Social workers must earn a four-year bachelor's degree for entry level jobs. The most common degree is bachelor of social worker (BSW), but some agencies will accept psychology or sociology majors.
A master's in social work (MSW) degree is required for supervisory positions and clinical work. MSW programs are usually two years in length and normally require supervised fieldwork.
Social workers who wish to conduct research or teach in a college or university setting need a doctorate in social work (DSW) or a doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. These programs are usually two to four years in length.
In order to set and maintain program standards, the Council on Social Work Education accredits bachelor and master's degree programs.
All states and the District of Columbia require social work majors to pass some sort of licensing or certification requirement. The Association of Social Work Boards develops and maintains the licensing examinations.