How to Get Your Pennsylvania Social Work License: A Step-by-Step Guide
Pennsylvania expects approximately 3,400 social work job openings each year through 2033. This estimate is based on the national projection of 67,300 annual openings for social workers, adjusted proportionally for Pennsylvania’s population. The state continues to face a shortage of social workers, especially in mental health and substance use services. Job growth in social work occupations is projected to reach 7% nationally by 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
Now is the perfect time to get your Pennsylvania social work license. Healthcare social workers make an average of $63,870 per year. With over 30,000 social workers already helping people across the state, this career path offers stability and good pay. The path to becoming a licensed social worker in PA needs careful planning because the state has strict licensing standards.
This detailed guide shows you each step to get your Pennsylvania social work license – whether you want an LBSW, LSW, or the advanced LCSW credential. Let’s begin your path to becoming a licensed social worker in the Keystone State.
Understanding PA Social Work License Types
The Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors manages three different social work licenses. Each license type has its own role and qualifications.
Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
The LBSW is Pennsylvania’s entry-level social work license. You need a bachelor’s degree in social work or social welfare from an accredited institution and must pass the ASWB bachelor’s level examination. LBSW holders work under LSW or LCSW supervision in hospitals, clinics, and community agencies. Their main duties include case management, patient assessment, and helping clients connect with essential resources.
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
The LSW license lets you provide behavioral and mental health services to clients, families, and groups. You’ll need a master’s degree in social work or social welfare, or a doctoral degree in social work, plus a passing score on the ASWB master’s level examination. LSWs can supervise other social workers and create intervention plans but can’t open private practices. The original licensing fee costs USD 75.00, and you’ll pay USD 95.00 every two years to renew.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
The LCSW is Pennsylvania’s highest social work credential that allows independent clinical practice without supervision. You must first get your LSW license. On top of that, you need 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience within 2-6 years. Your clinical hours must include at least 1,500 hours focused on assessment, consultation, group therapy, family therapy, psychotherapy, and psychosocial-therapeutic interventions.
LCSW candidates need supervision from qualified LCSWs who have five years of clinical experience in the last decade. The rules require two hours of supervision for every 40 hours of clinical work. After meeting these requirements, you must pass the ASWB Clinical exam, which costs $260.00.
Pennsylvania requires all social work license applicants to complete three hours of child abuse recognition and reporting training. Licensed social workers must also finish 30 hours of continuing education every two years, including specific training in ethics and suicide prevention.
Educational Requirements
You’ll need specific educational milestones from accredited programs to get a social work license in Pennsylvania. The requirements change based on the license type you want. The accrediting body for social work programs is the Council on Social Work Education.
Accredited Social Work Programs
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) is the main accrediting body for social work programs in Pennsylvania. Before you pick a program, check if its accreditation status matches one of these categories:
- Fully Accredited
- Accredited (Conditional)
- Accredited (Withdrawal in Progress)
- Candidacy
- Pre-Candidacy
Required Coursework
LBSW candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in social work or social welfare from a CSWE-accredited institution. LSW or LCSW status requires a master’s degree or doctorate in social work from an accredited program.
Your coursework should prepare you to:
- Get knowledge of social resources
- Understand human personality and capabilities
- Become skilled at therapeutic techniques
- Help people achieve productive personal adjustments
- Support family and community interventions
Field Experience Hours
Field experience is crucial to your education. Clinical licensure (LCSW) requires 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience after you get your LSW. This experience should focus on:
- Assessment and consultation
- Group therapy sessions
- Family therapy interventions
- Psychotherapy practices
- Psychosocial-therapeutic interventions
Your education doesn’t stop after getting licensed. Licensed social workers must complete 30 hours of continuing education every two years. The requirements have sections on:
- 3 hours in ethics
- 3 hours in child abuse recognition
- 1 hour in suicide prevention
- 23 hours in general social work topics
Board-approved providers must offer these programs. New licensees get a grace period since continuing education starts after their first license renewal. You must keep your course documentation for four years because the state board does random audits to check compliance.
Social Work Programs in PA
Pennsylvania has many paths to get your social work education through programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The state’s universities provide CSWE-accredited programs that prepare you for licensure.
BSW Programs in PA
Bachelor’s programs in social work help you qualify for LBSW licensure. These notable institutions offer BSW programs:
- Temple University in Philadelphia
- University of Pittsburgh
- West Chester University
- Shippensburg University
- Kutztown University
The programs focus on core social work principles, ethics, and practical field experience. Students need to complete 400-600 hours of supervised fieldwork that prepares them for entry-level social service positions.
MSW Programs in PA
Master’s programs give you advanced training you need for LSW and LCSW credentials. Pennsylvania’s leading MSW programs include:
- University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice
- Bryn Mawr College Graduate School of Social Work
- Widener University
- Marywood University
- California University of Pennsylvania
Full-time students typically complete these programs in two years, while part-time students take three to four years. BSW graduates can finish their MSW in about one year through advanced standing options.
Online MSW Programs in PA
Several Pennsylvania universities give working professionals flexible online MSW options:
Temple University offers a part-time Online Master of Social Work (MSW) program that can be completed in three to four years. The program features a low student-to-faculty ratio and provides high-quality field experiences. Students specialize in Direct Practice with Individuals, Families and Groups.
Widener University Distance Education MSW:
Widener University’s online MSW program is designed for working professionals and offers a trauma-informed curriculum. The program can be completed part-time and focuses on preparing students for advanced social work practice with a strong emphasis on trauma-informed care, family practice, and rural social work practice.
University of Pittsburgh Online MSW:
The University of Pittsburgh offers a Part-Time Online MSW program that can be completed in 3.5 years (10 semesters). The program specializes in Direct Practice with Individuals, Families and Groups and includes two practicum experiences. All online students pay in-state tuition rates, regardless of residency.
PennWest offers a 100% asynchronous program that has a Trauma-Informed focus. This CWSE-accredited program offers a regular standing and an advanced standing focus and is good for those who want to work in a clinical setting but desire flexibility while earning their degree.
These programs match the quality of on-campus versions and provide:
- Asynchronous learning options
- Virtual field placement coordination
- Remote academic advising
- Digital learning resources
- Hybrid formats that blend online coursework with occasional campus visits
Students must complete local field placements to gain practical experience while balancing work and life. Field placement coordinators help arrange internships near your location, though some programs need brief campus visits for skill-building workshops.
Take time to research each program’s requirements, application deadlines, and field placement policies. Make sure your chosen program meets Pennsylvania’s licensing requirements before you enroll.
Exam Preparation Process
A good strategy and dedicated study plan will help you prepare for the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination. Your chances of success increase by a lot when you understand the exam structure and use the right resources.
ASWB Exam Overview
The ASWB creates and maintains social work licensing examinations that check your ability to practice safely and ethically. The exam content comes from the 2017 Analysis of the Practice of Social Work, which included feedback from thousands of practicing social workers . ASWB plans to refresh its content based on data from the 2024 Social Work Census.
You can take the examination at Pearson VUE test centers worldwide. Students who fail must wait 90 days before another attempt. Pennsylvania requires a 70% score to pass. The eligibility window lasts six months after approval to complete the examination.
Study Resources and Tips
Recent numbers show that well-planned preparation leads to better results. A preparation course reported that 92.5% of its students passed the exam. Here’s how you can boost your chances of success:
Essential Study Materials
- ASWB Examination Guidebook (free download)
- Online practice tests with previous exam questions
- NASW Code of Ethics
- Content outlines for your specific exam level
Effective Study Strategies Start by learning to curb test anxiety through relaxation methods like deep breathing. You might want to find a study partner who can help you stay accountable and talk through complex ideas. Make a well-laid-out study schedule that covers one topic each week.
The exam goes beyond clinical content. Your preparation should focus on:
- Understanding practice theory
- Learning therapeutic strategies
- Becoming skilled at social work values
- Studying DSM content
- Reviewing diversity-sensitive practices
ASWB provides special arrangements if English isn’t your first language or if you have a disability. The study plan template and suggested references from ASWB will guide you through each exam content area.
Application Requirements
The PA Licensing System (PALS) handles all Pennsylvania social work license applications. Getting your application right the first time is a significant step toward quick approval. The state board reviews applications in order of submission.
Starting your licensing process is straightforward. You’ll need to create a PALS account and pick “State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors” as your board. The original application costs vary – USD 75.00 for LBSW/LSW and USD 90.00 for LCSW.
You’ll need these important documents:
- FBI Criminal Background Check (valid for 180 days from application date)
- Three hours of Board-approved child abuse recognition training
- Official transcripts sent directly from your educational institution
- License verifications from other states/jurisdictions (if applicable)
- Education Verification form (for final semester students)
The background check must be completed within 90 days after submitting your application. State police process your request automatically when you apply. If you have past criminal convictions, you can ask for a Preliminary Determination through PALS for USD 45.00.
Your ASWB examination eligibility lasts six months after approval. License renewal happens every two years and costs USD 95.00. Each renewal period needs 30 hours of continuing education, including:
- Two hours in child abuse recognition
- Three hours in ethics
- One hour in suicide prevention
Act 41 makes it easier for out-of-state social workers to get licensed in Pennsylvania. You can qualify if you:
- Have a current license in good standing from another state
- Have worked actively for two of the last five years
- Complete Pennsylvania’s specific requirements
- Pay all required fees
Note that you should keep your continuing education records for four years because the board does random audits. Following these steps carefully helps you establish and maintain your Pennsylvania social work license successfully.
Social Work Salaries in Pennsylvania
Social workers in Pennsylvania earn different salaries based on their specialty, location, and experience. The Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows interesting salary patterns for various social work positions.
BLS data for Social Workers in PA
Child, family, and school social workers make up the largest group with 18,340 professionals who earn $54,160 per year. The 5,620 healthcare social workers earn a higher average of $63,870 annually.
The 4,740 mental health and substance abuse social workers earn $48,420 yearly. A smaller group of 1,720 specialized social workers receives the highest pay at $68,380 per year.
Pennsylvania’s metropolitan regions show these salary differences:
- Social workers in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington earn $73,630
- Pittsburgh pays $74,240 annually
- Erie offers $77,540
- Lebanon tops the list at $93,590
Rural areas show different pay scales:
- Northern Pennsylvania pays $62,370
- Southern Pennsylvania offers $60,470
- Western Pennsylvania provides $58,290
Your earning potential grows with experience and career advancement. New social workers may start at $38,120, while experienced professionals can earn up to $93,970. The median salary ranges between $67,237 and $81,906, showing good growth opportunities.
These numbers highlight the varied earning opportunities in Pennsylvania’s social work field. Social workers can increase their income through specialization and strategic location choices.
Social Work Scholarships in PA
Financial support is a vital part of getting your social work education in Pennsylvania. Many institutions and organizations provide scholarships specifically designed for future social workers.
Master’s level students with a minimum 4.0-year cumulative GPA of 3.4 can receive scholarships from The School of Social Work at Pitt. Students who maintain full-time status and good academic standing automatically qualify for the same scholarship in their second year.
Pennsylvania students can access several state-specific opportunities. The Horatio Alger Pennsylvania Scholarships give USD 10,000 to qualified students. The Erin L. Jenkins Memorial Scholarship awards USD 1,500 yearly. Two students receive USD 5,000 each from the Jan DiMartino Delany Memorial Scholarship.
Healthcare-focused students can benefit from the Northampton County Medical Society Alliance Scholarships. These scholarships provide USD 1,000 to qualified medical and nursing students at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
The Child Welfare Education Programs feature two distinct opportunities:
- Senior-year social work majors get tuition and fees covered through Child Welfare Education for Baccalaureates
- Child welfare personnel can advance their education through the Child Welfare Education for Leadership program at graduate level
Students receive full-tuition benefits through the SP2 Scholars Program’s enhanced mentorship and training structure. The Randi and Brian Schwartz Social Innovation Scholarship helps master’s students who focus on economic security, immigration, or global conflict resolution.
The Paul D. Coverdell Fellows program provides:
- MSW students receive USD 8,750 per semester, adding up to USD 35,000
- NPL program participants get USD 21,825
Low-income and first-generation students committed to community service through civic participation can receive a one-time USD 15,000 scholarship from the Bonner Community Scholars Program.
Social Work Organizations in PA
Social workers in Pennsylvania can count on professional organizations that provide networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy support. These organizations help members grow in their careers through various resources and programs.
The National Association of Social Workers – Pennsylvania Chapter (NASW-PA) guides advocacy efforts for legislative priorities and professional development. Members can join their Political Action Committee to influence social work policies and participate in legislative education programs.
The Pennsylvania Society for Clinical Social Work (PSCSW), 52 years old, champions clinical practice specialization. This organization supports professionals in settings of all types, from family agencies to private practices. PSCSW members enjoy several benefits:
- Access to continuing education programs through conferences and seminars
- Networking events with peers and mentors
- Legislative advocacy updates
- Active professional listserv for referrals and job opportunities
- Free ethics consultations
- Low-fee supervision at USD 50.00 per hour
PSCSW goes beyond basic support by providing a therapist directory and discounted malpractice insurance through CPH & Associates at 10% off standard rates. The organization’s steadfast dedication to anti-racist practices encourages diversity and inclusion in all professional activities.
Pennsylvania’s social workers with specialized interests can join local chapters of national organizations. These include the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW) and National Association of Christian Social Workers (NACSW). Each group provides culturally specific support and advocacy.
The state maintains strong educational connections too. Social work programs cooperate with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and the Association for Baccalaureate Program Directors (BPD). These mutually beneficial alliances help educational standards meet professional requirements.
Licensed clinical social workers run virtual support groups throughout Pennsylvania that focus on trauma, resilience building, and specific community needs. These groups employ cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and expressive arts to help members heal and develop positive coping skills.
Take the Next Step to Your Career as a Social Worker
Licensed social workers in Pennsylvania have rewarding career opportunities in multiple specializations. The right license type – LBSW, LSW, or LCSW – will align with your career goals and educational background to start your professional path.
The state’s educational programs offer flexible options through traditional and online learning while meeting CSWE accreditation standards. You can build a successful social work career by preparing for exams, documenting your experience, and completing continuing education requirements.
Healthcare social workers can earn up to $93,970 annually, which shows the field’s strong growth potential. Your educational trip becomes easier with many scholarships, and organizations like NASW-PA and PSCSW provide career advancement through networking, mentorship, and advocacy support.
Social work licensure demands continuous professional development and ethical practice. Your success in this meaningful career depends on building connections with fellow professionals and staying current with industry knowledge while serving Pennsylvania’s communities.
FAQs
Q1. What are the steps to obtain a social work license in Pennsylvania? To get licensed as a social worker in Pennsylvania, you need to complete an accredited social work program, pass the ASWB exam, submit an application through the PA Licensing System (PALS), complete a background check, and fulfill continuing education requirements. The specific steps may vary depending on the license type you’re pursuing (LBSW, LSW, or LCSW).
Q2. How can I prepare effectively for the social work licensing exam? To prepare for the social work licensing exam, create a structured study schedule, use ASWB study materials, take practice tests, join study groups, and learn relaxation techniques to manage exam anxiety. Focus on understanding practice theory, therapeutic strategies, social work values, and diversity-sensitive practices.
Q3. What’s the difference between an LSW and LCSW in Pennsylvania? An LSW (Licensed Social Worker) requires a master’s degree in social work and passing the ASWB master’s level exam. An LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) is the highest credential, requiring an LSW license, 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and passing the ASWB Clinical exam. LCSWs can practice independently, while LSWs cannot.
Q4. What are the salary prospects for social workers in Pennsylvania? Social work salaries in Pennsylvania vary by specialization and location. Healthcare social workers earn an average of $63,870 annually, while mental health and substance abuse social workers average $48,420. Salaries can range from around $38,120 for entry-level positions to up to $93,970 for experienced professionals, with variations across urban and rural areas.
Q5. Are there scholarships available for social work students in Pennsylvania? Yes, there are several scholarships available for social work students in Pennsylvania. These include the Horatio Alger Pennsylvania Scholarships, the Erin L. Jenkins Memorial Scholarship, and the Jan DiMartino Delany Memorial Scholarship. Additionally, programs like the Child Welfare Education Programs and the SP2 Scholars Program offer tuition support for eligible students pursuing social work degrees.