Social Workers, Rise!

Social Work Is No Longer a "Professional Degree": How This Impacts You

May 31, 2026·13 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Social Work is no longer considered a "professional degree" by the Department of Education. In this episode, Catherine Moore, LCSW will break down what these changes mean for current and future social workers, including the potential impact on affordability, workforce shortages, and access to social work education.We discuss:The new federal student loan limits for social work studentsWhy BSW and MSW education are not equivalent when it comes to licensure and independent practiceHow these changes may disproportionately affect low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented studentsThe potential effects on workforce shortages, caseloads, and access to servicesWhether these changes could increase demand and pay for social workers—or lead to the hiring of less-qualified professionalsNASW's response and current advocacy effortsAs the demand for mental health and social services continues to grow, these policy changes could have long-term consequences for the profession and the communities we serve.If you're a social work student, associate, licensed social worker, educator, or supervisor, this is an important conversation you won't want to miss.Review and sign the petition here.____________________________________⁠Tap Here to Subscribe⁠ to the Social Workers, Rise! Email Resource List⁠Tap Here⁠ to shop career courses for Social Workers.____________________________________Thank you to our SPONSORSHPSO Professional liability insurance designed for healthcare providersRISE Directory for Clinical Supervision

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