Social Work Certification

<p>Social work certification is a form of professional credentialing offered through trade organizations that demonstrates a certain knowledge and skill level in your field. Certification is not usually administered by state/local government agencies; however, it is generally required by government agencies to work legally. In this context, 'social work certification' is not the same as a certificate in social work. Certificates in social work are provided through formal training programs, whereas social work certifications are given upon passing a single exam or series of multiple exams after training has been completed. </p> <p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that all U.S. states and territories have varying licensure and certification requirements (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). While the terms 'certification' and 'licensure' are sometimes applied interchangeably for common usage, they are different terms. Licensure is the highest form of regulatory credentialing. If you have obtained a graduate degree and are trained to engage in psychotherapy, you would be classified as a clinical social worker, and would be required to obtain a license through your state (e.g., licensed clinical social worker or LCSW). As a non-clinical social worker, your state may require that you obtain certification instead. </p> <p>In addition to adhering to state regulatory mandates, certification may be also used as a tool for career enrichment and/or advancement. Depending on the type of certification, exams may be taken in person or online. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Overview</b></td><td> Credentialing provided by trade organizations, must pass a single exam or a series of exams</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Specialization Options</b></td><td> Gerontology, addictions, education, youth and family, hospice and palliative</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Job Outlook</b></td><td> 13% increase between 2019-2029 (<i>for social workers</i>)*</td></tr> </table><p><i>*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---WhatAreTheTypesOfCertification">What Are the Types of Certification?</h3> <p>Certification can be grouped by title or by specialization. For example, you would be eligible to become a non-clinical, Certified Social Worker/CSW with a bachelor's degree in social work or other approved and related degree program, such as psychology. As a non-clinical, Certified Master Social Worker/ CMSW, you would need a master's degree. To become a non-clinical, Certified Social Work Manager/CSWM, you would need a master's degree and at least two years of postgraduate professional experience. </p> <p>You may also consider obtaining certification in one or more of many available specialties, including gerontology, youth and family, hospice and palliative, addictions, case management and education. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithMyCertification">What Can I Do with My Certification?</h3> <p>Your job opportunities will vary with your experience and type of certification. For example, you may help people with medical conditions by providing psychosocial assistance as a public health and medical social worker. Or, you may serve is a social worker who develops and implements programs to help families and individuals through a wide range of situations, such as poverty, homelessness and child abuse. </p> <p>The BLS reports that the employment rate for social workers is projected to grow 13% between 2019 and 2029. You could work for various kinds of employers, such as government agencies, insurance companies, hospitals, schools and non-profit organizations.</p>