How to Become a Social Worker in Alaska
Do you want to pursue a meaningful career in helping people improve their lives and solve societal problems? If so, then social work may be the right profession for you. Social workers are essential in providing counseling, advocacy, and support services to individuals, families, and communities in need. What makes Alaska unique is its immense size and diverse population. This provides an excellent opportunity for social workers to gain new experiences in different settings, from rural communities to urban centers.
Moreover, the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the mean annual wage for social workers in Alaska State is $64,360. Additionally, two universities in the state are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CWSE), offering graduate and undergraduate-level programs.
Steps to Become a Social Worker in Alaska State
Often, it is easy to get overwhelmed when beginning a journey into the social work field. However, if you understand the expectations and local regulations on becoming licensed in your desired area, becoming a successful social worker can be much more straightforward. If you plan to become a Social Worker, these are the typical steps on how to become a social worker in Alaska.
1. Complete your Education
The most crucial step toward becoming a social worker in Alaska is to complete an accredited degree program at either the undergraduate or graduate level. You can pursue a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree as a beginner. This provides the necessary foundational knowledge for future social work professionals to begin their careers in practice. Alternatively, if you have prior experience or an associate’s degree, you may be eligible to complete a Master of Social Work (MSW) program, which is typically more advanced and specialized. You can also pursue a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW), which offers the highest level of social work education.
2. Complete Field Hours
After completing an accredited degree program, students must complete a certain number of field hours. This is done to gain entry-level experience in the social work profession. For instance, to be a licensed Master of Social Work in Alaska, LMSW applicants must complete approximately 1,500 hours of field practice and a minimum of 45 hours of continuing education.
3. Be Licensed
Once you have completed your education and fieldwork, the next step is to become licensed by the Alaska Board of Social Work Examiners. This entails proof of passing the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam, which tests candidates’ knowledge, skills, and abilities. You must also pay the required fees to become legally licensed within the state. With a license, you can practice as a social worker in Alaska.
Social Work Degree Programs in Alaska State
Several accredited social work degree programs in Alaska state are crucial for your journey on how to become a social worker in Alaska. These include two Baccalaureate (BSW) programs and one Master’s (MSW) program.
A baccalaureate degree in Social Work (BSW) provides students the foundational knowledge to become a professional social worker. The Master of Social Work (MSW) program is a more specialized study level that provides advanced training and knowledge in the field. The CWSE-accredited institutions offering these programs include:
BSW Programs in Alaska State
BSW program provides a broad foundation in the social work profession and prepares students for entry-level practice. The curriculum includes knowledge from various aspects of the field, such as human behavior, policies, theories, research methods, professional values, and ethics. Students also gain essential skills like therapeutic interviewing techniques and problem-solving strategies. Institutions offering online BSW in Alaska include:
- University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, Online, Baccalaureate, 2 years, Full-Time, Part-Time
MSW Programs in Alaska State
The MSW program provides an in-depth exploration of clinical practice and field experience. Students gain more advanced knowledge of social work theory, advocacy, research methods, and policy analysis. MSW programs offer specialized courses like substance abuse treatment, school social work, mental health counseling, and trauma-informed care. Institutions offering online MSW in Alaska include:
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, AK, Online, Master, 2 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing, Multiple cohorts per year, Weekends/Evening
Online MSW Programs in Alaska State
Online MSW programs are more flexible than on-campus programs and allow students to complete their degrees from the comfort of their own homes. Furthermore, many online social work programs offer advanced standing options for candidates who have already completed a BSW. Institutions offering online MSW in Alaska include:
- University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, AK, Online, Master, 2 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing, Multiple cohorts per year, Weekends/Evening
Types of Social Workers and Licenses in Alaska State
Social work can be practiced in a variety of settings. Social workers specialize in other areas, such as mental health, substance abuse, or child welfare. In Alaska State, the Board of Social Work Examiners awards three types of licenses for individuals who practice social work.
Baccalaureate Social Worker License
Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in social work and who have completed the necessary field hours are eligible to apply for the Baccalaureate Social Worker License. This entry-level license allows individuals to work in various settings, including community agencies, schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, and other organizations.
Fees: $325.00
Documents: Certified transcripts
Testimonials: Three professional references
Authorization: A completed Authorization for Release of Records form
Masters Social Worker License
A Master’s Social Worker License is awarded to individuals who have achieved a master’s degree in social work from an accredited institution and have completed the required field hours. This license allows them to practice independently in various settings, including private practices, healthcare organizations, schools, hospitals, and other organizations.
Fees: $375.00
Documents: Certified transcripts
Testimonials: Three professional references
License: Current work license
Clinical Social Worker License
Individuals who wish to practice clinical social work must have a Master’s degree in social work and have completed at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical practice. This license allows them to provide mental health services and diagnoses to individuals, couples, families, and groups.
Fees: $425.00
Documents: Certified transcripts
Testimonials: Three professional references
License: Current work license
Social Work Salaries in Alaska State
It is crucial to understand social work salaries to determine whether this field is the right fit for your career goals. The wages of social workers in Alaska can vary greatly depending on factors such as education level, specialization, industry setting, and experience. Nevertheless, Alaska is among the earning states regarding the average annual salary for social workers, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Child, Family, and School Social Workers, 1480, $63,370
Healthcare Social Workers, 170, $68,430
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, 340, $57,640
Social Workers, all other, 440, $61,090
Social Work Teachers, 200, $ 75,330
Social Work Scholarships in Alaska State
Sometimes, how to become a social worker in Alaska can be daunting due to the cost of tuition. As a student pursuing a degree in social work, obtaining a scholarship to help relieve some of the financial burdens can be appealing. Additionally, understanding what scholarships are available and how they may benefit your education is critical for making informed decisions. In the last few years, various organizations and groups have stepped up their efforts to provide financial assistance specifically designed for those seeking a degree in social work from an accredited college or university in Alaska. The following are scholarship opportunities for your social work education in beautiful Alaska.
The University of Alaska Anchorage Scholarships
The School of Social Work at the University of Alaska Anchorage offers a variety of scholarships for students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in social work. These scholarship programs are designed to increase access and opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds or who may face financial barriers.
The Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) Scholarships
The AFN provides scholarships for Native Alaskan students pursuing higher education, including those studying social work. The organization offers $1 million in scholarship funds to eligible recipients across the state.
University of Alaska Fairbanks Scholarships
The University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) offers a range of scholarships available for students studying social work in Anchorage and other parts of the state. These scholarships are intended to help increase access to educational opportunities and provide financial assistance for those in need.
Social Work Organizations in Alaska State
Alaska State is home to a wealth of social work organizations that are making important contributions to the well-being of its citizens. From providing direct services to engaging in advocacy and policy development, these organizations work together to improve the quality of life for all Alaskans. Some popular organizations include:
National Association of Social Workers Alaska Chapter
The Alaska chapter of the NASW is dedicated to promoting, developing, and protecting the social work profession in the state. The organization offers members a range of benefits, including networking and advocacy opportunities, professional development resources, and access to additional resources for students.
Organization of Student Social Workers
The Organization of Student Social Workers (OSSW) supports students through networking, advocacy, and leadership development. The organization hosts various events throughout the year and provides access to additional resources for future social workers in Alaska.
FAQs
Alaska Board of Social Work Examiners allows individuals with a social work license in another state to apply for licensure by credentials. Applicants must have an active license in good standing from their home state and meet all other requirements set forth by the Alaska Board of Social Work Examiners.
You can look up your social work license on the Alaska Board of Social Work Examiners website. It offers a tab for MY LICENSE Self-Service Portal that allows you to search by your name, license number, or other criteria after authorizing using your password. You can also view the status of your application and any disciplinary actions taken against your license.