At a Glance
To get a Kansas social work license, you’ll apply through the Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB), which issues three credentials: the Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW). Licensure generally requires a qualifying degree from a CSWE-accredited program or another BSRB-approved pathway, plus the appropriate ASWB exam. Check the BSRB website for current application fees and requirements.
Kansas has had a structured social work licensing system for decades. The Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB) uses a three-tier LBSW/LMSW/LSCSW framework that has influenced social work license requirements in other states. Whether you’re finishing a Bachelor of Social Work or logging your final postgraduate clinical hours, understanding which license applies to your goals and what the BSRB requires is the right place to start.
Kansas Social Work License Types
The BSRB issues three social work licenses, each tied to a different education level and scope of practice. Here’s how they compare at a glance.
| License |
Degree Required |
ASWB Exam Level |
| LBSW |
BSW (CSWE-accredited) |
Bachelors |
| LMSW |
MSW (CSWE-accredited) |
Masters |
| LSCSW |
MSW or DSW (with clinical coursework) |
Clinical |
| License |
Post-Degree Supervised Hours |
License Fee |
| LBSW |
None required |
$100 |
| LMSW |
None required |
$150 |
| LSCSW |
At least 3,000 hours over a minimum of 24 months |
$150 |
The Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) is the entry-level license. It authorizes bachelor ‘s-level social work practice within Kansas’s defined scope, including generalist services such as resource coordination, advocacy, case management, and social work support for individuals and families. Independent clinical diagnosis and psychotherapy are outside the LBSW scope. Any clinical-related activities must comply with Kansas supervision and scope-of-practice rules.
The Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) allows you to practice at an advanced,d specialized level. LMSWs may engage in certain supervised clinical social work activities as permitted by Kansas law and BSRB supervision requirements. The LMSW is typically the license held while completing the supervised clinical experience required for LSCSW eligibility.
The Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) is Kansas’s highest social work credential. It authorizes independent clinical social work practice, including the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders within the scope permitted by state law, as well as independent private practice. The Kansas LSCSW is broadly comparable to clinical social work licenses such as the LCSW used in many other states, though title, scope, and portability rules vary by jurisdiction.
General Requirements for All License Levels
Regardless of which license you’re applying for, the BSRB requires the following from every applicant. These apply in addition to the license-specific requirements detailed below.
Step 1: Earn a qualifying social work degree
You’ll need a degree from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or from a program that meets the BSRB’s specific alternative requirements. Have your school send official transcripts directly to the BSRB.
Step 2: Submit your application and fee
File your application with the BSRB and pay the applicable application fee. If you’re an LBSW or LMSW applicant submitting within four months of graduation, you’ll also need to complete the Verification of Academic Requirements form included in the application packet. Once submitted, you can track your application status online. Verify current fee amounts with the BSRB before applying.
Step 3: Provide three professional references
Professional references must be submitted in accordance with the BSRB’s current instructions and forms, which you should verify in the latest application packet before applying. The specific people required as references vary by license level. See the sections below for details.
Step 4: Pass the ASWB exam
Once the BSRB approves your application, it notifies the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) that you’re cleared to register. You must register and pass the exam at the level corresponding to your license. LBSW applicants take the Bachelors exam, LMSW applicants take the Masters exam, and LSCSW applicants take the Clinical exam.
Background check note: Applicants should review the current BSRB application packet for any required background check, disclosure, or public-trust documentation as part of the application process.
Temporary licenses: Temporary or candidacy license options may be available in specific circumstances under current Kansas rules. Applicants should verify eligibility, duration limits, and any fee requirements directly with the BSRB before practicing under a temporary license.
Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
The LBSW is the fastest path into licensed social work practice in Kansas. You can apply for licensure within four months of completing your BSW, which means you don’t have to wait until your degree is conferred to start the process. Learn more on the LBSW overview page.
Step 1: Earn your BSW
Complete at least a Bachelor of Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited program. CSWE-accredited BSW programs automatically include a minimum 400-hour field education practicum. Verify current accredited program options in Kansas directly through CSWE.
Step 2: Submit your application packet
File the BSRB application packet and pay the applicable application fee. For your three professional references: one must be your on-site supervisor from your BSW field education program, and the other two must be licensed social workers familiar with your work. Verify current fee amounts with the BSRB before applying.
Step 3: Register for and pass the ASWB Baccalaureate exam
Once the BSRB approves your application, you’ll receive clearance to register with the ASWB for the Bachelor’s level exam. After satisfying all education, exam, documentation, and fee requirements, the BSRB will issue your LBSW. Verify the current license fee with the BSRB before applying.
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
The LMSW opens the door to advanced specialized practice and is a required step on the path to the LSCSW. Like the LBSW, you can apply within four months of completing your degree. More detail is available on the LMSW overview page.
Step 1: Earn your MSW
Complete at least a Master of Social Work degree from a CSWE-accredited program. CSWE-accredited MSW programs include a minimum 900-hour field education practicum. Verify current accredited program options in Kansas directly through CSWE.
Step 2: Submit your application packet
File the BSRB application packet and pay the applicable application fee. For your three professional references: one must be your on-site supervisor from your MSW field education program, and the other two must be LMSWs or LSCSWs familiar with your work. Verify current fee amounts with the BSRB before applying.
Step 3: Register for and pass the ASWB Master’s exam
After BSRB approval, register with ASWB for the Master ‘s-level exam. After satisfying all education, exam, documentation, and fee requirements, the BSRB will issue your LMSW. Verify the current license fee with the BSRB before applying.
Step 4: Begin accruing supervised hours toward the LSCSW (optional)
If your goal is the LSCSW, you can start logging postgraduate supervised hours as soon as you receive your LMSW. Before doing so, submit the supervisor and training plan form to the BSRB to get your supervisor and worksite pre-approved.
Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW)
The LSCSW is the top-tier license in Kansas and the only one that authorizes private and independent practice, including independent clinical diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders within the scope permitted by state law. It takes longer to earn than the other two licenses, but the supervised hours you log as an LMSW count toward this credential. The BSRB has specific requirements regarding supervision ratios: a minimum of 1 hour of supervision for every 15 hours of direct client contact, with individual supervision meeting minimums as specified in the current BSRB rules. Verify the full supervision plan requirements with the BSRB before beginning your supervised experience period.
Step 1: Earn a qualifying MSW or doctoral degree
You’ll need at least a Master of Social Work degree that includes 15 graduate credits in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. Qualifying areas include diagnostic assessment, interdisciplinary referral and collaboration, professional ethics, treatment approaches, and psychopathology. The LSCSW application packet includes a chart to verify your coursework meets these requirements. A qualifying doctoral degree in Social Work can also satisfy this requirement.
Step 2: Complete the postgraduate supervised experience requirement
You’ll need at least 3,000 hours of postgraduate supervised clinical social work experience in a clinical setting, completed over at least 24 months, under a BSRB-approved supervision plan. Of those, at least 1,500 must be direct client contact hours providing psychotherapy and assessment, and the supervision component must meet current BSRB individual-supervision and ratio requirements. Before beginning, get BSRB approval for your supervisor and worksite by submitting the supervisor and training plan form.
Step 3: Submit your LSCSW application packet
File the LSCSW application packet and pay the applicable application fee. Have your supervisor and employer complete the experience verification forms included in the packet. Professional reference requirements vary by license level, so follow the latest LSCSW application packet for current instructions. Verify current fee amounts with the BSRB before applying.
Step 4: Register for and pass the ASWB Clinical exam
After BSRB approval, register with the ASWB for the Clinical level exam. After satisfying all education, experience, exam, documentation, and fee requirements, the BSRB will issue your LSCSW. Verify the current license fee with the BSRB before applying.
Social Work Degrees in Kansas
The BSRB requires that all candidates graduate from a CSWE-accredited program or from a program that meets the board’s specific alternative requirements. Kansas has multiple CSWE-accredited BSW and MSW programs. Verify current program counts and accreditation status directly through CSWE before enrolling.
Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (BSW)
A BSW from a CSWE-accredited program satisfies the education requirement for the LBSW. Kansas has multiple accredited BSW programs. The CSWE accreditation standard requires a minimum 400-hour supervised field practicum, and your field supervisor must serve as one of your professional references on the LBSW application. Verify current program availability and accreditation status directly through CSWE.
Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW)
An MSW from a CSWE-accredited program meets the education requirement for LMSW licensure and may support LSCSW eligibility if the required clinical coursework requirements are met. Kansas has multiple accredited MSW programs. Accreditation requires a minimum 900-hour field practicum, and your field supervisor must be one of your LBSW or LMSW references. Verify current program availability and accreditation status directly through CSWE.
Doctoral Degree in Social Work
The CSWE doesn’t accredit doctoral programs, but applicants with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) or PhD in Social Work should verify directly with the BSRB how their degree is evaluated for each license level. A qualifying doctoral degree must meet the BSRB’s specific program requirements.
Renewing Your License
Kansas social work licenses generally renew every two years. Renewal requires 40 hours of continuing education completed during the renewal cycle, including any specific content requirements that vary by license level and renewal status. You can renew online or by submitting the renewal form to the BSRB. Verify your expiration date and current renewal fees directly with the BSRB.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Social Worker in Kansas?
A BSW typically takes about four years of full-time study, and LBSW eligibility also depends on application review, exam completion, and BSRB approval. Add 2 more years of experience for an MSW, and you can qualify for the LMSW. After that, LSCSW candidates must complete supervised clinical experience for at least 24 months, so total timelines vary based on the education supervision approval, exam timing, and board processing.
Reciprocity
Kansas doesn’t have reciprocity agreements with any specific state. Out-of-state licensees may apply through Kansas’s licensure-by-reciprocity process if their license was issued under requirements that the BSRB determines were substantially equivalent to Kansas’s own. Use the BSRB’s reciprocity application packet and include the applicable application fee, your ASWB exam scores forwarded directly from the ASWB, and official academic transcripts sent directly from your school.
If you hold an independent clinical license in another state and need to practice in Kansas temporarily, you can apply for a 15-day temporary permit for $200. The permit can be extended for an additional 15 days within the same calendar year for another $200.
Out-of-state supervised experience may be reviewed for LSCSW eligibility, but it must meet Kansas requirements and is subject to BSRB approval.
Social Work Salaries in Kansas
Recent BLS projections show faster-than-average national growth for social workers overall, with approximately 74,000 openings projected each year through 2034. Kansas-specific demand may vary by specialty, region, and employer. The table below shows 2024 BLS wage estimates for three major social work occupations in Kansas. For a broader look at social work salary data by degree level, see our national overview.
| Social Work Specialty |
Kansas Median Annual Wage |
| Healthcare Social Workers |
$64,280 |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers |
$56,110 |
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers |
$52,690 |
National median wages run higher across all three categories: $68,090 for healthcare social workers, $60,060 for mental health and substance abuse social workers, and $58,570 for child, family, and school social workers, according to 2024 BLS data.
Social Work Resources in Kansas
Kansas Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers: The state chapter of the NASW provides advocacy, professional development, and networking resources for social workers across Kansas.
Kansas School Social Workers Association: The KSSWA advocates for school social workers at the local, state, and national levels and is open to both new and experienced members. The organization is divided into four regional sub-chapters across the state.
Career Opportunities in Kansas
Kansas Department for Children and Families: The state agency responsible for delivering social services to Kansas residents, including child welfare, economic assistance, and family support programs.
Kansas Department for Aging and Disability: KDADS provides services across aging, community programs, and behavioral health, including substance abuse programs and veterans’ services.
Wichita Public Schools: The largest school district in Kansas, WPS operates dozens of schools across the city. School social workers play an active role in supporting student well-being alongside instructional staff.
AdventHealth Shawnee Mission: A multi-location healthcare system in the Overland Park area offering a wide range of services, including cancer care, home care, and community wellness programs.
Substance Abuse Center of Kansas: A non-profit agency providing case management, alcohol and drug treatment, court-ordered evaluations, and community education services.
Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools: One of the larger school districts in the state, KCKPS serves tens of thousands of students and employs social workers in support roles throughout the district.
Johnson County Mental Health Center: Provides mental health, substance abuse, psychiatric medication, and adolescent services to residents of Olathe and Johnson County, with programs tailored for adults, children, and families.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an LMSW and an LSCSW in Kansas?
Both licenses require an MSW degree and the ASWB exam, but they differ in the scope of practice and what it takes to earn them. The LMSW allows advanced social work practice and supervised clinical activities as permitted under Kansas law. The LSCSW authorizes independent clinical practice, including diagnosing and treating mental disorders within the scope defined by state law, and operating a private practice. Earning the LSCSW requires at least 3,000 postgraduate supervised clinical hours completed over a minimum of 24 months as an LMSW.
Can I work as a social worker in Kansas while I wait for my license?
Yes, in a limited capacity. Temporary or candidacy license options may be available for LBSW and LMSW applicants who have met requirements except for passing the ASWB exam. Eligibility, duration limits, and fee requirements vary by license type and current BSRB rules, so verify directly with the BSRB before practicing under a temporary license.
How long does it take to get the LSCSW in Kansas?
At a minimum, several years beyond high school. You’ll need an MSW, which typically takes around 6 years, combined with an undergraduate degree, plus at least 24 months of postgraduate supervised clinical experience. Total timelines vary depending on the pace of education, supervision approval, exam timing, and BSRB processing so that individual results will differ.
Does Kansas recognize out-of-state social work licenses?
Kansas doesn’t have reciprocity agreements with any specific state, but it does offer licensure through reciprocity if your out-of-state license was issued under substantially equivalent requirements. You’ll need to submit ASWB exam scores, official transcripts, and the applicable application fee. Out-of-state supervised experience may be reviewed for LSCSW eligibility, but it must meet Kansas requirements and is subject to BSRB approval.
How many continuing education hours are required to renew a Kansas social work license?
Renewal generally requires 40 hours of continuing education per two-year renewal cycle, though specific content requirements may vary by license level and renewal status. You can renew online or by mail. Verify your current expiration date and renewal fees directly with the BSRB.
Key Takeaways
- Kansas issues three social work licenses through the BSRB: the LBSW, LMSW, and LSCSW, each tied to a different education level and scope of practice.
- All candidates need a degree from a CSWE-accredited program or one meeting BSRB’s alternative requirements, plus a passing ASWB exam score at the appropriate level.
- The LSCSW is the only license in Kansas that authorizes independent private practice and the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. It requires at least 3,000 postgraduate supervised clinical hours over a minimum of 24 months.
- The LSCSW supervision plan must meet the BSRB ratio and individual supervision requirements, including at least 1 hour of supervision for every 15 hours of direct client contact.
- Kansas social work licenses generally renew every 2 years and require 40 hours of continuing education. Verify current renewal requirements with the BSRB.
- Out-of-state licensees may qualify for Kansas licensure through reciprocity if the BSRB determines that their licensing requirements were substantially equivalent to Kansas’s.
Ready to find a CSWE-accredited social work program in Kansas? Browse accredited BSW and MSW options and connect with programs that fit your goals and schedule.
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Laura Bennett, MPH is a public health professional with over 12 years of experience in community health education and program coordination. She specializes in helping aspiring professionals explore flexible education pathways, including online and hybrid public health degree programs. Laura is passionate about making public health careers more accessible through practical, accredited training
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market figures for Healthcare Social Workers, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, and Child, Family, and School Social Workers represent state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed May 2026.
