LBSW: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker

Social work is more than just a profession—it’s a calling dedicated to uplifting lives, empowering communities, and advocating for those who need it most. Whether addressing poverty, supporting individuals through personal crises, or fighting against injustice, social workers are on the front lines, making a real, tangible difference every day. Within this diverse and meaningful field, one important role is that of a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW), a professional who combines academic preparation, hands-on experience, and dedication to ethical practice to help others navigate life’s toughest challenges.

Becoming an LBSW involves rigorous training and practical fieldwork, reflecting a deep commitment to both personal growth and professional excellence. Licensure isn’t simply a certificate to hang on the wall—it represents a promise to uphold high standards, protect clients, and continually advance one’s skills. When you become licensed as an LBSW, you’re not only validating your expertise; you’re assuring your community that you’re equipped, committed, and ready to make a lasting impact.

What Is an LBSW?

An LBSW is a professional title conferred upon social workers who have earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from an accredited college or university, completed a specified amount of supervised field experience, and passed a comprehensive licensure exam. LBSWs are recognized for their specialized knowledge and skills to engage in generalist social work practice. They play a vital role in providing services that include case management, advocacy, counseling, and assistance with social and emotional problems.

LBSW Meaning

LBSW stands for Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker. The “Licensed” part of this title is crucial—it means that the social worker has been granted permission by a state authority to practice social work. The “Baccalaureate” signals that the individual has completed undergraduate-level education in social work. The term “Social Worker” denotes a professional dedicated to addressing social issues and helping individuals achieve an optimal level of psychosocial functioning.

The LBSW designation sets a clear distinction from other levels of social work licensure, such as the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). While all levels share the core values and commitment to social justice, the LBSW is typically focused on direct-service roles such as case management, whereas LMSWs and LCSWs may engage in clinical practice, including diagnosis and treatment of mental and behavioral disorders, often requiring additional education and clinical experience.

States that Offer an LBSW License

Not every state offers the Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) license, and requirements can vary significantly among those that do. If you’re interested in pursuing licensure as an LBSW, here is a breakdown of states that currently offer this credential, along with their specific education, supervised experience, and exam requirements.

States Offering an LBSW License:

• Alabama
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: Two years required (specific hours not specified)
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Alaska
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Arizona
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Delaware
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelors Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Hawaii
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Indiana
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Iowa
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Kansas
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Maryland
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Michigan
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: 4,000 hours
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• (Note: Michigan also offers a Limited Bachelor Social Worker license without an exam, requiring two years of supervised experience.)
  
• Missouri
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelors Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: 3,000 hours
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Montana
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: 2,000 hours
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• New Mexico
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• North Dakota
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Pennsylvania
  
  • License Name: Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• South Carolina
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Tennessee
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Texas
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: 3,000 hours
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam
• Virginia
  
  • License Name: Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
  • Education: Bachelor of Social Work
  • Supervised Experience: None specified
  • Exam: Bachelor’s-level ASWB Exam

Important Considerations

Since licensure requirements frequently change and differ by state, always confirm current information with your state’s licensing board or the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) website to ensure compliance.

The Path to Becoming a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker

The educational path to becoming a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) is foundational to entering the field of social work. It is a journey that begins with the pursuit of a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from an accredited institution. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits BSW programs, ensuring that the curriculum meets the professional standards necessary for licensure. After completing the degree, graduates must navigate through the licensure process, which typically involves passing a state-administered exam and completing a set number of supervised clinical hours.

What Is a Baccalaureate Social Work (BSW) Degree?

A Baccalaureate Social Work (BSW) degree is an undergraduate degree that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective social work practice. The curriculum includes courses in social work theory, methods of social research, social welfare policy, human behavior and the social environment, and field education. Field education, or fieldwork, is a critical component of the BSW program, where students apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced social workers. This practical experience is essential for preparing students for the professional challenges they will face and is a cornerstone of social work education, providing the bridge from theory to practice. 

The journey to an LBSW involves acquiring a foundational education, which can be achieved through a traditional bachelor’s in social work degree. The availability of online BSW programs provides flexibility for students who may need to balance other commitments alongside their education. 

What Does an LBSW Do?

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Workers (LBSWs) serve as frontline agents in the battle against social inequalities and personal hardships. They are generalist practitioners equipped to handle diverse client situations across multiple settings, from hospitals and social service agencies to schools and community centers. LBSWs provide essential support by assessing client needs, developing and implementing treatment or intervention plans, evaluating client progress, and ensuring clients have access to the services and resources necessary to enhance their well-being.

Key Responsibilities of an LBSW

• Assessment and Planning: Conduct initial client assessments, gather relevant information, and design comprehensive plans that address the identified needs and goals of clients.
• Case Management: Act as coordinators and advocates, connecting individuals and families with necessary resources and services, such as healthcare, housing assistance, employment support, and financial resources.
• Supportive Counseling: Provide emotional support and guidance through individual or group sessions to help clients manage and cope with challenging situations.
• Community Engagement: Work actively within communities to identify unmet needs, develop relevant programs, and raise awareness about available resources and services.
• Advocacy: Represent and advocate on behalf of clients, particularly those from vulnerable or marginalized groups, ensuring they have fair and equitable access to necessary services and support.

Macro vs. Direct Practice Social Work for LBSWs

LBSWs can engage in two broad types of social work practice: macro-level and direct practice. Both are critical to the profession and complement each other, allowing social workers to address social problems comprehensively.

Macro Social Work

Macro social work involves addressing systemic issues and advocating for policy changes, program development, and large-scale interventions designed to impact communities and populations broadly. LBSWs involved in macro practice might:

• Conduct community assessments to identify gaps in social services.
• Engage in advocacy efforts for policy reform or improved funding for social programs.
• Coordinate community outreach and education initiatives.
• Collaborate with policymakers, community leaders, and organizations to create or improve social programs.

Direct Practice Social Work

Direct practice social work is focused on direct interactions with individuals, families, or small groups. This form of practice involves one-on-one or group counseling, direct case management, and personalized support. LBSWs in direct practice settings may:

• Provide individual assessments, counseling, and crisis intervention.
• Facilitate support groups for specific populations (such as substance abuse recovery or grief counseling).
• Develop and implement individual client treatment plans, tracking and adjusting interventions based on progress.
• Coordinate referrals to healthcare providers, mental health specialists, or other support services.

Choosing Between Macro and Direct Practice

For LBSWs, the decision to pursue macro or direct practice social work is often influenced by personal interests, strengths, and career aspirations. Some LBSWs find fulfillment in directly witnessing client progress and providing hands-on support, while others prefer working at a broader level to influence systemic change and long-term community improvements. Many professionals integrate both types of practice within their roles, effectively bridging individual support and community empowerment.

LBSW Job Description

Licensed Baccalaureate Social Workers (LBSWs) handle diverse responsibilities centered around helping individuals overcome personal and social challenges.

Typical daily responsibilities include:

• Conducting client needs assessments
• Developing individualized service and intervention plans
• Responding effectively to crisis situations
• Maintaining accurate, detailed client records
• Monitoring client progress and adjusting service plans accordingly

Long-term duties often involve:

• Advocating for social policy changes
• Participating in community organizing efforts
• Developing or contributing to social welfare programs that address systemic issues

Common workplaces for LBSWs:

• Schools and educational institutions
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Mental health clinics
• Senior centers and long-term care facilities
• Social service and community agencies

LBSWs adapt their approaches based on the specific needs and circumstances of the populations they serve.

Requirements for Becoming an LBSW

To become a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker, there are a series of steps and requirements that need to be fulfilled. The process starts with educational preparation, typically a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from an accredited institution, followed by the successful completion of a state-recognized licensure examination. Additional training or supervised field experience may also be required depending on state regulations.

LBSW Degree Essentials

The core curriculum of a BSW program is designed to lay a solid foundation for aspiring social workers. It generally includes coursework in social welfare policy, human behavior, social work ethics, diversity and cultural competency, research methods, and assessment and intervention strategies. Electives may cover specialized topics like child welfare, substance abuse, or mental health. An accredited BSW program ensures that the education provided meets the standards set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), which is crucial for licensure eligibility.

State LBSW Requirements

Licensure requirements for LBSWs can vary significantly from state to state. While all states require a degree from a CSWE-accredited program and passing a licensing exam, some may have additional stipulations such as background checks, continuing education, or specific supervised clinical experience hours. It’s essential for candidates to check with their state’s social work licensing board to understand the precise requirements for licensure in their region.

Licensing Exam Overview

The LBSW licensing exam is a standardized test that evaluates a candidate’s readiness for entry-level social work practice. It covers topics such as assessment and intervention planning, human development, social work values and ethics, and the structure of social services. The exam is multiple-choice and designed to assess both knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge in practical scenarios.

Duration of LBSW Programs

The average duration of a BSW program is typically four years of full-time study. However, the length can vary based on several factors, such as the availability of advanced standing options for students with prior relevant education or experience, part-time versus full-time enrollment, and the requirements of the specific program. Some programs may offer accelerated tracks that allow students to complete their degree in a shorter time frame, while others may offer extended or part-time schedules to accommodate working students.

The Journey to LBSW Licensure

Embarking on the path to become a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) involves a structured sequence of steps:

• Complete a Bachelor’s Degree: Enroll in and graduate from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program.
• Accumulate Supervised Experience: Many states require a set number of supervised work hours in the field. This experience must typically be completed under the supervision of a licensed social worker.
• Apply for Licensure: Submit an application for licensure to the state social work board where you wish to practice, along with any required documentation and fees.
• Prepare for the Exam: Engage in study and preparation for the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Bachelor’s Level Examination, which may include coursework, practice tests, or study groups.
• Pass the Licensing Exam: Take and pass the ASWB Bachelor’s Level Examination.
• Fulfill Additional State Requirements: Complete any additional mandates specific to the state, which may include background checks or continuing education.
• Maintain Licensure: Keep your licensure active by fulfilling ongoing requirements, such as continuing education, and renewing your license according to state guidelines.

LBSW Salary and Job Outlook

The financial and career outlook for Licensed Baccalaureate Social Workers (LBSWs) is generally positive. Increased demand for health and social services, along with a growing societal emphasis on mental health and community support, ensures a stable job market and promising opportunities for advancement.

Average Salary for LBSWs

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for social workers was $58,380 in May 2023. The median wage represents the midpoint—half of workers in this occupation earned above this amount, and half earned below.

Salary range details (BLS, May 2023):

• Lowest 10% earned less than $38,400
• Highest 10% earned more than $94,910

LBSWs, being entry-level professionals holding a bachelor’s degree, typically start toward the lower end of this scale. However, earnings can significantly increase with experience, specialized certifications, additional education, or licensure.

Factors influencing salary:

• Geographic location and cost of living
• Employment setting (e.g., healthcare, schools, government, non-profit agencies)
• Professional experience and seniority
• Advanced credentials (e.g., certifications, MSW, LCSW)

Job Outlook for LBSWs

The job market for social workers is robust, with the BLS projecting 7% employment growth from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. Factors driving this increased demand include:

• Rising recognition of mental health services
• Growing need for healthcare and social support, especially among aging populations
• Expanding services in child welfare, family support, and educational settings
• Increased emphasis on community-based social support systems

Career Advancement Potential

While entry-level LBSWs typically earn lower starting salaries, there is substantial potential for career advancement. With continued experience, education, and specialized training, LBSWs can advance into supervisory roles, clinical practice (with further education), or policy and administrative positions. These paths offer opportunities for increased responsibility, professional growth, and higher salaries.

Timeline to Licensure

The timeline to complete all requirements for LBSW licensure typically spans about four years, which is the time needed to earn a BSW degree. Post-graduation, the timeline can vary depending on the number of supervised hours required by the state and the individual’s schedule. Preparing for and passing the licensing exam can add additional months to the timeline. Overall, most candidates can anticipate becoming an LBSW within four to five years after starting their BSW program.

Career Paths with an LBSW

A Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) has a diverse array of career paths and specializations available. With a focus on generalist social work practice, LBSWs are equipped to engage with communities, groups, families, and individuals to address issues such as poverty, discrimination, abuse, addiction, physical illness, divorce, unemployment, educational problems, disability, and mental illness. 

As for the LBSW’s role, it serves as a stepping stone for various advanced positions in social work. For instance, with further education and supervised clinical experience, an LBSW can pursue becoming a licensed clinical social worker, which allows for clinical practice including therapy and counseling.

Types of LBSW Careers and Specializations

Those with an LBSW can find roles in various sectors such as healthcare, mental health, child welfare, elderly care, substance abuse, and education. Each specialization offers unique opportunities to positively impact specific populations.

Child and Family Social Workers

Child and family social workers provide essential services to families navigating challenging situations like poverty, divorce, neglect, or parental absence.

Job duties include:

• Conducting family assessments and home visits
• Creating intervention and support plans
• Coordinating services such as childcare, counseling, and food assistance
• Monitoring child welfare and advocating for child protection

Median annual salary: $53,940 (BLS, 2023)

School Social Workers

School social workers support students’ social, emotional, and academic growth by addressing obstacles like bullying, family conflicts, mental health issues, and academic struggles.

Job duties include:

• Counseling students individually or in groups
• Collaborating with teachers and parents to create supportive plans
• Addressing truancy and behavioral challenges
• Referring students to community resources and external services

Median annual salary: $62,980 (BLS, 2023)—under educational services category

Healthcare Social Workers

Healthcare social workers assist patients and families coping with acute, chronic, or terminal illnesses by providing emotional support and facilitating access to healthcare services.

Job duties include:

• Helping patients understand diagnoses and healthcare options
• Coordinating patient discharge planning and follow-up care
• Providing crisis intervention and counseling
• Connecting patients with community healthcare resources

Median annual salary: $62,940 (BLS, 2023)

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers

These social workers help clients manage and overcome mental health conditions and substance abuse issues, facilitating recovery and stability.

Job duties include:

• Conducting assessments and developing treatment plans
• Providing counseling and support groups
• Referring clients to rehabilitation and treatment facilities
• Offering crisis intervention during emergencies

Median annual salary: $55,960 (BLS, 2023)

Community Social Workers

Community social workers address societal and systemic issues affecting populations at large, advocating for improved services and resources within communities.

Job duties include:

• Identifying community needs through research and engagement
• Developing and implementing community programs and initiatives
• Advocating for policy changes at local and state levels
• Facilitating resource allocation and community empowerment

Each of these paths allows LBSWs to leverage their skills in advocacy, resource management, and counseling to meaningfully support vulnerable individuals and communities.

The Decision to Become an LBSW

Choosing to become an LBSW is a decision that should be made after careful consideration of personal, professional, and financial factors. For those considering this path, it’s beneficial to explore the types of social work licenses available, which can help determine the direction of your social work career. It requires a commitment to social change, a willingness to work with diverse populations, and a long-term dedication to professional development. It is important for individuals to assess their interest in social work and their readiness to meet the challenges of the profession.

Is an LBSW Degree Worth It?

An LBSW degree opens the door to a profession that can be immensely fulfilling for those passionate about social justice and community welfare. It not only provides the qualifications required for entry-level positions in social work but also lays the groundwork for advanced education and specialization in the field. The return on investment for an LBSW degree goes beyond financial compensation; it includes the personal satisfaction of making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

LBSW Licensure Necessity in Social Work Careers

Licensure is a mandatory credential for social workers in most states, especially for those who wish to practice independently or hold clinical positions. It serves as a standard of professional practice, ensuring that social workers are competent and ethical in their practice. Licensure is often required for employment in many social service agencies and is essential for those who aim to advance their career, specialize in certain areas of practice, or pursue clinical social work roles.

LBSW Licensure Necessity in Social Work Careers

Licensure as an LBSW is not just a formal accolade; it’s a pivotal requirement for practicing social work in most states. It assures employers and clients alike of a practitioner’s qualifications and adherence to a code of ethics. In many cases, it’s a legal requirement for individuals to hold an LBSW license to qualify for positions within governmental agencies, healthcare settings, and private practices. Licensure is also a prerequisite for those who wish to pursue further specialization or advanced social work roles, ensuring that all professionals meet a consistent standard of knowledge and competency.

Difficulty of the LBSW Exam

The LBSW licensing exam can be daunting for many candidates. It’s comprehensive, designed to test not just the recall of factual knowledge but also the application of skills and principles in various scenarios. The breadth of material covered requires a deep understanding of social work ethics, interventions, client assessments, and the social welfare system. Many find the exam challenging because it not only assesses academic learning but also practical wisdom garnered from field experiences.

Preparing for the LBSW Exam

Effective preparation for the LBSW exam is key to success. Candidates should:

• Review the ASWB Exam Content Outline: Familiarize yourself with the domains of knowledge that will be covered on the exam.
• Study Systematically: Create a study schedule that covers all content areas, allowing more time for topics that are less familiar.
• Practice with Sample Tests: Use practice exams to understand the format of questions and to identify areas needing further review.
• Join Study Groups: Collaborate with peers to review material and discuss challenging concepts.
• Utilize Licensure Prep Courses: Consider enrolling in a review course specifically designed for the LBSW exam.
• Manage Stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities and ensure you are well-rested before the exam.

Costs Associated with LBSW Licensure

The costs for obtaining an LBSW licensure can vary widely by state and can include:

• Educational Expenses: Tuition and fees for completing a BSW program.
• Exam Fees: Payment for taking the ASWB Bachelor’s Level Examination.
• Application Fees: Costs associated with submitting your licensure application to the state board.
• Background Check Fees: Some states require a criminal background check for licensure.
• Renewal Fees: Periodic fees to maintain and renew your licensure.
• Continuing Education: Costs for courses or training required to fulfill continuing education units (CEUs) for licensure renewal.

Prospective LBSWs should budget for these expenses and look for financial aid, scholarships, or employer reimbursement programs that can help offset the costs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming an LBSW

What is an LBSW?

An LBSW, or Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker, is a professional who has earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, completed state-mandated supervised field experience, and passed a licensure exam.

Wait, I’m still confused. What’s the difference between an LBSW and an MSW? What about LBSW vs. LCSW?

• LBSW (Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker): A professional who has earned a bachelor’s degree (BSW) and passed a state licensing exam. LBSWs typically perform entry-level social work roles such as case management and community advocacy.
• MSW (Master of Social Work): A graduate-level academic degree offering advanced education and specialized training. MSW holders can pursue broader career paths, including clinical practice and higher-level administrative roles.
• LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker): A professional license that requires an MSW, supervised clinical experience (usually two to three years), and passing a clinical licensing exam. LCSWs provide independent clinical services, such as therapy, counseling, and diagnosing mental health disorders.
  

In short, the MSW is an advanced academic degree, while LBSW and LCSW are licensure designations. Earning an MSW is a prerequisite to becoming an LCSW.

Why is licensure important in social work?

Licensure confirms that a social worker has met rigorous education and training standards, ensuring that they are qualified to provide social work services ethically and competently.

What can I do with an LBSW?

With an LBSW, you can engage in generalist social work, which includes case management, advocacy, and connecting individuals with community resources. Employment settings vary from healthcare facilities and schools to social service agencies.

How long does it take to become an LBSW?

Typically, it takes four years to complete a BSW program. Additional time may be needed to complete supervised work hours and prepare for the licensure exam.

Is the LBSW licensing exam difficult?

The LBSW exam is comprehensive and designed to assess a candidate’s knowledge and ability to apply social work principles. It can be challenging but with thorough preparation, candidates can successfully pass the exam.

How should I prepare for the LBSW exam?

Preparation strategies include studying the ASWB exam content outline, practicing with sample tests, joining study groups, and possibly enrolling in prep courses. Managing stress and ensuring adequate rest before the exam are also crucial.

What are the costs associated with LBSW licensure?

Costs include tuition for a BSW program, fees for the licensure exam, application, background checks, licensure renewal, and continuing education. These costs can vary based on location and specific state requirements.

Can I specialize with an LBSW?

Yes, LBSWs can specialize in areas such as child welfare, school social work, healthcare, substance abuse, and mental health, often by gaining experience and additional training or certifications in their field of interest.

What is the job outlook for LBSWs?

The job outlook for social workers, including LBSWs, is positive. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations due to increased demand for social services.

How much does an LBSW typically earn?

As of May 2022, the median annual wage for social workers was $55,350, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Entry-level LBSWs often start on the lower end of the scale, however.

Do I need an LBSW to work in social work?

In many states, an LBSW is required to practice social work, particularly in roles that involve direct client services. It’s essential to check the specific licensure requirements of the state where you intend to practice.