Top 10 Social Worker Certifications

Certifications are important for social workers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience that employers look for when hiring. Certifications show potential employers that the individual has met certain standards and is committed to continuing education in their field. In addition, certifications can open up opportunities for higher pay and better job prospects. They provide evidence of an individual's qualifications, experience, and dedication to the profession, which can help them stand out from other applicants. Finally, certifications can also provide a sense of professional pride and satisfaction as social workers strive to maintain their credentials and stay informed about new developments in their field.

The purpose of the article is to review top certifications for Social Workers and explain how they can help advance a social worker's career.

What are Social Worker Certifications?

Social worker certification is a process that requires social workers to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to practice professionally. It is awarded by professional organizations such as the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Certification helps ensure that social workers are competent and qualified to provide services to their clients.

Certification demonstrates a social worker’s expertise in the field and can help them stand out from other professionals. It also demonstrates that they have met the standards set by the NASW and other professional organizations. This can help give clients confidence in knowing that their social worker is knowledgeable and experienced enough to handle their needs. Additionally, certification can open doors for career advancement opportunities, as employers may be more likely to hire certified professionals over non-certified ones.

Overall, obtaining social worker certification can be beneficial for both clients and practitioners alike. Clients will have peace of mind knowing that their social worker is knowledgeable and experienced while practitioners will benefit from increased job security and increased earning potential.

Pro Tip: Before applying for a social worker certification, research the requirements and make sure you have all the necessary paperwork. Depending on your state, you may need to prove that you have completed certain courses, passed exams, and/or obtained supervised work experience. Having this information ready will help streamline the process and ensure that you get certified quickly.

Related: What does a Social Worker do?

Top 10 Social Worker Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Social Workers today.

1. Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM)

Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM) is a certification program that provides social workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage cases in a variety of settings. The C-SWCM credential is awarded by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) upon successful completion of an exam and other requirements.

The C-SWCM certification program consists of three components: an online study course, a field experience, and the exam. The online study course is designed to provide social workers with an understanding of case management principles, techniques, and strategies. The field experience requires social workers to demonstrate their ability to apply the concepts learned in the online course in real-world situations. Finally, the exam tests applicants’ knowledge and skills related to case management.

The cost for obtaining the C-SWCM credential varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NASW. For non-members, it costs $395 for the online course and $195 for the exam. For members, it costs $295 for the online course and $95 for the exam.

It typically takes about six months to complete all three components of the C-SWCM certification program; however, this timeline may vary depending on individual circumstances. To get started on your journey towards becoming certified as a Social Work Case Manager, you must first become a member of NASW if you are not already one. Once you have become a member, you can register for the online course and begin studying for your exam.

2. Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (ACHP-SW)

Advanced Certified Hospice and Palliative Social Worker (ACHP-SW) is a credential offered by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). The ACHP-SW certification is designed to recognize social workers who have demonstrated advanced knowledge, skills, and experience in hospice and palliative care. This certification is for social workers who are already licensed and have at least two years of practice in hospice or palliative care.

To obtain the ACHP-SW credential, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution
• Have a current license as a social worker in the state where they practice
• Have at least two years of full-time professional clinical experience working with individuals, families, and/or groups in hospice or palliative care settings
• Complete 30 hours of continuing education related to hospice or palliative care within the last three years prior to application
• Pass the NASW Advanced Clinical Exam for Hospice & Palliative Care Social Work (ACEHPC)

The ACEHPC exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as end-of-life care, grief counseling, pain management, ethical issues, communication strategies, and more. Applicants must pass this exam with a score of 75% or higher. The cost for taking the ACEHPC exam is $250. After passing the exam, applicants must submit an application packet along with their licensing information and proof of continuing education credits to be eligible for ACHP-SW certification.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their ACHP-SW certification within six weeks. The cost for obtaining this certification is $225 for NASW members and $275 for nonmembers.

3. Certified Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs Social Worker (CCATODSW)

Certified Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs Social Worker (CCATODSW) is a certification for social workers who specialize in the treatment of individuals with substance use disorders. This certification is offered through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). It requires a master's degree in social work from an accredited university and two years of post-master's supervised experience working with individuals with substance use disorders.

In order to obtain this certification, applicants must first complete an application form and provide documentation of their educational background and clinical experience. Applicants must also pass a written examination that covers topics such as assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and intervention strategies related to substance use disorders.

The cost to apply for CCATODSW certification is $250. The exam fee is $300. After passing the exam, there is an annual renewal fee of $50. The entire process takes approximately six months to complete once all required paperwork has been submitted.

4. Certified School Social Work Specialist (CSSWS)

A Certified School Social Work Specialist (CSSWS) is a professional credential that recognizes the specialized knowledge and skills of school social workers. It is awarded by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and is recognized as a mark of excellence in the field.

To become certified, an individual must have completed a master’s degree in social work from an accredited program, have two years of post-master’s experience in school social work, and pass a written examination. The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete.

The first step to becoming certified is to apply for the certification through NASW. There is an application fee of $160 for members and $210 for non-members. Once accepted into the program, applicants must submit proof of their education, experience, and passing score on the written exam. After all requirements are met, applicants will be notified when they can begin using their CSSWS credential.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether or not you are already an NASW member. For non-members, the total cost of certification will be around $370 ($210 application fee + $160 exam fee). For members, it will be around $220 ($160 application fee + $60 exam fee).

5. Certified Advanced Children, Youth, and Family Social Worker (C-ACYFSW)

Certified Advanced Children, Youth, and Family Social Worker (C-ACYFSW) is a professional certification offered by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). It is designed to recognize social workers who have achieved advanced knowledge and experience in the field of children, youth, and family social work.

To become certified as a C-ACYFSW, an individual must hold a master’s degree in social work from an accredited school and have at least three years of post-graduate supervised clinical experience with children, youth, and families. The applicant must also pass the NASW's national examination for Certified Advanced Children, Youth, and Family Social Workers.

The process of obtaining C-ACYFSW certification can take several months to complete. After submitting all required documents and passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate within 8–12 weeks.

The cost of obtaining C-ACYFSW certification varies depending on whether or not you are an NASW member. If you are a member, the fee is $225; if you are not a member, the fee is $375.

6. Certified Gerontological Social Worker (C-GSW)

Certified Gerontological Social Worker (C-GSW) is a credential that recognizes the specialized knowledge, skills, and experience of social workers who provide services to older adults. The C-GSW credential is awarded by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), and it requires a minimum of two years of full-time post-graduate practice in gerontology or aging services.

In order to obtain the C-GSW credential, applicants must meet certain criteria such as having a master’s degree in social work from an accredited college or university; at least two years of supervised post-graduate practice in gerontology or aging services; and successful completion of an approved examination. Applicants must also submit documentation verifying their experience, education, and other qualifications.

The cost for applying for the C-GSW credential varies depending on whether you are an NASW member or nonmember. For NASW members, the cost is $200; for nonmembers, it is $250. The examination fee is additional and costs $225 for both members and nonmembers.

It typically takes about four to six weeks after submitting your application to receive your results from the NASW board. Once approved, you will receive your official certificate in the mail within two weeks.

7. Certified Forensic Social Worker (C-FSW)

Certified Forensic Social Worker (C-FSW) is a professional certification offered by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work. This certification is designed to recognize social workers who have achieved a level of excellence in the practice of forensic social work. The C-FSW credential demonstrates that the social worker has met rigorous standards and has acquired specialized knowledge, skills, and experience in forensic social work.

To obtain the C-FSW credential, an individual must meet certain qualifications and complete an application process. The qualifications include having a master’s degree or higher in social work from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program, at least two years of post-master’s clinical experience in forensic social work, and passing an exam administered by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work.

The application process includes completing an online application form and submitting it along with supporting documents such as transcripts, resume/CV, letters of recommendation, and verification of clinical hours. Once the application is approved, the applicant must then register for and pass the C-FSW exam which consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as criminal justice systems, mental health law, ethics, risk assessment and management, court testimony preparation and delivery, family dynamics in legal contexts, substance abuse treatment within legal contexts, child welfare laws/procedures/practices related to delinquency cases/juvenile justice system involvement.

The cost for obtaining the C-FSW credential varies depending on whether one is already certified by ABECSW or not. For those who are not yet certified by ABECSW but wish to become certified as a C-FSW there is an initial fee of $325 plus additional fees for each step of the process including registration for the exam ($250), taking the exam ($450), submitting documentation ($50), etc., totaling approximately $1125. For those who are already certified by ABECSW there is only an additional fee for registering for and taking the exam ($700).

8. Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW)

Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW) is a post-master's credential that recognizes advanced clinical social work practice. It is the highest level of professional recognition conferred by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). The DCSW designation is awarded to individuals who have achieved advanced knowledge, skills, and experience in clinical social work practice.

To be eligible for the DCSW credential, an individual must have a Master’s degree in Social Work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), hold current independent licensure as a clinical social worker, and have at least five years of post-master’s clinical social work experience. In addition, applicants must pass an examination administered by NASW to demonstrate their knowledge and competency in advanced clinical practice.

The application process for the DCSW credential typically takes several months to complete. Applicants must submit their application materials, including transcripts, proof of licensure, verification of experience forms, and payment of fees. Once all required documents are received and verified, applicants will receive notification from NASW regarding their eligibility for the exam.

The cost for the DCSW credential varies depending on whether you are an NASW member or non-member. For members, there is a one-time fee of $225; for non-members it is $325. Additional fees may apply if you need to retake the exam or if you need to renew your credential after five years.

9. Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD-CSW)

Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD-CSW) is a post-master’s degree credential that recognizes advanced clinical practice, knowledge, and expertise in the field of social work. It is awarded by the American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work (ABECSW), which is recognized by the Council on Social Work Education as a certifying body.

To become board certified, applicants must have at least two years of post-master’s degree supervised experience in clinical social work, and they must pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills related to clinical social work. The exam includes multiple choice questions as well as case studies and essays. Applicants must also submit three letters of recommendation from qualified professionals who can attest to their clinical competence and ethical behavior.

The process of becoming board certified typically takes about one year, although it may take longer depending on how quickly an applicant completes all requirements.

The cost for taking the BCD-CSW exam varies depending on when you register for it; however, it generally ranges from $300 to $400. Additionally, there are fees associated with submitting your application materials such as letters of recommendation and transcripts.

10. National Association of Social Workers Certification in Clinical Practice Management (NASW-CCPM).

The National Association of Social Workers Certification in Clinical Practice Management (NASW-CCPM) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). The NASW-CCPM is designed to recognize social workers who have achieved a high level of expertise in managing clinical practice. This certification is intended to demonstrate that the social worker has the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage a clinical practice.

The NASW-CCPM requires applicants to meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in social work from an accredited institution, have at least two years of post-master’s supervised clinical practice experience, and have completed at least one year of supervised clinical practice management training.

In order to obtain the NASW-CCPM certification, applicants must pass an examination administered by the NASW Board for Clinical Social Work Certification. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering topics such as ethics and professional standards, organizational management and legal issues related to clinical practice management.

The cost for taking the exam is $325 for members of NASW and $375 for non-members. It typically takes about 6 months from submitting an application to taking the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from NASW within 4 weeks.

Do You Really Need a Social Worker Certificate?

The answer to this question will depend on your individual goals and needs. If you are looking to become a professional social worker, then yes, you will need some type of social work certification. A certificate in social work is an important credential that demonstrates your knowledge and skills in the field of social work. It verifies that you have achieved a certain level of education and training in the field.

Social workers provide vital services to individuals, families, and communities in need. They help people cope with difficult situations, such as poverty, mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, or loss of a job. To be successful in this profession, one must possess strong communication skills, empathy for others’ situations, problem-solving abilities, organizational skills, and an understanding of relevant laws and regulations. Obtaining a certificate can demonstrate to potential employers that you have acquired the required knowledge and skills necessary to practice as a competent social worker.

In addition to providing proof of qualifications for potential employers, obtaining a certificate can also give you opportunities for career advancement or specialization within the field. For example, if you already hold an undergraduate degree in social work but want to focus on working with particular populations (such as children or elders), then obtaining a specialized certificate may open up more job opportunities for you. Similarly, if you are interested in pursuing research or teaching positions at universities or other higher education institutions then having additional credentials can make your application stand out from the rest.

Overall, whether or not to pursue a social worker certificate depends on your individual goals and needs. If you are serious about becoming a professional social worker then having some form of certification is essential; however it is ultimately up to you whether or not the extra time and effort spent obtaining such credentials is worth it for your particular situation.

Related: Social Worker Resume Examples

FAQs About Social Worker Certifications

1. What is the difference between a social worker certification and a license?

Answer: A social worker certification is an additional credential that recognizes advanced knowledge and skills in a particular area of practice, such as child welfare or gerontology. Licensure is required to practice social work in most states and is generally obtained through meeting educational requirements and passing a licensure exam.

2. How do I become certified as a social worker?

Answer: To become certified as a social worker, you must meet the eligibility criteria for the specific certification, which typically includes completing an accredited master's degree program in social work, having at least two years of post-degree supervised experience, and passing an exam.

3. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require continuing education credits to maintain your certification status. The number of credits needed may vary depending on the specific certification but will typically range from 10-30 hours per year.

4. How much does it cost to become certified?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified can vary based on the type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, fees may include application fees, exam fees, and renewal fees (if applicable).

5. What types of certifications are available for social workers?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available for different areas of practice such as child welfare, gerontology, clinical mental health counseling, addiction counseling, marriage and family therapy, school social work, and medical/surgical case management.