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.

Do I need a bachelor’s degree in social work to apply to the MSW program?

No. You do not need a prior degree in social work to be admitted to the MSW program. Applicants with a non‑social work bachelor’s degree follow the standard advanced generalist track, which is designed specifically for students coming from other disciplines.

What is the difference between the standard MSW track and the advanced standing track?

The standard advanced generalist track is for students with a non‑social work bachelor’s degree and requires 69 credits plus 1,000 hours of practicum.The advanced generalist/advanced standing track is for applicants with a CSWE‑accredited BSW/BASW/BSSW and requires 39 credits plus 600 hours of practicum.

How long does it take to complete the MSW if I don’t have a BSW?

Most full‑time students in the standard MSW track can complete the program in about two years. This estimate is based on the average full‑time standard‑track students who successfully progress through the program; actual time to completion may vary by course load and personal circumstances.

Can I finish the MSW faster if I already have a BSW?

Yes, if you hold a CSWE‑accredited BSW/BASW/BSSW and are admitted into the advanced standing track, you may be able to complete the MSW in as little as one year of full‑time study.This one‑year timeline is based on the average full‑time advanced‑standing students who successfully progress through the program; your individual completion time may differ depending on pacing and course availability.

How many field practicum hours will I complete in the MSW program?

Standard‑track students complete 1,000 hours of supervised field placement practicum.Advanced standing students complete 600 hours of supervised field placement practicum.

Health & Behavioral Sciences

Develop Licensure-Ready Skills

The School of Health and Behavioral Sciences at UMass Global offers flexible, student-centered education in psychology, counseling, marriage and family therapy, and social work at the bachelor’s, certificate, master’s, and doctoral levels. By uniting these programs under one school, students gain clear pathways from foundational study into advanced, licensure-aligned degrees that prepare them to support individuals, families, and communities across diverse settings. Faculty bring together academic study, clinical practice, and community-based experience to help students develop the skills, cultural humility, and professional ethics needed for meaningful impact in today’s dynamic behavioral health workforce.

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

UMass Global's Bachelor and Master of Social Work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

Our Faculty

All Health & Behavioral Sciences Faculty

Isa Ribadu, PhD

Associate Dean, School of Arts and Sciences, Distinguished Professor of Psychology

Karen Woodcock, PhD

Associate Dean, Associate Professor of Social Work

Jenny Good, PsyD

Associate Professor of Psychology

Tobi DeLong Hamilton, PhD

Director of MSW Program, Associate Professor of Social Work

Zoila Gordon, PhD

Director of BASW Program, Associate Professor of Social Work

Sandy Howard, EdD

Director of Partnerships, Associate Professor of Social Work

The university has made my college experience smoother by providing an academic advisor who helped create a tailored education plan for my needs. Additionally, having a financial advisor to review my financial needs and expectations was invaluable. Open communication with my professors and faculty from other departments played a significant role in my success here.

Cherie C.

Master of Social Work

The curriculum challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach problem-solving with empathy and awareness, qualities that have greatly enhanced how I show up in my work and within my team. This degree gave me more than just credentials; it gave me direction, purpose, and the confidence to pursue a future in mental health services where I can truly make a difference.

Briggette A.

BA in Psychology

The counseling program prepared me for my surprise career in behavioral health by providing me with a strong background and practical experience in counseling techniques and a strong skill set in research and critical thinking—key in building a leadership career.

Robert P.

Professional Clinical Counseling, MA