LBSW), licensed Social worker associate (LSWA), and licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), distinguishes scopes of practice and experience. The LCSW demands 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work, often in state or community mental health settings. While this ensures competence, it may disproportionately advantage those with access to established agencies, potentially overlooking diverse practice environments or telehealth opportunities emerging in Delaware’s social work certification requirements.

Examination and Continuing Education

Passing the ASWB exams tailored to licensure level is required, yet the focus on standardized testing may not fully capture a candidate’s practical aptitude. The biennial renewal, including 30 hours of continuing education with ethics training, promotes ongoing competence but also imposes recurring burdens on practitioners balancing work and study. This framework reflects Delaware’s attempt to maintain professional standards amid evolving social service demands.

How much do social workers make in Delaware?

Social workers in Delaware earn an average annual salary of approximately $71,870, aligning closely with the national average. Salaries typically range from around $57,315 to $90,119, depending on factors such as experience, specialization, and location. For instance, licensed clinical social workers in Delaware can earn up to $85,000 annually, with an average hourly wage of $47.12.

Several factors influence social worker salaries in Delaware. Entry-level positions start around $57,300, while those with more experience can earn up to $76,039. Specialization affects salary as well. School social workers in Delaware average $73,840 per year, whereas mental health and substance abuse social workers earn around $48,840 annually.

What is the job outlook for social workers in Delaware?

The job outlook for social workers in Delaware is promising, with projected growth in the coming years. According to the Delaware Department of Labor, employment for social workers is expected to increase by 13% from 2020 to 2030, adding approximately 50 new positions annually. The growing need for mental health services, healthcare support, and social assistance programs drives this demand. Additionally, Delaware's Department of Health and Social Services has reported a significant number of unfilled social work positions, indicating a pressing need for professionals in this field.

Additionally, child, family, and school social workers in Delaware are projected to see a 13.3% increase in employment from 2020 to 2030, slightly below the national average of 14.2%. This translates to approximately 40 annual job openings in the state for this specialty. Overall, Delaware's investment in healthcare and social services positions social workers for a stable and growing job market.

What social work specializations are in demand in Delaware?

In Delaware, various social work specializations are in high demand, reflecting the state's societal needs and workforce priorities. Here are some key specializations in high demand:

• Child, Family, and School Social Work: Driven by a rise in child protective cases and increasing mental health needs within educational settings, child and family social worker roles are essential to supporting families and children in crisis.
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Work: With Delaware's high opioid overdose rates, there is a critical need for licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) to help individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
• Healthcare and Medical Social Work: As Delaware's population ages, there is a growing demand for social workers to coordinate complex care, particularly for elderly individuals with chronic health conditions.
• Gerontological Social Work: This field specializes in elder care, including addressing challenges such as dementia and social isolation, which are increasingly relevant due to demographic shifts.
• Criminal Justice and Forensic Social Work: Social workers in this field play a key role in Delaware’s criminal justice reforms and expanded mental health services within correctional facilities.
• Community and Public Social Work: Focused on systemic issues such as homelessness and poverty, this area is growing in importance, especially in urban centers like Wilmington.

What career advancement opportunities exist for social workers in Delaware?

Career advancement for social workers in Delaware requires a thoughtful balance between specialization, leadership, and administrative roles. Here are the primary career paths:

1. Supervisory and Management Roles

Advancement into supervisory roles, such as clinical supervisor or program manager, involves showcasing leadership beyond casework, often requiring an understanding of state regulations and administrative responsibilities. Many choose master social work programs online to help develop these skills while balancing work and study. However, these positions may lead to a disconnect from direct client work, potentially impacting job satisfaction. A social worker in Delaware shared their struggle with transitioning from client advocacy to administrative duties.

2. Specialization in Clinical Social Work

Becoming a licensed clinical social worker presents the opportunity to secure higher-paying roles, but the process of obtaining clinical licensure, requiring advanced degrees, supervised hours, and exams, presents substantial challenges. Clinicians must also consider the emotional toll and potential burnout that accompany these roles, particularly in a state with growing mental health needs. 

3. Sector-Specific Advancement

Fields such as child welfare, school social work, and elder care offer leadership opportunities but require specialized knowledge of legal frameworks and significant emotional resilience. Advancing in Delaware’s child welfare system, for instance, entails managing complex legal issues and emotional demands. In elder care, social workers must coordinate services across healthcare and social work systems, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of these roles.

4. Policy and Academic Roles

Shifting to roles in policy analysis, advocacy, or academia allows social workers to influence systemic change. However, these positions often involve stepping away from direct practice, which can be dissatisfying for some. The ability to effect change in these fields depends heavily on networking and institutional backing, which can be challenging to access. A Delaware social worker shared their experience of adjusting to a slower, more bureaucratic pace in policy work compared to the fast-paced nature of direct client service.

5. Networking and Professional Development

Participation in professional organizations, such as NASW-DE, is key to career growth but requires significant time and resources. Delaware’s social work community, while supportive, can also present barriers to entry, with opportunities often determined by social capital as much as professional merit. Advancing in one’s career may depend as much on who you know as what you know in this close-knit community.

Can I transition from social work to behavior analysis in Delaware?

Integrating behavior analysis with social work practice can broaden career prospects and diversify service delivery. Social workers interested in expanding their expertise may consider pursuing specialized certifications that focus on applied behavior analysis. This pathway offers targeted training on behavior modification techniques and client-specific interventions, which complement traditional social work practices. For detailed guidance on the alternative certification process, refer to our article on how to become a behavior analyst in Delaware. Transitioning into behavior analysis may also involve exploring accredited programs, securing requisite supervised experience, and meeting additional licensure requirements that support an interdisciplinary approach to client care.

How can interdisciplinary expertise in social work and urban planning enhance my career in Delaware?

Integrating principles from urban planning can broaden your approach to community-centered practice. By understanding how spatial design, public infrastructure, and policy intersect, social workers can identify and address environmental factors that influence clients’ well-being. This interdisciplinary perspective not only advances advocacy efforts across sectors but also supports innovative community development strategies. For detailed guidance on expanding your skill set, explore how to become an urban planner in Delaware.

How do I get field experience and internships in social work in Delaware?

Delaware’s social work field experience options are largely centered around university-affiliated internships and state programs, often offering placements through partnerships with agencies like child welfare and mental health centers. However, the geographic concentration of these opportunities in New Castle County poses a challenge for students in Kent and Sussex counties, limiting access to vital internships. This regional disparity raises concerns about equal opportunity and the representation of rural community needs in the training process, potentially narrowing the scope of experience for aspiring social workers.

Students pursuing licensure must carefully evaluate how their chosen internship sites align with Delaware's certification requirements, particularly the need for supervised clinical hours. Not all agencies provide the necessary level of supervision, which can complicate the licensing process. Early planning and consultation with supervisors are essential to ensure compliance with the Delaware Board of Social Work Examiners’ standards. Volunteering and online degrees may offer alternative paths, but students must be mindful of ensuring their experience meets both personal growth and regulatory expectations.

Can additional training in mental health counseling enhance my social work practice in Delaware?

Expanding your skill set through focused mental health counseling training can refine your approach to client challenges in Delaware. Bridging core social work principles with specialized mental health techniques offers a practical advantage, enabling practitioners to manage complex behavioral issues and improve client outcomes. For instance, familiarizing yourself with the education requirements for mental health counselors in Delaware can guide you in aligning academic pursuits with current service demands. This integrated training model supports a more resilient professional profile and broadens the scope of practice in today’s evolving social services landscape.

What local organizations and networking opportunities are available for social workers in Delaware?

Delaware offers a variety of local organizations and networking opportunities for social workers to connect, engage in advocacy, and continue professional development. Here's a look at some key opportunities:

• Delaware Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW Delaware): Often viewed as the central hub for advocacy and continuing education, its role in shaping professional norms invites reflection on how inclusive and adaptable it is to changing social work paradigms.
• Delaware Association of School Social Workers (DASSW): Specialized networking here targets educational social work, but consideration should be given to whether it sufficiently integrates with broader social service systems or remains siloed.
• Delaware Division of Social Services (DSS): As a key state program, DSS provides access to policy and program development, yet one might question the extent of frontline social workers’ influence within its hierarchical structures.
• Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS): Its forums promote interagency collaboration, though the effectiveness of these efforts depends on consistent engagement and the breaking down of institutional barriers.
• University of Delaware’s School of Public Policy and Administration: The MSW program and related events offer critical academic-practice links, yet the reliance on university-affiliated networks may limit exposure to practitioners outside academic circles.

What is the cost of becoming a social worker in Delaware?

Becoming a social worker in Delaware typically involves earning a bachelor of social work or a masters in social work degree. For undergraduate programs, Delaware residents can expect to pay an average of $10,453 per year, while out-of-state students face an average of $18,796 annually. Graduate tuition averages $13,853 for in-state students and $17,261 for out-of-state students. These figures exclude additional costs such as books, supplies, and living expenses. 

Several factors influence the total cost of obtaining a social work degree in Delaware. Public institutions generally offer lower tuition rates compared to private ones. Graduate programs in social work may have higher tuition fees, with some programs charging per credit hour. Additional expenses include books, supplies, and living costs, which can vary based on housing choices and personal spending habits. 

What financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available for social work students in Delaware?

Social work students in Delaware have access to several financial aid opportunities designed to support their education. Below is an overview of key financial resources:

• Federal Pell Grants: These are awarded to low-income undergraduate students and provide foundational financial aid. However, Pell Grants often don't cover the full cost of education.
• Delaware State Grant Program: This program is available to Delaware residents with financial need, though funding can be limited, and the application process may be complex.
• Workforce Development Grants: Offered through the Delaware Higher Education Office, these grants prioritize students in high-demand fields like social work. However, eligibility requires meeting enrollment and academic progress criteria.
• Delaware Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW): Annual awards from NASW Delaware recognize leadership in social work, but due to high demand, these awards are competitive.
• Local Nonprofit Support: Organizations such as the Delaware Community Foundation may offer scholarships or aid, but these opportunities are often less predictable and may be more field-specific.

How can combining marriage and family therapy with social work advance my career in Delaware?

Dual expertise in social work and marriage and family therapy offers a strategic advantage by enabling professionals to address complex family dynamics and systemic challenges more effectively. This interdisciplinary approach enhances client care through integrated therapeutic techniques and expands career opportunities in community-based settings and private practice. Leveraging both skill sets can improve overall client outcomes and increase market competitiveness in Delaware’s evolving social services landscape. For guidance on pursuing this integrated pathway, explore how to become a marriage and family therapist in Delaware.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Becoming a Social Worker in Delaware

Helping families navigate Delaware’s child welfare system showed me how critical compassionate, informed support can be. Through fieldwork and mentorship, I learned how to advocate effectively while building trust with those in crisis. Every success story reminds me why I chose this profession. — Ivy

Social work in Delaware gave me the tools to address mental health and trauma in underserved urban areas. The state’s investment in prevention and outreach made it possible to create real, lasting change for my clients. I’ve never felt more certain that I’m in the right field. — Ayessa

Working with elderly clients through Delaware’s home care services helped me develop empathy, patience, and strong case management skills. I’ve seen how personalized social work can preserve dignity and improve quality of life. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know I’m making a difference each day. — Ivan

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Social Worker in Delaware

How stressful is being a social worker in Delaware?

Being a social worker in Delaware is highly stressful due to overwhelming caseloads and systemic limitations. Social workers frequently encounter clients facing poverty, addiction, and trauma, all within a system strained by limited resources and bureaucratic inefficiencies. The state's small size can blur professional and personal boundaries, intensifying emotional exhaustion. Financial stress from modest wages adds further strain. Without comprehensive support systems or policy reform, maintaining long-term well-being in this profession remains a significant challenge in Delaware.

How does the local licensing board in Delaware support students?

The Delaware Board of Social Work Examiners supports students by offering licensing guidance, fee reductions, and access to continuing education. It collaborates with professional organizations to connect students with mentorship and scholarships. However, some students still face barriers such as limited networking and financial strain. These supports help, but may not fully address the broader systemic challenges of entering the field. The Board’s efforts are meaningful but could benefit from expanded resources and targeted outreach.

How does the need for social workers change over time in Delaware?

The need for social workers in Delaware evolves based on shifting demographics, public health crises, and policy trends. An aging population increases demand for healthcare and elder care specialists, while substance abuse and mental health issues drive growth in behavioral services. State initiatives reflect growing recognition of these needs, but challenges persist. Caseloads, limited training capacity, and policy gaps complicate the response. Sustainable workforce development requires both increased numbers and enhanced professional support structures.

Can you get paid for social work internships in Delaware?

Yes, paid social work internships are available in Delaware, but opportunities are limited and competitive. While government agencies and larger nonprofits sometimes offer compensation, many placements remain unpaid. This creates equity concerns, especially for students who rely on income during school. Paid internships tend to provide better supervision and resources, contributing to a stronger learning environment. Still, the state’s small size can restrict options. Expanding paid internships would improve access, support, and diversity in training.

References:

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• Clinical Social Worker Licensure - Division of Professional Regulation - State of Delaware. (n.d.). Retrieved from Delaware Division of Professional Regulation.
• Licensing Resources. (n.d.). Retrieved from NASW Delaware.
• Projections. (n.d.). Retrieved from Delaware Department of Labor.
• Public Health Online. (n.d.). Delaware social work license: LBSW, LMSW, LCSW requirements in DE. Retrieved from Public Health Online.
• Social Worker License. (n.d.). Delaware social worker salary. Retrieved from Social Worker License.
• Social Work Licensure. (n.d.). Delaware social work license. Retrieved from Therapist Development Center.
• Social Work Salaries in Delaware | CompTool. (n.d.). Retrieved from CompTool.
• U.S. Department of Labor. (n.d.). Mental health and substance abuse social workers. Retrieved from O*NET Online.