2026 What Degree Do You Need To Be a Social Worker: Education Requirements in Minnesota

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many prospective social workers in Minnesota face uncertainty about the precise degree needed to enter the field. With over 17,000 licensed social workers statewide, demand continues to grow as mental health and social services expand. Obtaining the correct degree—typically a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) for entry-level roles or a Master of Social Work (MSW) for clinical positions—is crucial for licensure and career advancement.

This article outlines Minnesota’s education requirements clearly and practically. Developed by career planning experts, it offers step-by-step guidance to help readers plan their education path and meet licensing standards effectively.

A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is the minimum degree needed for entry-level social work roles in Minnesota, typically requiring four years of study.
A Master of Social Work (MSW) is required for clinical licensure and advanced positions, involving two additional years post-BSW or three years without one.
Minnesota mandates licensure through the Board of Social Work, requiring completion of accredited education and 3,000 supervised hours for clinical social workers.

What is the minimum degree required to become a licensed social worker in Minnesota?
What courses are covered in a social work degree program in Minnesota?
How long does it take to complete a social work degree program in Minnesota?
How much does a social work degree cost in Minnesota?
What degrees are required for different social work specializations in Minnesota?
What financial aid options are available to social work students in Minnesota?
What is the job outlook for social workers in Minnesota?
How can I accelerate my transition to licensed counseling roles in Minnesota?
What are the alternative pathways to become a social worker in Minnesota?
Are online social work degrees recognized in Minnesota?
What organizations accredit social work degree programs in Minnesota?
What are the top institutions offering social work degree programs in Minnesota?

To become a licensed social worker in Minnesota, you must hold a degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The minimum education requirement for social worker licensure in Minnesota varies depending on the level of licensure you pursue.

Licensed Social Worker (LSW): Requires a bachelor’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited institution. This license allows practice in non-clinical social work roles under supervision.
Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW): Requires a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program. This license permits generalist social work practice under supervision, including supervised clinical work in some cases.
Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW): Requires a master’s degree in social work and allows independent work in generalist social work while engaging in supervised clinical practice toward independent clinical licensure.
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW): Requires a master’s degree in social work and authorizes independent clinical practice, including providing and billing for mental health services.

Minnesota maintains a strong workforce with over 14,000 licensed social workers as of 2024, supported by accredited social work degree programs in Minnesota. Those interested in specialties such as gerontology social work may also refer to resources like gerontology social worker careers for guidance. Make sure your education aligns precisely with these degree requirements to ensure smooth licensure and career advancement.

Enrolling in the appropriate coursework is fundamental for developing the skills and knowledge essential to social work practice. Minnesota social work programs offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for real-world challenges through both theoretical and practical training. The core courses in these programs cover a broad spectrum of topics necessary for ethical and effective social work, including field experience that aligns with state accreditation standards. Below is an overview of the key course areas:

Introduction to Social Work: Provides the profession’s history, values, ethics, and foundational skills for generalist practice.
Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Focuses on understanding individuals and communities through social and psychological theories, emphasizing diversity and oppression.
Social Welfare Policy and Advocacy: Covers social welfare systems, policy analysis, and advocacy strategies promoting social justice.
Research Methods in Social Work: Develops competence in research design and evidence-based practice for evaluating interventions.
Generalist Practice Methods: Teaches communication, case management, and intervention techniques for diverse populations.
Field Practicum: Offers supervised practical experience meeting Minnesota’s requirements and accreditation standards.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Addresses social justice issues relevant to Minnesota’s multicultural populations.
Electives and Supporting Courses: Tailored courses such as mental health, child welfare, and substance abuse reflect local workforce demands.

Minnesota does not impose unique state-specific course mandates beyond national accreditation, but programs strategically incorporate local workforce needs. For example, the University of St. Thomas structures its Bachelor of Social Work around 12 core courses plus supporting social sciences coursework, while graduate programs adhere to Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) standards and emphasize advanced clinical and policy practice. This curriculum alignment ensures graduates are job-ready for the region’s strong demand in healthcare, child welfare, and mental health sectors.

How many BSW degrees were conferred in 2022-23?

Timing your social work education in Minnesota requires careful attention to program lengths and personal circumstances. The duration of degree programs influences your academic planning, financial commitments, and entry into the workforce. Knowing typical timelines and factors that affect them helps you strategize for timely graduation and licensure.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW/BSSW): Usually completed in 4 years of full-time study; part-time students typically take 5–6 years. All accredited programs require at least 440–480 hours of field practicum, an integral part of hands-on training.
Master of Social Work (MSW): Standard full-time programs last 2 years, but those with a CSWE-accredited BSW may qualify for advanced standing, reducing completion to 12–16 months full-time or extending to 2–3 years part-time.
Doctor of Social Work (DSW): Typically requires 3–4 years full-time or 4–6 years part-time, focusing on clinical leadership; duration depends heavily on dissertation and fieldwork demands.
PhD in Social Work: Research-focused programs generally last 4–6 years full-time; part-time paths or concurrent job responsibilities may lengthen this timeframe.

The following factors also affect the duration of your academic journey:

Full-time vs. Part-time Enrollment: Full-time study speeds up graduation but part-time options offer flexibility for working adults and caregivers.
Advanced Standing for MSW: A CSWE-accredited BSW can shorten the MSW program by up to a year by recognizing prior coursework and field experience.
Fieldwork Requirements: Extensive practicum hours (440–480 for BSW, up to 900 for MSW) must be balanced with coursework, sometimes extending program length.
Transfer Credits and Prerequisites: Transfer credits may reduce time, but acceptance varies; undergraduate prerequisites and general education requirements can also affect your timeline.

A social worker from Minnesota who graduated from a local program shared that completing her BSW took longer than expected due to juggling part-time work and family responsibilities. She explained, “I planned for about five years part-time because balancing field practicum hours and course schedules wasn’t straightforward.”

She appreciated having an advisor's support to create a personalized plan that accommodated her commitments. Despite occasional stress and delays, she reflected, “Taking the extra time meant I gained real-world experience without burning out, which truly prepared me for the challenges in the field.” This personal insight highlights how practical planning and flexibility are key aspects of completing social work degrees in Minnesota.

Planning ahead for the cost of a social work degree in Minnesota helps manage finances effectively and reduces unexpected debt. Tuition and fees vary widely depending on degree level, institution type, residency status, and program format, so knowing these details is key to making smart decisions.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Tuition for BSW programs at public universities ranges from $8,000–$12,000 per year for in-state students and $15,000–$20,000 for out-of-state; private colleges typically charge $30,000–$40,000 annually but may offer financial aid.
Master of Social Work (MSW): Public institutions charge $10,000–$15,000 per year for residents and $18,000–$25,000 for non-residents; private and online MSW programs often cost $35,000–$45,000, with some online options offering in-state rates regardless of location.
Doctor of Social Work (DSW): Available mainly at select public and private schools, tuition ranges from $18,000–$25,000 annually at public universities and up to $50,000 at private ones; online programs may offer lower per-credit costs and greater flexibility.
PhD in Social Work: Public universities generally charge $10,000–$20,000 per year for residents, with private schools exceeding $45,000; many PhD students receive teaching or research assistantships to help offset tuition.
Public vs. Private Institutions: Public schools offer lower tuition for residents, while private colleges carry higher prices but sometimes provide more generous financial aid packages.
In-State vs. Out-of-State Tuition: Minnesota’s reciprocity agreements can lower out-of-state tuition, but residents benefit from significant discounts at public universities.
Online vs. On-Campus Programs: Tuition often matches on-campus rates, but online formats can reduce additional expenses like housing and commuting fees.

Students weighing the total tuition for BSW/MSW programs in Minnesota should also consider related costs like textbooks and licensing. For further insights about career options and earnings, comparing LPC vs LCSW salary can be helpful in planning your social work education and career path. This chart from CSWE shows the distribution of full-time social work faculty according to gender.

Different social work roles in Minnesota require specific education levels to ensure professionals are well-prepared for their unique responsibilities. Knowing the degree requirements for social work specializations in Minnesota helps you plan your educational path effectively.

Clinical Social Work: A Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program is required, along with 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience and passing the ASWB Clinical exam to become an LICSW, allowing you to provide mental health therapy.
School Social Work: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work is the baseline, but most school social work positions prefer or require an MSW and at least an LSW or LGSW license; higher roles often demand LISW or LICSW credentials and meeting additional state education requirements.
Healthcare Social Work: A Bachelor’s degree (BSW) grants access to entry-level healthcare roles, while an MSW is typically necessary for clinical duties like assessment and counseling in medical settings, with licenses such as LGSW, LISW, or LICSW depending on job scope.
Child and Family Social Work: Entry-level jobs usually require a BSW and LSW licensure, but advancing to supervisory or clinical roles needs an MSW and higher licenses like LGSW, LISW, or LICSW; these roles focus on child protection, foster care, and family services.

Financial aid for social work students in Minnesota is crucial to making higher education more attainable, helping reduce the financial burden of tuition and related expenses. With many students balancing work and study, securing funding allows them to focus on their educational goals and career preparation. Here are several practical financial aid options available to social work students in Minnesota that can help ease these costs:

Federal Grants: Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) offer need-based, no-repayment awards; completing FAFSA is essential to determine eligibility.
Minnesota social work student grant programs: The Minnesota Office of Higher Education provides state grants and scholarships that support residents financially, along with university-specific scholarships for BSW and MSW programs that range from $300 to $1,500 annually.
University-Specific Scholarships: Several universities including Minnesota State University, Mankato and Moorhead offer scholarships based on academic performance and community involvement, such as the Wayne and Carol Sandee Endowed Scholarship and MSSA Region IX Scholarships.
Work-Study Programs: Federal and state work-study positions allow eligible students to earn money through part-time jobs related to social services or administrative support, enhancing practical experience while funding education.
Federal and Private Student Loans: Loans with favorable terms are available for degree-seeking students, with some loans offering forgiveness options for graduates working in designated social service sectors.
Professional Organization Scholarships and Stipends: The Minnesota Social Service Association (MSSA) and other organizations provide scholarships and stipends based on commitment to social work and community service.
Specialized Graduate Scholarships: Scholarships reserved for MSW students, such as Augsburg University’s Aspiring Graduate Student Scholarship, support first-generation and financially needy applicants advancing their social work careers.

If you are exploring advanced study, consider reviewing accelerated MSW programs that may offer additional financial aid and scholarship opportunities tailored for social work students.

What is the job outlook for social workers in Minnesota?

A robust demand for mental health services and community support has led to a favorable job outlook for licensed social workers in Minnesota. Market trends indicate that expanding social services, an aging population, and legislative initiatives continue to drive employment opportunities across clinical, educational, and policy-oriented roles. Data from local workforce analyses reflects a steady growth in vacancies that favor candidates with accredited degrees and practical field experience. For professionals establishing their career path, aligning academic preparation with local benchmarks is essential to secure competitive salaries and long-term advancement. To better understand the transition from education to practice, refer to how to become a social worker in Minnesota.

How can I accelerate my transition to licensed counseling roles in Minnesota?

For social work professionals interested in advancing their careers into counseling, targeted strategies can streamline the transition. Combining specialized post-graduate coursework with supervised clinical experiences tailored to counseling can reduce overall licensure timelines. Career-focused programs that integrate intensive practicums and mentorship opportunities offer a viable route for quick entry into counseling roles. For detailed guidance on optimizing your pathway, consult the fastest way to become a counselor in Minnesota.

Individuals with degrees or experience in other fields can enter social work in Minnesota without returning to a bachelor's program. Several alternative pathways help build on prior education and speed up the process toward licensure.

Traditional MSW Track for Non-BSW Holders: Complete a full master's program (about 60 credits) designed for those without a social work bachelor's degree.
Advanced Standing MSW for BSW Graduates: Finish an accelerated program (around 30 credits) if you have a BSW from an accredited school, reducing time and cost.
Using Psychology or Sociology Degrees: Leverage related bachelor’s degrees to meet MSW prerequisites and transition smoothly into graduate social work programs.
Post-Bachelor’s Certificate or Bridge Programs: Enroll in certificate or transfer pathways that prepare students for BSW admission through targeted courses and externships.
State-Specific Alternative Certification: Apply for provisional licensure without passing the national exam, completing supervised practice before full licensure.

A social worker from Minnesota, who followed one of these alternative routes after earning a psychology degree locally, shared that the process was both challenging and rewarding. “Switching fields felt daunting at first, especially balancing coursework with my job,” he explained, “but choosing the advanced standing MSW saved me time and made the transition manageable.”

He appreciated how bridge programs’ practical components helped connect theory with real-world cases. Reflecting on the provisional licensure option, he noted it offered valuable flexibility during his early career. His journey highlights how these pathways provide realistic, efficient steps for career changers passionate about social work.

Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs are increasingly popular for their flexibility, especially for students balancing work and family. Recognition of these degrees in Minnesota matters because it affects eligibility for state licensure and job opportunities. Without proper recognition, even a completed online degree may not qualify for licensure, limiting career prospects.

The key to recognition is accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which the Minnesota Board of Social Work requires for licensure. Graduates from CSWE-accredited online programs hold equal standing with on-campus graduates. Surveys show nearly 70% of employers treat accredited online social work degrees as equivalent to traditional degrees. Enrollment in online social work graduate programs increased by 21% from 2019 to 2023, reflecting growing acceptance of these pathways.

Students should also consider mandatory supervised fieldwork, usually completed in person within their communities, even for fully online programs. Hybrid formats combining online classes and occasional in-person sessions offer practical flexibility. Verifying that a program is CSWE-accredited is essential to ensure licensure eligibility and employer acceptance in Minnesota’s social work field.

Accreditation is crucial for social work degree programs in Minnesota because it guarantees that educational standards meet professional and ethical benchmarks. This ensures graduates become eligible for licensure and gain recognition from employers in the field.

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE): CSWE is the national accrediting body required for social work licensure in Minnesota. Graduating from a CSWE-accredited program ensures the curriculum and faculty meet high-quality standards essential for professional practice.
Regional Higher Education Accrediting Bodies: Programs must be offered by institutions with regional accreditation, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) in Minnesota. This confirms that the institution meets comprehensive standards for higher education quality and institutional integrity.
Minnesota Board of Social Work: Although not an academic accreditor, this state board approves social work programs for licensure purposes and enforces professional practice standards. Meeting the board’s requirements is mandatory for obtaining a social work license and practicing legally in Minnesota.

For individuals exploring options, considering easiest MSW programs to get into can be a practical step toward entering accredited social work programs in Minnesota. This approach supports meeting licensure requirements efficiently while ensuring the education received aligns with state and national standards.

Choosing a program with proper accreditation is essential to meet Minnesota’s licensure requirements and to benefit from specialized training that shapes your career. Investing in a top social work school in Minnesota also maximizes your financial and professional outcomes by offering strong networks, field placements, and loan repayment incentives.

University of Minnesota Twin Cities: The highest-ranked social work program in the state, it offers extensive research opportunities and diverse clinical field placements for leadership development.
University of St. Thomas: Known for its collaborative Interprofessional Center, this program trains social work students alongside law and psychology peers, emphasizing ethical practice and flexible schedules.
Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM): Offers unique specialization tracks like Multicultural Clinical and Social Change & Leadership, with hybrid formats supporting working students.
University of Minnesota Duluth: Focused on rural and Indigenous communities, this CSWE-accredited program provides both traditional and advanced standing MSW options tied to regional workforce needs.
St. Catherine University: Combines a social justice curriculum with flexible pathways, including online options, catering especially to women and nontraditional students.

To enhance your chances of success, prioritize programs with CSWE accreditation, varied specialization choices, and strong field placements. If you are seeking flexibility, consider a social worker online degree option to accommodate work and life commitments while gaining a respected qualification.

Pursuing my social work degree at the University of Minnesota provided an exceptional foundation that combined academic rigor with hands-on experience. Starting my career in a local school setting, I quickly realized how vital my role was in supporting students facing various challenges. The program emphasized culturally responsive practices, which helped me connect deeply with the diverse student population here. I feel grateful to have found a career path that allows me to make a meaningful impact on young lives every day. Glenn
Completing my studies at St. Catherine University was a transformative journey both personally and professionally. The community-focused curriculum challenged me to reflect on my values and ignited my passion for advocacy within Minnesota’s unique cultural landscape. Working in a local school has allowed me to witness firsthand the resilience of students and the importance of tailored support. I am proud to contribute to shaping healthier futures, especially within underserved communities. Linh
The University of St. Thomas offered me incredible opportunities for professional growth through internships and partnerships with local organizations. Launching my career as a social worker in a local school, I faced unique challenges related to rural student populations and resource limitations, but these experiences pushed me to innovate and sharpen my skills. Minnesota’s collaborative environment fostered my development as a leader committed to enhancing educational and social services, and I look forward to advancing in this field. Dawn

References:

Social Work Accreditation | St. Catherine University https://www.stkate.edu/accreditation/program-accreditation/social-work-ac
Social Work Education in Minnesota https://naswmn.socialworkers.org/Professional-Development/Social-Work-Education-in-Minnesota
Social Work Programs in Minnesota – No GRE/CSWE Accredited - Master of Social Work Degrees https://www.mswdegrees.org/states/minnesota/
Accreditations | College of Education and Human Development https://www.cehd.umn.edu/about/accreditations
Accreditation of Social Work at MSU Moorhead https://www.mnstate.edu/academics/majors/social-work/accreditation/
Accreditation Directory | CSWE https://www.cswe.org/accreditation/about/directory/
Social Work | Southwest Minnesota State University https://www.smsu.edu/academics/programs/socialwork/index.html
Accreditation | Lutheran Social Service of MN https://www.lssmn.org/services/older-adults/about/accreditations
Accreditation & BSSW Program Outcomes | Minnesota State University, Mankato https://ahn.mnsu.edu/academic-programs/social-work/bachelor-of-science-in-social-work/accreditation-and-bssw-program-outcomes/
Accreditation - Saint Mary's University of Minnesota https://www.smumn.edu/about/accreditation-saint-marys-university-of-minnesota/

Can you become a social worker in Minnesota without a degree in social work?

In Minnesota, becoming a social worker without a degree in social work is challenging, as the state requires licensure that typically mandates a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in social work (BSW or MSW) from an accredited program. While some entry-level positions in social services may not require a social work degree, they often lack the scope and responsibilities of licensed social work roles.

Alternative degrees may qualify individuals for related fields, but to practice as a licensed social worker, proper social work education is essential. This ensures professionals meet the necessary competencies and ethical standards required by Minnesota’s Board of Social Work.

Do you need a doctorate to become a clinical social worker in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, obtaining a doctorate is not required to become a clinical social worker. The state mandates a master's degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, along with supervised clinical experience and passing a licensing exam. While a doctorate may enhance career opportunities or academic roles, it is not necessary for licensure or clinical practice. Therefore, most clinical social workers in Minnesota enter the profession with a master's degree rather than a doctoral degree.

Do community colleges in Minnesota offer social work degrees?

Community colleges in Minnesota typically do not offer bachelor’s degrees in social work, as these programs are generally available through four-year universities accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). However, many community colleges provide related associate degrees or certificates in human services or social work assistant programs, which can serve as a foundation for transferring to a university to complete a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW).

For students aiming to become licensed social workers in Minnesota, earning a CSWE-accredited BSW or Master of Social Work (MSW) from a university is essential, since community college credentials alone do not meet licensure requirements. Therefore, community colleges can be a valuable starting point, but pursuing a full social work degree requires transfer to a four-year institution.

What are the admission requirements for a BSW degree in Minnesota?

Admission requirements for a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree in Minnesota typically include a high school diploma or GED, completion of prerequisite coursework such as psychology or sociology, and a minimum GPA set by the institution. Many programs also require letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and sometimes an interview to assess commitment to the social work field.

Prospective students should verify specific criteria with each university, as requirements can vary. Additionally, some universities may require background checks due to field placement components essential for practical experience in social work education.