LBSW – Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker Guide

Social workers are integral to our communities, helping people from diverse backgrounds realize their full potential. While social workers may be required to hold a master’s degree for certain positions, in a number of states, you can obtain certain social work licenses with a bachelor’s degree alone.

Licensed baccalaureate social workers (LBSWs) help carry out the policies and programs created by leaders in the field. Becoming an LBSW may allow you to gain valuable work experience and field exposure without having to make the hefty time and financial commitment required for graduate school. Read on to learn more about becoming an LBSW.  

States That Offer an LBSW License

Social work regulation varies by state, and not every state uses the title “LBSW.” Some states license bachelor-level social workers as LBSWs, while others use different titles (such as LSW, RBSW, LSWA, or similar). As of February 2026, the following states regulate a bachelor-level social work credential: 

States that generally do not offer a bachelor-level social work license include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington, so applicants in those states may need to pursue a master’s pathway for licensure. 

Should I obtain an LBSW license?

A career in social work presents unique challenges but can also be rewarding. Social workers can have a profound impact by applying their skills and expertise to help clients navigate life’s challenges. An LBSW license allows early-career social workers to practice in a limited capacity. Unlike advanced professionals, LBSWs typically do not provide independent clinical services and may be supervised upon entering the field. In Alabama, for instance, LBSWs must be supervised by a licensed master social worker (LMSW) or a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) for 24 months, with a minimum of 4 hours per month. All of this being said, keep in mind that requirements vary by state, so make sure to check your state’s website for the most up-to-date information on licensure.

Path to Becoming a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)

As an LBSW, you can gain a wealth of experience in social work and gather skills to launch your career. While requirements for LBSW licensure may differ by state, there is a general pathway to becoming an LBSW.  If you’re interested in attaining an LBSW license, the following steps may help you begin your journey as a social worker:

  • Earn a bachelor’s degree. Earning a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is one of the types of social work degrees you can earn and the first step in becoming a licensed baccalaureate social worker. Look for a CSWE-accredited BSW program to ensure it meets state requirements. Upon completion of the program, ask your university to send your official transcript to the state office that oversees licensure.
  • Submit an application. Next, fill out your state’s paper or online LBSW application. Note that license applications generally come with a small fee, and you may be required to complete a background check.
  • Pass the ASWB exam. A key step in achieving your license is passing the National Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam. Some states prefer that you take the exam before applying for licensure, but most will notify you to register for the exam once your application has been approved. 
  • Pass a jurisprudence exam. Some states require that you pass a jurisprudence exam in addition to the ASWB exam. A jurisprudence exam tests your knowledge of your state’s social work laws and regulations. Topics might include scope of practice, license renewal requirements, or ethical conduct. 

If you’re interested in advancing your education beyond the bachelor’s-level, you can look into a master’s in social work degree program. There are a wide variety of accredited programs that fit the needs of aspiring social workers, including full-time and part-time options. You can even earn your master’s in social work online, which may allow you to balance work and family commitments with your studies. Upon completing a graduate-level program, you may be able to apply to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed master social worker (LMSW). 

Sponsored Online MSW Programs

University of Denver

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The University of Denver’s Online MSW Program is delivered by its top-ranked school of social work and offers two programs. Students can earn their degree in as few as 12 months for the Online Advanced-Standing MSW or 27 months for the Online MSW.

  • Complete the Online Advanced-Standing MSW in as few as 12 months if you have a BSW; if you do not have a BSW, the Online MSW Program may be completed in as few as 27 months.
  • No GRE Required
  • Customizable pathway options include Mental Health and Trauma or Health, Equity and Wellness concentrations

Syracuse University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Syracuse University’s online Master of Social Work program does not require GRE scores to apply and is focused on preparing social workers who embrace technology as an important part of the future of the profession. Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks are available.

  • Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
  • No GRE required
  • Concentrate your degree in integrated practice or clinical practice

Simmons University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Aspiring direct practitioners can earn their MSW online from Simmons University in as few as 9 months. GRE scores are not required, and the program offers full-time, part-time, accelerated, and advanced standing tracks.

  • Prepares students to pursue licensure, including LCSW 
  • Full-time, part-time, and accelerated tracks 
  • Minimum completion time: 9 months

Howard University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The online Master of Social Work program from Howard University School of Social Work prepares students for advanced direct or macro practice in culturally diverse communities. Two concentrations available: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice. No GRE. Complete in as few as 12 months.

  • Concentrations: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice
  • Complete at least 777-1,000 hours of agency-based field education
  • Earn your degree in as few as 12 months

Hawaii Pacific University

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Master of Social Work

The online Master of Social Work prepares aspiring social work leaders to develop a multicultural social work practice, advocate for social and economic justice, and empower diverse communities affected by systemic inequities within civilian and military-focused areas. 

  • Learn how to develop a multicultural social work practice.  
  • Pending accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
  • Complete in 18 months full time, or in 36 months part time on the traditional track.
  • Complete in 12 months full time or 24 months part time on the Advanced Standing Track. 

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Factors to Consider When Obtaining a LBSW License

Obtaining an LBSW may seem confusing because requirements vary by state. The following information covers some main factors to consider as you seek licensure as an LBSW.

Educational Requirements

Before becoming an LBSW, you need to complete a BSW program at a CSWE-accredited university. While undergraduate students may attend school full-time on campus, an increasing number of online programs offer evening and weekend classes for nontraditional, part-time students. To learn more about available options, you can check out the CSWE’s Directory of Accredited Programs

Skills

Earning an LBSW license may be the springboard for a career in social work. Once you obtain a license and enter the field, you may find yourself managing cases, interviewing clients, monitoring their progress, coordinating services, and informing the community about available services and resources.  In most jurisdictions, bachelor-level social workers generally practice in a more limited scope than master’s-level clinicians and may work under supervision, so it’s important to confirm your state’s scope-of-practice rules before accepting a role or job title.

Career Opportunities for LBSWs

Becoming a social worker may open a range of professional opportunities. Like health care professionals, social workers are needed in nearly every area of the country. For that reason, a career in social work can involve a number of different settings and client populations. 

While LBSWs may find that some jobs in the field require a master’s degree, particularly in the clinical realm, there are still opportunities for those with an undergraduate education. These opportunities involve developing and improving programs, services, and social policies, often referred to as macro social work.

LBSWs can find work in hospitals, government agencies, and nonprofits, helping clients and their families navigate challenges while also advocating on their behalf. Other roles LBSWs may occupy include habilitation specialists, mental health assistants, and activity directors in rehabilitation centers, schools, and shelters.             

Salary Expectations for LBSWs

In the United States, social work skills are highly sought after. Between 2024 and 2034, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates a 6% growth in social work job opportunities, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. 

Earning potential for this growing group of professionals can differ vastly based on geographic area, employer, and specialty. Salaries also vary by education level, so LBSWs might earn less than those with a graduate social work degree. 

According to 2024 BLS data, the median annual wage for social workers is $61,330.

Licensure Fee and Renewal

Like most social work licenses, the LBSW licensure comes with an initial fee. Application fees vary by state, so always confirm current costs with your state licensing board. Renewal fees and requirements vary by state, but the process typically includes continuing education credits. 

FAQs

Curious about becoming a licensed baccalaureate social worker? Check out the following questions and answers for more information. 

What is an LBSW?

A licensed baccalaureate social worker (LBSW) is a social worker with a bachelor’s degree in social work and a state license to practice. LBSWs have a general scope of practice, as opposed to graduate-level social workers who are authorized to treat patients in a clinical setting. However, not all states offer the LBSW licensure, so check with your local government to determine whether it’s offered near you.  

How long does it take to obtain a LBSW?

An LBSW is a viable option for those who are entering the field of social work as it requires only an undergraduate degree. Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs typically last four years, but accelerated online programs are also available for those aiming to graduate in less time. After completing your bachelor’s degree, you will need to apply for a license with your state’s social work board and pass the ASWB exam.  

What’s the difference between a LBSW vs LCSW?

LBSWs practice on a general level, helping community organizations and policymakers implement programs and services. Meanwhile, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) license may offer social workers greater autonomy, authorizing them to provide therapy to individuals, groups, couples, and families. In order to become a LCSW, you must complete a graduate program in social work. 

Information on this page was last retrieved and updated in February 2026