A bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) is the minimal degree required for someone to pursue a career in social work. This degree prepares you to accept entry-level social work jobs and direct service positions. A BSW prepares you for a career as a case manager, child advocate, child protective-services worker, court advocate, gerontology social worker and work in the criminal-justice system. BSW programs require both classroom and hands-on training. Earning a BSW requires 400 hours of supervised fieldwork experience giving the student direct experience in working with clients.
A master's degree in social work (MSW) is required for advanced practice in social work and in order to specialize in a particular area. An MSW can prepare you to work as a clinical social worker who provides mental and behavioral health counseling and therapy, or as a psychiatric or school social worker. MSWs can also specialize in a specific type of treatment such as group or family therapy, or may concentrate on public policy and community organizing. MSW programs require at least 900 hours of supervised fieldwork experience in addition to coursework. Some schools also require an independent research project such as a thesis.
In order to pursue research and teaching appointments in social work, a doctorate (DSW) is necessary. A doctoral degree can also be helpful for some supervisory and administrative positions. Earning a DSW usually takes between two and four years and requires extensive study of both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Completion of the DSW requires the writing and presentation of an independent research project known as a dissertation.
Licensing is available on the BSW and MSW levels, as well as for advanced generalist and clinical social workers. Social workers must meet specific educational and experience requirements in order to take the appropriate licensing exam. For advanced generalist and clinical social work licensing, social workers must have post-degree experience in the field. For clinical social workers, this requires them to accrue a certain number of hours under clinical supervision. The Association of Social Work Boards develops and administers the licensing examinations.