To become a professional social worker in most states social work licensure is required. To receive licensure, an individual must hold a social work degree from an accredited program. Both the BSSW and MSSW programs at ACU are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). This accreditation enables students to test for licensure upon graduation.

There are different licenses available in the social work field in Texas:

1. “LBSW” is a licensed social worker who holds a bachelor’s degree in social work. Holding this level of licensure means a social worker can perform entry-level social work including case work in various settings and mental health assistant positions.
2. “LMSW” is a licensed social worker who holds a master’s degree in social work. Holding this level of licensure means a social worker can perform advanced-level social work including social service administration, public policy, supervision and research positions; clinical duties (diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, therapy) at this level are performed under supervision.
3. “LCSW” is a licensed clinical social worker who holds a master’s degree in social work and has completed a specified number of supervised clinical hours. Holding this level of licensure means a social worker can perform advanced-level social work including psychotherapy, research and supervision positions. Clinical duties (diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, therapy) can be performed independently. 

Helpful Links:

• Social work licensure in the state of Texas
• Social work licensure in the United States
• Social work licensure exam
• Study Guides
• Practice Exams