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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

North Dakota faces a rising demand for social workers, with employment projected to grow by 17% through 2030, outpacing many other professions. Many aspiring social workers struggle to understand the precise educational requirements necessary for licensure and employment in the state. While obtaining a degree is essential, the type of degree and accreditation matter significantly for career advancement and compliance with North Dakota’s regulatory standards.

This article explains the degrees you need to become a social worker in North Dakota, clarifies licensure pathways, and addresses common misconceptions. Prepared by career planning experts, it offers clear, reliable guidance to help readers navigate educational decisions confidently.

A bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) is the minimum requirement for entry-level social work positions in North Dakota, ensuring foundational knowledge and skills.
To provide clinical services independently, a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree is required, along with state licensure and supervised experience.
North Dakota’s workforce demands emphasize ongoing education; advanced degrees often lead to better job prospects and higher salaries in a competitive market.

What is the minimum degree required to become a licensed social worker in North Dakota?
What courses are covered in a social work degree program in North Dakota?
How long does it take to complete a social work degree program in North Dakota?
How much does a social work degree cost in North Dakota?
What degrees are required for different social work specializations in North Dakota?
What financial aid options are available to social work students in North Dakota?
What are the licensure and certification requirements in North Dakota?
How can I transition from social work to a counseling career in North Dakota?
What are the alternative pathways to become a social worker in North Dakota?
Are online social work degrees recognized in North Dakota?
What organizations accredit social work degree programs in North Dakota?
What are the top institutions offering social work degree programs in North Dakota?

The minimum education requirement for social workers in North Dakota varies depending on the level of licensure pursued. Each licensure tier necessitates a specific degree, reflecting the professional scope and responsibilities allowed under that credential.

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW): Requires a bachelor’s degree in social work from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or a recognized Canadian institution. This degree is the foundational level, enabling generalist social work practice across the state.
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW): Requires a master’s degree in social work from a CSWE-accredited program or an equivalent Canadian institution. This degree allows for more advanced social work activities but does not permit independent clinical practice.
Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) / Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW): Both require at least a master’s or doctorate degree in social work from an accredited program. For LICSW, additional supervised clinical experience beyond the degree is mandatory to practice independently in clinical settings.

Given North Dakota’s strict enforcement of accredited degree standards, no social work license is granted without, at minimum, a CSWE-accredited bachelor’s degree in social work. This policy underscores the emphasis on professional competency and public safety. Prospective social workers seeking guidance on career progression and education might consider exploring jobs with a social work major for broader context and opportunities within the field.

Carefully chosen coursework in a social work degree program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective professional practice. In North Dakota, the curriculum reflects both foundational competencies and state-specific expectations that together aim to prepare graduates for licensure and employment challenges. Key courses and requirements include the following:

Introduction to Social Work: An overview of the profession’s ethics, values, and roles in advancing social and economic justice.
Human Behavior in the Social Environment I & II: Exploration of developmental and social systems theories to understand behavior influenced by societal and cultural contexts.
Social Welfare Policy I & II: Study of U.S. social policies, with emphasis on policy analysis and advocacy relevant to current practice.
Social Work Methods I–III: Training in generalist intervention skills, including assessment, planning, and implementation with diverse client populations.
Diversity, Social Justice, and Culturally Competent Practice: Focus on addressing oppression and fostering cultural competence in professional settings.
Interpersonal Skills: Development of communication and relationship-building techniques vital to client engagement.
Field Education and Seminar: Supervised practical experience requiring at least 10 credits to integrate academic learning with community-based practice.
Senior Seminar/Capstone: A culminating course synthesizing knowledge to prepare students for professional or graduate transition.
Support Courses: Ancillary subjects include technical writing, addiction dynamics, healthcare, and foundational social sciences.
State-Specific Requirement: Completion of supervised field education with a minimum of 10 credits plus a criminal background check for program admission.

The accompanying chart illustrates how full-time social work faculty are distributed by primary appointment, highlighting the allocation of faculty roles across different areas of teaching and practice.

Completion time for social work degree programs in North Dakota significantly influences career planning and financial readiness. Program lengths vary notably by degree level, study format, and individual circumstances, making it important to consider various factors beyond just credit requirements. Being aware of these timelines helps prospective students align their educational goals with personal and professional commitments.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW/BSSW): Typically around 4 years of full-time study to complete 120 credit hours, with part-time options extending up to 5–6 years depending on course load and scheduling flexibility.
Master of Social Work (MSW): Standard full-time programs require about 2 years (4 semesters), while Advanced Standing options for BSW graduates from accredited programs can reduce this to 1 year; part-time studies may extend the duration to 3–4 years.
Doctor of Social Work (DSW): Not offered locally; students pursue these online or out-of-state, usually requiring 3–5 years post-MSW, largely dependent on dissertation progress and research intensity.
PhD in Social Work: Also unavailable in North Dakota institutions; national averages suggest 4–6 years beyond the MSW, influenced by research demands and coursework.
Full-time vs. Part-time Study: Full-time accelerates completion, but part-time provides needed flexibility with an added 1–2 years in many cases.
Advanced Standing Status: Can halve MSW program length by reducing course and practicum requirements for eligible BSW holders.
Fieldwork/Internship Requirements: Significant practicum hours—up to 900 for MSW students—can lengthen programs if placements are delayed or scheduling conflicts arise.
Transfer Credits and Cooperative Agreements: Institutions like Bismarck State College and Minot State enable faster BSW completion for associate degree holders through credit transfer.

A North Dakota social worker who graduated from a local school shared her experience, noting that despite the structured timeline, her journey took about five years. "Balancing part-time work and family commitments meant I stretched the program beyond the standard four years," she reflected. The extensive fieldwork was both rewarding and challenging, sometimes delaying course registration and extending the timeline unexpectedly.

She emphasized that flexibility in course formats and supportive faculty made a significant difference. “It wasn’t just about clocking semesters; it was learning to adapt and persist,” she said. Her story highlights that while program lengths provide a guideline, real-life circumstances often shape individual completion times in meaningful ways.

Knowing the cost of a social work degree in North Dakota helps students plan their finances and weigh options wisely. Tuition and fees vary significantly depending on the degree level, institution type, and whether you study online or on campus.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Tuition: Public universities charge about $9,000 to $10,000 per year for in-state students and $13,000 to $16,000 for out-of-state, while private schools often exceed $20,000 annually. Online programs may follow the same rates or offer flat fees.
Master of Social Work (MSW) Tuition: Tuition at public schools ranges from $10,000 to $12,000 yearly in-state and $15,000 to $18,000 out-of-state; private institutions typically charge over $22,000. Online options can provide competitive in-state pricing even for non-residents.
Doctor of Social Work (DSW) Tuition: Public institution costs run from $12,000 to $18,000 per year for residents, with private and online programs often between $20,000 and $30,000, sometimes billed per credit.
PhD in Social Work Tuition: In-state tuition at public universities usually is $11,000 to $16,000 annually, with higher fees for non-residents and private programs; funding opportunities may partly offset expenses.

Besides tuition, fees for textbooks, practicum, and technology (for online learners) add to overall expenses. Students seeking financial aid for social work programs in North Dakota should explore scholarships, assistantships, and federal aid, all of which can affect the final investment.

Understanding these costs aids in making informed choices about your educational path and career prospects, especially in light of varying tuition for BSW/MSW programs. For insight into potential earnings after graduation, see social workers salary data by state.

49.5% of practice DSW students graduated with a loan debt averaging $48,402.

Different social work roles in North Dakota require distinct educational pathways because each specialization demands unique skills, knowledge, and professional responsibilities. These differences shape the degree requirements needed to achieve licensure and effective practice in various social work fields.

Child, Family, and School Social Work: A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program is typically the minimum requirement for entry-level positions and to become a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW).
Clinical Social Work: A Master of Social Work (MSW) is necessary to pursue licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with programs offering either a 60-credit path for non-BSW holders or a 30-credit advanced standing track for recent BSW graduates.
School Social Work: While a BSW may suffice for some roles, an MSW is often required, particularly for positions involving mental health counseling or advanced responsibilities, sometimes alongside additional certification.
Healthcare (Medical) Social Work: Entry-level roles may accept a BSW, but an MSW is preferred or required for clinical care and case management within hospitals or health systems.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Work: These specializations generally require an MSW and clinical licensure to provide assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic services.

Students should carefully evaluate the degree requirements for social work specializations in North Dakota to align their educational path with their career goals and licensure standards. Deciding what degree is needed to become a clinical or school social worker involves considering both state licensure mandates and the level of expertise required for each role’s responsibilities.

Financial aid plays a vital role for students pursuing social work degrees in North Dakota by alleviating the financial pressures associated with tuition and related expenses. Access to various types of aid makes earning a BSW or MSW more feasible while supporting the broader goal of expanding the social work workforce in the state. Key financial aid options available to social work students in North Dakota include:

Federal Grants: Programs like the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) assist undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need and do not require repayment.
State Scholarships: North Dakota offers scholarships of up to $6,000 to eligible students attending approved institutions, emphasizing academic readiness and alignment with state initiatives.
University and Program-Specific Scholarships: Schools such as the University of North Dakota and Minot State University provide targeted awards like the Burkland Scholarship and St. Joseph’s Community Health Foundation Scholarship to social work majors.
Child Welfare Stipend Programs: The IV-E Stipend at UND supports students committed to child welfare careers, combining financial support with service commitments post-graduation.
NDSU Tuition Award Program: This program covers full base tuition and fees for Pell Grant-eligible incoming or transfer students from North Dakota or Minnesota through spring 2027.
Work-Study Programs: Federal and institutional work-study positions offer opportunities to earn income while gaining experience relevant to social work.
Student Loans: Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans provide necessary funds for both undergraduate and graduate students, generally with favorable repayment terms.
Professional and Community Organization Scholarships: Organizations like Catholic Charities North Dakota and national associations such as NASW provide scholarships to support social work students pursuing degrees in North Dakota.

For students looking to further explore affordable options specifically for graduate studies, it is worthwhile to research affordable MSW programs available nationwide, as some may offer additional financial aid opportunities aligned with career goals in social work.

What are the licensure and certification requirements in North Dakota?

Applicants seeking licensure in North Dakota must follow a defined process that includes submission of verified academic transcripts, detailed documentation of supervised practice hours, and successful completion of a national licensing exam appropriate to the desired scope of practice. Clinical positions require additional evidence of supervised clinical experience and competency evaluations. For a comprehensive outline of these requirements, please refer to how to become a social worker in North Dakota.

How can I transition from social work to a counseling career in North Dakota?

Social work graduates seeking a shift toward counseling roles should explore additional state-specific certification requirements and specialized clinical training that extend beyond standard social work licensure. Pursuing focused coursework in counseling practices, supplemented by supervised clinical experiences, distinguishes candidates in competitive job markets. For tailored guidance on meeting these incremental steps, consider the fastest way to become a counselor in North Dakota. Emphasizing practical counseling competencies alongside core social work skills can foster a seamless transition into diverse mental health and supportive service environments.

Individuals with degrees in psychology, sociology, or related fields can transition into social work in North Dakota without beginning their education from scratch. Several alternative pathways recognize prior learning and offer flexible routes to enter the profession.

MSW Without a BSW (Traditional Track): Candidates with non-social work bachelor’s degrees can complete a full two-year MSW program, gaining foundational and advanced skills.
Advanced Standing MSW Programs: Those holding a BSW from a CSWE-accredited school may pursue an accelerated MSW, often lasting only one year.
Degrees in Related Fields: Psychology and sociology degrees provide a solid basis for social work graduate studies, enhancing admission prospects.
Post-Bachelor’s Certificates or Bridge Programs: Designed to meet MSW prerequisites, these programs fill gaps for non-social work graduates.
State-Specific Certification Routes: Professionals in human services or early childhood education can access targeted training to qualify for social service roles.

When I spoke with a social worker who graduated locally after transitioning from a teaching career, he shared that the change felt daunting at first. "The biggest challenge was balancing coursework with family commitments," he said, reflecting on his experience in a bridge program tailored for professionals like him.

Although the coursework was demanding, he appreciated that his previous experience working with children gave him a meaningful perspective in social work. “It wasn’t just about earning another degree,” he explained, “but about applying my background to genuinely support families in our community.” This alternative pathway allowed him to pivot careers while building on his strengths, illustrating the practical options available in North Dakota’s social work education landscape.

Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs have become more prevalent in North Dakota, offering flexible options for students across the state’s expansive rural areas. Recognition of these degrees is essential since only accredited programs enable graduates to pursue professional licensure and employment in social work. Without acceptance from North Dakota’s licensing board and employers, the value of an online degree could be compromised, making it critical for students to verify program legitimacy before enrolling.

Recognition primarily depends on program accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) and compliance with state licensure requirements. Both online and traditional programs from institutions such as the University of North Dakota meet these standards, allowing graduates to take the national licensure exam.

A 2022 survey found that 71% of employers nationwide consider accredited online degrees equivalent to campus degrees, especially in practicum-intensive fields like social work, reflecting growing acceptance that extends to North Dakota’s job market, although specific local data remain limited.

Students should also carefully evaluate factors beyond accreditation, particularly supervised fieldwork, which remains a licensure requirement and is available locally for online learners. Hybrid programs that combine online coursework with some in-person sessions may better support practical skill development.

Confirming current CSWE accreditation and North Dakota licensing board approval ultimately ensures that online social work degrees provide comparable opportunities for licensure and employment as traditional routes. The chart below highlights 2022 to 2023 BSW certificate program enrollments, comparing student numbers across institutions and specializations.

Accreditation plays a critical role in maintaining the quality of social work degree programs, directly influencing licensure eligibility and employer recognition in North Dakota. Without proper accreditation, students risk enrolling in programs that may not meet professional standards or qualify them for state licensure.

Several organizations are pivotal in the accreditation landscape for social work education:

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE): Serving as the primary accrediting body in the United States, only CSWE-accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs satisfy the educational requirements needed for social work licensure in North Dakota and most other states.
Higher Learning Commission (HLC): This regional accreditor ensures the overall institutional quality of colleges and universities in North Dakota. Holding HLC accreditation supports the recognition and transferability of credits across educational institutions.
North Dakota Board of Social Work Examiners: While not an accrediting agency, this state board approves social work programs to meet licensure requirements within North Dakota. It mandates that applicants graduate from CSWE-accredited programs and verifies their credentials during the licensure process.

Students exploring social work education options should prioritize enrollment in CSWE accredited social work programs in North Dakota to ensure their degree meets these professional standards. For those considering further education, researching a bachelor's in social work from an accredited institution offers a clearer pathway toward licensure and employment in the state’s social service sector.

Choosing the right school for a social work degree in North Dakota involves careful consideration of accreditation, career preparation, and the overall financial investment. Accredited programs not only help meet licensure requirements but also ensure practical experience, which is vital in a state with diverse community needs.

University of North Dakota (UND): Offers CSWE-accredited BSSW and MSW programs with a strong focus on rural practice, flexible online and on-campus options, and unique training through its Children & Family Services Training Center.
Minot State University: Provides a CSWE-accredited BSW with hands-on learning and robust field internships targeting rural and underserved communities, graduating a growing number of social workers every year.
University of Mary: Features both BSW and a newly launched MSW program with two specialized tracks in clinical and macro practice, including a fully online option for working professionals.
Sitting Bull College: Specializes in culturally competent social work education for Native American communities, offering a CSWE-accredited BSW program with small class sizes and focused community engagement.
Cankdeska Cikana Community College: While primarily a two-year college, it facilitates transfer pathways into BSW programs, supporting Native American and rural students with close mentorship and community-based learning.

For students exploring options, institutions with accredited social work degree programs North Dakota-wide offer diverse pathways including flexible learning and specialized tracks. Those considering more accessible routes might explore bachelors in social work online as a means to balance education with other commitments.

A total of 1,157 international students are enrolled in MSW programs.

Completing my social work degree at the University of North Dakota was a transformative experience that grounded me deeply in the values of community care and resilience. The program's focus on practical, hands-on experience allowed me to seamlessly transition into working at a local school, where I now help students navigate challenges both in and out of the classroom. The support from faculty and the tight-knit community here in North Dakota made all the difference in fostering my passion for social justice and student well-being. I feel truly empowered to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people in my state. - Yza
Starting my career as a social worker in a local North Dakota school provided me with unique insights into the cultural richness and challenges of the region. Having earned my degree from Minot State University, I appreciated the program’s emphasis on understanding rural dynamics and indigenous communities. This perspective has been invaluable in tailoring interventions that resonate with the families I serve. Professionally, I’ve grown tremendously, finding stability and meaningful advancement opportunities in a field where I can continuously learn and contribute to the well-being of my community. - Barry
Pursuing my social work education through North Dakota State University was not only about academic success but also about personal growth. The program encouraged me to reflect deeply on my role within the rural environment and inspired me to embrace the unique challenges of North Dakota’s diverse populations. Working locally, I’ve been able to develop initiatives that address mental health stigma and promote inclusivity, which has been incredibly rewarding. This journey has strengthened my commitment to social equity and given me a profound sense of purpose. - Kyle

References:

How to Become a Social Worker in North Dakota https://socialworklicensemap.com/social-work-licensure/become-a-social-worker-in-north-dakota/
North Dakota BSW Programs - Social Work Degrees https://www.socialworkdegrees.org/program/bachelors/north-dakota
MSW Programs in North Dakota for 2023 [Online Available] https://mastersinsocialworkonline.org/states/north-dakota/
Social Work | Cankdeska Cikana Community College https://www.littlehoop.edu/academics/social-work/
North Dakota Social Work License | MSWGuide.org - ND https://www.mswguide.org/social-work-licensure-in-north-dakota/
Requirements - ND Board of Social Work Examiners https://www.ndbswe.com/lic/lcsw/reqs.asp
How to Become a Social Worker in North Dakota – Best MSW Programs https://www.bestmswprograms.com/how-to-become-a-social-worker-in-north-dakota/
Become a Social Worker in North Dakota - Social Work Education Center https://www.socialworkdegree.net/how-to-become-a-social-worker/north-dakota/
Best Value Colleges for Social Work in North Dakota (With Aid) - College Factual https://www.collegefactual.com/majors/social-services-public-administration/social-work/social-work/rankings/best-value-avg-aid/the-plains-states/north-dakota/
MSW Programs in North Dakota | No GRE/CSWE Accredited Masters - Master of Social Work Degrees https://www.mswdegrees.org/states/north-dakota/

Can you become a social worker in North Dakota without a degree in social work?

In North Dakota, becoming a social worker without a degree specifically in social work is challenging because licensure typically requires a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW) from an accredited program. While some roles related to social services may not require a social work degree, official social work licensure mandates formal education in the field to ensure proper training and adherence to professional standards.

Individuals with degrees in related areas may qualify for certain positions but cannot become licensed social workers without completing the required social work curriculum. This ensures that licensed social workers possess the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively serve their communities.

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

In North Dakota, a doctorate is not required to become a clinical social worker. The state mandates a master’s degree in social work from an accredited program and successful completion of clinical supervision hours before licensure. While a doctorate may enhance professional opportunities or expertise, it is not necessary for clinical practice or licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Therefore, candidates can pursue a master’s degree to meet all essential requirements for clinical social work in North Dakota.

Do community colleges in North Dakota offer social work degrees?

Community colleges in North Dakota generally do not offer bachelor's degrees specifically in social work, as this credential typically requires a four-year degree accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. However, many community colleges provide related associate degrees or certificates in human services, which can serve as a foundational step toward transferring to a university social work program.

Students interested in becoming licensed social workers in North Dakota should plan to pursue a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or higher, typically through public universities. Starting at a community college can be a cost-effective way to complete general education and prerequisite courses before transferring to a four-year institution offering a social work degree.

What are the admission requirements for a BSW degree in North Dakota?

Admission requirements for a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree in North Dakota typically include a high school diploma or GED, completion of prerequisite coursework, and submission of an application with transcripts. Many programs also require letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and in some cases, an interview to assess the candidate's commitment to social work values.

Prospective students should demonstrate a strong interest in serving diverse communities and may need to meet minimum GPA standards. It is advisable to check specific university websites for detailed admission criteria, as they can vary between institutions offering BSW programs in the state.