Why Licensure and Certification Matter
Licensure and certification help protect the public, establish professional standards, and expand your career opportunities as a social worker. Being licensed or certified may be required to practice, use the title “social worker,” obtain employment, bill insurance, or work in certain settings such as schools, healthcare systems, and behavioral health agencies. For UConn School of Social Work students and graduates, understanding these pathways can help you plan your education, supervision, and career goals.
There are two levels of licensure in Connecticut – the LMSW, which you are eligible for after completing your MSW degree, and the LCSW. At this time, to become an LMSW, you must pass the Association of Social Work Boards master’s level exam and complete the licensing application through the CT Department of Public Health. The second level of licensure is the LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker). To become an LCSW in Connecticut, you must pass the Association of Social Work Boards clinical level exam in addition to having a qualifying MSW and completing required supervised clinical experience (3,000 hours including 100 supervision hours). This occurs post-graduate.
General Licensing Info
Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH): Master-Level Social Worker Licensure
The CT DPH Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) credential is required for many professional social work positions in Connecticut. This license requires you have earned an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program, such as the UConn School of Social Work. The LMSW is often a prerequisite for clinical supervision and advancement toward clinical licensure.
Connecticut State Department of Education (SDE) Certification
SDE certification is required for social workers who wish to practice in school settings in Connecticut. This certification is required to work as a school social worker and supports practice focused on children, families, and educational systems.
National Association of Social Workers – Connecticut Chapter (NASW-CT): Licensing Guidance
NASW-CT provides up-to-date information and guidance on social work licensure and professional standards in Connecticut. While NASW does not issue licenses, it helps students and professionals understand licensure requirements and offers ethical guidance, advocacy, and continuing education. NASW-CT serves as a trusted resource for navigating career and practice questions.
For students seeking licensure outside of Connecticut, please visit your state social work licensing board. Learn more about each state's licensing requirements.
Exam Preparation Tools
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Examination
The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam is a national licensing exam used by most states, including Connecticut. Passing the appropriate ASWB exam is required for DPH licensure at the master’s and clinical levels.
ASWB Examination Guidebook and Online Practice Test
The ASWB Examination Guidebook contains information on the steps for taking the exam, what to expect on exam day, exam creation, and question structure. With questions previously used on the licensing exams, the online practice test is a valuable tool for preparing to take your exam.
Agents of Change (Mobile App)
Agents of Change provides over 30 hours of audio and visual content and includes hundreds of mock practice questions and structured study plans aligned with the ASWB content outline.
Pocket Prep (Mobile App)
Pocket Prep offers practice questions written by industry pros and are based on the latest exam outlines available.
NOTE: The UConn School of Social Work will provide exam preparation workshops for all 2026 graduates. Check your UConn email for important registration information.
Upcoming Events
Dawn Brown from the Connecticut Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW-CT) and Lori DePalma and Stephen Carragher from the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) will give the presentation.