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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many aspiring social workers in Wyoming face uncertainty about the specific degree requirements needed to enter the profession. Currently, Wyoming is projected to have an 11% growth in social work jobs through 2030, indicating strong demand. Obtaining the appropriate degree not only ensures compliance with state licensure standards but also improves employability and salary prospects.

This article outlines the educational pathways required to become a licensed social worker in Wyoming, including the necessary degrees and certifications. Prepared by career planning experts, it delivers clear, data-driven guidance to help prospective students navigate Wyoming’s licensing landscape efficiently and effectively.

Key Things to Know About Social Work Education Requirements in Wyoming

A Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW) is the minimum credential required for entry-level social work positions in Wyoming, ensuring foundational knowledge aligned with state standards.
To provide clinical services or obtain licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), candidates must earn a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program and complete supervised clinical hours.
Wyoming faces a social worker shortage, with a projected 6% job growth through 2030, resulting in increased demand for qualified graduates who are equipped with both academic training and practical experience.

What is the minimum degree required to become a licensed social worker in Wyoming?
What courses are covered in a social work degree program in Wyoming?
How long does it take to complete a social work degree program in Wyoming?
How much does a social work degree cost in Wyoming?
What degrees are required for different social work specializations in Wyoming?
What financial aid options are available to social work students in Wyoming?
What are the alternative pathways to become a social worker in Wyoming?
What are the continuing education and license renewal requirements for social workers in Wyoming?
How can social work professionals advance their careers in Wyoming?
Are online social work degrees recognized in Wyoming?
What organizations accredit social work degree programs in Wyoming?
What are the top institutions offering social work degree programs in Wyoming?

What is the minimum degree required to become a licensed social worker in Wyoming?

Meeting Wyoming social work degree requirements is essential for obtaining licensure, with specific degrees aligned to different levels of social work practice. The minimum education for a social worker in Wyoming varies by the scope of practice and licensure type sought.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): This degree is required for entry-level licensure as a Certified Social Worker (CSW) and must be from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). It allows graduates to practice under supervision in generalist roles within the state.
Master of Social Work (MSW): Required for licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), this advanced degree from a CSWE-accredited program is necessary for independent clinical practice and clinical supervisory roles.

Wyoming does not recognize associate degrees or unrelated bachelor’s degrees for social work licensure, emphasizing the importance of a BSW or higher. The state’s demand for licensed social workers is growing, especially in rural areas where professionals often serve as critical mental health resources. For those interested in specialized roles such as a social worker for seniors, these degree requirements form the foundational credentials to enter the field professionally.

What courses are covered in a social work degree program in Wyoming?

Appropriate coursework in Wyoming social work degree programs is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge tailored to the state’s rural and frontier context. These programs align with licensure standards while addressing regional challenges, ensuring graduates are prepared for local workforce demands projected to increase by 25%. Core courses in Wyoming social work degree programs include:

Introduction to Social Work: Focuses on the history, core values, and professional roles critical to service delivery in Wyoming communities.
Human Behavior and the Social Environment: Explores biological, psychological, and social influences on individuals and families for broad-based practice readiness.
Social Work Practice (Generalist Methods): Develops practical skills in assessment and intervention across multiple client systems.
Research Methods for Social Work: Covers qualitative and quantitative approaches, emphasizing evidence-based practices and program evaluation.
Social Welfare Policy and Services: Reviews federal, state, and local policies with an emphasis on Wyoming statutes and rural service challenges.
Field Practicum/Internship: Requires 900 hours for BSW or 500 hours for MSW students, providing supervised experience in agencies such as children’s law centers and VA hospitals.
Statistics for Social Sciences: Introduces statistical tools essential for research and evaluation, with courses like STAT 2050 or STAT 2070 commonly required.
Sociological Principles: Presents foundational sociological concepts pertinent to social structures and inequality.
General Psychology: Examines psychological theories relevant for client assessment and intervention.
U.S. Constitution (Wyoming-Specific Requirement): POLS 1000 ensures familiarity with government structures impacting social work policy and practice in Wyoming.

To see how these programs progress into advanced study, the chart below shows the number of practice doctoral degrees in social work conferred in 2023.

How long does it take to complete a social work degree program in Wyoming?

The length of social work degree programs in Wyoming significantly influences educational planning, financial commitments, and career timing. Variations in program duration depend on the degree level, enrollment status, and specific state requirements, particularly around field education. Analyzing these timeframes helps prospective social workers align their academic goals with workforce demands in Wyoming’s rural context.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Typically requires four years of full-time study, with longer durations for part-time students depending on course availability and individual pace.
Master of Social Work (MSW) – Standard Track: Available full-time over two years or part-time over three years at the University of Wyoming, including a mandatory 900 practicum hours.
Master of Social Work (MSW) – Advanced Standing Track: For students holding a CSWE-accredited BSW, this accelerated program takes one year full-time or two years part-time, requiring about 500 practicum hours.
Doctoral Programs (DSW & PhD): Not offered in-state but completed elsewhere typically take 3–5 years full-time or up to 7 years part-time, involving coursework, research, and dissertation work.
Impact of Part-Time vs. Full-Time Study: Part-time options extend program length by about one year, designed to accommodate working students and those with family obligations.
Fieldwork Requirements: Practicum hours are substantial and scheduled around 16–18 weekly hours for several months, which can lengthen the completion timeline.
Advanced Standing Benefits: Reduces both the total duration of study and practicum hours by waiving foundational coursework for eligible BSW holders.

A social worker from Wyoming, who earned her degree from a local institution, shared that completing her MSW program took just over two years due to balancing part-time studies with a full-time job. She reflected, “The field placements were intense, and juggling work with 16-hour weekly practicum sessions really tested my time management.”

She noted that while the program’s length felt challenging at times, the flexible scheduling offered by the university made it manageable. “Knowing the commitment ahead helped me stay focused, and graduating within that timeframe gave me confidence in entering the workforce prepared.” This firsthand experience underscores how program length varies with personal circumstances but remains a crucial factor in successful social work education in Wyoming.

751,900 social workers were employed in 2023.

How much does a social work degree cost in Wyoming?

Estimating the cost of a social work degree in Wyoming is vital for students weighing their educational options and future financial commitments. Tuition rates, fees, and additional expenses directly impact accessibility and help shape informed decisions about pursuing social work credentials in this state.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Tuition: In-state tuition at the University of Wyoming ranges from $6,000 to $7,000 annually, while out-of-state students pay approximately $18,000 to $20,000 per year, excluding fees and living costs.
Master of Social Work (MSW) Tuition: MSW tuition at Wyoming public universities typically falls between $7,500 and $9,000 for residents, and $20,000 to $22,000 for non-residents; online program pricing varies but can offer potential savings on housing and commute.
Doctoral Programs (DSW/PhD) Tuition: Doctoral social work degrees are limited in Wyoming, with in-state tuition between $8,000 and $12,000 per year and out-of-state tuition exceeding $22,000; many students opt for online or hybrid options through out-of-state universities.
Public vs. Private Institutions: Wyoming lacks private universities with accredited social work degrees, making public institutions the primary choice with resident tuition subsidies reducing costs for state residents.
Additional Costs and Aid: Mandatory fees ($1,000–$2,000), textbooks, and practicum-related expenses add to total costs; students can access financial aid like the Hathaway Scholarship and some graduate-level assistantships, favoring those in high-need areas of practice.

For those comparing educational paths in social work, it’s also helpful to understand distinctions like LPC vs LCSW, which can influence career decisions after graduation.

What degrees are required for different social work specializations in Wyoming?

Different social work roles in Wyoming necessitate distinct educational credentials due to varying responsibilities and professional standards within each specialization. The degree requirements for social work specializations in Wyoming reflect these differences, emphasizing the level of expertise needed in clinical, school, healthcare, and family services settings.

Clinical Social Work: Requires a Master of Social Work (MSW) or Doctorate from a CSWE-accredited program, plus 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience and passing the ASWB Clinical or Advanced Generalist Exam for licensure as an LCSW.
School Social Work: Typically demands at least a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), but many positions prefer or require an MSW, as well as certification through the Wyoming Department of Education involving additional coursework or fieldwork.
Healthcare Social Work: Entry-level roles often require a BSW, while hospitals and integrated care roles increasingly favor an MSW for managing complex patient needs and interdisciplinary coordination.
Child and Family Services: BSW degrees qualify candidates for entry-level case management, whereas clinical assessment or therapy roles generally require an MSW and sometimes clinical licensure (LCSW) due to the advanced nature of services.
Community Social Work and Case Management: Positions range from BSW qualifications for case management and outreach to MSW degrees for program leadership and specialized practice areas.

This data illustrates that in Wyoming, advanced degrees like the MSW improve eligibility and career advancement across social work sectors, particularly where clinical expertise or supervisory authority is necessary.

What financial aid options are available to social work students in Wyoming?

Financial aid is essential for social work students in Wyoming because it helps reduce the financial burden of tuition, fees, and other educational expenses. Access to targeted funding options can support students as they pursue their BSW or MSW degrees, making education more accessible and affordable. Key financial aid options include:

Federal Grants: Programs such as Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) provide need-based aid that does not require repayment, with eligibility determined through the FAFSA.
State Scholarships: Wyoming offers scholarships like the Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship and Hathaway Scholarship, which support residents pursuing postsecondary education, including social work degrees.
Wyoming Works Grants: These grants provide up to $3,360 annually for students in high-demand fields, including social work, contingent on academic progress and workforce designation.
Work-Study Programs: Federal and institutional work-study opportunities allow students to earn income while gaining relevant experience, with eligibility based on financial need.
Student Loans: Federal Direct Loans and PLUS Loans are available, with Wyoming students typically graduating with median debt around $22,000, which is below the national average.
Funding from Professional Organizations: Groups like the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Wyoming Chapter offer scholarships and support related to licensure and professional development.
Institutional Scholarships and Emergency Aid: Universities and community colleges provide merit- and need-based scholarships renewable for up to four years, along with emergency funds for students facing financial hardship.

Students seeking financial aid for social work students in Wyoming should complete the FAFSA annually and connect with their school’s financial aid office to maximize access to scholarships for BSW and MSW programs. Additionally, exploring resources such as online social work graduate programs can reveal further funding opportunities and flexible degree paths.

What are the alternative pathways to become a social worker in Wyoming?

Individuals with degrees in psychology, sociology, or related fields can shift into social work in Wyoming without restarting their education entirely. Several alternative paths leverage prior academic credentials and experience to meet state licensure requirements efficiently.

Traditional MSW Track for Non-BSW Holders: Requires about two years full-time study, including 900 supervised field hours in Wyoming.
Advanced Standing MSW: For those with a CSWE-accredited BSW, allowing program completion in as little as one year with reduced coursework and fieldwork.
Post-Bachelor’s Certificate or Bridge Programs: Designed for non-social work graduates to gain foundational knowledge and field placement.
Using Psychology or Sociology Degrees as a Foundation: These degrees can accelerate MSW admission and education progress.
Alternative Licensing Routes: Include provisional licensure and pathways for exam retakes through additional supervised experience.

A social worker from Wyoming shared that transitioning from a prior career was challenging yet rewarding. Graduating from a local university, he described the initial uncertainty of meeting licensure requirements, balancing work and study. “The bridge program helped me connect past knowledge with social work practice,” he reflected, emphasizing how practical field experience and state support made the transition smoother.

He also noted the emotional relief in realizing that prior degrees were valued, enabling a focused, achievable path without beginning from zero. This flexible approach ultimately fostered his commitment to serving Wyoming’s growing community needs. To see how students are engaging with these flexible pathways, the chart below highlights enrollment in BSW certificate programs.

What are the continuing education and license renewal requirements for social workers in Wyoming?

Licensed social workers in Wyoming must meet ongoing education standards to maintain competency and renew their credentials. The Wyoming Board of Social Work Examiners requires professionals to complete a specific number of continuing education hours per renewal cycle. These hours often focus on ethics, professional development, and emerging best practices in social work. Requirements may be updated periodically, so it is essential for practitioners to verify the current guidelines with the state board. For comprehensive steps on licensure and renewal, please review how to become a social worker in Wyoming.

How can social work professionals advance their careers in Wyoming?

Social work professionals can accelerate career growth by pursuing specialized certifications, engaging in targeted continuing education programs, and leveraging professional networking opportunities. Enhancing expertise in niche areas—such as clinical counseling or community-based interventions—can open additional leadership and supervisory roles. For those considering a diversified skill set, exploring dual qualification pathways may further improve job prospects and market value. Discover the fastest way to become a counselor in Wyoming to broaden your career opportunities.

Are online social work degrees recognized in Wyoming?

Online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs have rapidly gained popularity nationwide, including in Wyoming. Their flexibility enables working adults, rural residents, and nontraditional students to earn credentials without relocating or leaving jobs. However, recognition of these degrees is crucial, as Wyoming’s licensure board requires graduation from accredited programs to qualify for state certification and employment in social work roles.

Degree recognition hinges on accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), the primary standard for licensure eligibility in Wyoming. Both Certified Social Worker (CSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licenses require graduation from CSWE-accredited programs, whether online or on-campus. Employers tend not to differentiate between these modes if accreditation is met. Over 40% of MSW students nationwide enrolled in partially or fully online programs in 2023, and surveys show more than 80% of employers are willing to hire graduates from accredited online programs.

Prospective students must ensure their chosen program mandates supervised fieldwork, a non-negotiable licensure requirement involving 500 to 900 practicum hours. Hybrid programs, such as the University of Wyoming’s, combine online coursework with in-person field placements to fulfill practical experience demands. Carefully selecting a CSWE-accredited program aligned with Wyoming licensure standards remains essential to securing both state licensure and employer respect.

Social workers in educational services earn an average of $67,620 per year.

What organizations accredit social work degree programs in Wyoming?

Accreditation is essential for maintaining high educational standards, ensuring state licensure eligibility, and providing recognition by employers and professional organizations. Graduates from properly accredited programs in Wyoming are more likely to have their qualifications accepted for licensure and employment within the state and beyond.

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE): CSWE is the primary accrediting body for bachelor’s and master’s social work programs across the U.S. Completing a CSWE accredited social work program in Wyoming is mandatory for licensure and widely recognized by employers nationwide.
Higher Learning Commission (HLC): Serving as one of six regional institutional accreditors, the HLC ensures overall institutional quality and integrity for colleges and universities in Wyoming. HLC accreditation also affects eligibility for federal financial aid, underscoring its importance for student support and institutional credibility.
Wyoming Department of Education (WDE): Although not a direct accreditor of social work degrees, the WDE oversees approval of educational institutions within Wyoming and supports certain degree pathways. Programs compliant with WDE standards may offer distinct advantages for social workers seeking employment in public school systems.

For those considering the path to becoming a social worker in Wyoming, selecting a program that meets these accreditation criteria is critical. One helpful resource is this detailed overview of a bachelor's in social work, which can assist with evaluating program options aligned with licensure and career goals.

What are the top institutions offering social work degree programs in Wyoming?

Choosing the right institution for social work education in Wyoming ensures that students benefit from proper accreditation, comprehensive career preparation, and a sensible financial investment. Accredited programs provide essential practicum experiences and align with state licensure requirements, which are critical for entering Wyoming’s social work profession.

University of Wyoming – Division of Social Work: The only school in Wyoming offering fully CSWE-accredited BSW and MSW degrees, featuring an advanced generalist curriculum with flexible hybrid delivery and strong statewide field placements.
University of Wyoming at Casper (UW–Casper): Provides a part-time MSW track tailored for working adults, combining weekend in-person sessions and online coursework to support practical community-based learning outside Laramie.
Central Wyoming College – Human Services Program: Offers associate degrees and transfer agreements designed for affordable entry into social work studies, emphasizing hands-on practicum and flexible scheduling for career changers.
Western Wyoming Community College – Pre-Social Work Transfer Program: Prepares students to transfer into the University of Wyoming’s BSW program through small classes and personalized advising, with practical coursework focused on community service.
Eastern Wyoming College – Social Services Emphasis: Features associate degrees for quick workforce entry or university transfer, integrated with local agencies to provide field experience in underserved regions.

Students seeking accredited social work schools in Wyoming can also explore options like the bachelor of social work online pathway, which offers additional flexibility. With Wyoming’s social work job market expected to grow by 25%, selecting a program that combines accreditation, robust practicum hours, and flexible formats is vital for career readiness.

Pursuing my social work degree through the University of Wyoming allowed me to stay deeply connected to the community I wanted to serve. The program’s focus on rural and Indigenous populations really prepared me for the unique challenges we face here. Starting my career in a local school has been incredibly fulfilling because every day I get to make a direct impact on kids’ lives, helping them overcome barriers beyond academics. The stability of local jobs combined with the meaningful work keeps me passionate and committed to my role. - Jaymie

Completing my social work education at Eastern Wyoming College was a transformative journey not just professionally but personally. The tight-knit program encouraged self-reflection and cultural sensitivity, which has been crucial when addressing the complex needs in Wyoming’s rural settings. It’s rewarding to see the positive changes in students’ well-being and know that I’ve played a role in that growth. This profession demands resilience and empathy, but it also offers tremendous career advancement opportunities within the state's educational and healthcare systems. - Taisha

The opportunity to study at Northwest College gave me access to hands-on experiences tailored to Wyoming’s unique environment and cultural landscape. The program emphasized community-based interventions, which equipped me to tackle social issues that are especially prevalent here, like substance abuse and mental health challenges. Working with youth in a local school fuels my passion every day, knowing I help create a safer, more supportive space for them to thrive. This role has truly been a catalyst for both my professional development and personal growth. - Kamala

References:

CareersinPsychology.org. (n.d.). How to Become a Licensed Social Worker in Wyoming. CareersinPsychology.org
College Factual. (n.d.). Public Administration and Social Services: Social Work. College Factual
Council on Social Work Education. (2024). Annual Survey of Social Work Programs. CSWE
Northwest College Wyoming. (2025). Financial Aid & Scholarships. NCW
Social Work Degrees. (2025). Top 25 Most Affordable CSWE-Accredited MSW Programs for 2025: Complete Cost Guide. SWD
Social Work License Map with edX. (n.d.). Social Work Scholarships. SWLM with edX
Social Worker License Staff. (2024). Wyoming Social Work Degree Programs. SocialWorkerLicense.com
University of Wyoming. (2025). Division of Social Work Student Funds. UWYO
Western Wyoming Community College. (n.d.). Social Science FAQs. WWCC

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

In Wyoming, becoming a social worker without a degree specifically in social work is possible but limited to certain roles. While a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in social work (BSW or MSW) is typically required for licensed social work positions, individuals with degrees in related fields may qualify for non-licensed support roles or certain community service positions.

However, to practice clinical social work or obtain licensure with the Wyoming Board of Social Work Examiners, an accredited social work degree is essential. Therefore, those without a social work degree should consider pursuing additional credentials or education to advance within the profession in Wyoming.

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

In Wyoming, 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 as the minimum educational qualification. After obtaining the degree, candidates must complete supervised clinical experience and pass the necessary licensure exams to practice. While a doctorate may enhance expertise and career opportunities, it is not a prerequisite for clinical licensure or practice in Wyoming.

Do community colleges in Wyoming offer social work degrees?

Community colleges in Wyoming typically do not offer standalone social work degrees but may provide related programs such as human services or behavioral science certificates and associate degrees. These programs can serve as a foundational step before transferring to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work, which is generally required for professional social work licensing in the state.

Students interested in becoming licensed social workers in Wyoming should plan to continue their education beyond community college to obtain the necessary Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or higher degree. Therefore, while community colleges offer valuable preparatory coursework, obtaining a formal social work degree usually involves attending a university.

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

To pursue a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree in Wyoming, applicants generally need a high school diploma or GED and must meet specific college admission standards, which often include submitting transcripts and standardized test scores. Many universities encourage prospective students to complete prerequisite coursework in areas such as psychology and sociology to strengthen their application.

In addition, while a formal social work background is not always mandatory for admission, relevant volunteer or work experience in social services can enhance an applicant’s profile. Financial aid options for social work students in Wyoming include state-specific scholarships, federal grants, and work-study programs designed to support students committed to serving local communities. Exploring these funding opportunities early in the application process can help ease the financial burden and increase access to quality social work education in the state.