Navigate Minnesota's four-tier system in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, featuring comprehensive clinical training with 360 specialized clinical hours.
Minnesota's comprehensive four-tier system provides rigorous clinical training with specialized knowledge requirements in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
Entry-level license for BSW graduates. Allows generalist social work practice under supervision for the first two years, then independent non-clinical practice.
Application: $227.75 • Biennial renewal • 40 CE hours including ethics training
Master's level entry license allowing advanced practice. Can provide independent non-clinical services and clinical practice under LICSW supervision.
Application: $355.00 • Biennial renewal • 40 CE hours including ethics
Advanced generalist license allowing independent non-clinical practice. Clinical services must still be provided under LICSW supervision.
Application fees apply • 40 CE hours biennially • Independent non-clinical authority
Highest level clinical license allowing independent clinical practice, psychotherapy, diagnosis, and clinical supervision. Requires specialized clinical education.
• 108 hours: Differential diagnosis & biopsychosocial assessment
• 36 hours: Assessment-based clinical treatment planning
• 108 hours: Clinical intervention methods
• 72 hours: Social work values, ethics, cultural context
• 18 hours: Culturally specific assessment & intervention
Can be satisfied through MSW coursework or continuing education
Application fees vary • 40 CE hours biennially • Full clinical independence
Comprehensive clinical training with specialized knowledge requirements and Twin Cities opportunities
Graduate from CSWE-accredited BSW (for LSW) or MSW program (for LGSW/LISW/LICSW). Minnesota has 29 accredited programs with online options available.
4-6 YearsSubmit application with criminal background check. Pass ASWB Bachelor's (LSW) or Master's (LGSW) exam. Can apply 6 months before MSW graduation.
6-10 WeeksLSW requires 2 years supervision. LGSW can begin accruing 4,000 hours toward LISW or LICSW under appropriate supervisors.
ImmediateLISW/LICSW both require 4,000 hours supervised practice. LICSW additionally needs 360 clinical clock hours in six specialized knowledge areas.
2+ YearsSubmit advanced license application with supervision and education verification. Pass ASWB Advanced Generalist (LISW) or Clinical (LICSW) exam.
3-4 MonthsMinnesota requires LICSW applicants to complete 360 hours of clinical education in six specific knowledge areas. This can be satisfied through MSW coursework or continuing education.
Minnesota BSW programs achieved a 100% ASWB exam pass rate in 2020, compared to the national average of 61.2%. This reflects the quality of educational preparation.
Both LISW and LICSW require 4,000 hours of supervised experience (vs. 3,000 in many states), ensuring comprehensive practical training over typically 2 years.
Minnesota is not currently a member of the Social Work Licensure Compact. Practice in other states requires separate licensure or endorsement applications.
LGSW applicants can apply up to 6 months before graduation, allowing faster entry into the workforce upon degree completion.
LGSW license holders can pursue either LISW (non-clinical independent practice) or LICSW (clinical practice), both requiring 4,000 supervised hours.
mn.gov/boards/social-work
License applications and
renewal available online
360 Clinical Clock Hours
for LICSW licensure
Not a member state
Separate licensure required