How to Get Your Wisconsin Social Work License: A Step-by-Step Guide
Social work jobs in Wisconsin are projected to grow by 6.6% through 2032. This growth means thousands of new opportunities for aspiring social workers like you.
You’ll need to get your Wisconsin social work license to join this rewarding field. The Department of Safety and Professional Services provides multiple licensing pathways that range from entry-level positions to advanced clinical roles.
The career comes with attractive financial benefits. Wisconsin social workers earn between $50,000 to $60,000 annually, and healthcare social workers can make up to $62,860. You can choose a licensing path that matches your goals, whether you want to work in child and family services, healthcare, or school social work.
Want to become a licensed social worker in Wisconsin? This detailed guide will show you each step of the process. You’ll learn about choosing the right license type, meeting educational requirements, and passing the required exams.
Understanding Wisconsin Social Work License Types
Wisconsin’s social work licensing pathways match different education levels and career goals. Let’s look at these options in detail.
Entry-Level Social Worker Training Certificate
The Social Worker Training Certificate (SWTC) helps professionals with bachelor’s degrees in related fields enter the field. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, criminal justice, or other approved human service programs. Your SWTC will stay valid for 24 months without renewal options.
Your degree program must include:
- An introductory course covering the human services field
- Professional ethics and values coursework
- Research methods and statistics training
- A senior seminar or capstone course
You must also complete 400 hours of supervised experience through a human services internship or social work employment.
Advanced Practice and Clinical Licenses
Several advanced licensing options become available after your original certification:
Certified Social Worker (CSW)This simple-level certification needs a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. CSWs work in schools, nonprofits, and government agencies, where they focus on case management and community outreach.
Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker (CAPSW)This credential requires a master’s degree in social work. APSWs manage complex non-clinical social work in hospitals, schools, and government settings.
Certified Independent Social Worker (CISW)CISW candidates need an MSW and must complete 3,000 hours of supervised social work practice. This certification lets you practice independently in non-clinical settings.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) This top-tier credential requires:
- An MSW with clinical concentration
- 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience
- At least 1,000 hours of face-to-face client contact
- Experience in DSM diagnosis and treatment
Which License Fits Your Career Goals
Your educational background and career objectives will determine the right license for you:
A non-social work bachelor’s degree means starting with the SWTC to enter the field. You can work while completing requirements for higher certifications.
CSW certification opens doors to case management and community support roles for BSW holders. MSW graduates might choose CAPSW for advanced practice opportunities or CISW for independent practice capabilities.
LCSW remains the best choice for professionals interested in providing clinical services, including therapy and counseling. This credential allows independent clinical practice and often creates private practice opportunities.
Note that Wisconsin accepts social work credentials from other states if you have a “substantially equivalent” license. Each certification level needs specific continuing education hours for renewal, ranging from 30 to 36 contact hours.
Educational Requirements and Programs
A CSWE-accredited program social work degree builds the foundation of your Wisconsin social work career. Here’s a look at the educational paths you can take throughout the state.
Accredited BSW Social Work Programs in Wisconsin
The University of Wisconsin system has several accredited Bachelor of Social Work programs:
UW-Green Bay BSW Program This CSWE-accredited program focuses on high-quality education that leads to better job prospects. Students learn professional ethics, research methods, and get hands-on field experience.
UW-Oshkosh BSW Program Students get ready for entry-level positions through:
- Evidence-informed generalist practice knowledge
- Social justice and wellness focus
- Field placements with experienced social workers
UW-Stevens Point BSW Program Graduates become eligible for social work certification through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. The program meets strict standards that line up with CSWE competencies.
MSW Programs in WI
University of Wisconsin-Madison MSW This top-ranked social work school offers:
- Two-year full-time program
- Four-year part-time option
- Advanced Standing path for BSW graduates
UW-Milwaukee MSW The Helen Bader School of Social Welfare gives students:
- School social work and substance abuse counseling specializations
- 915 hours of field experience in the standard program
- 600 hours in the Advanced Standing track
UW-Whitewater MSW The program includes:
- Core courses in psychopathology and advanced practice interventions
- Full-time student graduate assistantships
- Evening classes for working professionals
Online MSW Programs in Wisconsin
UW-Milwaukee Online MSW This part-time program includes:
- Advanced Standing and Foundation tracks
- LCSW credential basic educational requirements
- Enrollment from Wisconsin and neighboring areas
Concordia University Wisconsin Online MSW The flexible program features:
- 63-credit standard program
- 36-credit advanced standing option
- Online courses with 12:1 student-professor ratio
Mount Mary University Online MSW Students can specialize in:
- Child and family practice
- Clinical social work
- Forensic social work certificate
CSWE-accredited programs measure student success based on competencies that are years old. Field placements play a vital role in BSW and MSW programs. Students gain real-life experience in healthcare facilities, schools, and community organizations.
Wisconsin has nine MSW programs. Six programs offer traditional campus-based education and three provide online or hybrid options. Your choice of program should match your career goals, schedule needs, and preferred specialization areas.
Social Work Salaries in Wisconsin
Social workers in Wisconsin earn competitive salaries in specializations and locations of all types. The annual mean wage for social workers ranges from $52,010 to $78,050 based on their experience, credentials, and where they practice.
Salaries vary by a lot depending on specialization:
Healthcare Social WorkersHealthcare social workers earn a median annual wage of $62,860, and professionals in Madison top the list at $66,510. Urban areas pay more, as shown by:
- Milwaukee-Waukesha region: $65,930 annually
- Green Bay metropolitan area: $63,980 annually
- Eau Claire region: $64,000 annually
Child, Family, and School Social WorkersThese professionals make between $51,000 and $61,190 each year, with regional differences:
- Milwaukee metropolitan area: $60,610
- Madison region: $58,360
- Racine area: $61,190
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social WorkersAverage earnings range from $50,870 to $62,800, varying by region:
- South Central Wisconsin: $62,800
- Milwaukee-Waukesha area: $55,200
- Madison region: $52,470
Urban and rural settings show distinct salary patterns. Urban areas pay more, but some rural regions like Western Wisconsin offer competitive salaries that average $64,810.
Wisconsin’s social work job market shows promising growth. Recent projections reveal:
Growth Projections
- Social work positions will grow by 5% through 2032
- Annual projected job openings: 410 positions
- Current employment: 4,940 positions
- Projected employment by 2032: 5,180 positions
Employment Distribution Wisconsin’s current social worker employment:
- 5,410 child, family, and school social workers
- 4,050 healthcare social workers
- 1,910 mental health and substance abuse social workers
- 2,720 social workers in other specialized fields
Community and Social Service sector ranks among Wisconsin’s top five occupational groups for job growth with a 7.2% projected increase. This growth rate beats many other professional sectors and points to strong career opportunities.
Job opportunities differ by region. Metropolitan areas have the most positions available. Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis leads with 780 positions, while Madison follows with 470 positions. These areas serve as the main hubs for social work jobs.
Social Work Scholarships in WI
Getting financial support is vital to complete your social work education in Wisconsin. Many scholarships and funding options are available to aspiring social workers at undergraduate and graduate levels.
Wisconsin’s Herb Kohl Educational Foundation Student Excellence Scholarship stands out by providing $10,000 to students who want to pursue postsecondary education. UW-Madison’s Kemper K. Knapp Undergraduate Scholarship helps students with $8,000 toward their educational goals.
The Helen Bader School of Social Welfare’s scholarship program has specific eligibility requirements:
- Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA for undergraduates
- Valid FAFSA application for need-based awards
- Strong academic performance record
Students pursuing advanced degrees can access specialized funding. MSW students qualify for:
- Applied Gerontology scholarships
- Child Welfare Training Program support covering:
- Full tuition and fees
- Book allowances
- Field placement stipends
Wisconsin students can also tap into funding from national organizations:
- Davis-Putter Scholarship Fund for peace and justice supporters
- Verne LaMarr Lyons Memorial Scholarship for candidates committed to African American communities
- Elmer Ediger Scholarship focusing on mental health specializations
PhD candidates can receive dedicated funding through the Child and Family Scholars Program. BSW students preparing for public and tribal child welfare employment can benefit from the Child Welfare Stipend Program, which covers full-time in-state tuition during their senior year.
Students with unique circumstances have alternative funding paths. Those who can’t get FAFSA can work with scholarship coordinators to find other options. Graduate students can get additional support through:
- Advanced Opportunity Program Fellowships
- Distinguished Graduate Student Fellowships
- Graduate Student Travel Awards
Nontraditional students overcoming adversity can receive $500 through the Opportunity to Rise Award for associate, bachelor’s, or vocational programs. Your institution’s social work department should be your first stop to learn about financial aid programs. You can then explore broader academic and professional interest scholarships.
Scholarship selection typically looks at:
- Academic performance
- Job and volunteer experiences
- Unique circumstances related to eligibility requirements
These financial resources help reduce educational costs and let students focus on their studies. The UWM Foundation, along with support from alumni, friends, and faculty, continues to create new scholarship opportunities for social work students.
Social Work Organizations in WI
Professional associations are the life-blood of social work practice in Wisconsin. These organizations help you build networks, continue your education, and support advocacy efforts throughout your career.
The National Association of Social Workers – Wisconsin Chapter (NASW-WI) leads the way by providing essential resources that propel development. The chapter tackles significant workforce challenges through several key initiatives. These focus on student loan forgiveness programs, paid student internships, and support for Qualified Treatment Trainee programs.
NASW-WI shows its steadfast dedication to professional growth by organizing the 2025 Annual Conference with sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities. The chapter also pushes for legislative changes, including the Social Work Interstate Licensure Compact bill that benefits both practitioners and clients.
The Wisconsin School Social Workers Association (WSSWA) dedicates itself to supporting school-based practitioners. This 501(c)(6) non-profit organization brings nearly 50 years of service experience and maintains strong ties with the Midwest Council of School Social Workers. WSSWA’s affiliation extends to the School Social Workers Association of America.
WSSWA’s mission covers five essential areas. The organization promotes excellence among school social workers and expands services statewide. It supports educational growth, champions legislation that helps children, and builds relationships with educational institutions.
The Wisconsin Council on Social Work Education (WCSWE) brings together social work faculty and educators statewide. The council connects social work programs, learns about educational policy changes, welcomes breakthroughs in curriculum, and tracks job prospects for graduates.
WCSWE welcomes educators from CSWE-accredited programs. Social work students, practitioners, and retired professionals interested in advancing social work education can also join.
The Wisconsin Social Services Association (WSSA) puts member safety and professional growth first. WSSA recognizes the hard work of Income Maintenance/Economic Support and Case Management staff through special appreciation events.
Young professionals can join NASW-WI’s Southeast Branch networking events in Milwaukee. These gatherings welcome both members and non-members. You can build professional connections, discover job opportunities, highlight organizational achievements, and engage with fellow social workers.
These organizations strengthen Wisconsin’s social work community in many ways. They offer professional development workshops, champion legislative initiatives, create networking opportunities, share resources, support career growth, and provide educational programs.
Membership in these associations opens doors to valuable resources, mentorship, and a supportive professional network. Members enjoy discounted continuing education, professional liability insurance, job board access, legislative updates, practice resources, and peer consultation groups.
Your social work career can benefit greatly from joining one or more of these organizations. Your participation will boost your professional growth and contribute to Wisconsin’s social work community.
Start Social Work in Wisconsin Today
Licensed social workers in Wisconsin enjoy rewarding career opportunities with competitive salaries ranging from $50,000 to $78,050 annually. The state offers several pathways to licensure that align with your educational background and career goals.
Your experience begins when you choose the right educational program and license type. Wisconsin’s CSWE-accredited programs provide quality education with practical field experience for students pursuing a BSW for entry-level positions or advancing to an MSW for clinical practice.
Scholarships and professional development resources make this career path available. Membership in organizations like NASW-WI and WSSWA helps you connect with mentors and provides continuing education opportunities that deepen your professional network.
Social work continues to grow steadily, with a projected 5% increase through 2032. This growth, paired with complete support systems and multiple specialization options, makes social work an excellent career choice in Wisconsin.
FAQs
Q1. What are the different types of social work licenses available in Wisconsin? Wisconsin offers several types of social work licenses, including the Social Worker Training Certificate (SWTC) for entry-level professionals, Certified Social Worker (CSW) for those with a BSW, Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker (CAPSW) and Certified Independent Social Worker (CISW) for those with an MSW, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for advanced clinical practice.
Q2. What are the educational requirements for becoming a licensed social worker in Wisconsin? Educational requirements vary by license type. Generally, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field for entry-level positions, while advanced practice and clinical roles require a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program.
Q3. How much do social workers typically earn in Wisconsin? Social work salaries in Wisconsin range from about $50,000 to $78,050 annually, depending on specialization, experience, and location. Healthcare social workers tend to earn higher salaries, with a median annual wage of $62,860.
Q4. Does Wisconsin offer social work reciprocity? Yes, Wisconsin does offer social work reciprocity. The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) recognizes reciprocity for social workers licensed in other states. This means that social workers with a current credential from another jurisdiction can apply for a similar credential in Wisconsin.
To apply for reciprocity in Wisconsin, social workers need to follow these steps:
- Use the correct application form corresponding to their licensure level.
- Submit the application form along with documentation of their current credentials from another state.
- Pass the Wisconsin law exam.
The specific requirements may vary depending on the level of licensure (e.g., Certified Social Worker, Certified Advanced Practice Social Worker, Certified Independent Social Worker, or Licensed Clinical Social Worker). Applicants should review the information provided by the DSPS for their particular credential level.
It’s important to note that while Wisconsin offers reciprocity, temporary credentials are not available for applicants applying via reciprocity. This means that social workers from other states must complete the full reciprocity process before they can practice in Wisconsin.
For detailed information about the reciprocity process and specific requirements for each licensure level, applicants should refer to the Wisconsin DSPS website or contact the Social Worker Section of the DSPS directly.
Q5. What professional organizations can social workers join in Wisconsin? Social workers in Wisconsin can join several professional organizations, including the National Association of Social Workers – Wisconsin Chapter (NASW-WI), the Wisconsin School Social Workers Association (WSSWA), the Wisconsin Council on Social Work Education (WCSWE), and the Wisconsin Social Services Association (WSSA). These organizations offer networking opportunities, continuing education, and advocacy support.