Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I verify that courses I take will be allowable in my State?
A: Once you have decided on a course, just click on the "Approval" button. This will then take you a complete listing of every State. Select you licensing State and a screen will pop up indicating if the course selected is approved by that State.

Q: How do I become a licensed social worker?
A: In order to obtain a social work license, individuals must meet minimum standards for education and experience and generally must pass a licensure examination. Because these requirements vary from state to state, contact your state licensure board listed under "Approvals" on the Home Page, to obtain information on the eligibility and application requirements in your state.

Q: How many continuing education units/hours do I need to retain my credential/license?
A: The number of hours that you need depends on whether you have a professional credential or state license. If you hold a professional credential, contact the professional association from which you obtained the credential and ask for their continuing education requirements. If you hold a state license, contact your state social work licensure board to get a copy of your continuing education regulations for licensure renewal. The names, addresses and phone numbers of all social work licensure boards can be found by hitting the "Approval" button on the Home Page.

Q: What is continuing education?
A: Continuing education is training taken by social workers that have already completed the formal education required to enter their field. Many professional associations encourage their members to keep up with the current knowledge base by participating in specified additional training within certain time limits. Many recommend that members follow the continuing education recommendations in the NASW Standards for Continuing Professional Education. State-licensing boards for social workers may also require social workers to obtain a specific number of CEU’s by successfully completing qualified academic or professional courses.

Q: What type of educational programs do I need to get my social work degree?
A: For further information about undergraduate and graduate school of social work training and programs, contact the Council on Social Work Education at www.cswe.org.