How to Become an LCSW in Utah: Complete Requirements Guide [2025]

Utah’s three-tier social work licensure system places LCSW requirements at its highest level. The path begins with a Social Service Worker (SSW) license, progresses to Certified Social Worker (CSW), and culminates with the LCSW credential. Each tier just needs specific educational and professional achievements. You’ll need a Master’s or Doctorate in Social Work from a CSWE-accredited program. The program requires at least 1,000 hours of supervised direct client care.

This piece guides you through each step to become a licensed clinical social worker in Utah. The information helps both newcomers and experienced professionals who want to advance their careers. Let’s explore the exact requirements you should meet.

LCSW License Requirements in Utah

Utah’s path to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker requires meeting specific educational, clinical, and supervision requirements set by the Division of Professional and Occupational Licensing (DOPL).

Educational Prerequisites

You need either a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) or a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The first step is getting your Certified Social Worker (CSW) license, which helps you progress toward LCSW licensure.

Clinical Experience Hours

The state requires 4,000 hours of clinical social work and mental health therapy experience after getting your CSW license. These hours must include:

• A minimum of 1,000 hours providing direct mental health therapy to clients
• Crisis intervention training
• Short-term and long-term therapy experience
• Direct practice with individuals, groups, and families

You must complete these clinical hours over at least two years. The requirements also include two hours of suicide prevention training during this time.

Supervision Requirements

The LCSW licensure has detailed supervision requirements. Here are the core components:

• Complete 100 hours under direct supervision
• Work as a W-2 employee in approved settings such as:
  • Mental health agencies
  • Inpatient or outpatient hospitals
  • Educational institutions
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Government agencies

Qualified supervisors can be:

• Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs)
• Clinical Mental Health Counselors (CMHCs)
• Marriage and Family Therapists
• Psychiatrists
• Psychologists
• APRNs specializing in psychiatric mental health nursing

Supervisors must have held their license for at least two years before they can supervise others. You’ll need to track your progress using the Supervision for Post-Graduate Mental Health Practice Hours form. Each supervisor must fill out a separate verification form that details your supervised hours.

The final steps include passing the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Level examination, which costs $260. Submit your LCSW application to the Utah DOPL with a non-refundable fee of $120. Your application package should include academic transcripts, documentation of supervised hours, ASWB exam results, and criminal background check results.

Social Work Programs in Utah

Utah’s CSWE-accredited social work programs give students multiple paths to reach their career goals at various educational levels.

Utah BSW Programs

• University of Utah
• Utah State University
• Utah Valley University
• Weber State University

The University of Utah’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program offers a unique blend of traditional on-campus learning and convenient 100% online formats, catering to diverse student needs. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students acquire a deep understanding of theoretical concepts and hands-on skills essential for excelling in generalist social work practice. Successful completion of the program enables graduates to pursue licensure as Social Service Workers in the state of Utah.

Utah State University’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program offers students an in-depth exploration of significant societal challenges, including poverty, racism, discrimination, and economic injustice. The program’s structured curriculum ensures that students participate in two semesters of practicum experience, allowing them to acquire practical skills and knowledge by working directly with diverse social service organizations. This hands-on training equips students with the necessary tools to address complex social issues effectively in their future careers.

Utah Valley University (UVU) offers a BSW program that is accredited by the CSWE. The program prepares students for generalist social work practice, with a curriculum that covers essential areas such as social welfare policy, human behavior in the social environment, and research methods. Students benefit from 480 hours of supervised field experience in local social service agencies. UVU’s program stands out for its emphasis on cultural competence and working with diverse populations.

Weber State University’s BSW program prepares students for entry-level professional social work practice. The curriculum covers social work practice, social welfare policy, human behavior, and social research, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and evidence-based practice. As part of their training, students are required to complete 450 hours of supervised field practicum in social service agencies, providing hands-on experience in the field. What sets Weber State’s program apart is its strong focus on gerontology and working with aging populations.

Students interested in these programs should consider factors such as location, program focus, and career support services when making their decision. Each program offers unique strengths and opportunities for aspiring social workers in Utah.

MSW Programs in Utah

Utah has five MSW programs accredited by the CSWE, including one that offers an online option.

The University of Utah’s MSW program has built mutually beneficial alliances with more than 300 off-campus social service agencies. Students can choose from several specialized focus areas within the Advanced Generalist view:

• Aging in Social Work
• Child Welfare
• Forensic Social Work
• Global Social Work
• Health
• Mental Health
• Substance Use

Utah State University’s MSW program comes with flexible options for full-time and part-time study. Students can complete the full-time program at the Logan campus in two years. The part-time option takes three years and students can access it at several locations across the state. The program requires 974 hours of field education and a 24-hour professional seminar.

Brigham Young University (BYU) offers a traditional, campus-based MSW program with a focus on social work practice with families and children. Students can choose between two areas of emphasis: Clinical Social Work and Social Work Research. Students can experience:

• Full-time program completed in 20 months
• 1050 required hours of field education
• Two specialization options: Clinical Social Work (for those aiming to become LCSWs) and Social Work Research (for those interested in pursuing a doctoral degree)

Utah Valley University (UVU) offers a hybrid MSW program that combines campus-based coursework with online instruction. Key features include:

• Full-time program completed in two years
• Advanced generalist focus, providing training in both clinical and macro practice social work
• Two 450-hour practicums, totaling 900 hours of field education
• Elective options in Addictions, Mental Health, and Engaging with Diverse Populations

All of these programs, along with Utah State University’s MSW program, are fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring they meet the highest standards of social work education.

Online MSW Programs in Utah

• USD 600 per credit hour tuition applies to residents and nonresidents alike
• Students can choose from over 500 social service agencies for field placements
• Two program paths are available:
  • Advanced Standing: 45 credits completed in one year (for BSW holders)
  • Standard: 60 credits completed in two years (for non-BSW holders)

The online program matches the campus-based version in quality but focuses only on Mental Health specialization. Most coursework happens on your own schedule, with some real-time Zoom sessions. Students complete their field practicums in their local areas during regular business hours.

Social Work Salaries in Utah

Social workers in Utah earn different salaries based on their specialty, experience, and where they work in the state. Recent data shows promising pay trends for various social work positions.

BLS Data for social work salaries in Utah

Healthcare social workers in Utah lead with average yearly earnings of $69,880. Mental health and substance abuse social workers follow with $56,510. Child, family, and school social workers take home $53,720 per year.

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) in Salt Lake City earn substantially more, with yearly pay reaching $74,658. Experienced professionals can expect bonus pay of $5,490 annually.

Clinical Social Workers’ pay in Salt Lake City grows steadily with experience:

• Entry-level (under 1 year): $76,867
• Mid-level (1-2 years): $77,345
• Experienced (2-4 years): $80,299
• Senior (5-8 years): $83,461
• Veteran (8+ years): $84,025

Social work roles throughout Utah offer diverse pay scales:

• Licensed Social Workers: $88,306
• Clinical Social Workers: $86,996
• Outpatient Therapists: $87,500
• Case Managers: $49,278
• Counselors: $45,824

Pay rates change across Utah’s regions. Salt Lake City’s metropolitan area leads with LCSW salaries between $63,682 and $101,260. The median total package reaches $80,147.

Utah’s social work salaries match up well against national averages. The state employs 25,340 professionals in community and social service jobs, which suggests a strong job market. Mental health and substance abuse social workers show particularly strong growth with an 18.6% employment rate.

Urban and rural areas show distinct pay differences. Healthcare social workers in cities earn about $73,510, which exceeds the state average. Mental health and substance abuse social workers in urban areas receive $65,260 yearly, highlighting the financial benefits of city practice.

These numbers prove that getting an LCSW license in Utah pays off well. Licensed clinical social workers rank among the best-paid professionals in social services. Utah attracts many social work professionals with its competitive salaries and steady job growth.

Career Outlook for Utah Social Workers

Utah’s social work jobs will grow remarkably through 2028, with a projected 31% increase in available positions. This major expansion comes from ten years of teamwork between private and public stakeholders who fund social services statewide.

Social workers in Utah take on many roles. They protect vulnerable children and help families through tough times. Clinical social workers diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues. Their day-to-day work includes:

• Finding communities that need help
• Looking at client needs and support systems
• Supporting clients through life changes
• Helping during crisis situations
• Keeping detailed case records
• Offering psychotherapy services

The job outlook for mental health and substance abuse social workers looks especially promising. The field expects to reach 1,170 positions by 2030, a 25% jump from 2020 levels. About 120 new positions open yearly in this specialty.

Healthcare social workers help clients understand their diagnoses and make lifestyle changes. They team up with doctors to help patients handle the mental and emotional effects of illnesses. School social workers join forces with teachers and staff to boost students’ grades and social growth.

Child and family social workers dedicate their time to:

• Protecting children at risk
• Finding housing and services for families
• Running adoption processes
• Setting up foster care placements
• Helping families reunite

Utah expects 550 social work positions by 2030, showing 10% growth from 2020. This growth matches Utah’s population boom, which jumped 16% in the last decade. Public and private employers will need many new workers to keep up.

Social workers stand up for their clients at personal and community levels. Many professionals tackle bigger picture issues by working with organizations and policymakers to make social programs better. They create strategies for behavioral change and connect people with crucial resources.

Social workers now play key roles in schools across Utah. This shows the state’s dedication to better long-term results. Strong funding, steady population growth, and reliable support systems create excellent career paths. New social workers can look forward to lasting job opportunities in many specialties throughout the state.

Social Work Scholarships in Utah

Social work students in Utah can access many scholarship opportunities from universities and private organizations. The University of Utah’s College of Social Work leads the way by providing over 130 scholarships worth nearly $380,000 for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Students who want to pursue social work degrees at the University of Utah should note that scholarship applications start in the fall for the following academic year. First-year MSW students can receive substantial support through awards like the Gene Gibbons Endowment. This scholarship covers full LDS-rate tuition for one semester and half tuition for another semester.

Weber State University provides these department-specific scholarships for social work majors:

• Collin J. and Nikole L. Smith Scholarship: $1,250
• Hughes Scholarship in Social Work: $2,500
• United Way/Bob Hunter Scholarship: $5,000
• Jerry B. Jensen Scholarship: $4,750

The University of Utah’s College of Social Work has created several endowed scholarships that target specific student groups and interests:

• The Alumni Association Scholarship: Rewards leadership and community contribution
• Native American and American Indian Scholarships: Receives support from the University President’s Office and Tribal Nations
• The Burt Annin Memorial Scholarship: Helps students who want careers in child welfare
• The Gisella and Dan Chace Scholarship: Supports first-generation students with financial need
• The Edwards American Indian Scholarship: Helps single American Indian parents
• The Helen R. Henderson Scholarship: Benefits single mothers pursuing MSW degrees

Students can also find statewide opportunities through the Horatio Alger Utah Scholarship, which gives $10,000 to eligible students, making social work education more accessible throughout the state.

The Davis Memorial Foundation gives $5,000 scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate students. This funding helps students advance their professional development through education.

MSW students can earn extra money through graduate assistantships, which pay about $1,120 per semester for teaching or research work. Paid fieldwork becomes available in the third semester, with potential earnings of $450 during Spring/Summer terms and $600 for Fall/Winter semesters.

U.S. citizens can earn AmeriCorps education awards as another funding source. Students receive approximately $152 for 450 hours of service in spring/summer terms, or $222 for 675 hours during fall/winter semesters.

Social Work Organizations in Utah

Professional organizations in Utah help social workers grow and connect at every stage of their careers. The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Utah Chapter serves as the life-blood of the community by offering programs and educational events throughout the year.

The Utah Social Work Association, previously USSWLHC, is a statewide organization that supports social work development in practice settings of all types. This organization highlights social workers’ important contributions through different career paths and specialties.

NASW-Utah organizes regular committee meetings and networking events to encourage professional growth. The Social Work Engagement Committee meets every second Thursday of alternate months to discuss community support initiatives and partnership opportunities. Members can earn up to six continuing education units in each renewal cycle when they take part in these committees.

The Huntsman Cancer Institute shows excellence in social work support with dedicated professionals who help patients and families through:

• One-on-one counseling and family therapy
• Support groups and educational programs
• Stress management techniques
• Depression and anxiety support
• Advance directive assistance

The institute runs many specialized support groups, including:

• Virtual Caregiver Education & Support Group
• Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Group
• Multiple Myeloma Education Group
• Women’s Cancer Support Group

The Utah Coalition of Mental Health Professions works together with NASW-Utah’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee to ensure complete representation in the field. These organizations host professional development events regularly, including the Annual Spring Conference that brings practitioners from different specialties together.

Social workers looking for ongoing support can turn to the Utah Social Work Association, which provides educational opportunities and supports positive change in the field. Their success comes from excellent member participation and dedication to professional growth.

These organizations give social workers access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and professional development programs. The shared environment created by these associations strengthens the social work community and helps practitioners stay current with changing industry standards and best practices.

Become a Social Worker in Utah – Take the First Step!

In conclusion, embarking on a career as a social worker in Utah offers a rewarding path for those passionate about making a positive impact in their communities. The journey to becoming a licensed social worker in the Beehive State requires dedication, education, and a commitment to ongoing professional development.

By following the steps outlined in this article—from obtaining the necessary education to completing supervised work experience and passing the required exams—aspiring social workers can navigate the licensure process with confidence. Utah’s diverse population and unique social challenges provide ample opportunities for social workers to apply their skills in various settings, from healthcare facilities to community organizations.

As the demand for qualified social workers continues to grow in Utah, those entering the field can look forward to a career that is not only personally fulfilling but also vital to the well-being of individuals, families, and communities across the state. With a strong foundation in ethics, cultural competence, and evidence-based practices, Utah’s social workers are well-equipped to address the evolving needs of society and make lasting contributions to the field of social work.