Requirements for a Career in Social Work for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

If you are passionate about supporting vulnerable sectors of society and want to play an active role in community development, social work can be an ideal and fulfilling career for you. With the rising number of problems with injustice and inequality in societies and other global issues, there is a growing need for resilient, dynamic, and effective social workers all over the world. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (U.S. BLS) predicts a 9% growth in social worker employment from 2021 to 2031 (U.S. BLS, 2022).

In this guide, we present the social work career requirements for someone with or without a background in social work education (SWE). We also focus on the importance of on-the-job experience for students in SWE programs, as with all other relevant experiences that can further boost your expertise and skills in the field. Our researchers looked through credible sources and datasets to provide you with relevant and helpful information as you plan your path toward becoming a social worker in today’s world.

Social Work Career Requirements Table of Contents

Do you need a degree to work in social work?
Do you need a license to work in social work?
Relevant Experience to Meet Social Work Career Requirements
Understanding Social Worker Salaries and Compensation Trends
What are the challenges of a career in social work?
How Can I Become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker?
Best Skills to Meet Social Work Career Requirements
How is technology reshaping social work practice?
Is a Doctorate in Social Work the Right Next Step?
How Do Policy Changes Impact Social Work Careers?
What Are the Most Convenient Educational Pathways to a Social Work Career?
What are the career paths available in social work?
Cost-Effective Pathways to Becoming a Social Worker
How Can Professional Development Enhance Your Social Work Career?

Do you need a degree to work in social work?

The social work career requirements can vary with each job, organization, and geographic location. Generally, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree to qualify for entry-level social work jobs and to apply for a social worker license in most states in the U.S. Your educational background is one factor in the sort of employment opportunities you will have in the field, so it can be advantageous to know what degree path you want to pursue early on.

Bachelor of Social Work

When faced with the question of what do you need to be in social work, the most common answer is to get a bachelor of social work. Also known as a BSW, this degree can give you a comprehensive foundational background for a generalist social work practice and includes around 400 hours of field education. It is best to choose an accredited on-campus or online BSW program, especially if you plan to proceed with a master’s degree and apply for licensure. To compare, read our post on what is the difference between social work and counseling.

Master of Social Work

A master of social work is also commonly referred to as MSW. This degree typically provides you with the education and training required for a license application and specializations in the profession like clinical, school, military, or geriatric social work services. You will also have to complete around 900 hours of fieldwork. Depending on your undergraduate educational background and your current ability to focus on graduate studies, you can choose from a traditional, accelerated, or advanced standing MSW program. As for the learning format, you can opt for on-campus or online master degree social work programs.

It is best to choose an accredited BSW or MSW program because this is one of the requirements for the social work licensure examination. According to Zippia, the most common degree for licensed social workers is a bachelor’s (55.1%), followed by a master’s (38.2%), an associate’s (4.9%), and a doctorate (.8%) (Zippia, 2023). Learn more about your MSW degree options in our post on online MSW programs no gre required institutions.

Alternate Degrees

If you are not yet completely sure that you want to major in social work but are open to working in jobs in the field, you can opt to obtain an undergraduate degree closely related to the discipline. Some of the common non-BSW degrees for social workers include psychology, peace and social justice studies, human development, women’s and gender studies, and sociology degrees. These majors can open doors to employment opportunities in the social work profession, but, if you want more flexibility and plan to pursue career advancement, it is advisable to obtain a master’s in social work after your undergraduate studies.

Do you need a license to work in social work?

Not all jobs in social work require a license, although some employers and states may require licensure for certain roles. For example, if you want to provide clinical services, one of the requirements for a career in social work is clinical social work licensure. If you want to work for the Department of Veterans Affairs as a social worker, you need an MSW approved by the department secretary and a license or certificate to independently practice in a state. Learn more about online LCSW programs.

Since different specializations and each U.S. state tends to have its own licensing regulations, it is best to check the individual requirements so you know in advance which credentials you need to obtain.

Most social work career requirements will also ask for licensure applicants to complete a specific number of hours of supervised work experience under a licensed social worker.

Even if you can find roles that do not require a social work license, obtaining professional credentials can usually boost your employability and increase your chances of being qualified for senior-level positions. Zippia reports that there are currently over 187,402 licensed social workers employed in the United States as of September 2022 (Zippia, 2022).

Relevant Experience to Meet Social Work Career Requirements

Social work is considered a practice-based profession. Thus, those in the field are expected to gain as much hands-on experience as they can throughout all the stages of their education and career. In fact, field education and on-the-job experience are highly valued among employers when assessing social work career requirements for certain roles. These are also requirements for most MSW programs.

There are several ways you can obtain relevant experience to become a social worker and these can include a variety of paid and/or unpaid jobs, service corps, internships, or volunteer work. Here, we provide you with some of the best ways to acquire useful experiences that can be beneficial to a future career in social work.

Fieldwork

Fieldwork—also referred to as field education, field practicum, field instruction, internship, or practicum—is a vital component of the curriculum for a BSW and MSW and is one of the surest ways you can gain relevant experience to meet social work career requirements. SWE programs prepare students for professional practice by immersing them in communities and allowing them to interact with different vulnerable populations. This gives them first-hand experience in applying the theories and best practices they learned in their courses. Students will have certain educational objectives and will work under the supervision of an experienced social worker.

SWE fieldwork can mean working directly with individuals, families, groups, or communities or being involved in planning, administration, and policy development. MSW students will also spend a portion of their field education in settings that are within the scope of their chosen specialization in social work.

Volunteering

Being a volunteer in programs, organizations, and activities aimed towards assisting vulnerable populations in communities is another great way to acquire relevant experience that can go toward fulfilling social work career requirements. This can also be an opportunity to get more exposure to the many specializations of social work and create an impression on you and your future career plans, even if you have a non-SWE background. For example, if you have a behavioral psychology degree and do volunteer work abroad as part of counseling programs for those affected by armed conflict in war-torn countries, your experience on the ground as you interact with refugees and other victims can expose you to the duties of international social workers and the operations of humanitarian organizations.

Volunteering can also be a great way to start obtaining relevant experience and developing skills and knowledge related to the profession, even at an earlier age. This can be a good option for high school students who already have some interest in pursuing a social work career. Not to mention, many organizations, programs, and events accept young volunteers, unlike certain social work jobs that have a minimum age requirement.

Volunteer work can also enhance social work students’ experiences because it provides opportunities to better understand the social work profession. This is because you can broaden your experiential learning since you can volunteer to work with a variety of populations and environments. Your volunteering can either supplement, enhance, or widen your fieldwork experience. You might even find opportunities for future employment.

Some of the best volunteer work opportunities to meet social work career requirements are the following:

After school programs
Community healthcare clinics
Community centers
Hospitals
Homeless shelters
Nursing homes
Nonprofits, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local or international volunteer groups

The report titled “Health of the U.S. Nonprofit Sector: A Quarterly Review," published by the Independent Sector, provides an overview of the nonprofit sector in the fall and winter of 2021. According to the report, the U.S. nonprofit sector contributed $1.4 trillion to the economy in the fourth quarter of 2021. Furthermore, nonprofit workers comprised 6.3% of the overall workforce in the same period (Independent Sector, 2022).

Work Experience in Related Fields

There are some jobs where you do not have to meet social work career requirements but where you can gain relevant skills and experience that you can use as a future social worker. For example, several career options in humanities and social sciences involve working in the same or similar environments as those in the field of social work. These can include jobs as a lobbyist, research assistant, journalist, paralegal, and more. Essentially, any type of work that allows you to interact with vulnerable populations, get involved in community development, or take part in healthcare and social issues can be considered a good experience for someone who wants to pivot to a social work career.

Here are more options:

Youth Mentor
Housing Support Specialist
Marriage and Family Therapist
Rehabilitation Counselor
School Counselor or Career Advisor
Community Health Worker
Human Service Assistant

Having any work experience in related fields can sometimes also be considered for your credits when applying to MSW programs. Moreover, you can increase your potential to earn more or apply for high-level positions. The McKinsey Global Institute 2022 report titled “Human capital at work" highlights that “work experience contributes 40% to 60% of a worker’s human capital" (Mckinsey Global Institute, 2022).

Understanding Social Worker Salaries and Compensation Trends

Social work is a noble profession, but understanding compensation trends is critical for practitioners and aspiring professionals alike. Salaries in the field of social work can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic location, level of education, specialization, and years of experience. For instance, entry-level social workers often earn less than those in specialized roles such as clinical social workers or policy analysts.

Geographic factors also play a pivotal role in determining salary levels. States with a higher cost of living generally offer higher compensation packages to attract and retain qualified professionals. Additionally, sectors like healthcare or private practice may offer more competitive salaries compared to nonprofit or governmental roles. Professionals holding advanced degrees, such as a Master of Social Work (MSW), or licensures like the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), also frequently have higher earning potential.

For a comprehensive analysis of compensation trends, including state-by-state salary comparisons, explore this guide on social worker salary. Understanding these nuances can help you negotiate better salaries and make informed decisions about where and how to practice social work effectively.

What are the challenges of a career in social work?

Social work is a rewarding profession but comes with its unique set of challenges. Understanding these challenges can help aspiring social workers prepare and develop strategies for resilience in their careers:

Emotional Impact and Burnout: Working with vulnerable populations and handling intense emotional cases can lead to compassion fatigue and burnout. Social workers must manage their own emotional well-being while supporting clients, which can be mentally and emotionally demanding.
Resource Limitations: Many social workers face challenges due to limited resources, such as insufficient funding, staff shortages, and high caseloads. This can restrict their ability to provide optimal care and support to clients, leading to potential frustration.
Safety Concerns: Some social work roles involve working in unpredictable environments, potentially exposing professionals to physical or verbal threats. Social workers may need training in conflict resolution and crisis intervention to navigate these situations safely.
Navigating Bureaucratic Systems: Navigating complex organizational systems and policies can be time-consuming and challenging. Social workers must often advocate within these systems for the needs of their clients, which requires patience, persistence, and a deep understanding of policies.

Awareness of these challenges allows social workers to take proactive measures, such as seeking supervision, engaging in self-care, and developing a strong support network, which can help sustain a long and fulfilling career.

How Can I Become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker?

To pursue licensure as a clinical social worker, it is essential to follow state-specific requirements while acquiring targeted clinical training and supervised hours. Candidates are advised to enroll in accredited MSW programs that provide specialized clinical coursework and field experiences tailored for licensure. Graduates should prepare for the licensure examination by obtaining extensive clinical practicum hours under the supervision of a licensed professional. For those seeking flexible options, detailed information and comparisons of accredited online programs are available through LCSW online programs, ensuring you meet both educational and clinical practice criteria without compromising the quality of your training.

Best Skills to Meet Social Work Career Requirements

Skills are additional social work career requirements that you can earn from relevant experience, during internships, and through SWE. Having the right attributes can significantly impact your effectiveness as a social worker, so it is advantageous to know what skills you need to further develop from early on. Social workers will need a combination of technical, soft, and hard skills, especially so they can keep up with the changes and advancements in the profession.

Skills for Social Workers

One of the most important social work skills is empathy. A study titled “The Role of Empathy in Health and Social Care Professionals," published by the journal Healthcare, emphasizes the need for health and social care students to develop empathetic skills. The authors conclude that “The development of empathetic skills constitutes an important priority in the education of health and social care students and should be encouraged. Educational programs should primarily be performed in a hands-on way that will strengthen the students’ personal and social skills and allow them to effectively communicate with their patients. Moreover, healthcare professionals should be supported through continuous and personal development education programs as well as through supervision sessions that will allow them to develop empathetic skills (Moudatsu et al., 2020). Social workers play a vital role in protecting and helping those who are most vulnerable in society, such as children, the homeless, minorities, and those with developmental, mental, and emotional health problems. Having empathy allows you to put yourself in the shoes of your clients and gives you more patience and willingness to understand them and their problems without passing any judgment.

Aside from empathy, other skills that can boost your qualifications needed to be a social worker are the following:

Active listening
Documentation and data management
Cultural competency
Emotional intelligence
Leadership and analytical thinking
Organization and time management
Research

If you are able to meet social worker skill requirements, you have a better chance of finding employment faster and of having more flexible career options. Aside from that, the right skills can also increase your chances of getting accepted into the SWE program that you are considering.

The nonprofit education advocacy organization America Succeeds published a report on the need for students to develop soft skills or what is referred to as “durable skills." Titled “The High Demand for Durable Skills," the research shows that out of the 82 million job postings surveyed as part of the study, 52.5 million listed at least one durable skill. Furthermore, the most in-demand skills that appeared in job postings were communication (22.7 million), customer service (17.1 million), management (16.9 million), leadership (15.5 million), and attention to detail (10.9 million) (America Succeeds, 2021).

How to Improve Social Work Skills

Some skills are innate, and others can be acquired and developed through your years of training and experience in the field of social work. If you know what skills you need to improve early on, you can work on them and be better prepared to present your attributes and achievements when it is time to apply for a master’s in social work or for jobs in the field. Showing an effort to level up relevant work skills can also show your willingness to develop personally and professionally.

To get a clearer picture of the skills you might have to improve on, you can follow these steps.

Assessment. Take the time to carefully assess what your current skillset is and do your best to be objective in noting down your strengths and weaknesses.
Getting feedback. Ask for feedback from your supervisors, instructors, or peers to get additional input about areas you need to improve on.
Practicing your skills. Grab the opportunity to put your skills into practice, whether through fieldwork, volunteering, or at your job.
Investing in training. Check for certifications, seminars, or courses that focus on improving specific social work skills. Many of these training programs are available online and provide asynchronous lessons so that you can go through them at your own pace.

How is technology reshaping social work practice?

Emerging technology has transformed the way social work is practiced and delivered. Digital platforms facilitate remote counseling, telehealth services, and more efficient case management by offering secure access to client data and real‐time communication. Integrating advanced tools such as data analytics and artificial intelligence supports decision-making and trend forecasting, improving service outcomes without compromising ethical and privacy concerns. Additionally, leveraging technological innovations can uncover opportunities for specialized consulting, such as insights provided by a school social worker consultant, which can inform best practices in educational settings. Staying current with these advancements enables social workers to enhance client engagement and adapt to evolving professional landscapes.

Is a Doctorate in Social Work the Right Next Step?

Doctoral-level education in social work offers advanced research opportunities, strategic leadership roles, and the ability to influence policy and practice on a broader scale. It is designed for professionals aiming to deepen expertise, enhance critical thinking, and drive innovative change within communities and organizations. Compared to earlier degree levels, a doctorate emphasizes not only practical application but also theoretical advancements, preparing graduates to assume roles in academia, research, and high-level administrative positions. Prospective candidates should carefully assess program structure, funding opportunities, and career objectives. For those interested in exploring doctoral studies further, consider DSW programs with financial aid options.

How Do Policy Changes Impact Social Work Careers?

Policy and legislative developments shape funding streams, regulatory requirements, and the operational framework within which social workers operate. Shifts in government priorities, reforms in healthcare and welfare, and updates in educational policies can determine the availability of positions, influence service delivery models, and prompt new specializations within the field. Social work professionals benefit from monitoring policy updates, engaging in advocacy, and participating in professional forums to understand these evolving dynamics. Staying informed about legislative changes enables practitioners to strategically navigate the job market and recognize emerging opportunities in areas such as jobs with human services degree.

What Are the Most Convenient Educational Pathways to a Social Work Career?

Considering the various educational pathways to a social work career, it is essential to weigh the convenience and accessibility of each option. For those interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, online programs can offer a flexible and affordable route. To find the easiest BSW online programs, it is crucial to research and compare different institutions and their program requirements. By doing so, aspiring social workers can make informed decisions about their educational pathways and set themselves up for success in their future careers.

What are the career paths available in social work?

Social work offers a wide range of career paths, allowing you to focus on specific areas of social need. Here are some examples:

Child, Youth, and Family Services: This area focuses on the well-being of children, adolescents, and families. Social workers in this field may provide support to families in crisis, child protective services, or adoption services.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse: Social workers specializing in mental health and substance abuse work with individuals and families struggling with mental health issues or addiction.
Medical Social Work: Medical social workers provide psychosocial support to patients in hospitals and clinics. They help patients cope with the emotional impact of illness and connect them with necessary resources.
School Social Work: School social workers work directly with students, families, and school staff to address academic, social, and emotional challenges.

This list represents just a fraction of the diverse career paths available in social work. Additionally, social workers can specialize in areas such as gerontology, veterans' affairs, or disability services.

Considering an affordable online BSW program?

Earning a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree is the first step towards a rewarding career in social service. However, the cost of education is a major consideration for many aspiring social workers. Fortunately, there are many reputable institutions offering affordable online BSW programs. These programs allow you to pursue your degree while minimizing student loan debt and preparing for a fulfilling career. You can find resources and reviews of the cheapest online BSW programs in our website.

Cost-Effective Pathways to Becoming a Social Worker

For many aspiring social workers, the cost of education can be a significant concern. Fortunately, there are numerous affordable pathways to obtaining a social work degree without accumulating overwhelming student debt.

One of the most cost-effective options is enrolling in cheap online MSW programs. These programs offer flexibility, allowing you to study from anywhere while balancing work and personal commitments. Many affordable MSW programs maintain high academic standards and are accredited, ensuring they meet the requirements for licensure and career advancement. By choosing an online program, you can save on commuting, housing, and other expenses that are often associated with traditional on-campus learning.

Additionally, many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants specifically designed for social work students. Applying for these funding opportunities can significantly reduce the cost of your education. Some employers also provide tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing an MSW degree, so it's worth exploring if your current job offers such benefits.

For those seeking even more affordable options, it’s beneficial to consider community-based scholarships or specific programs targeting underrepresented groups in the field of social work. These opportunities can help cover tuition costs and ease the financial burden of obtaining your degree.

By exploring these cost-effective options, you can build a rewarding career in social work without incurring excessive debt, allowing you to focus on your passion for helping others while ensuring your financial well-being.

How Can Professional Development Enhance Your Social Work Career?

Professional growth in social work extends beyond formal education and licensure preparation. Engaging in targeted professional development opportunities—such as specialized certifications, mentorship initiatives, and association memberships—can significantly bolster your expertise and career trajectory. Attending industry conferences, workshops, and local networking events allows you to stay abreast of emerging trends and best practices while building connections with experienced professionals. Moreover, exploring accelerated social work programs can expedite your access to advanced skills and leadership roles, ensuring continuous competence and innovation in your practice.

Starting Early on Your Social Work Career

This guide is just an overview of what you can do to obtain social work career requirements and how to join the profession through different paths. If you are already decided that you want to become a social worker, then planning early can be advantageous as you can prepare better for obtaining the degree, skills, and relevant experiences that are ideal for your career choice.

In case you are not yet sure that you want to study social work in college but are interested in working in the field, you can still be prepared to pivot to a social worker career in the future by ensuring you have the applicable skills and experiences that can make it easier for you to transition. Based on our team’s research, most credible sources, industry trend reports, and studies indicate that many employers are willing to overlook a different or missing degree credential if applicants have the skills and experience they are looking for. Some roles, however, will require licensure and a background in SWE. Luckily, you can opt for an accelerated master of social work program or find related professions that allow you to still be involved in a similar type of work.

Whichever path you choose, your preparation and journey to becoming a social worker is an opportunity to pick up valuable skills and experiences that are applicable not only in the line of social work but in various types of work and disciplines as well. Read more on how to become licensed clinical social worker.

Key Insights

Growing Demand: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 9% growth in social worker employment from 2021 to 2031, highlighting the increasing need for social workers due to rising societal issues and global challenges.
Educational Requirements: A bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) is typically required for entry-level positions, while a master's degree in social work (MSW) is necessary for clinical roles and higher-level positions. Accredited programs are crucial for licensure eligibility.
Licensure Importance: While not all social work jobs require a license, clinical roles and positions in certain states or organizations mandate licensure. Licensure often involves completing a specific number of supervised work hours and passing exams.
Relevant Experience: Gaining hands-on experience through fieldwork, internships, volunteer work, and related jobs is essential for meeting social work career requirements. These experiences are highly valued by employers and necessary for advanced education programs.
Skill Development: Social workers need a mix of technical and soft skills, including empathy, active listening, cultural competency, research, and leadership. Continuous skill development through practice and training is crucial for career advancement.

FAQ

1. Do you need a degree to work in social work?

Yes, a degree is generally required to work in social work. A bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) is typically needed for entry-level positions, while a master's degree in social work (MSW) is required for clinical roles and higher-level positions.

2. Do you need a license to work in social work?

Not all social work jobs require a license, but clinical roles and certain positions in specific states or organizations do. Licensure typically involves completing a specific number of supervised work hours and passing relevant exams.

3. What relevant experience is needed to meet social work career requirements?

Relevant experience includes fieldwork, internships, volunteer work, and jobs in related fields. These experiences provide hands-on practice and are often required for advanced education programs and licensure.

4. What skills are important for social workers?

Important skills for social workers include empathy, active listening, cultural competency, documentation and data management, emotional intelligence, leadership, analytical thinking, and research. Both technical and soft skills are essential.

5. How can I gain relevant experience for a social work career?

You can gain relevant experience through fieldwork in BSW and MSW programs, volunteering with organizations that assist vulnerable populations, and working in related fields such as counseling, community health, or human services.

6. Can I work in social work with a degree in a related field?

Yes, degrees in related fields such as psychology, sociology, human development, or peace and social justice studies can lead to social work positions. However, obtaining an MSW may be necessary for clinical roles and career advancement.

7. How important is licensure for career advancement in social work?

Licensure is crucial for career advancement, especially for clinical roles and positions requiring independent practice. It can also boost employability and qualification for senior-level positions.

8. What volunteer opportunities are beneficial for aspiring social workers?

Beneficial volunteer opportunities include working with after-school programs, community healthcare clinics, community centers, hospitals, homeless shelters, nursing homes, and nonprofits or NGOs.

9. How can I improve my skills for a social work career?

You can improve your skills through assessment, feedback from peers and supervisors, practicing your skills in real-world settings, and investing in training programs or certifications.

10. What are the educational paths for a career in social work?

Educational paths include obtaining a BSW for entry-level positions and an MSW for clinical roles and career advancement. Accredited programs are essential for licensure eligibility. Alternative degrees in related fields can also lead to social work positions, with an MSW often required for clinical work.

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