How Long Does It Take to Become a Social Worker?

Social work offers a range of career paths, and the time it takes to get there depends on which path you choose. Some roles are available right after earning a bachelor’s degree, while others require more advanced training and supervised practice. Here’s a clear look at the typical timelines for social work careers.

The most common starting point is a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), which usually takes four years of full-time undergraduate study. This degree prepares you for entry-level social work roles such as case manager, community support worker, or family advocate. Some BSW graduates begin working right away, while others choose to continue on to graduate school.

If your goal is to become a clinical social worker, provide therapy, or move into specialized roles in healthcare, schools, or mental health agencies, you’ll need a Master of Social Work (MSW).

• If you already have a BSW, you may qualify for an advanced standing MSW program, which can be completed in one year.
• If your undergraduate degree is in a different field, a traditional MSW program will typically take two years of full-time study.

An MSW includes advanced coursework in clinical practice, ethics, policy, and research, along with supervised field placements. It’s also the degree required to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in most states.

After earning your MSW, you’ll need to complete supervised experience before becoming licensed. Most states require two to three years (or approximately 3,000 hours) of post-master’s clinical supervision. Once those hours are completed, you'll be eligible to take the ASWB Clinical Exam, which is required for licensure as an LCSW.

Preparing for the exam is a major step in the process. AATBS offers trusted ASWB exam prep designed specifically for social work professionals pursuing licensure. Their materials include full-length practice exams, study guides, and coaching to help you succeed on test day.

Let’s break it down:

To become an entry-level social worker, you’ll typically need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), which takes about four years to complete.

If your goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and you start with a BSW before earning your Master of Social Work (MSW), the process usually takes six to eight years in total.

For those who begin with a non-social work undergraduate degree and then pursue an MSW, the path to becoming an LCSW generally takes about seven to nine years.

Of course, the timeline may vary depending on your program’s format (full-time or part-time), your ability to complete supervision hours promptly, and your exam readiness.

One of the strengths of social work is that there are flexible entry points. You can begin working after a BSW or pursue further education to expand your opportunities. No matter your path, each step prepares you to make a lasting impact in people’s lives.

And when you're ready to take that next step toward licensure, the right preparation makes all the difference. Explore AATBS’s ASWB exam prep tools to build your confidence and take your career forward.