How to Obtain Certifications to Become a Social Worker

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In order for one to practice or work as a social worker, then one should obtain a social worker certification. Having this document will allow a member of staff to make use of the title “Social Worker” when they want to deal with a client(s) and other types of service providers. A social work certification is issued to staffs who have obtained additional courses or experience in order to qualify for the social worker national examination. It is important for one to read the requirements for one’s state prior to applying for a social worker position.

Essential Information

A social worker is a trained individual who helps people in their communities handle issues such as inadequate housing, unemployment, substance abuse, mental illness and familial issues. In order to obtain certifications to be eligible to work as a social worker, one must earn a minimum of a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science. In order to practice as a clinical social worker, one must earn a master’s degree to obtain state licensure.

Social worker certification programs, which are typically offered at bachelor and master level usually covers the following:

•Social environments & laws
•Human behavior
•Social welfare policies
•Communication techniques and so on.

Students learn fundamental training in social policy and justice that is used with organizations in several communities. There are a couple of programs that provide training in specialized areas/fields.

After a student has earned his or her certificate, he or she can earn social worker licensure or certification to become a registered social worker in a chosen or specific field like public health, child welfare, policy planning, or gerontology. Additional certification programs that are related to the ones for social workers include programs for public policy planners, family counselors, and substance abuse counselors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2012, the median salary for social workers was $44,200 annually.

Educational Requirements

Social worker training and certificate courses are offered via a bachelor’s and post-graduate degree program. Several certification programs require undergraduates to have prerequisite coursework in the social sciences like anthropology, psychology or sociology, and also mathematics and English.

Program Coursework

The main curriculum for social worker certification programs includes a broad outline of social work; however, elective courses are made available for those who require additional training is particular field. A lot of programs also cover various topics in addition to social work field practices; topics such as:

•Human behavior
•Cultural diversity
•Sociology
•Research methodology
•Social work with individuals

Professional Certification & Continuing Education

The requirements to obtain a certified or licensed social worker vary state by state; however, students may require additional clinical experience in order to be a clinical social worker. A social worker is also required to complete continuing education credit hours in order to remain licensed. The certifications are offered via non-profit and private organizations, universities and colleges. Students who are pursuing career opportunities in research, consulting, teaching, management, or supervising social work opportunities can also earn a Master’s degree (MSW) and Doctorate’s degree (Ph.D.) in Social Work.