Education · 1 of 5

The path

A degree, then a license, then supervised hours if you want to do therapy.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Volunteer somewhere real: a shelter, a crisis line, a youth program. Admissions committees and employers both look for it.

2. 2

   Bachelor of Social Work

   4 years

   A four-year degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, including a supervised field placement. A related degree also works if you plan to do a master's.

3. 3

   Master of Social Work

   1 to 2 years

   Two years, or about one year with advanced standing if your bachelor's was in social work. Required for clinical practice and for most hospital jobs.

4. 4

   Pass the licensing exam

   After graduation

   The exams written by the Association of Social Work Boards are used by state boards across the country. They run 122 questions in four hours.

5. 5

   Supervised clinical hours

   2 to 3 years

   To become a licensed clinical social worker, roughly two years of supervised practice after the master's degree, with the exact hours set by your state board.