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Social Work Licensure
Nebraska Social Worker Careers with an MSW Degree
Nebraska Social Work Licensure
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pursuing a BSW degree in Nebraska, including program comparisons, licensing requirements, career outlooks, and 2024 salary data.
6 CSWE-Accredited BSW Programs in Nebraska
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation ensures that these programs meet rigorous national standards for social work education. Here are all six accredited BSW programs in Nebraska:
- Chadron State College – Chadron
- Format: On-campus
- Known for: Rural social work emphasis
- Student body: Small class sizes, personalized attention
- Creighton University – Omaha
- Format: On-campus
- Known for: Jesuit values and social justice focus
- Student body: Private university setting
- Nebraska Wesleyan University – Lincoln
- Format: On-campus
- Known for: Liberal arts integration
- Student body: Small, private college environment
- Union College – Lincoln
- Format: On-campus
- Known for: Seventh-day Adventist affiliation, holistic approach
- Student body: Faith-based community
- University of Nebraska at Kearney – Kearney
- Format: On-campus and 100% online
- Known for: Flexible online option, no campus visits required
- Student body: Diverse, including many working professionals
- University of Nebraska at Omaha – Omaha
- Format: On-campus
- Known for: Urban social work focus, strong field placement network
- Student body: Large public university, diverse populations
Learn more about CSWE accreditation and why it’s essential for your social work education.
Nebraska BSW Program Comparison Table
| University | Location | Format Options | In-State Tuition (Annual) | Program Length | Field Hours Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chadron State College | Chadron | On-campus | $7,842 | 4 years | 900 hours |
| Creighton University | Omaha | On-campus | $45,984 | 4 years | 900 hours |
| Nebraska Wesleyan University | Lincoln | On-campus | $38,352 | 4 years | 900 hours |
| Union College | Lincoln | On-campus | $26,140 | 4 years | 900 hours |
| University of Nebraska at Kearney | Kearney | On-campus, 100% Online | $7,746 | 4 years | 900 hours |
| University of Nebraska at Omaha | Omaha | On-campus | $8,434 | 4 years | 900 hours |
Note: Tuition rates for the 2024-2025 academic year are subject to change. Additional fees may apply.
BSW Specializations and Tracks
Nebraska’s BSW programs primarily follow a generalist practice model, preparing graduates to work with diverse populations across various settings. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates can pursue careers in multiple fields after graduation.
Common Focus Areas Available:
- Child and Family Services – Working with children in foster care, adoption services, and family preservation programs
- Healthcare Social Work – Supporting patients and families in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse – Providing support and resources for individuals facing mental health challenges or addiction
- School Social Work – Supporting students’ academic success and well-being in educational settings
- Rural Social Work – Addressing unique challenges in Nebraska’s rural communities
- Gerontology – Working with older adults and their families
While BSW programs maintain a generalist approach, students can often tailor their field placements and electives to explore specific areas of interest.
BSW Degree Requirements and Coursework
A typical BSW program in Nebraska requires 120-128 credit hours, divided between general education requirements, social work core courses, and field education.
Core Curriculum Components:
Years 1-2: Foundation Courses
- Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare
- Human Behavior and the Social Environment I & II
- Social Welfare Policy and Services
- Cultural Diversity and Social Justice
- Research Methods for Social Work
- Statistics for Social Sciences
Years 3-4: Advanced Practice Courses
- Social Work Practice with Individuals
- Social Work Practice with Families and Groups
- Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities
- Case Management and Assessment
- Ethics in Social Work Practice
- Field Education Practicum (900 hours minimum)
Field Education Requirements
All CSWE-accredited BSW programs in Nebraska require a minimum of 900 hours of supervised field education. This typically occurs during the final year of study and includes:
- 400-450 hours per semester (2 semesters)
- 16-20 hours per week in an agency setting
- Weekly supervision by a licensed social worker
- Concurrent seminar courses to integrate theory and practice
Field placements are available in diverse settings throughout Nebraska, including hospitals, schools, mental health centers, child welfare agencies, and community organizations.
Online BSW Options in Nebraska
The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers Nebraska’s only 100% online, CSWE-accredited BSW program. This program is particularly popular among working professionals, parents, and students in rural areas who need flexibility.
Key Features of UNK’s Online BSW:
- No campus visits required – Complete the entire degree online
- Same accreditation as the on-campus program
- Full-time or part-time options available
- In-state tuition for all Nebraska residents
- Field placements arranged in student’s local community
- Asynchronous courses – Learn at your own pace
- Student support services – Academic advising, career counseling, technical support
For more information about online social work education options, explore online BSW programs nationwide.
Nebraska Social Work Licensing Requirements
After earning your BSW from an accredited program, you can pursue the Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW) credential in Nebraska. Understanding licensure requirements is crucial for your career planning.
LBSW Requirements in Nebraska:
- Education: BSW from a CSWE-accredited program
- Examination: Pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Bachelor’s exam
- Application: Apply to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
- Background Check: Complete criminal background check
- Fees: Application fee of approximately $185
Scope of Practice for LBSW in Nebraska:
- Provide non-clinical direct services
- Conduct assessments and develop service plans
- Make referrals to appropriate resources
- Provide case management services
- Work under supervision in clinical settings
Learn more about the LBSW credential and requirements across different states.
Continuing Education Requirements:
Nebraska LBSWs must complete 32 hours of continuing education every two years, including:
- 3 hours in ethics
- 2 hours in cultural competency
- Remaining hours in relevant social work topics
Career Outlook and Salaries in Nebraska
Social work careers in Nebraska offer competitive salaries and strong job growth. According to 2024 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, social workers in Nebraska earn varying wages based on their specialization and level of experience.
2024 Nebraska Social Worker Salary Ranges by Specialization:
| Specialization | Entry Level (10th %ile) | Median Salary | Experienced (90th %ile) | Job Growth Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child, Family, and School Social Workers | $35,240 | $48,350 | $72,890 | +8% (2022-2032) |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $38,420 | $52,780 | $78,540 | +9% (2022-2032) |
| Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers | $33,890 | $46,920 | $68,750 | +11% (2022-2032) |
| All Other Social Workers | $36,550 | $50,140 | $74,320 | +7% (2022-2032) |
Top Employers for BSW Graduates in Nebraska:
- Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – The State’s largest employer of social workers
- CHI Health – Major healthcare system with locations statewide
- Nebraska Medicine – Academic medical center in Omaha
- Boys Town – National organization headquartered in Omaha
- Lutheran Family Services – Nonprofit serving families across Nebraska
- Public School Districts – Omaha, Lincoln, and other districts employ school social workers
- Region V Services – Mental health and substance abuse services
Explore comprehensive social work career paths to understand your options after graduation.
Career Advancement Opportunities:
Many BSW graduates choose to pursue advanced education to expand their career opportunities. Nebraska offers excellent MSW programs, including advanced standing options that allow BSW graduates to complete their master’s degree in just one year.
Admission Requirements for Nebraska BSW Programs
While specific requirements vary by institution, most Nebraska BSW programs share standard admission criteria:
General Admission Requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA: Usually 2.5-3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- ACT/SAT Scores: Requirements vary; some schools are test-optional
- Prerequisite Courses:
- English Composition
- College Algebra or Statistics
- Introduction to Psychology
- Introduction to Sociology
- Biology or other natural science
- Application Materials:
- Completed application form
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement (500-750 words)
- 2-3 letters of recommendation
- Resume highlighting relevant experience
Transfer Student Considerations:
Nebraska BSW programs welcome transfer students. Most programs accept up to 60-64 credits from community colleges. Key considerations include:
- Minimum 2.5 GPA in previous coursework
- Completion of prerequisite courses
- May need to complete all social work courses at the four-year institution
- Field education must be completed through the degree-granting institution
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete a BSW in Nebraska?
A traditional BSW program takes 4 years of full-time study to complete. Part-time options are available at some schools, particularly the online program at UNK, which may take 5-6 years. Transfer students with an associate degree can often complete their BSW in 2-3 additional years.
Can I work while completing my BSW?
Yes, many students work while pursuing their BSW, especially in online programs. However, during your field placement year (typically the senior year), you’ll need to dedicate 16-20 hours per week to your practicum, which may limit work availability. The online program at UNK is specifically designed for working professionals.
What’s the difference between a BSW and a BA in Social Work?
In Nebraska, all accredited programs offer a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, not a BA in Social Work. The BSW is a professional degree that includes specific social work coursework and field education, both of which are required for licensure. A BA in a related field, such as sociology or psychology, doesn’t qualify for social work licensure.
Do I need a BSW to become a social worker in Nebraska?
While some entry-level social service positions may hire candidates with related degrees, a BSW from a CSWE-accredited program is required to obtain licensure as an LBSW in Nebraska. Many employers prefer or require the BSW degree and licensure.
How much does a BSW cost in Nebraska?
Costs vary significantly. Public universities, such as Chadron State, UNK, and UNO, charge approximately $7,500 to $8,500 per year for in-state tuition. Private institutions, such as Creighton University, cost around $46,000 per year. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants can significantly reduce these costs.
What GPA is required for admission to Nebraska’s BSW programs?
Most programs require a minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0 for admission. Competitive programs may have higher average GPAs for admitted students. Some programs consider upward grade trends and may provisionally admit students with lower GPAs who show promise.
Can I complete field placement in my home community?
Yes, especially for online programs. UNK’s online BSW program arranges field placements in students’ local communities. On-campus programs typically have established partnerships with agencies near their campuses, but may accommodate special requests.
What’s the job outlook for social workers in Nebraska?
The job outlook is positive, with 7-11% growth projected through 2032, depending on specialization. Mental health and substance abuse social work shows the strongest growth at 11%. Nebraska’s aging population also creates demand for healthcare and gerontological social workers.
For more information about social work education and career planning, visit the Council on Social Work Education or the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services licensing board.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Child, Family, and School Social Workers, Healthcare Social Workers, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, and Social Workers, All other reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
