Can You Work As a Social Worker in the Veterans Administration With Only an MSW

By Madison Hawthorne

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs Veteran Health Administration (VHA) employs clinical social workers in community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) and regional medical centers to provide veterans and their families with emotional, environmental and social support. Programs offered use professional social work practitioners to maximize the benefits of veteran rehabilitation. VHA social workers are offered opportunities for continuing education and mobility, as well as a retirement plan.

A VHA social worker must have a master's degree (MSW) from a university accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Graduates from a university in the process of accreditation are not considered until the university achieves full accreditation status. A doctoral degree in social work cannot be substituted for licensure or for an MSW.

The VHA defines social workers as part of the "GS-185" series. Social workers must have an MSW and be licensed or certified to practice independently within a state. Each state has its own licensing requirements. The hiring state government website will detail licensing requirements.

Social workers who enter in the "GS-9" grade requirements may pursue licensure upon hire. "GS-9" is an entry-level employee with less than one year of post-MSW experience and is not licensed. Grade levels above the "GS-9" require licensure requirements upon hire. Licensure at the state level typically requires two years, and the VHA allows an additional year to complete the licensing exam. Check state licensing requirements for details. A licensed MSW independent practitioner must supervise the VHA social worker pursuing licensure.

Social workers must pursue licensure upon hire. The licensed independent MSW supervisor will provide written licensing or certification requirements upon hire. This will include a deadline for completing the requirements. Failure to complete licensure by the prescribed deadline will result in removal from the "GS-185" social work position and possible employee termination.

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