How to Become a Licensed Social Worker in Texas: LCSW Requirements Guide

Social work careers in Texas are projected to grow by over 13% between 2020 and 2030.

The job market looks promising with excellent opportunities. Healthcare social workers make an average of $64,120 per year, while child, family, and school social workers earn around $50,630. You’ll need to complete 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience to practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas.

Texas offers three different types of social work licenses: LBSW, LMSW, or LCSW. You must pass the ASWB clinical exam and complete a Texas jurisprudence exam. Your license needs renewal every two years with 30 hours of continuing education.

Want to become a licensed social worker in Texas? Let’s explore everything you should know about Texas LCSW requirements.

Understanding Texas Social Work License Types

Texas social workers can choose from three different license types. Each license has its own requirements and scope that align with different career paths.

LBSW vs LMSW vs LCSW

A bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program qualifies you for the entry-level Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) license. The Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) sits at the next level and requires a master’s degree in social work. Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), the highest tier, combines a master’s degree with substantial supervised experience.

Scope of Practice for Each License

These licenses come with specific practice privileges:

The LBSW’s generalist practice covers:

• Case management and interviewing
• Program development and administration
• Community organization and advocacy
• Supportive counseling and direct practice

An LMSW builds on these skills with:

• Specialized knowledge in assessment
• Treatment planning and implementation
• Counseling services under supervision
• Research and program evaluation

LCSW practitioners can:

• Diagnose mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders
• Provide independent clinical treatment
• Conduct psychotherapy and counseling
• Use diagnostic tools like DSM and ICD

Choosing the Right License Path

Your career goals will point you toward the best license choice. The LBSW provides excellent groundwork for professionals who want to work in case management and community support roles. The LMSW works well as a stepping stone for those who want to provide clinical services under supervision. Social workers who plan to open independent clinical practices or specialize in mental health treatment should pursue the LCSW.

LBSW and LMSW holders have the option to get Independent Practice Recognition (IPR) to provide non-clinical services independently. The LMSW-Advanced Practice (LMSW-AP) credential requires 3,000 hours of supervised non-clinical experience completed within 24-48 months.

Educational Requirements for Texas LCSW

Securing a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credential in Texas demands specific educational qualifications and supervised experience. Let’s head over to these requirements.

Required Degrees and Accreditation

A master’s degree or doctoral degree in social work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited program is the start of your LCSW qualification. The CSWE acts as the national association that represents social work education in the United States. It sets rigorous standards through extensive site visits and self-reporting from schools.

CSWE accreditation will give a solid foundation in educational standards and prepares students for high-skilled social work positions. Texas state licensing bodies recognize CSWE accreditation as the only accepted standard. Students should verify their program’s CSWE accreditation status. The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) strictly enforces this requirement.

Field Placement Hours

Field placement is a vital part of social work education. Students must complete supervised field placement hours at local social work organizations during their MSW program. These placements help build essential skills and provide real-world experience in social work practices.

Aspiring LCSWs need 3,000 hours of supervised professional clinical experience after graduation. This experience spans between 24 to 48 months. The requirements include:

• A minimum of 100 hours under direct supervision by an approved supervisor
• At least 4 hours per week of clinical social work
• Clinical work requirements must be met even in non-clinical settings

Supervised experience helps professionals:

• Apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings
• Develop professional judgment skills
• Build expertise with clients of all types
• Get exposure to various social work scenarios

The supervisor’s responsibilities include:

• Creating and implementing a supervision plan
• Monitoring progress
• Ensuring ethical practice standards
• Verifying completed hours through official documentation

Social Work Programs in Texas

BSW Programs in Texas

A bachelor’s degree in social work opens doors to entry-level positions. There are 37 CSWE-accredited BSW degrees available at several universities in Texas. These programs teach:

• Core social work principles
• Simple counseling techniques
• Community resource management
• Cultural competency skills

BSW programs

Here’s a look at five different BSW programs in Texas, highlighting their unique offerings:

University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)

UTA’s Bachelor of Social Work program offers both in-person and online options, allowing students flexibility in their learning approach. A standout feature is their Undergraduate Student Leadership Program, which helps develop future social work leaders. The program also provides BSW Weekly Updates to keep students informed about the latest developments in the field.

University of Texas at Tyler (UT Tyler)

UT Tyler’s BSW program, launched in 2021, is the only public university BSW program within 50 miles of Tyler. It offers a unique blend of face-to-face and online formats, allowing students to customize their learning experience. The program emphasizes strong community partnerships in East Texas, providing enriching opportunities for students to gain experience while assisting others.

Texas State University

Texas State’s BSW program stands out with its three-phase completion structure and a separate program-level application process for admission into Phase II. Once admitted to Phase II, students can complete all major courses either on campus or online. The program emphasizes developing the capacity to work with people from diverse backgrounds and assist with various life difficulties and transitions.

University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin)

UT Austin’s Steve Hicks School of Social Work offers a unique service learning requirement. Students must complete 30 clock hours of supervised service learning related to social work before advancing to the practice sequence. This hands-on experience helps students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The program also offers a thorough review process to assist students who may have trouble meeting professional or academic requirements.

University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)

UTSA’s BSW program features a 450-hour practicum that serves community agencies throughout San Antonio and beyond. This extensive field experience allows students to integrate classroom learning with real-world practice, develop mastery over core social work skills, and network with local community agencies. The program emphasizes culturally competent, transformative practice and promotes equity, social justice, and well-being within a local-global context.

These BSW programs in Texas offer diverse and unique features, catering to different student needs and preparing them for successful careers in social work.

MSW Programs Texas

Students learn advanced clinical skills needed for LCSW licensure through master’s programs. Texas universities excel in specialized areas like:

• Mental health and substance abuse
• Child and family welfare
• Healthcare social work
• School social work

The Steve Hicks School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Austin stands among the nation’s top 10 social work programs. Texas State University’s program focuses on direct practice and administrative leadership. The University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work specializes in political social work training.

Here are descriptions and URLs for 5 different MSW on-campus programs in Texas, along with something unique they offer:

University of Texas at Austin – Steve Hicks School of Social Work

Unique Offering: The program offers multiple concentrations, including Clinical Social Work and Administration & Policy Practice, with flexible program options such as 1-Year, 2-Year, and 3-Year tracks.

Texas State University – School of Social Work

Unique Offering: The program features a concentration in Advanced Practice Leadership and offers unique courses like “Hip Hop and Social Justice for Individual and Community Change” and “Spirituality in Social Work Practice”.

University of Texas at Arlington – School of Social Work

Unique Offering: This program stands out with five specialized concentrations, including Direct Practice in Aging, Direct Practice in Children & Families, Direct Practice in Health, Direct Practice in Mental Health & Substance Abuse, and Community and Administrative Practice.

Our Lady of the Lake University – Worden School of Social Service

Unique Offering: The program specializes in Social Work Practice With Hispanic Children & Families, focusing on issues and challenges confronting Hispanic populations in the United States.

University of Houston – Graduate College of Social Work

Unique Offering: The program offers five dual-degree master’s options, including MSW/MPP, MSW/MBA, MSW/MPH, MSW/JD, and MSW/PhD, allowing students to combine social work with other disciplines.

These MSW programs in Texas offer a diverse range of specializations and unique features, catering to various interests within the field of social work.

Online MSW Programs Texas

Flexible Learning Features:

• Self-paced coursework completion
• Virtual field placement coordination
• Live online supervision sessions
• Digital learning platforms

Here’s a glance at 5 different MSW online programs in Texas, along with their unique offerings:

The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)

UTA offers a highly popular online MSW program with the largest enrollment of over 6,000 online graduate students. The program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and provides concentrations in Clinical Social Work and Macro Social Work. Students can specialize in areas such as Aging, Mental Health, and Children and Families. UTA’s unique offering is its flexibility, allowing students to choose between 100% online or on-campus options, as well as part-time or full-time study plans.

Baylor University

Baylor University’s online MSW program is designed for students with degrees in fields other than social work. It offers concentrations in Clinical Practice and Community Practice, preparing graduates for careers in healthcare and public service. Baylor’s unique feature is its individualized field placements within a 75-mile radius of the student’s location, ensuring practical experience aligned with geographic preferences.

The University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)

UTRGV’s online MSW program specializes in Administration and Community Practice, available in both 33-hour and 63-hour formats. The program uniquely focuses on leadership and social justice skills, preparing graduates for Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credentials. UTRGV’s program stands out for its emphasis on serving diverse communities, particularly relevant to the Rio Grande Valley region.

Texas A&M University – Commerce (TAMUC)

TAMUC offers a fully online MSW program with asynchronous coursework, catering to working professionals. The program provides two tracks: a Foundation Generalist Practice Track (57 credit hours over 2-4 years) for those with non-social work backgrounds, and an Advanced Generalist Practice Track (33 credit hours in one year) for recent Bachelor of Social Work graduates. TAMUC’s unique offering is its focus on preparing students for LMSW licensure in Texas through a comprehensive, CSWE-accredited curriculum.

Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU)

OLLU’s online MSW program is one of only three in the nation with an intentional orientation toward Hispanic community needs and issues. This unique focus makes it an excellent resource for social work education in communities with growing Hispanic populations across the country. The program covers the entire lifespan, from newborns to the elderly, equipping students for clinical practice specializing in various demographics.

These five programs offer diverse specializations and unique features to cater to different student needs and career goals in the field of social work across Texas.

Programs typically need:

• Completed prerequisite courses
• Specific GPA requirements
• Recommendation letters
• Personal statement
• Experience-focused resume

Field placement remains crucial in both traditional and online programs. Students must complete supervised hours at approved social service agencies. Programs help arrange placements close to students’ locations, which benefits online learners significantly.

Preparing for License Exams

Your Texas social work license requires passing two most important examinations. Let’s look at what you need to know about these tests and how to prepare for them.

Texas Jurisprudence Exam Overview

The Texas Jurisprudence Exam has 126 questions that cover the Social Work Practice Act, Council rules, and applicable laws. This open-book test will give a clear picture of your grasp of Texas social work licensure requirements instead of testing clinical application.

Everything in the Jurisprudence exam:

• You must complete it within six months before submitting your license application
• You get unlimited attempts to pass
• You earn three continuing education credits
• You need this as a prerequisite for the ASWB exam

ASWB Clinical Exam Tips

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination is a vital milestone to get your license. These preparation strategies will help boost your success:

The DiNitto Center’s resources are a great way to get help:

• Online practice exams with access codes
• Physical study guides you can borrow for 14 days
• Test preparation materials at no cost for recent graduates

ASWB provides complete study tools:

• Examination Guidebook with study plan templates
• Reference lists created by social work educators
• Content outlines for all exam categories
• Sample questions with detailed explanations

ASWB exam fees vary by level:

• Associate, Bachelors, or Masters Exams: $230
• Advanced Generalist or Clinical Exams: $260

These study strategies work well:

1. Know your learning style to optimize study time
2. Become skilled at the Code of Ethics
3. Learn question breakdown techniques
4. Take multiple practice exams
5. Create an exam day strategy

Steps before your exam:

• Apply to the state board
• Register with ASWB
• Wait for Authorization to Test email
• Schedule testing appointment at Pearson VUE centers
• Review Candidate Rules Agreement

Applying for Your LCSW License

The Texas LCSW application process works through the Behavioral Health Executive Council’s (BHEC) online licensing system. You’ll need to follow specific steps that will give a straightforward application experience.

Required Documentation

Your LCSW application package must include:

• A completed online application with a non-refundable fee of $129
• Your official MSW transcript sent straight from your university
• A Clinical Supervision Verification Form showing 3,000 supervised hours
• Your Jurisprudence exam completion certificate that stays valid for six months
• A National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) self-query report
• License verification from other states if you held any

You can send electronic transcripts to transcripts@bhec.texas.gov. The mailing address for hard copies is BHEC SW Transcripts, 1801 Congress Ave, Ste. 7.300, Austin, TX 78701.

Application Timeline

The review process usually follows this schedule:

• Staff reviews applications within six weeks after submission
• Complete applications take 30-40 days to process
• ASWB exam scores need about two weeks for verification
• Fingerprint result times differ by location

New applicants should wait through the six-week review period before reaching out to BHEC unless staff asks for information. This helps everyone’s applications move through the system quickly.

Background Check Process

BHEC starts a complete background screening once you submit your application:

• You can get fingerprinted electronically at authorized locations across the country
• The fingerprinting process takes about 15 minutes at these facilities
• You can request a criminal history evaluation before applying for $10
• Staff reviews background results using Criminal Conviction Guidelines

Military members, veterans, and their spouses might qualify to speed up their process through different licensing requirements. These candidates should fill out the Military Supplemental Form to get special treatment.

Social Work Salaries in Texas

Social work professionals in Texas earn different salaries based on their specialization, experience, and location. This overview of salaries will help you set realistic expectations for your career path.

BLS data for Texas social workers

Recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows healthcare social workers in Texas earn an average annual salary of $64,120. This amount is higher than child, family, and school social workers who average $50,630. Mental health and substance abuse social workers receive about $47,660 annually.

Licensed Clinical Social Workers’ salaries range from $67,100 to $104,300, with top performers earning up to $134,158. These figures vary based on experience, specialization, and location.

Texas offers diverse earning potential by region:

• Dallas: $96,811 annually
• Alamo region: $93,445 annually
• Central Texas: $91,719 annually
• Gulf Coast: $82,841 annually
• East Texas: $54,895 annually

Texas employment numbers show promising career options:

• 21,210 child, family, and school social workers
• 11,590 healthcare social workers
• 4,480 mental health and substance abuse social workers
• 2,530 social workers in other specialized fields

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission offers Social Worker III positions with salaries between $48,158 and $77,477. The median salary stands at $76,028. Most people in these roles are female and work full-time.

Social workers can increase their earnings through specialized certifications, additional training, and experience. Those with advanced practice recognition typically earn more, especially in metropolitan areas with strong demand.

Healthcare settings provide competitive wages compared to other specializations. Mental health and substance abuse social workers find steady employment opportunities in treatment facilities and community organizations, despite their smaller numbers.

Social Work Career Outlook Texas

Texas’s social work profession offers strong growth opportunities in many specializations. Job numbers show a significant jump from 3,410 positions in 2020 to 3,880 by 2030, with a 14% growth rate.

Job data throughout Texas paints an encouraging picture. Dallas stands out with the highest number of positions at 528, expected to grow to 605. The Gulf Coast region follows close behind with 619 positions, which should reach 740 openings. The Capital Area shows promise with a yearly growth rate of 2.31%.

Social workers can find opportunities in these settings:

• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Schools and educational institutions
• Rehabilitation centers
• Corporate employee assistance programs
• Community service organizations
• Mental health clinics

Texas’s population grew by 15.3% between 2010 and 2020, creating more jobs for qualified social workers. This growth and rising income inequality mean practitioners are needed in both urban and rural communities.

Career growth looks promising in several areas:

• Social and community service managers: 21.90% projected growth
• Child, family, and school social workers: 21,210 positions
• Healthcare social workers: 11,590 positions
• Mental health and substance abuse social workers: 4,480 positions

Professional development comes through various channels:

• Specialized agency placements
• Direct service provision
• Program administration
• Policy development
• Corporate social responsibility initiatives

Yearly job openings through 2032 vary by location:

• Gulf Coast: 66 positions annually
• Dallas: 53 positions annually
• Alamo region: 40 positions annually
• Tarrant County: 33 positions annually
• Capital Area: 31 positions annually

Texas’s growing population and increased focus on mental health services will give licensed social workers steady career opportunities statewide. Social workers can build rewarding careers in different settings and specializations thanks to their profession’s versatility.

Texas Social Work Scholarships

Getting financial support makes a big difference for Texas social work students. Many universities and organizations provide substantial funding to help students complete their education.

The Steve Hicks School manages several fellowships and scholarships for BSW, MSSW, and PhD students. These awards consider academic performance, professional potential, and financial needs. Students received more than $1.60 million in funding during Academic Year 2023-24.

Current and future Department of Family and Protective Services employees can get financial help through the Title IV-E Student Stipend Program when pursuing BSW or MSW degrees. Recipients must work with DFPS or a Single Source Continuum of Care contractor for a period equal to their funding.

The Hernández Scholarship Fund rewards students who show resilience in their educational experience. Priority goes to:

• First-generation college students
• Single parents
• Students who overcame personal obstacles
• Those with gaps in their educational career

Awards can reach up to $100,000 based on available funding.

The CCK Scholars Program, a collaboration between CapCityKids and Austin Independent School District, gives $2,500 awards to MSSW students who focus on school-based services.

Students interested in gerontological social work can receive $7,500 fellowships through the GRACE Program, backed by St. David’s Foundation.

Each year, the Earl Maxwell Scholars program provides $10,000 awards to up to 10 MSSW students who work in agencies without staff social workers.

The Ima Hogg Scholarship Program, 67 years old, selects one student from each accredited MSW program in Texas. Students need nominations from their institutions to qualify.

MSSW students who serve Spanish-speaking clients can receive $10,000 awards through St. David’s Foundation’s Bilingual Social Work Scholars Program.

BSW, MSSW, and PhD students get support from the Professional Development Assistance Fund when they present at conferences. An Emergency Assistance Fund helps students during financial difficulties.

Social Work Organizations Texas

Social workers at every career stage in Texas can count on professional organizations that provide support, networking opportunities, and resources. These groups work hard to promote the profession and give their members valuable benefits.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Texas Chapter leads the state’s professional social work community with nearly 6,000 members. This 68-year-old chapter has managed to keep a strong presence by offering:

• Professional development programs
• Legislative advocacy initiatives
• Social policy advancement
• Networking opportunities statewide

Clinical practice needs get special attention from the Texas Society for Clinical Social Work (TSCSW). The organization shapes policy decisions as a Mental Health Coalition member by monitoring legislation that affects clinical social work practice and client care. TSCSW pushes for practitioners’ interests through strong lobbying at state and national levels.

The Steve Hicks School of Social Work created the Texas School Social Work Network to connect school-based practitioners across the state. This network wants to create evidence-based practice models and give practitioners useful tools they can use daily. School social work practices in Texas grow stronger through the network’s research, training, and teamwork.

NASW Texas runs several branches and committees that let members take leadership roles throughout the state. These groups work on:

• Professional development
• Social policy advancement
• Legislative initiatives
• Ethics consultation
• Continuing education

New professionals and students get special help from NASW Texas with:

• Career development tools
• Job placement assistance
• Student loan forgiveness guidance
• Transitional membership benefits
• Professional liability insurance options

NASW Texas teams up with many coalitions and advocacy groups to increase its effect on social policy and professional standards. These connections help advance social work practice while supporting human rights and social justice.

Specialized practice areas benefit from support groups and professional networks throughout Texas. These communities give practitioners safe spaces to share their experiences, learn from others, and keep up with their education.

Conclusion

A career as a licensed social worker in Texas opens doors to rewarding opportunities with strong growth potential. The path needs proper planning – from picking the right educational program to completing supervised clinical hours and passing required exams.

The first step is to choose credentials that match your career goals – LBSW, LMSW, or LCSW. You must complete accredited education requirements and pass both jurisprudence and ASWB exams. On top of that, supervised experience helps build practical skills while meeting licensure requirements.

Texas’s social work field continues to grow rapidly. Healthcare settings offer competitive salaries, with professionals earning around $64,120 per year. You can find many scholarship opportunities and professional organizations to support your development along this career path.

Your success as a licensed social worker depends on keeping your knowledge current through continuing education. Active participation in professional networks is crucial. Take the first step today and join Texas’s growing community of social workers who create positive changes in their communities.

FAQs

Q1. What are the main steps to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas? To become an LCSW in Texas, you need to complete a CSWE-accredited MSW program, accumulate 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, pass the Texas Jurisprudence exam, and successfully complete the ASWB Clinical Examination.

Q2. How long does it take to complete the supervised clinical hours for LCSW licensure in Texas? The 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience must be completed over a minimum of 24 months and a maximum of 48 months. This includes at least 100 hours of direct supervision by an approved supervisor.

Q3. What’s the difference between LMSW and LCSW licenses in Texas? While both LMSW and LCSW holders have master’s degrees, LCSWs have a broader scope of practice. LCSWs can diagnose mental health conditions and provide independent counseling, whereas LMSWs require supervision for these activities.

Q4. What is the average salary for LCSWs in Texas? LCSW salaries in Texas vary based on experience, location, and specialization. On average, LCSWs can expect to earn between $67,100 and $104,300 annually, with top earners reaching up to $134,158 per year.

Q5. Are there scholarship opportunities for social work students in Texas? Yes, there are numerous scholarship opportunities for social work students in Texas. These include the Steve Hicks School fellowships, the Title IV-E Student Stipend Program, the Hernández Scholarship Fund, and the Ima Hogg Scholarship Program, among others. Many of these scholarships offer substantial financial support based on academic achievement, professional potential, and financial need.