How to Become a CPS Worker: Step-by-Step Guide

If you want to become a child protective service worker, you should be compassionate and trustworthy with the ability to effectively communicate and use critical thinking skills to improve situations.

The educational and licensing requirements to work in child protective services vary by state. To prepare for a career as a CPS worker, it is recommended that you complete the following steps:

• earn a bachelor's or master's degree in social work
• become a licensed clinical social worker
• earn certifications
• accept a promotion or apply for CPS worker position

Learn more about each step to becoming a CPS worker and other steps you can take to maintain or advance your career below.

Step 1. Earn a Bachelor's or Master's Degree

To become a CPR worker, employers typically require you to have a bachelor's or master's degree in social work or a similar field.

Examples of similar fields that may also land you a job as a CPS worker include human services, public administration, or public policy.

Bachelor of Science in Social Work

A BSW degree is generally accepted for an entry-level position in Child Protective Services. A human service technician or assistant is an example of an entry-level position.

Complete an BSW degree program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. A BSW degree program usually involves completing courses and practicum requirements.

Courses include:

• Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare
• Planning and Social Policy in Human Services
• Research in Social Work Practice

Master of Science in Social Work

An MSW degree will prepare you for more responsibilities as a CPS worker and may lead to career advancement opportunities.

To earn an MSW degree, complete required advanced courses and internships.

Examples of advanced courses include:

• Advanced Generalist Social Work Practice
• Advanced Statistics, Research, and Program Evaluation
• Clinical Supervision and Leadership in Social Work Practice

Step 2. Complete Supervised Professional Work Experience Requirements

Most states require that you complete at least 3000 hours of supervised professional work experience after earning your MSW degree to become eligible for state licensure.

Depending on your state's requirements you may be required to complete more than 3000 hours or less than 3000 hours of supervised work experience.

Step 3. Become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Complete a master's or doctorate degree program that meets your state's requirements to sit for the Association of Social Work boards exam.

Complete the Advanced Clinical Exam

Apply and submit the appropriate documentation required by your state to sit for the advanced clinical exam offered by the Association of Social Work Boards.

Required documentation may include:

• official college transcripts
• verification of required hours of employment experience
• verification of required hours of supervision

Your score determines if you become a licensed clinical social worker in most cases. However, some states have specific requirements after you pass the exam.

Step 4. Become a CPS Worker

After earning the required credentials using steps one through three, become a CPS worker by applying for the position or accepting a promotion.

Employment opportunities to be a CPS worker may arise from internships, your current employer, searching job boards, or networking events.

Other Training Opportunities

The US child welfare website lists resources for training opportunities and information on the child protective service process such as responding to child abuse and neglect and preventing child abuse.

To maintain your CPS Worker status or for the purposes of career advancement, you will also complete training requirements necessary to renew your state licensure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CPS Worker

Find answers to commonly asked questions about becoming a CPS worker below.

How Long Does It Take to Become a CPS Worker?

It is a lengthy process to become a CPS worker. If you are starting with no previous college education, it can take eight to ten years to become a CPS worker.

You may be able to become a CPS worker in less than eight to ten years if you have transfer credits from an accredited institution or previous work experience.

Can I Complete the Education Requirements to Become a CPS Worker Online?

You can complete many of the educational requirements to become a CPS worker online.

Many accredited institutions offer online programs that allow you to complete all coursework online but practicums and internship requirements for earning your degree generally must be completed in person.

Is The Exam to Earn State Licensure Hard?

The ASWB examination is designed to challenge the knowledge and skills you have acquired.

If you understand the training you received from college, internships, and your supervised professional experience, the ASWB examination may not seem so difficult.

Begin Your Career as a CPS Worker

If you are interested in becoming a CPS worker, begin your career by completing your college education to earn your bachelor's or graduate degree and obtain your state licensure to practice as a licensed clinical social worker.