Requirements by License Type:
LICSW = 30 Credits LSW = 15 Credits
LCSW = 20 Credits LSWA=10 Credits
Approved Courses:
All continuing education must be approved by a recognized entity. A continuing education course or program shall be approved by a recognized entity if:
- The course or program is presented or conducted by a CSWE-accredited social work degree program,
- approved by ASWB as an Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program; or
- approved for continuing education credit by a governmental agency in any other state or province, of the United States or Canada which is responsible for the licensure, certification or registration of social workers;
- approved by the National Association of Social Workers or a chapter of the National Association of Social Workers; approved by or the National Association of Black Social Workers or by a state chapter of the National Association of Black Social Workers;
- approved by Another US or Canadian Social Work Licensing Entity
The following sister professions may approve up to 25% of your CEUs as long as it contributes to your professional competence:
- American Psychological Association (APA)
- National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)
- Board of Nursing Home Administrator’s (NHA)
- American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
- Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education
Other Ways to Obtain CEUs:
Licensees may obtain credit for completing an individual continuing education activity:
- If it pertains to their professional growth and practice AND
- Is a lecture, an oral presentation at a course or conference, publication of a book, publication of an article in a recognized professional journal, completion of research for such a presentation or publication AND
- Application for this activity is made to the Board for approval at least 60 days prior to the expiration of their licensure period.
No more than 50% of required CEUs for the license cycle can be earned by completing an individual continuing education activity.
Exemptions from CEUs:
If you are employed as a social worker of a state, county or municipality, AND you have worked exclusively in this role for the entire renewal cycle, you are exempt from completing CEUs. If you only held the job for part of the renewal cycle, OR, if you work as a social worker in addition to this job, OR you are not functioning as a social worker in your position, you are NOT exempt from completing the CEUs.
Please be advised that there is no CE exemption for retired or unemployed social workers.
Extension of Time for Completing CEUs:
The Board may grant an extension of time to complete the CEUs for those who demonstrate extenuating circumstances or an undue hardship due to unforeseen circumstances. You may submit a request in writing to the Board PRIOR to renewing your license. Please submit your request in writing with appropriate documentation (i.e. medical notes). If you attempt to renew your license stating that you have not completed your CEUs, your license will not be renewed unless an extension has been requested and granted. The burden of proof to demonstrate extenuating circumstances is on the licensee.
Additional information:
- Professional Development Points (PDPs) gained through Professional Development Programs provided by a school system will not be accepted.
- The Board conducts random continuing education audits. For this reason, Social Workers should retain their continuing education certificates for a minimum of 2 renewal cycles (4 years). Failure to demonstrate completion of the requisite continuing education will result in discipline on the license. Please be advised that discipline incurred on the license will forever be associated with the license.
- CEs may be obtained in-person and/or online. At this time, there is no limit to the number which may be obtained online.