What degree do you need to be a licensed social worker?

In the United States and Canada, the requirements to become a licensed social worker vary by state, province, and territory. However, a common prerequisite is obtaining a degree in social work from an accredited institution. Typically, a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions, while a Master of Social Work (MSW) is often necessary for advanced clinical roles.According to the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), licensure requirements can differ significantly depending on your location. You can find specific licensing requirements by state or province on their website: ASWB Licensing Requirements.For further insight into the requirements and pathways to becoming a social worker, you can refer to the article: Social Worker Requirements: What You Will Need. This article may provide additional details and considerations for individuals pursuing a career in social work.

How do I become a licensed social worker?

Social worker licensure requirements vary by state. Typically, obtaining your licensure includes achieving a minimum level of education, reaching a required amount of supervised practice time and completing an application. There are also optional and advanced licensures for specific social worker careers. You can learn more about requirements here.

How long does it take to become a social worker?

It usually takes between four to six years to become a social worker. Aspiring social workers must earn their bachelor’s degree, and many continue on to earn a master’s degree as well.

What is military social work?

Social workers can help military clients address difficulties such as PTSD, depression or anxiety, unemployment, financial hardship and more through individual or family counseling. Social workers support military personnel and their loved ones by developing community programs and initiatives that can improve their lives. Learn more about military social work.

Academic Programs | UMass Global

Six Sigma Yellow Belt Prep

Prepare for the successful completion of the Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification Exam to further your role in supporting the efforts of Green Belts and Black Belts.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

1.5 PDUs

$499

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Smart Home Systems

Gain the skills you need to master Smart Home Systems and be on the forefront of the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

2.8 CEUs

$1,850

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Social Work, BA

100% Online

400 Field Hrs

Earn real-world experience and prepare for a professional social work career in a variety of settings, including clinical research, community outreach, and nonprofit or government organizations.

Degree Earned: Bachelor's

Learning Mode: Online

Online

120 Credits

$500/Credit

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Next Start Date

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

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Social Work, Master

Put your compassion to work for those who need it with a CSWE-accredited MSW degree. A combination of online coursework and in-person fieldwork at a service agency in your local area prepares you to become a dynamic, professional, licensed social worker.

Degree Earned: Master's

Learning Mode: Online

Online

69 Credits

$730/Credit

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Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

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Software Engineering Bootcamp

Bootcamp

Build a strong portfolio and master real-world software engineering skills—including collaboration with generative AI—through hands-on projects and a comprehensive curriculum covering web development, JavaScript, and the MERN stack, with the next cohort starting soon.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

$9900

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Special Education (Applied Behavioral Analyst), MA

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ISTE Aligned

This Master of Arts in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis emphasis, will enable you to advocate for those with disabilities and improve the teaching strategies used to impact their success in the classroom.

Degree Earned: Master's

Learning Mode: Online

Online

33 Credits

$730/Credit

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Next Start Date

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

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Special Education (Autism), MA

Prepare to address the instructional and assessment needs for students identified with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in a flexible master's program designed for working adults.

Degree Earned: Master's

Learning Mode: Online

Online

33 Credits

$730/Credit

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Next Start Date

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

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Special Education (Teaching & Learning), MA

CA Only

This Master of Arts in Special Education degree prepares teachers looking to become special education instructors that can advocate for social justice and protect the dignity of those with disabilities.

Degree Earned: Master's

Learning Mode: Online

Online

33 Credits

$730/Credit

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Next Start Date

Fall I (Aug 25, 2025)

Next Start: 08/25/2025

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Next Start: 08/25/2025

SPHR Exam Prep Course

Our self-paced online course fully prepares you for the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR®) certification exam. It offers exam tips, a diagnostic test, module-end practice questions, and a 175-question practice exam.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

2.5 CEUs

$349

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STEAM to Support Innovation, Course

This course will give you the opportunity to explore the integration of the visual arts into your curriculum as a tool for inspiring creative thinking in your students.

Degree Earned: Certificates & Courses

Learning Mode: Online

Extended Education

3 PDUs

$270

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