Three-tier social work licensing system with bachelor's, master's, and clinical levels, designed to serve North Dakota's rural and urban communities with comprehensive professional standards.
Comprehensive three-level system providing structured advancement from entry-level practice through independent clinical authority with rural practice accommodations.
Bachelor's level license providing entry into professional social work practice with generalist scope and supervised practice requirements.
Entry-level practice • Supervised experience • Foundation for advancement
Master's level license providing independent generalist practice authority with expanded scope and professional autonomy.
Advanced authority • Independent practice • Supervision capability
Highest level clinical license allowing independent clinical practice, psychotherapy, and mental health treatment with full professional authority.
Clinical practice • Independent therapy • Supervision capability
Structured advancement from LSW (bachelor's) to LISW (independent generalist) to LICSW (clinical specialist) with clear requirements.
Total 8,000 supervised hours required (4,000 for LISW + 4,000 additional for LICSW) ensuring thorough professional development.
Understanding of North Dakota's geographic challenges with flexibility in supervision arrangements and rural practice support.
All degrees must be from CSWE-accredited programs, ensuring consistent educational quality and professional preparation.
Biennial renewal with 40 CE hours supports ongoing competency development and professional growth.
Clear supervision requirements with qualified professionals providing guidance throughout career advancement.
North Dakota requires progression through license levels - must hold LISW before applying for LICSW. Cannot skip levels in the advancement process.
Total 8,000 supervised hours required for full clinical licensure - 4,000 for LISW and additional 4,000 for LICSW. Plan long-term career development.
Maintain detailed logs of all supervised experience and clinical hours. North Dakota has strict documentation requirements for license advancement.
All social work degrees must be from CSWE-accredited programs. Related field degrees or non-accredited programs are not accepted.
Clinical supervisors must be LICSWs or equivalent licensed professionals with appropriate experience and supervisory training.
Professional Licensing Division
State of North Dakota
License Types: LSW, LISW, LICSW
Renewal: Every 2 Years
CE Hours: 40 Required
Total Hours: 8,000 for LICSW