Social Work Licensure in Michigan

In April 2004, the State of Michigan passed Public Act 61 requiring social workers practicing in the State of Michigan to be licensed. In order to practice as a social worker in Michigan, one must meet specific criteria and earn a bachelor's or master's social worker degree. Once you have earned a degree and are ready to apply what you have learned in professional practice as a social worker, you will want to obtain a social work license. To do this, you are encouraged to visit the Bureau of Professional Licensing.  You will find information about licensure, forms (such as applications), and frequently asked questions.

Michigan Social Work Continuing Education Requirements

Completion of 45 hours of Board approved continuing education within the 3-year period immediately preceding the expiration of the license. Of the 45 hours, a minimum of 5 hours in ethics must be earned, a minimum of 2 hours in human trafficking and a minimum of 2 hours in pain and symptom management. One half of the required hours must be completed in person using live, synchronous contact.

Implicit Bias Training – Beginning in 2021 and all renewals thereafter, licensees seeking renewal must have completed a minimum of 1 hour of implicit bias training for each year of the applicant’s license cycle.

At the time of renewal, an applicant must certify they have completed the required CE. Licensees shall retain documentation of meeting the requirements for a period of 5 years from the date of applying for license renewal. If selected for audit, a licensee is required to submit proof of CE completion to the Department upon request. Implicit bias certificates of completion must be kept for 6 years after the date of application for licensure, registration, relicensure or renewal.

For the most up to date information, visit the Bureau of Professional Licensing. Questions about licensure can be directed to: State of Michigan Bureau of Professional Licensing at 517-241-0199

Michigan State University School of Social Work, an accredited social work education program, is authorized by the Michigan Licensure Law Administrative Rule 338.2965 to award Michigan social work continuing education contact hours. We are also an approved Michigan Social Work Continuing Education Collaborative Provider (provider #0001) for all programs, renewed annually.