We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Education

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How Do I Become a School Social Worker?

Lainie Petersen
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,511
Share

To become a school social worker, you will typically need to complete the requirements for licensure as a social worker in your jurisdiction. In some areas, you will also be expected to complete a separate licensing or certification process to be able to work as a social worker in primary or secondary schools. Depending on where you live, this process may require the completion of a bachelor's or a master's degree in social work, and you may also be expected to complete a period of supervised practice before receiving full credentialing as a school social worker.

In the United States and in many other countries, social work is a licensed profession. While there are unlicensed individuals who may perform various types of casework within institutions and social service organizations, the designation of social worker is typically reserved for those who have completed a credentialing process and have received a licensed to practice from a government agency. If you want to become a school social worker, you will usually need to meet the credentialing requirements for becoming a social worker in your area. In the United States, social workers may be credentialed if they hold a bachelor of social work (BSW) or a master of social work (MSW) degree. Although a doctorate in social work is available, it is not typically a requirement for licensure, but may afford you greater career advancement opportunities, particularly if you wish to work in administration.

After receiving your social work degree from a school that is recognized by the social worker licensing agency in your area, you will need to apply for your license to practice. You may be required to pass an exam as well as a background check in order to receive your license. Once you do this, you may be able to become a school social worker right away simply by applying to a school. In some areas, you may need to complete an additional licensing program. This program may require you to complete additional education or to work under the supervision of a credentialed school social worker in an educational setting.

Even if you are not required to get an additional license in order to become a school social worker, you may wish to pursue additional training so as to receive certification from a recognized social work professional organization. You will typically be asked to complete continuing education courses and to demonstrate significant experience in school social work. Once you receive this certification, you may be eligible for professional advancement within your field as well as jobs in school districts that require such certification.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Lainie Petersen
By Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen, a talented writer, copywriter, and content creator, brings her diverse skill set to her role as an editor. With a unique educational background, she crafts engaging content and hosts podcasts and radio shows, showcasing her versatility as a media and communication professional. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a valuable asset to any media organization.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen, a talented writer, copywriter, and content creator, brings her diverse skill set to her role as an...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-become-a-school-social-worker.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.