Licensed Master Social Worker License in Kansas
Quick Answer
Kansas licenses social workers at multiple tiers through the BSRB, with the clinical-level LSCSW requiring 3,000 supervised client contact hours. The appropriate ASWB exam is required. Total estimated initial costs are approximately $455, with 40 hours of CE required biennially.
- Exam
- ASWB Exam (level varies)
- Total Cost
- $455 (est.)
- Timeline
- 4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Licensed Master Social Worker license in Kansas
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $125
- Exam Fee
- $230
- Renewal Fee
- $100
- Total Estimated Cost
- $455
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Licensed Master Social Worker license in Kansas. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Kansas licensing board.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Licensed Master Social Worker in Kansas.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — ASWB Exam (level varies)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$125.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing).
Licensed Master Social Worker Licensing in Kansas: What to Know
Kansas licenses social workers through the Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB), offering Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW), Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW), and temporary permits. Each level requires the appropriate ASWB exam and CSWE-accredited degree. The LSCSW requires an MSW plus two years of supervised clinical experience totaling at least 3,000 direct client contact hours. Continuing education of 40 hours is required biennially. Kansas has been among the states discussing ASWB exam equity and potential alternatives. The state faces social work workforce shortages in western Kansas and other rural communities, where behavioral health services are extremely limited. The Kansas Department for Children and Families is a major employer. Kansas has shown interest in the Social Work Licensure Compact to address border-community workforce needs with Missouri, Nebraska, Colorado, and Oklahoma. Military installations including Fort Riley and McConnell Air Force Base generate additional demand for social workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Licensed Master Social Worker license cost in Kansas?
- The estimated total cost is $455, including application fees, exam fees ($230), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Licensed Master Social Worker license in Kansas?
- The process typically takes 4-8 years (education + supervised experience) + 2-6 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Licensed Master Social Worker license in Kansas?
- You need to pass the ASWB Exam (level varies). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Licensed Master Social Worker requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.