How to Become a Social Worker in Georgia
Georgia, known for its peaches, rich history, and southern hospitality, offers more than warm weather and delightful cuisine. Here, social workers have the potential to earn a mean annual wage of $67,100, higher than the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This attractive salary, paired with the opportunity to impact the lives of individuals and communities, significantly affects the lives of individuals and communities, making Georgia appealing to prospective social workers.
Additionally, Georgia houses six Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited programs, including four at the baccalaureate level and two at the master’s level, providing a solid foundation for those dedicated becoming a social worker in this rewarding profession.
Typical Steps to Become a Social Worker in Georgia State
To embark on your journey of how to become a social worker in Georgia, there are several vital steps that you must follow to fulfill the state’s specific requirements. These steps guide you to achieve your professional aspirations in the field of social work in Georgia.
1. Earn a Degree
The first step how to become a social worker in Georgia is to earn a degree in social work. The Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage & Family Therapists requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) from an accredited Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) institution. However, there is a preference for candidates who hold a master’s or doctoral in social work for specific specialized roles.
2. Complete Field Hours
As part of the educational journey, social work students in Georgia need to complete a certain number of field hours. This requirement can vary based on the level of degree. For BSW students, it’s typically around 400 hours, while MSW students are often expected to complete 900 hours or more. Additionally, those pursuing an LCSW license must complete 3,000 hours of supervised work experience over three years. These hours offer essential real-world experience, providing an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
3. Get a License
Upon completing your degree and required field hours, you must obtain a license to practice as a social worker in Georgia. There are different types of licenses based on your level of education and experience – Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Candidates must pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination corresponding to their license level.
Social Work Degree Programs in Georgia State
Choosing the right degree program is an integral part of the process when considering how to become a social worker in Georgia. Georgia offers a variety of social work degree options which the CSWE recognizes. These programs equip future social workers with the knowledge, skills, and ethics needed to impact the communities they serve positively. Whether you’re interested in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree in social work, Georgia has programs to meet your educational needs.
BSW Programs in Georgia State
A Bachelor’s degree in Social Work (BSW) is a stepping stone toward a career in social work. In Georgia, several respected schools offer CSWE-accredited BSW programs. These programs lay a strong foundation in social work principles, preparing students for entry-level positions and further graduate studies. The following table outlines some of these BSW programs in Georgia.
Augusta University, Augusta, GA, On campus, 4 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Baccalaureate
Middle Georgia State University, Macon, GA, On campus, 4 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Baccalaureate
University of Georgia, Athens, GA, On campus, 4 years, Full-Time, Baccalaureate
Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, Online, 2+ years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Baccalaureate
Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs in Georgia State
The Master of Social Work (MSW) is an advanced degree for individuals interested in deepening their knowledge and skills. MSW programs provide a comprehensive overview of social work theories and applications, allowing students to specialize in mental health or substance abuse. The following table outlines some CSWE-accredited MSW programs in Georgia.
Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, Online, 2 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing, Master’s
University of Georgia, Athens, GA, Online, 2 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing, Master’s
Online MSW Programs in Georgia State
Online MSW programs offer a convenient way of advancing your career. These programs provide the same level of content as on-campus MSW programs and are recognized by the CSWE as providing the same quality of education. The following table outlines some online MSW programs in Georgia.
Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, Online, 2 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing, Master’s
University of Georgia, Athens, GA, Online, 2 years, Full-Time, Part-Time, Advanced Standing, Master’s
What Types of Social Workers Are in Georgia State?
In Georgia, individuals with an inclination to help others can find rewarding and varied career opportunities in the field of social work. This diverse field allows professionals to specialize in different areas based on their interests and expertise. As you navigate how to become a social worker in Georgia, you will come across two primary designations.
1. Master Social Worker
A Master Social Worker (MSW) in Georgia is a professional who has earned a Master’s degree in Social Work and has met the necessary licensing requirements. These professionals work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, private practices, and social service agencies. They provide case management, counseling, advocacy, and community organization services. To become an MSW, you require the following:
- Completion of an approved Master of Social Work degree program.
- A passing score on the Master’s Social Work licensing examination from the ASWB
- Submission of an application to the board.
2. Clinical Social Worker
A Clinical Social Worker (CSW) in Georgia is a professional who has pursued further specialized training after obtaining an MSW. They are uniquely qualified to provide psychological counseling services for various behavioral disorders. Becoming a CSW involves fulfilling additional specific requirements that include:
- Completion of a Master of Social Work degree from an accredited program.
- Accumulation of a certain number of supervised clinical hours.
- A passing score on the Clinical level exam from the ASWB.
- Submission of an application to the board.
Social Work Licenses in Georgia State
Embarking on a career in social work in Georgia begins with obtaining a state license, a process governed by the Georgia Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and Family Therapists. Aspiring social workers have two main categories of licensure to choose from: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). The requirements for each category vary and depend on several factors, including the candidate’s level of education, practical experience, and performance in the required national licensure examination.
1. Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
LMSW Applicants should have completed an approved Master of Social Work degree program and achieved a passing score on the Master’s Social Work licensing examination from the ASWB. Submission of an application to the board is also part of the process. LMSWs work in various settings, offering case management, counseling, advocacy, and community organization services
- $100 non-refundable application fees
- Professional references
- Pass ASWB exams
3. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
The LCSW is the highest level of social work licensure in Georgia, with the most stringent requirements. Candidates must already hold an MSW degree from a CSWE-accredited program and must have accumulated a specified number of supervised clinical hours. LCSWs also need to pass the Clinical level exam from the ASWB. After fulfilling these prerequisites, they can submit their application to the board. LCSWs are qualified to provide psychological counseling services, working with a broad range of clients and behavioral disorders.
- $100 non-refundable application fees
- Supervised fieldwork experience
- Professional references
- Pass ASWB exams
Social Work Salaries in Georgia State
Georgia boasts a broad spectrum of social work positions, and the salary for these positions can vary significantly based on factors such as the level of education, years of experience, area of specialization, and location within the state. Here is a list of the average annual salaries for some specific roles in the field of social work in Georgia, as reported by the BLS:
| Type of Social Worker | Annual Mean Salary |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $47,790 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $57,640 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | $53,570 |
| Social Workers, all other | $67,100 |
| Social Work Teachers | $73,190 |
Social Work Scholarships in Georgia
Various organizations, foundations, and institutions in Georgia offer scholarships to support students pursuing a career in social work. These financial aid packages are designed to alleviate the burden of tuition costs and encourage students to excel in their academic pursuits. Here are some of the scholarships available for social work students in Georgia.
The Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarships
The Consuelo W. Gosnell Memorial Scholarships are awarded by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Foundation. Named after a social work pioneer, this scholarship is given to students who have shown a commitment to working with or have a career goal of working with American Indian/Alaska Native and Hispanic/Latino populations. Students committed to community organizing, community development, and social activism are also considered. MSW students are eligible to apply.
The Georgia Gerontological Society Scholarship
The Georgia Gerontological Society Scholarship is available for students pursuing gerontology, social work, nursing, or other related fields. Applicants must be enrolled at an accredited college/university with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Georgia Social Work Organizations
Georgia is home to several different social work organizations that provide resources and support for professionals in the field. These organizations also offer valuable networking opportunities and help raise awareness about critical issues facing society today. Some of the most notable social work organizations in Georgia include:
National Association of Social Workers Georgia Chapter
NASW Georgia Chapter is a professional association that serves social workers, provides education and training opportunities, advocates for members’ rights, and offers resources on everything from licensure to job postings.
Georgia Society for Clinical Social Work
The Georgia Society for Clinical Social Workers (GSCSW) is a valuable resource for clinical social workers in the state. The organization provides continuing education opportunities, insight into relevant policy matters, and other professional development resources.
FAQs
Does Georgia State Have Social Work Reciprocity?
Yes, Georgia has social work reciprocity with other states. This means that those already licensed in a different state may be eligible to apply for licensure in Georgia without taking the required examinations or fulfilling all of the initial licensure requirements. Applicants must meet specific education and experience criteria, as set by the Social Work licensing board, to be eligible for reciprocity.
What Is the Best Way to Look Up My Social Work License in Georgia State?
The best way to look up your social work license in Georgia State is to use the state’s online licensing verification portal. You can also view any disciplinary action taken against a particular licensee and print out copies of their license profile.