Understanding the CEU Social Work Requirements in Maryland

Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are an integral part of maintaining professional competence and staying updated in the field of social work. In the state of Maryland, to ensure the delivery of quality services and ethical practices, social workers are required to fulfill specific requirements for continuing education. So in this article we will talk about some of the requirements for social work CEUs in Maryland.

Social Work Continuing Education Requirements in Maryland

Maryland's Board of Social Work Examiners regulates the practice of social work in the state, overseeing the licensure and renewal process. For social workers to maintain their licenses, they must adhere to the board's CEU requirements, which are designed to promote ongoing education, skill enhancement, and staying abreast of developments in the field.

The CEU requirements for social workers in Maryland vary based on the level of licensure. As of my last update in January 2022, here's a general overview of 4 important CEU requirements:

LBSW workers are required to take a minimum of 30 hours of social work CEUs within every 2 years of their licensing period. Out of the 30 hours, half of them must be in Category II and at least 3 of the 30 hours must be in ethics.
Both LCSW, and LCSW-C social workers in Maryland are required to have a minimum of 40 hours of social work continuing education every 2 years. Out of these 40 hours, a minimum of 3 of them must be in ethics every 2 years.
LMSW social workers are required to complete a minimum of 30 CEUs every two years for license renewal. Similar to LCSW-Cs, a portion of these units should concentrate on ethics, diversity, or laws and regulations relevant to social work practice.
After August, 2022, all health care practitioners were also required to complete at least 1 implicit-bias training.

CEUs can be earned through various approved educational activities, including workshops, seminars, conferences, online courses, and academic coursework related to the practice of social work. It's crucial to ensure that the courses or programs attended are accredited and recognized by the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners.

Documentation and Compliance for Social Work CEUs

Social workers are required to maintain records and documentation of completed CEUs for verification purposes during license renewal. The Board may conduct random audits to ensure compliance with CEU requirements. Failure to meet these requirements might result in the non-renewal or suspension of a social worker's license.

Conclusion:

Continuing Education Units play a pivotal role in the professional development and maintenance of social work licenses in Maryland. We encourage, you to stay up to date with the Board's guidelines to ensure compliance and the continuous enhancement of your skills and knowledge in this field.

As regulations and requirements may change over time, it's imperative for social workers in Maryland to regularly check the Board's official website or contact the Board directly for the most current and accurate information regarding CEU requirements and any updates that might have occurred since my last update in January 2022. Butler & Davis Consulting LLC – Resiliency Training Institute is an approved ASWB provider and is ready to meet you and your organizations needs in obtaining the appropriate continuing education. Feel free to send your questions to ebony@butler-davis.com.