state of wisconsin social work continuing education requirements

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Continuing Education for Wisconsin Social Workers

Attention : Several states and disciplines have relaxed requirements regarding live / in person Continuing Education due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please check with your board to see the most current requirements.

CE requirements for social workers, advanced practice social workers, independent social workers, and clinical social workers in Wisconsin:

• Thirty (30) credit hours of continuing education (CE) every 2 years
• Must include four (4) credit hours of ethics and professional boundaries related to social work
• Board accepts online courses, but social workers must complete their ethics and professional boundaries CE hours in an interactive learning format.
• Renewal date: February 28, odd years

CE Approvals

At Health, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6949. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. At Health, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

At Health, LLC is approved as a continuing education provider by the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) Provider #148460.

At Health, LLC, Provider #1707, is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved as ACE providers. State and provincial regulatory boards have the final authority to determine whether an individual course may be accepted for continuing education credit. At Health, LLC, maintains responsibility for this course. ACE provider approval period: 5/3/2023-5/3/2026.

Wisconsin social workers can earn twenty-six (26) of their credits online through athealth.com.

View the course catalog

State laws can change. Practitioners are responsible for determining their state’s licensure requirements. To view the Wisconsin continuing education regulations, click the button below.

CE Requirements for Wisconsin Social Workers

Page last modified or reviewed by athealth.com on Aug 1, 2023 .

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Social Work Certification/Licensure

The current certification/licensure period lasts from March 1, 2023, until February 28, 2025. A minimum of 30 hours of continuing education including four hours of social work boundaries and ethics must be completed by February 28, 2023.

NASW-WI offers many options to earn continuing education hours including our  Annual Conference , Ethics and Boundaries workshops, and Branch Conferences and workshops.  Additionally, NASW-WI offers a variety of  Online Learning  opportunities.

For more information on the new continuing education requirements effective March 1, 2015, go to the NASW-WI website, ( https://naswwi.socialworkers.org/Portals/51/pdf/Continuing-Education-rule-CR-13-117.pdf ) 

For more information on social work certification and licensure go to  www.dsps.wi.gov . You can also go to the  Questions and Answers about licensure  and certification on the NASW-WI website. 

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Wisconsin Social Work Continuing Education

Welcome wisconsin social workers.

Free State Social Work is approved as a continuing education provider by the  Association of Social Work Boards Approved Continuing Education Program  (provider #1235) and the  National Board for Certified Counselors  (provider #6605).  We are also approved by the  Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board  (provider 10-001) and the  Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and Mental Health Counseling  (CE Provider # 50-13565).

Does the Wisconsin Board accept courses from ASWB-approved continuing education providers?

How many hours can i earn with on-line ce courses.

All hours other than ethics can now be taken online through an ASWB-approved provider.  The hours should relate to the certificate holder’s area of practice.  Ethics courses must be completed in an interactive learning format (which we are not).

How Can I Get Started?

All of our courses are $5.99 per credit hour.  We also offer an unlimited package. One year of unlimited courses is $74.99 and two years of unlimited courses are $124.99 .   Click here for more information about how to get started  or you can  browse our complete course catalog .

Where Can I Review Wisconsin Social Work Continuing Education Requirements?

You can review Wisconsin social work continuing education requirements at https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/BoardsCouncils/MPSW/SW/Default.aspx .

You can also contact the board at:
 Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Counseling and Social Worker Examining Board / Department of Regulation and Licensing  PO Box 8935 Madison, WI 53708-8935; 608-266-2112; [email protected].

Please remember that we have done our best to research your state’s licensing guidelines. Licensing regulations can change frequently including guidelines about how many hours you can earn on-line. Most jurisdictions require a certain number of hours in ethics and other areas of practice. The final authority for approving any continuing education activity rests with your state board. Even those states that endorse the ACE program may have exceptions in terms of the courses that they will accept. It is ultimately your responsibility to understand the licensing regulations in your state.

Does Free State Social Work offer Wisconsin Social Work CEUs? Trainings? Contact Hours? Credit Hours?

Different jurisdictions have different definitions.  For some jurisdictions, the term CEU consists of ten credit hours.  At Free State Social Work, we offer continuing education credit hours and we estimate that each credit hour will require one hour of reading.

At Free State Social Work, we offer great online continuing education for social workers, counselors, and therapists.

All of our courses are $5.99 per credit hour. Please browse our complete course catalog or use the category links below.

We also offer an unlimited package! One year of unlimited courses is $74.99 and two years are $124.99. Our unlimited packages do not require you to agree to an ongoing subscription or automatic renewals. Click here for more details about our unlimited packages .

If you would like to sample one of our courses, you can try a free course here .

Browse Courses By Category

• Anti-Racism, Anti-Discrimination
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• Domestic Violence
• End of Life
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•       New Jersey Approved

Managing Ethics and Boundaries with a Clinical Lens

• All upcoming dates
• November 08, 2024

Upcoming dates (1)

Class opens in Canvas on November 1 2 weeks; November 8–November 18 Canvas closes on November 30

Register through: November 05, 2024

All times shown in central time.

Group-paced Learn more about class formats.

Cancellation Policy

• Cancel three full business days before the class starts and receive a full refund minus a $25 administrative fee.
• Cancel less than three business days beforehand, or do not participate, you remain responsible for the entire fee.

This class meets Wisconsin requirements for ethics and professional boundaries continuing education for licensure renewal and is designed for social workers, counselors, therapists, psychologists, and other helping professionals.

This 4-hour group-paced online Canvas course is about the management of professional ethics and boundaries can be challenging in clinical work especially as we have become more dependent on the use of technology. This course will address the unique issues encountered during the provision of clinical services and will discuss best practice approaches to these challenges. There will be captured lecture content, course readings and weekly discussion posts with the opportunity to interact both with peers and the instructor. You will have the opportunity to participate within the flexibility of an online classroom, while still interacting with colleagues within the professions of social work, psychologists, licensed professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, and other behavioral health professions. This is an opportunity to consider the range of ethical mandates across many disciplines. This course was developed by Jeanne Wagner.

Instructor to be announced July 2024.

Learning objectives

At the end of this class, participants will be able to:

• Discuss the scope and causes of the mental health crisis in the US and better understand the need for competent and ethical mental health practitioners
• Identify the array of ethical challenges with the use of technology and social media in clinical practice
• Identify the range of ethical dilemmas and professional boundaries in clinical practice
• Learn models for the ethical decision-making process
• Increase awareness of the complicated nature of professional boundaries
• Learn about the ethics of cultural competency in an ever-changing multicultural society
• Identify risks that may affect professional liability
• Identify what policies, procedures and protocols are recommended to address ethics in a variety of contexts
• Learn how to use the NASW Code of Ethics, and an ethical decision-making process to problem-solve a variety of ethical dilemmas through group discussion

Beginner to Intermediate

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Earn Continuing Education Hours

By participating in this class you will earn:

Explanation of Continuing Education Hours

Subject Area:

Ethics and Boundaries

More Ethics and Boundaries Offerings

• Ethics and Boundaries: Legal Issues Part II and the Internet More
• Advanced Ethics and Boundaries More
• The Changing World of Professional Ethics and Boundaries in a World of Artificial Intelligence, Managed Care, and Workforce Shortages More
• Ethics and Boundaries: Addressing the Implicit Power Imbalance More
• Managing Ethics and Boundaries with a Clinical Lens More
• Wellness: An Ethical Responsibility for Mental Health Care Providers More
• View All Ethics and Boundaries Offerings

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Program Questions?

Contact Katie Holt at [email protected]

Registration Questions?

Email  [email protected] or call 608-262-2451.

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Home / Social Work Licensure / Become a Social Worker in Wisconsin

Become a Social Worker in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is the birthplace of Harley-Davidson and home of Noah’s Ark Family Park, one of the largest water parks in the United States. You may know Wisconsin for these iconic landmarks, but the state is also home to 11,800 social workers making an average salary of $52,935 a year. 

This career guide for how to become a social worker in Wisconsin explains educational requirements, how to get licensed, Wisconsin social work organizations to join and more. Once you complete the steps to become a Wisconsin social worker, you can embark on a meaningful, fulfilling career helping others.

Information below was retrieved May 2022 and is only meant to be a high-level overview. Requirements may change, always check with the state licensing board for complete and up to date information

Sponsored online social work programs

University of Denver

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

Fordham University

Fordham’s skills-based, online MSW program integrates advanced relevant social work competencies, preparing students to serve individuals and communities while moving the profession forward. This program includes advanced standing and traditional MSW options.

•  Traditional and advanced standing online MSW options are available.
• There are four areas of focus: Individuals and Families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy.
• Pursue the degree on a full-time or part-time track.

Hawaii Pacific University

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. 

Simmons University

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

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

Syracuse University

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

Case Western Reserve University

In as few as a year and a half, you can prepare for social work leadership by earning your Master of Social Work online from Case Western Reserve University’s school of social work.

• CSWE-accredited
• No GRE requirement
• Complete in as few as one and a half years

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Common steps to Become a Wisconsin Social Worker

Wondering how to become a social worker in Wisconsin? Education, field experience and licensure can help you achieve your social worker career goals. To become a licensed social worker in Wisconsin and advance your career, follow these steps, summarized by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).

Steps to Becoming a Certified Social Worker

Being a certified social worker in Wisconsin requires an accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree or higher. This license is intended for entry-level positions in social work.

1. Complete the application

This application, provided by the DSPS, is required for all social work licensure applications. It includes a fee of $150 for those seeking initial credential and requires certification of education and completion of the Wisconsin Statutes and Rules Examination. If you are licensed in another state, you should also include letters from the applicable state licensing board, and the fee is $135. If there are any existing or pending convictions, as well as malpractice suits, additional paperwork forms must be completed along with the licensure application.

2. Pass the ASWB exam

If looking to become a certified social worker, you are required to complete the basic or bachelor’s examination offered by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) . The registration fee is $230.

3. Receive your license

Once you have completed the previous steps, you will receive your certification as a social worker in Wisconsin. 

Steps to Become an Advanced Practice Social Worker (APSW)

If you are looking to become an APSW in Wisconsin, you must have completed an accredited degree program for a Master of Social Work (MSW) or a Doctor of Social Work (DSW).

Much like the application for a certified social worker, application for APSW licensure includes a initial credential, certification of education and completion of the Wisconsin Statutes and Rules Examination. If you are licensed in another state, you should also include letters from the applicable state licensing board, and the fee is $135. If there are any existing or pending convictions, as well as malpractice suits, additional paperwork forms must be completed along with the licensure application.

If looking to become an APSW, you are required to complete the intermediate or master’s examination offered by the ASWB. The registration fee is $230.

Once you have completed the previous steps, you will receive your license as an APSW in Wisconsin. 

Steps to Become an Independent Social Worker (ISW)

If you are looking to become an ISW, you must have completed an accredited MSW degree or higher. 

1. Complete clinical social work experience

You need at least 3,000 hours of supervised social work practice in order to apply for this license in Wisconsin.

2. Complete the application

The application process for ISW is the same as for previous licenses. However, in addition to providing the required documentation, you must also provide verification of supervised clinical hours in social work. If you are licensed in another state, you should also include letters from the applicable state licensing board, and the fee is $135. Additional forms are required if you have any existing or pending convictions, as well as malpractice suits.

3. Pass the ASWB exam

If looking to become an ISW, you are required to complete the advanced generalist examination offered by the ASWB. The registration fee is $260.

4. Receive your license

Once you have completed the previous steps, you will receive your license as an ISW in Wisconsin. 

Steps to Become a Clinical Social Worker (CSW)

Pursuing a CSW license in Wisconsin means you need to earn either an MSW or DSW with a concentration in clinical social work. This means you completed at least one course in psychopathology in social work and two theory and practice courses such as psychopharmacology, case management or clinical assessment.

You need at least 3,000 hours of supervised social work practice in order to apply for this license in Wisconsin, including at least 1,000 hours of face-to-face experience.

The application process for a CSW requires the same documentation as with an ISW. Official transcripts should also be included. If you are licensed in another state, you should also include letters from the applicable state licensing board, and the fee is $135. Additional forms are required if you have any existing or pending convictions, as well as malpractice suits.

If looking to become a CSW, you are required to complete the clinical ASWB examination. 

Once you have completed the previous steps, you will receive your license as a CSW in Wisconsin.

Learn more about how to become a social worker .

Social Work Degree Programs in Wisconsin

There are 15 accredited bachelor’s degree programs in Wisconsin. A bachelor’s degree in social work can enable a student to enter an advanced standing program in an MSW program , where you may be able to complete an MSW in around one year. A BSW also prepares students for entry-level social work positions, such as caseworkers or mental health assistants. A minimum of a bachelor’s in social work is needed in order to become a social worker in Wisconsin.

An MSW is required for most licenses offered in Wisconsin. There are five fully accredited MSW programs in the state. Some social workers pursue a doctorate in social work, which may open pathways to leadership roles and social work research. 

Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, Master of Social Work degree programs offer a variety of concentration options. There are full-time, part-time and advanced standing MSW programs available as well, so you can find a tailored program that best suits your needs.

Online MSW Programs in Wisconsin

Unfortunately, there are no CSWE-accredited online MSW programs offered by schools based in Wisconsin. That being said, aspiring social workers in Wisconsin may nevertheless be able to attend online MSW programs offered by schools in other states, depending on their specific admissions requirements.

Learn more about advanced standing online Master of Social Work programs , online MSW programs for aspiring Clinical Social Workers and online Master of Social Work Programs . 

Social Work Salaries for Wisconsin

Information on the above social work salaries in Wisconsin was retrieved from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2021 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates – Wisconsin in May 2022.

Learn more about social work salaries .

Wisconsin Social Work Scholarships

If you’re interested in attending a social work degree program in Wisconsin, there are social work scholarships that can help you pay for school. Be sure to check with your preferred university for other available financial aid options.

• Social Work Healthcare Education and Leadership Scholars
• Sandra Rosenbaum School of Social Work scholarships
• Helen Bader School of Social Welfare scholarships 

Wisconsin Social Work Organizations

Social workers in Wisconsin can connect with a variety of social work organizations. These groups provide networking opportunities, news and research about social work in the state, and job listings. If you are pursuing a degree in social work, your university may also offer social work organizations for students.

• National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Wisconsin Chapter : Founded in 1955, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) works to enhance the development of its members. The Wisconcin chapter supports social workers in strengthening their relationships with the people of Wisconsin through the promotion of quality practice.
• Wisconsin School Social Workers Association (WSSWA) : This organization promotes the development of school-aged children and their families through social work practice. They also help promote legislation that ensures the health and well-being of children and the quality of the social work profession.

Does Wisconsin have social work reciprocity?

According to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services , Wisconsin does have licensure by reciprocity, which allows social workers to apply for a license in Wisconsin based on an active license in another state.

What are the social work continuing education (CE) requirements in Wisconsin?

According to the Wisconsin DSPS , the social work continuing education (CE) requirements in Wisconsin are 30 hours of CE in the first full two-year period after licensure. Four of those 30 hours must be in ethics and professional boundaries. These requirements do not apply to the first license renewal.

Learn more about continuing education for social workers .

What is the best way to look up my social work license in Wisconsin?

Look up your social work license in Wisconsin through the DSPS Credential/License Search . Users must enter their last name, first name, credential/license number and profession.

Last updated March 2022.

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Wisconsin counselors/therapists ce requirements, accreditations & approvals, external link, this link leads outside of the netce site to:.

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Wisconsin Counselors / Therapists

As a Jointly Accredited Organization, NetCE is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved under this program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit.

Designated courses have been approved by NetCE, as a NAADAC Approved Education Provider, for educational credits, NAADAC Provider #97847. NetCE is responsible for all aspects of their programming. Please refer to individual course details for approval information.

The Wisconsin Marriage & Family Therapy, Professional Counseling, and Social Work Examining Board accepts courses from any provider who is APA, NBCC, ASWB, and/or NAADAC approved.

Continuing Education Requirement

The Wisconsin Marriage & Family Therapy, Professional Counseling, and Social Work Examining Board accepts NetCE courses.

LPCs and MFTs are required 30 hours every two years, all of which may be completed through NetCE.

A minimum of 4 of the 30 hours must be in ethics and boundaries .

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For More Information

Please contact the Wisconsin Marriage & Family Therapy, Professional Counseling, and Social Work Examining Board at (877) 617-1565 or (608) 266-2112, or refer to https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/mpsw/19.pdf for additional information regarding your continuing education.

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