MAKE A DIFFERENCE AS A TEXAS SOCIAL WORKER
Help Transform Lives and Communities Throughout the Lone Star State Resources
The minimum education requirement to work as a social worker in Texas is a bachelor’s degree (BSW), though many positions require a master’s degree (MSW). Texas state licensure through the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners is necessary to practice in the state of Texas.
Social work is a profession dedicated to enhancing human well-being and helping meet basic human needs, with particular attention to vulnerable, oppressed, and impoverished populations. Texas social workers practice in diverse settings, employing specialized knowledge and skills to address complex social problems.
The social work profession in Texas is projected to grow by 15 percent over the next decade, exceeding national averages and creating substantial career opportunities throughout the state. Texas offers competitive salaries with particularly strong demand.
Serve Texans with a Social Work Degree
There are different levels of social work degrees, from bachelor’s through a Ph.D. To work as a licensed social worker in Texas, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW), though many advanced positions require a master’s degree (MSW). Everyone must start somewhere. If you are just beginning your educational journey, you will want to read our guides on associate and bachelor’s degrees in social work. If you are further along, then a master’s in social work may be your next step. You can become a social worker even if you hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, but you may have additional requirements.
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
The undergraduate degree for a career in social work is a Bachelor of Social Work. A BSW qualifies you for entry-level positions and is required for licensure as a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) in Texas. Most bachelor’s programs are 120 credit hours, and some can be completed online at Texas universities.
Master of Social Work (MSW)
A master’s degree in social work qualifies you for advanced practice and clinical roles in Texas. Whether you want to work in healthcare, child welfare, mental health, or with aging populations, an MSW opens doors to becoming a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Texas after completing required supervised experience.
Ph.D. in Social Work
If you are focused on research, policy development, or academic teaching in social work, you may be interested in a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). People with a Ph.D. in Social Work often work in Texas universities, research institutions, or in leadership roles at major social service organizations.
Associate Degree in Human Services
An Associate Degree in Human Services is a great stepping-stone to further your education in the social work field. While you cannot work as a licensed social worker with this degree, you can start your education and become employed in support roles within Texas social service agencies while you further your education.
DSW (Doctor of Social Work)
Another path for doctorate education is the Doctor of Social Work (DSW). The DSW is for social workers interested in advanced clinical practice or leadership positions in Texas agencies. This practice-focused doctorate typically requires an MSW and professional experience. Graduates with a DSW often lead major social service organizations, or serve as clinical supervisors training social workers.
Related Advanced Degrees
Texas social workers might also pursue related advanced degrees such as an MPA (Master of Public Administration) or MPH (Master of Public Health) to enhance their practice in specialized areas like healthcare administration or public health social work.
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What Can You Do With a Social Work Degree in Texas?
Choosing a Specialization
As you begin your journey to becoming a Texas social worker, you may already know exactly what area you want to work in, or you may still need to choose a specialization. Depending on how far along you are in deciding, you can choose a degree program that fits. If you are unsure, you can choose a program with broader curriculum – that way, you can learn about the different areas of social work and decide on a specialization later. Or, if you are certain of your path, you can choose a specific focus, like Child Protective Services or Healthcare Social Work, to specialize early on. To help, we’ve created guides about the different types of social work positions in Texas to help you narrow down a specialization.
Scholarships and funding
Since advanced education is often required for social work careers in Texas, this path may feel financially challenging. However, numerous scholarships are available specifically for Texas social work students, and there are also public and private financial aid programs that can help you achieve your dream. Other options to consider include tuition assistance from Texas employers or loan forgiveness programs for social workers who commit to serving in high-need areas of the state. We’ve provided a list of Texas social work scholarships for you to explore on your way to a rewarding career serving Texans.