In a number of countries and jurisdictions, registration or licensure of people working as social workers is required and there are mandated qualifications.
In some areas, however, a social worker may be able to receive a license with a bachelor's or even associate degree[citation needed] in any discipline.
(Doctor of Social Work) generally conducts research, teaches, or analyzes policy, often in higher education settings.
The licensure or certification also requires a prelicensure examination through the ASWB (Association of Social Work Boards), with the exception of the State of California, who creates and administers their own licensing exam.
[2] In Latin America this is a four to five-year degree that can replace liberal arts subjects into health sciences, resulting in social work as a type of community psychology and socioeconomic studies, focused in hospitals, prisons or pedagogy, among others.
A four-year Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is required for entry into the field in most parts of Canada.
In the province of Nova Scotia, MSW social workers can make provisional mental health diagnosis'.
In order to legally use the title "social worker", candidates must register with their provincial regulatory body.
Courses in sociology, human rights, gerontology, community services, psychology, social security and entrepreneurship are part of the degree.
NGO oriented services take place with families and people of all ages in areas such as: child protection, early childhood education, community work, substance abuse prevention or promotion of mental health.
They also promote workforce development, as all social workers must participate in at least fifteen days of professional training over a two-year period in order to be eligible for renewal of their registration.
Graduates of courses recognised by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) are eligible for membership.