How to Become a Social Worker in Connecticut

Are you interested in a career helping others and advocating for social change? If so, becoming a social worker may be your right choice. Social workers support individuals, families, and communities facing challenges caused by illness, poverty, or other difficult life circumstances. In Connecticut, the mean annual wage for social workers is $73,390, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is slightly higher than the national average of $50,390, making Connecticut a desirable place to become certified in social work.

Furthermore, to pursue a career as a social worker in Connecticut, you must first complete an accredited program. In this state, there are seven Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited programs, five of which are Baccalaureate and two that offer Masters-level degrees. Additionally, it’s important to remember that each program has its requirements for admission and graduation.

Steps to Become a Social Worker in Connecticut State

How to become a social worker in Connecticut is a multi-step journey that requires commitment, dedication, and a keen desire to make positive changes in other people’s lives. These are the steps on how to become a social worker in Connecticut.

1. Earn a Degree

A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), a Master of Social Work (MSW), or a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program is required to become a social worker in Connecticut. Many programs offer online courses and traditional campus-based classes, which will help you get your social work degree faster.

2. Complete Field Hours

Field experience enables social work students to gain practical experience by working with actual clients and social workers. For instance, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) must meet at least 3000 hours of post-masters social work experience with at least 100 hours of work experience under professional supervision.

3. Get a License

In Connecticut, you can become a licensed Social Worker (LSW) by completing an accredited social work program, taking the ASWB licensing exam, and submitting an application to the Connecticut Department of Public Health for review. Also, if you are in another state and have been practicing as a social worker for at least four years, you may be eligible to get your license in Connecticut. Finally, social workers who received their education outside the United States may be qualified for licensure if their training is comparable to a program finished in the United States.

Social Work Degree Programs in Connecticut State

Becoming a social worker in Connecticut starts with completing a social work degree program. Connecticut offers a variety of quality education options for those interested in pursuing a career in social work. The state is home to seven Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited programs that guarantee a high standard of education. These programs have been meticulously evaluated and recognized for their exceptional curriculum and skilled faculty. Here’s a list of the CSWE-accredited institutions available in Connecticut:

Central Connecticut State University

Eastern Connecticut State University

Southern Connecticut State University

University of Connecticut

Western Connecticut State University

BSW Programs in Connecticut State

For those interested in earning their Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) in Connecticut, there are several top-tier programs to consider. Every program has its structure and strengths, allowing you to find the one that best fits your career goals and needs. Unfortunately, none of these CSWE-accredited universities in Connecticut offer online BSW.

Central Connecticut State University, on campus, 4 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Multiple cohorts per year, Baccalaureate

Eastern Connecticut State University, on campus, 4 years, Full-Time, Baccalaureate

Southern Connecticut State University, on campus, 4 years, Full-Time, Baccalaureate

University of Connecticut, on campus, 4 years, Full-Time, Baccalaureate

Western Connecticut State University, on campus, 4 years, Full-Time, Baccalaureate

Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs in Connecticut State

The CSWE-accredited Master of Social Work (MSW) programs in Connecticut allow students to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become social workers. Students can choose between two institutions to pursue their MSW.

Southern Connecticut State University, on campus, 2+ years, Full-Time, Advanced Standing, Master’s

University of Connecticut, on campus, 2+ years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing, Multiple cohorts per year, Master’s

Online MSW Programs in Connecticut State

What Types of Social Workers Are in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, various social workers make significant contributions in diverse fields. Two of the most common types include Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) and Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW).

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW)

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) represent a specialized cadre of social workers who have met rigorous educational, examination, and experiential requirements. LCSWs are trained to provide various services, including but not limited to mental health evaluation, diagnosis, treatment planning, psychotherapy, and case management.

To become an LCSW in Connecticut, you must:

• Have earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited social work program
• 3000 hours of post-masters social work experience
• At least 100 hours of work experience under supervision by a licensed clinical or certified independent social worker.
• Pass the ASWB Clinical Level Examination
• Apply to the licensing board, Connecticut Department of Public Health, for review

Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW)

Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW) form an integral part of the social work workforce in Connecticut. They work in various sectors, including healthcare, mental health, child welfare, and education, providing counseling, case management, and advocacy services. The LMSW is typically a stepping stone to more advanced social work licensure.

To become an LMSW in Connecticut, you must:

• Earn a Master’s degree in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program.
• ASWB Master’s Level Examination is suspended until January 1, 2026.
• Apply to the board.

Social Work Licenses in Connecticut State

In Connecticut, social work practice is carefully regulated with different types of licenses to ensure the highest standard of care for individuals, families, and communities. Each license has specific requirements to be met before you can practice.

Besides, you must pay a non-refundable fee for each application for all licensure types. On average, the fees are as follows:

• Initial Application Fee: $200
• Renewal Application Fee: $200
• Reinstatement Fee: $200

In Connecticut, graduates with a BSW degree are NOT eligible for a license. Here is how to become a social worker in Connecticut using these available licenses in Connecticut.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Connecticut’s Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) requires a higher qualification and expertise than other social work licenses. To qualify for LCSW, you must:

• Earn a Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program
• Complete 3000 hours of post-master fieldwork under the supervision of an LCSW
• Pass the ASWB Clinical Level Examination
• Apply to the Connecticut Department of Public Health for licensing review
• Pay a non-refundable application fee of $200

Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)

A Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Connecticut can provide many of the same services as an LCSW. However, they are not allowed to diagnose or treat mental disorders. To qualify for LMSW, you must:

• Earn a Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited program.
• No ASWB Master’s Level Examination until January 1, 2026.
• Apply to the board and pay a non-refundable fee of $125.

Social Work Salaries in Connecticut State

The salary of a social worker in Connecticut can vary widely depending on factors such as education, experience, specialization, and location within the state. The following table breaks down salary ranges for different social workers based on the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics data to give you an idea of what you might expect to earn as a social worker in Connecticut.

Social Work Scholarships in Connecticut

Pursuing a career in social work in Connecticut can be financially daunting due to the high costs of obtaining a degree. Fortunately, scholarships available specifically for social work students in the state can help alleviate some of this financial burden. Here are two notable scholarships:

University of Connecticut Scholarships

The University of Connecticut offers two scholarships specifically for social work students. The first is the BSW endowed scholarship, which supports BSW students at UConn with financial needs. The second is the MSW merit-based Scholarship, which helps offset tuition costs for qualified MSW students at UConn.

Southern Connecticut State University Scholarships

Southern Connecticut State University offers social work scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need and academic excellence. Multiple scholarship resources are available for social work students in Connecticut from various organizations and foundations. These scholarships support numerous students, including those from underrepresented backgrounds and those pursuing public service.

Connecticut Social Work Organizations

Organizations are one of the best ways to stay informed and connected with other social work professionals. In Connecticut, many groups are dedicated to advancing the profession and improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities. The following list includes some of this state’s most illustrious social work organizations.

Connecticut Chapter of National Association of Social Workers (NASW-CT)

The NASW-CT is a professional organization devoted to promoting the social work profession and fostering excellence among its members. The organization is dedicated to supporting members in their professional development, providing resources on social work issues, and advocating for policy changes at the state and national levels.

Connecticut Local Administrators of Social Services

The Connecticut Local Administrators of Social Services (CLASS) is a professional organization dedicated to uniting and promoting the work of professionals from organizations, cities, and towns across Connecticut. Members can access training opportunities, newsletters, webinars, and conferences on professional development and social services issues.

FAQs

Does Connecticut Have Social Work Reciprocity?

Connecticut has reciprocity for social workers licensed in another US state is acceptable by the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Candidates must have at least four years of professional experience and a valid license, permission, certification, or registration from the other jurisdiction with no history of disciplinary actions. There will be processing costs that are non-refundable for permits.

What Is the Best Way to Look Up My Social Work License in Connecticut?

The best way to look up your social work license in Connecticut is through the online licensing services tab on the Department of Public Health website. You will need a user ID and password, which you can obtain by applying and payment for the services. After completing this process, you can access your license information and verify it is up to date.