DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS  
DIRECTOR'S OFFICE  
SOCIAL WORK - GENERAL RULES  
(By authority conferred on the director of the department of licensing and regulatory  
affairs by sections 16145, 16148, 16287, 18516, and 18518 of the public health code,  
1978 PA 368, MCL 333.16145, 333.16148, 333.16287, 333.18516, and 333.18518, and  
Executive Reorganization Order Nos. 1991-9, 1996-2, 2003-1, and 2011-4, MCL  
338.3501, 445.2001, 445.2011, and 445.2030)  
PART 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS  
R 338.2921 Definitions.  
Rule 21. (1) As used in these rules:  
(a) "Board" means the Michigan board of social work.  
(b) “Code” means the public health code, 1978 PA 368, MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211.  
(c) "Continuing education contact hour" means a 60-minute clock hour of instruction  
for the first hour, with no less than 50 minutes of uninterrupted instruction for every hour  
following the first hour.  
(d) “Department” means the department of licensing and regulatory affairs.  
(e) “Supervisory review” means that the limited social service technician registrant,  
limited bachelor’s social work licensee, or limited master’s social work licensee is  
meeting with his or her Michigan-licensed bachelor’s or Michigan-licensed master’s  
social worker supervisor, as applicable, individually or in a group modality, during which  
active work functions and the work records of the supervisee are reviewed.  
(2) Terms defined in the code have the same meanings when used in these rules.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2923 Educational standards; adoption by reference.  
Rule 23. (1) The board adopts by reference the standards of the Council on Social Work  
Education (CSWE) for the accreditation of social work education programs in the  
publication entitled, “Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards,” (2015), which is  
available at no cost from the CSWE’s website at www.cswe.org. A copy of the standards  
and procedures also is available for inspection and distribution at a cost of 10 cents per  
page from the Board of Social Work, Bureau of Professional Licensing, Michigan  
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Ottawa Building, 611 West Ottawa,  
P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, Michigan 48909.  
(2) A social work education program accredited by CSWE or recognized by the CSWE  
through a memorandum of understanding as equivalent to a social work education  
program accredited by CSWE is approved by the board. A social work education  
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program that is not accredited by CSWE may be approved by the board if the board  
determines that it is substantially equivalent to a program accredited by the CSWE.  
(3) The board adopts by reference the policies and procedures for recognizing  
accrediting organizations of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA),  
effective September 24, 2018, and the procedures and criteria for recognizing accrediting  
agencies of the United States Department of Education, effective July 1, 2010, as  
contained in CFR part 602. Copies of the policies and procedures of the CHEA and the  
procedures and criteria of the United States Department of Education are available for  
inspection and distribution at a cost of 10 cents per page from the Board of Social Work,  
Bureau of Professional Licensing, Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs,  
Ottawa Building, 611 West Ottawa, P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, Michigan 48909. The  
CHEA recognition standards also may be obtained from the CHEA’s website at  
www.chea.org at no cost. The federal recognition criteria may be obtained from the  
United States Department of Education, Office of Postsecondary Education, LBJ  
Building, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202 or from its website at  
https://www2.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/accreditation_pg11.html#Part602-  
Secretary'sRecognition at no cost.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2925 Examination adoption; passing scores.  
Rule 25. (1) The board approves and adopts the following examinations developed,  
maintained, and scored by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB):  
(a) Bachelor’s examination.  
(b) Advanced generalist examination.  
(c) Clinical examination.  
(2) An applicant shall achieve a passing score as defined by ASWB on the test required  
for the level of licensure sought.  
(3) The board may approve an alternative examination, if the board determines that the  
examination is substantially equivalent to the ASWB examination required for the level  
of licensure sought.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS.  
R 338.2929 Training standards for identifying victims of human trafficking;  
requirements.  
Rule 29. (1) Pursuant to section 16148 of the code, MCL 333.16148, an individual  
seeking licensure or registration or who is licensed or registered shall have completed  
training in identifying victims of human trafficking that meets the following standards:  
(a) Training content must cover all of the following:  
(i) Understanding the types and venues of human trafficking in the United States.  
(ii) Identifying victims of human trafficking in health care settings.  
(iii) Identifying the warning signs of human trafficking in health care settings for  
adults and minors.  
(iv) Resources for reporting the suspected victims of human trafficking.  
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(b) Acceptable providers or methods of training include any of the following:  
(i) Training offered by a nationally-recognized or state-recognized health-related  
organization.  
(ii) Training offered by, or in conjunction with, a state or federal agency.  
(iii) Training obtained in an educational program that has been approved by the board  
for initial licensure or registration, or by a college or university.  
(iv) Reading an article related to the identification of victims of human trafficking  
that meets the requirements of subdivision (a) of this subrule and is published in a peer  
review journal, health care journal, or professional or scientific journal.  
(c) Acceptable modalities of training may include any of the following:  
(i) Teleconference or webinar.  
(ii) Online presentation.  
(iii) Live presentation.  
(iv) Printed or electronic media.  
(2) The department may select and audit a sample of individuals and request  
documentation of proof of completion of training. If audited by the department, an  
individual shall provide an acceptable proof of completion of training, including either of  
the following:  
(a) Proof of completion certificate issued by the training provider that includes the  
date, provider name, name of training, and individual’s name.  
(b) A self-certification statement by an individual. The certification statement must  
include the individual’s name and either of the following:  
(i) For training completed pursuant to subrule (1)(b)(i) to (iii) of this rule, the date,  
training provider name, and name of training.  
(ii) For training completed pursuant to subrule (1)(b)(iv) of this rule, the title of the  
article, author, publication name of peer review journal, health care journal, or  
professional or scientific journal, and date, volume, and issue of the publication, as  
applicable.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2930 Telehealth services.  
Rule 30. (1) A social service technician registrant or social work licensee shall obtain  
consent before providing a telehealth service pursuant to section 16284 of the code, MCL  
333.16284.  
(2) A social service technician registrant or social work licensee providing a telehealth  
service shall do all of the following:  
(a) Act within the scope of his or her practice.  
(b) Exercise the same standard of care applicable to a traditional, in-person health care  
service.  
(c) Ensure that the technology method and equipment used complies with all current  
privacy-protection laws when providing a telehealth service.  
History: 2021 AACS.  
PART 2. SOCIAL SERVICE TECHNICIAN REQUIREMENTS  
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R 338.2931 Limited social service technician registration requirements; limitation  
on renewal.  
Rule 31. (1) An applicant for a limited social service technician registration shall submit  
a completed application on a form provided by the department, together with the required  
fee. In addition to meeting the requirements of the code and the administrative rules  
promulgated under the code, an applicant for the limited social service technician  
registration shall meet both of the following requirements:  
(a) Successful completion of 60 semester or 90 quarter credit hours from an accredited  
college meeting the standards of R 338.2923.  
(b) Employment in human services or social services or the submission of  
documentation that the applicant has been made an offer of employment in the practice of  
social service work at an agency recognized by the board pursuant to subrule (2) of this  
rule.  
(2) Agencies recognized by the board include those that employ social workers engaged  
in the practice of social work as that term is defined in section 18501(1)(f) or (g) of the  
code, MCL 333.18501.  
(3) The limited social service technician registration is granted for 1 year and may be  
renewed only once, as specified in section 18507(2) of the code, MCL 333.18507.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2933 Social service technician registration requirements.  
Rule 33. (1) An applicant for social service technician registration shall submit a  
completed application on a form provided by the department, together with the required  
fee. In addition to meeting the requirements of the code and the administrative rules  
promulgated under the code, the applicant shall meet 1 of the following requirements:  
(a) Successful completion of 2,000 hours of social work experience in compliance with  
the requirements of subrules (2), (3), and (4) of this rule and accumulated while holding a  
Michigan limited social service technician registration.  
(b) Successful completion of a minimum of 60 semester or 90 quarter credit hours  
from an accredited college meeting the standards of R 338.2923, including a minimum of  
20 semester or 30 quarter credit hours of relevant human services coursework and current  
employment in the practice of social work. As used in this subdivision, “relevant human  
services coursework” includes, but is not limited to, coursework in social work, ethical  
and legal issues, sociology, psychology, counseling, human development, human  
behavior, health care, philosophy, criminal justice, early childhood development, cultural  
diversity, and social policy and administration.  
(c) Successful completion of an associate degree in social work from an accredited  
college meeting the standards of R 338.2923 that included supervised instructional field  
experience.  
(2) Social work experience for an applicant for registration as a social service technician  
under section 18507(1)(a) of the code, MCL 333.18507, means the delivery of social  
work services through any of the following:  
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(a) Interviewing clients to obtain information about a client's situation, providing  
information about available services, and providing specific assistance to help people  
utilize community resources.  
(b) Conducting case-finding activities in the community and encouraging and  
providing linkages to available services.  
(c) Monitoring a client's compliance with a program's expectations.  
(d) Providing life skills training.  
(3) The social work experience must be completed under the supervision of a Michigan-  
licensed bachelor's or Michigan-licensed master's social worker whose license is in good  
standing throughout the period of supervision.  
(4) The social work experience must comply with all of the following:  
(a) An applicant shall meet with his or her supervisor using any of the following  
methods:  
(i) Individually and in person.  
(ii) Individually using a telecommunications method that provides for live and  
simultaneous contact.  
(iii) In a group modality, during which active work functions and records of the  
applicant are reviewed.  
(b) Supervisory review must be conducted for at least 4 hours per month with at least 2  
hours being conducted between the applicant and the supervisor on an individual basis  
either in person or using a telecommunication method that provides for live and  
simultaneous contact.  
(c) An applicant may not accumulate more than 2,000 hours of supervised work  
experience during any 12-month period.  
(d) The supervisor shall verify the supervised work experience in writing. If the  
supervisor is not available, agency staff who are knowledgeable about the individual's  
work or another person who is knowledgeable about the individual's work, may provide  
the verification in writing.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2935 Registration by endorsement.  
Rule 35. (1) An applicant for registration by endorsement shall meet the requirements of  
the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the code, and submit a  
completed application on a form provided by the department, together with the required  
fee.  
(2) If an applicant holds a valid registration in good standing from another state and has  
been actively engaged in the practice of a social work technician for a minimum of 10  
years before the date of application for Michigan registration, it is presumed that the  
applicant meets the requirements of section 16186 of the code, MCL 333.16186.  
(3) If an applicant holds a valid registration in good standing from another state and has  
been actively engaged in the practice of a social work technician for less than 10 years  
before the date of application for Michigan registration, then the applicant shall comply  
with the requirements for registration pursuant to R 338.2933.  
(4) An applicant for registration by endorsement shall comply with both of the  
following:  
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(a) Disclose each license, registration, or certification in a health profession or  
specialty issued by any other state, the United States military, the federal government, or  
another country on the application form.  
(b) Satisfy the requirements of section 16174(2) of the code, MCL 333.16174, which  
includes verification from the issuing entity showing that disciplinary proceedings are not  
pending against the applicant and sanctions are not in force at the time of application.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2937 Reregistration of social service technician.  
Rule 37. (1) An applicant whose registration has lapsed for less than 3 years may be  
reregistered, as provided under section 16201(3) of the code, MCL 333.16201, by  
meeting the requirements of the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the  
code and submitting a completed application on a form provided by the department,  
together with the required fee.  
(2) An applicant whose registration has lapsed for more than 3 years may be  
reregistered, as provided under section 16201(4) of the code, MCL 333.16201, by  
meeting the requirements of the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the  
code, submitting a completed application on a form provided by the department, together  
with the required fee, and submitting documentation that the applicant has been made an  
offer of employment in the practice of social service work at an agency recognized by the  
board.  
(3) An applicant who is or has ever been licensed, registered, or certified in a health  
profession or specialty by any other state, the United States military, the federal  
government, or another country, shall do both of the following:  
(a) Disclose each license, registration, or certification on the application form.  
(b) Satisfy the requirements of section 16174(2) of the code, MCL 333.16174, which  
includes verification from the issuing entity showing that disciplinary proceedings are not  
pending against the applicant and sanctions are not in force at the time of application.  
(4) If reregistration is granted and it is determined that a sanction has been imposed by  
another state, the United States military, the federal government, or another country, the  
disciplinary subcommittee may impose appropriate sanctions under section 16174(5) of  
the code, MCL 333.16174.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
PART 3. BACHELOR’S SOCIAL WORKER REQUIREMENTS  
R 338.2939 Limited bachelor's social worker license requirements; limitations on  
licensee’s accumulation of supervised work experience; limitations on renewal of  
limited license.  
Rule 39. (1) An applicant for a limited bachelor's social worker license to accumulate  
the supervised work experience hours required pursuant to R 338.2941, in addition to  
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meeting the requirements of the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the  
code, shall comply with both of the following:  
(a) Submit a completed application on a form provided by the department, together  
with the required fee.  
(b) Have completed a baccalaureate degree program from a program of social work  
that complies with the standards in R 338.2923.  
(2) A limited bachelor’s social worker licensee shall accumulate supervised work  
experience in compliance with the requirements in R 338.2941.  
(3) A limited bachelor’s social worker licensee shall accumulate supervised work  
experience in an agency, health facility, institution, or other entity approved by the board  
pursuant to section 18506 of the code, MCL 333.18506. The board approves an agency,  
health facility, institution, or other entity where a master’s social worker engages in the  
practice of social work at the master’s level as that term is defined in section 18501(1)(g)  
of the code, MCL 333.18501.  
(4) A limited bachelor’s social worker license issued for the purpose of accumulating  
supervised work experience hours for licensure pursuant to R 338.2941 is valid for 1  
year. This license may be renewed no more than 6 times. Relicensure of this limited  
license is counted the same as renewal for purposes of this subrule.  
(5) A limited bachelor’s social worker license issued for the purpose of accumulating  
supervised work experience for relicensure pursuant to R 338.2945 is valid for 1 year.  
This license may be renewed no more than 6 times. Relicensure of this limited license is  
counted the same as renewal for purposes of this subrule.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2941  
Bachelor's social worker license by examination; educational  
requirements; supervised work experience requirements.  
Rule 41. (1) An applicant for a bachelor's social worker license by examination shall  
submit a completed application on a form provided by the department, together with the  
required fee. In addition to meeting the requirements of the code and the administrative  
rules promulgated under the code, an applicant for a bachelor's social worker license by  
examination shall meet all of the following requirements:  
(a) Have completed a baccalaureate degree program from a program of social work  
that complies with the standards in R 338.2923.  
(b) Have completed at least 4,000 hours of post-degree supervised work experience  
accrued over not less than 2 years, as required in section 18509(1)(a) of the code, MCL  
333.18509, and described in subrules (2), (3), and (4) of this rule.  
(c) Have passed the bachelor's examination approved pursuant to R 338.2925.  
(2) Supervised work experience includes, but is not limited to, any of the following:  
(a) Assessment, planning, and intervention with individuals, couples, families, or  
groups to enhance or restore the capacity for social functioning.  
(b) Case management of health and human services.  
(c) Providing information about and referring individuals to resources.  
(d) Planning and collaborating with communities, organizations, or groups to improve  
their social or health services.  
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(e) Working with clients in accessing, coordinating, or developing resources to develop  
solutions for interpersonal or community problems.  
(3) Supervised work experience may be earned only while holding a Michigan limited  
bachelor’s of social work license issued pursuant to R 338.2939. The supervised work  
experience for a bachelor's social worker license must meet all of the following  
requirements:  
(a) The experience must be earned after completion of all the requirements for  
graduation as verified by the program.  
(b) The experience must be completed under the supervision of a Michigan-licensed  
master's social worker whose license is in good standing throughout the period of  
supervision.  
(4) The supervised work experience must comply with all of the following:  
(a) The applicant shall meet with his or her supervisor using any of the following  
methods:  
(i) Individually and in person.  
(ii) Individually using a telecommunications method that provides for live and  
simultaneous contact.  
(iii) In a group modality that provides for 50% of the supervision to include  
individual contact during which active work functions and records of the applicant are  
reviewed.  
(b) Supervisory review must be conducted for at least 4 hours per month with at least 2  
hours being conducted between the applicant and the supervisor using either of the  
following methods:  
(i) Individually and in person.  
(ii) Individually using a telecommunications method that provides for live and  
simultaneous contact.  
(c) An applicant may not accumulate more than 2,080 hours of supervised work  
experience during any 12-month period.  
(d) An applicant shall accumulate an average of at least 16 hours, but not more than 40  
hours, of supervised work experience per week. An applicant who has completed at least  
4,000 hours of post-degree supervised work experience but does not satisfy the  
requirements of this subrule may seek a waiver of the requirements of this subrule from  
the board.  
(e) The applicant shall function as a licensed bachelor's social worker using generally  
accepted applications of social work knowledge and techniques acquired during the  
applicant's education and training.  
(f) The experience may be earned either in an employment or volunteer capacity.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2943 Bachelor’s social worker licensure by endorsement.  
Rule 43. (1) An applicant for licensure by endorsement shall meet the requirements of  
the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the code, and submit a  
completed application on a form provided by the department, together with the required  
fee.  
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(2) If an applicant holds an active license or registration in good standing from another  
state or active license in good standing from a province of Canada and has been actively  
engaged in the practice of a bachelor’s social worker for a minimum of 10 years before  
the date of application for Michigan licensure, it is presumed that the applicant meets the  
requirements of section 16186 of the code, MCL 333.16186.  
(3) If an applicant holds an active license or registration in good standing from another  
state or active license in good standing from a province of Canada, but does not satisfy  
the requirements for licensure by endorsement in subrule (2) of this rule, the applicant  
shall comply with both of the following:  
(a) Pass the bachelor’s examination approved pursuant to R 338.2925.  
(b) Submit documentation verifying that the applicant has completed a minimum of  
4,000 hours of supervised work experience, work experience, or both, at the bachelor’s  
level.  
(4) An applicant for licensure by endorsement shall comply with both of the following:  
(a) Disclose each license, registration, or certification in a health profession or  
specialty issued by any other state, the United States military, the federal government, or  
another country on the application form.  
(b) Satisfy the requirements of section 16174(2) of the code, MCL 333.16174, which  
includes verification from the issuing entity showing that disciplinary proceedings are not  
pending against the applicant and sanctions are not in force at the time of application.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2945 Relicensure of bachelor's social worker.  
Rule 45. (1) An applicant whose license has lapsed may be relicensed under section  
16201(3) or (4), as applicable, MCL 333.16201, if the applicant meets the requirements  
of the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the code and satisfies the  
following requirements as indicated by a (√) in the table below:  
(a) For a bachelor’s social worker who has Lapsed  
Lapsed  
Lapsed  
let his or her Michigan license lapse  
and is not currently licensed or registered in  
another state or province of Canada.  
0-3 years  
more than 3 7 years  
years, but or more  
less than 7  
years  
(i)  
Submit a completed application on a √  
√
√
√
form provided by the department,  
together with the required fee.  
Establish that the applicant is of √  
good moral character as defined  
under 1974 PA 381, MCL 338.41 to  
338.47.  
(ii)  
√
(iii)  
(iv)  
Submit fingerprints as required  
under section 16174(3) of the code,  
MCL 333.16174.  
Submit proof of having completed √  
45 hours of continuing education in  
√
√
√
√
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courses and programs approved by  
the board, including at least 5 hours  
in social work ethics, 2 hours in pain  
and symptom management, and 2  
hours in human trafficking as  
provided under R 338.2961, which  
was earned within the 3-year period  
immediately  
application for relicensure.  
Complete 480 hours of supervised  
work experience under the  
preceding  
the  
(v)  
√
supervision of a Michigan-licensed  
master’s social worker described in  
subrules (2) and (3) of this rule.  
(vi)  
(vii)  
Complete 1,000 hours of supervised  
√
work  
experience  
under  
the  
supervision of a Michigan-licensed  
master’s social worker described in  
subrules (2) and (3) of this rule.  
Pass the examination approved  
pursuant to R 338.2925 within 1 year  
of submitting the application for  
relicensure.  
√
√
(viii) An applicant who is or has ever been √  
licensed, registered, or certified in a  
health profession or specialty by any  
other state, the United States  
military, the federal government, or  
another country, shall do both of the  
following:  
√
(A)  
Disclose  
each  
license,  
registration, or certification on the  
application form.  
(B) Satisfy the requirements of  
section 16174(2) of the code, MCL  
333.16174,  
verification from the issuing entity  
showing that disciplinary  
which  
includes  
proceedings are not pending against  
the applicant and sanctions are not in  
force at the time of application.  
(b) For a bachelor’s social worker who has Lapsed  
Lapsed  
Lapsed  
let his or her Michigan license lapse  
and is currently licensed or registered in  
another state or province of Canada.  
0-3 years  
more than 3 7 years or  
years, but more  
less than 7  
years  
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(i)  
Submit a completed application on a √  
form provided by the department,  
together with the required fee.  
Establish that the applicant is of √  
good moral character as defined  
under 1974 PA 381, MCL 338.41 to  
338.47.  
√
√
√
√
(ii)  
(iii)  
(iv)  
Submit fingerprints as required under  
section 16174(3) of the code, MCL  
333.16174.  
√
√
√
√
Submit proof of having completed 45 √  
hours of continuing education in  
courses and programs approved by  
the board, including at least 5 hours  
in social work ethics, 2 hours in pain  
and symptom management, and 2  
hours in human trafficking as  
provided under R 338.2961, which  
was earned within the 3-year period  
immediately  
preceding  
the  
application for relicensure.  
(v)  
An applicant who is or has ever been √  
licensed, registered, or certified in a  
health profession or specialty by any  
other state, the United States  
military, the federal government, or  
another country, shall do both of the  
following:  
√
√
(A)  
Disclose  
each  
license,  
registration, or certification on the  
application form.  
(B) Satisfy the requirements of  
section 16174(2) of the code, MCL  
333.16174,  
verification from the issuing entity  
showing that disciplinary  
which  
includes  
proceedings are not pending against  
the applicant and sanctions are not in  
force at the time of application.  
(2) Supervised work experience must be earned under a Michigan limited license  
pursuant to R 338.2939.  
(3) A licensee with a limited license for supervised work experience for relicensure shall  
comply with the supervisory requirements in R 338.2941(2) to (4).  
(4) If relicensure is granted and it is determined that a sanction has been imposed by  
another state, the United States military, the federal government, or another country, the  
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disciplinary subcommittee may impose appropriate sanctions under section 16174(5) of  
the code, MCL 333.16174.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
PART 4. MASTER’S SOCIAL WORKER REQUIREMENTS  
R 338.2947 Limited master's social worker license requirements; limitations on  
accumulation of supervised work experience; limitation on renewal of limited  
license.  
Rule 47. (1) An applicant for a limited master's social worker license to accumulate the  
supervised work experience required for full licensure, in addition to meeting the  
requirements of the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the code, shall  
comply with both of the following:  
(a) Submit a completed application on a form provided by the department, together  
with the required fee.  
(b) Have completed a master's or doctoral degree program from a program of social  
work that complies with the standards in R 338.2923.  
(2) A limited master’s social worker licensee shall accumulate supervised work  
experience in compliance with the requirements in R 338.2949.  
(3) A limited master’s social worker licensee shall accumulate supervised work  
experience in an agency, health facility, institution, or other entity approved by the board  
pursuant to section 18506 of the code, MCL 333.18506. The board approves an agency,  
health facility, institution, or other entity where a master’s social worker engages in the  
practice of social work at the master’s level as that term is defined in section 18501(1)(g)  
of the code, MCL 333.18501.  
(4) A limited master’s social worker license issued for the purpose of accumulating  
supervised work experience hours for licensure pursuant to R 338.2949 is valid for 1  
year. This license may be renewed no more than 6 times. Relicensure of this limited  
license is counted the same as renewal for purposes of this subrule.  
(5) A limited master’s social worker license issued for the purpose of accumulating  
supervised work experience for relicensure pursuant to R 338.2955 is valid for 1 year.  
This license may be renewed no more than 6 times. Relicensure of this limited license is  
counted the same as renewal for purposes of this subrule.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2949 Master’s social worker license; educational requirements; supervised  
work experience requirements; generally; second specialty designation.  
Rule 49. (1) In addition to meeting the requirements of the code and the administrative  
rules promulgated under the code, an applicant for a master’s social worker license shall  
submit a completed application on a form provided by the department, together with the  
required fee, and meet all of the following requirement:  
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(a) Have completed a master’s or doctoral degree program from a program of social  
work that complies with the standards in R 338.2923.  
(b) Have completed at least 4,000 hours of post-degree supervised work experience  
accrued over not less than 2 years, as required in section 18509(1)(a) of the code, MCL  
333.18509, and described in subrules (2), (3), and (4) of this rule and R 338.2951 or R  
338.2953, as applicable.  
(c) Have passed the advanced generalist or clinical examination, as required in R  
338.2951 or R 338.2953, or both, as applicable.  
(2) An applicant for a master’s social worker license shall complete supervised work  
experience as required by R 338.2951, R 338.2953, or both, as applicable, under the  
direction of a Michigan-licensed master's social worker who holds a macro designation,  
clinical practice designation, or both, as applicable, and whose license is in good standing  
throughout the period of supervision.  
(3) Supervised work experience must comply with all of the following:  
(a) Supervised work experience may only be earned while holding a Michigan limited  
master’s of social work license issued pursuant to R 338.2947.  
(b) The applicant shall meet with his or her supervisor using any of the following  
methods:  
(i) Individually and in person.  
(ii) Individually using a telecommunications method that provides for live and  
simultaneous contact.  
(iii) In a group modality that provides for 50% of the supervision to include  
individual contact during which active work functions and records of the applicant are  
reviewed.  
(c) Supervisory review must be conducted for at least 4 hours per month with at least  
2 hours being conducted between the applicant and the supervisor using either of the  
following methods:  
(i) Individually and in person.  
(ii) Individually using a telecommunications method that provides for live and  
simultaneous contact.  
(d) The applicant may not accumulate more than 2,080 hours of supervised work  
experience during any 12-month period.  
(e) The applicant shall accumulate an average of at least 16 hours, but not more than  
40 hours, of supervised work experience per week. An applicant who has completed at  
least 4,000 hours of post-degree supervised work experience but does not satisfy the  
requirements of this subrule may seek a waiver of the requirements of this subrule from  
the board.  
(f) The applicant shall function as a master's social worker using generally accepted  
applications of social work knowledge and techniques acquired during the applicant's  
education and training.  
(4) In addition to satisfying the requirements of this rule, an applicant for licensure with  
a macro or clinical practice designation shall satisfy all the requirements of R 338.2951  
or R 338.2953, as applicable. An applicant or a licensee may add a second master's level  
social work specialty designation by completing both of the following requirements:  
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(a) Complete an additional 2,000 hours of post-degree social work experience, accrued  
over not less than 1 year, in the second specialty designated area with at least 50 hours of  
supervisory review.  
(b) Pass the appropriate examination for the second designation approved pursuant to  
R 338.2925.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2951 Master’s social worker license; macro designation.  
Rule 51. An applicant for the license with a macro designation, in addition to meeting  
the requirements of R 338.2949, shall meet both of the following requirements:  
(a) Have passed the advanced generalist examination approved pursuant to R 338.2925.  
(b) Have completed at least 4,000 hours of post-degree social work experience accrued  
over not less than 2 years, as required in section 18509(1)(b) of the code, MCL  
333.18509, as follows:  
(i) The experience must be earned after completion of all the requirements for  
graduation as verified by the program.  
(ii) The experience must be completed in compliance with the requirements of R  
338.2949 under the supervision of a Michigan-licensed master’s social worker holding a  
macro designation.  
(iii) The experience for the macro designation must be completed in either or both of  
the following areas:  
(A) Administration, management, and supervision of human service organizations,  
including the translating of laws and administrative rulings into organizational policy and  
procedures; collaboration, coordination, mediation, and consultation between and among  
organizations, disciplines and communities; community organizing and development;  
research and evaluation; the seeking of social justice through the legislative process or  
the social action and advocacy processes; the improvement of social conditions through  
social planning and policy formulations; and, social work education and training.  
(B) The advanced application of macro social work processes and systems to improve  
the social or health services of communities, groups, or organizations through planned  
interventions.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2953 Master’s social worker license; clinical designation.  
Rule 53. An applicant for licensure with a clinical practice designation, in addition to  
meeting the requirements of R 338.2949, shall meet both of the following requirements:  
(a) Have passed the clinical examination approved pursuant to R 338.2925.  
(b) Have completed at least 4,000 hours of post-degree social work experience accrued  
over not less than 2 years, in accordance with section 18509(1)(b) of the code, MCL  
333.18509, as follows:  
(i) The experience must be earned after completion of all the requirements for  
graduation as verified by the program.  
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(ii) The experience must be completed in compliance with the requirements of R  
338.2949 under the supervision of a Michigan-licensed master’s social worker holding a  
clinical designation.  
(iii) The experience for the clinical practice designation must include 1 or more of the  
following activities: assessment, treatment, and intervention methods that utilize a  
specialized and formal interaction between a social worker and an individual, a couple, a  
family, or a group in which a professional relationship is established; advocating for care;  
protecting the vulnerable; providing forensic practice functions; increasing social well-  
being; providing education, and resources; providing psychotherapy; providing case  
management for complex and high-risk cases; serving on community committees; and,  
providing clinical supervision or direction of clinical programs.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2955 Relicensure of master’s social worker.  
Rule 55. (1) An applicant whose license has lapsed may be relicensed under section  
16201(3) or (4) of the code, as applicable, MCL 333.16201, if the applicant meets the  
requirements of the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the code and  
satisfies the following requirements as indicated by a (√) in the table below:  
(a) For a licensed master’s social worker Lapsed  
who has let his or her Michigan license lapse 0-3 years  
and is not currently licensed or registered in  
another state or province of Canada.  
Lapsed  
Lapsed  
more than 3 7 years or  
years, but more  
less than 7  
years  
(i)  
Submit a completed application on a √  
form provided by the department,  
together with the required fee.  
Establish that the applicant is of √  
good moral character as defined  
under 1974 PA 381, MCL 338.41 to  
338.47.  
√
√
√
(ii)  
√
(iii)  
(iv)  
Submit fingerprints as required  
under section 16174(3) of the code,  
MCL 333.16174.  
√
√
√
√
Submit proof of having completed √  
45 hours of continuing education in  
courses and programs approved by  
the board, including at least 5 hours  
in social work ethics, 2 hours in pain  
and symptom management, and 2  
hours in human trafficking as  
provided under R 338.2961, which  
was earned within the 3-year period  
immediately  
preceding  
the  
application for relicensure.  
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(v)  
Complete 480 hours of supervised  
work experience under the  
√
supervision of a Michigan-licensed  
master’s social worker described in  
subrules (2) and (3) of this rule and  
R 338.2951 or R 338.2953, as  
applicable.  
(vi)  
Complete 1,000 hours of supervised  
√
work  
experience  
under  
the  
supervision of a Michigan-licensed  
master’s social worker of the same  
designation as described in subrules  
(2) and (3) of this rule and R  
338.2951 or  
applicable.  
R
338.2953, as  
(vii) Pass the applicable examination  
approved pursuant to R 338.2925  
within 1 year of submitting the  
application for relicensure.  
(viii) An applicant who is or has ever been √  
licensed, registered, or certified in a  
health profession or specialty by any  
other state, the United States  
military, the federal government, or  
another country, shall do both of the  
following:  
√
√
√
(A)  
Disclose  
each  
license,  
registration, or certification on the  
application form.  
(B) Satisfy the requirements of  
section 16174(2) of the code, MCL  
333.16174,  
verification from the issuing entity  
showing that disciplinary  
which  
includes  
proceedings are not pending against  
the applicant and sanctions are not in  
force at the time of application.  
(b) For a master’s social worker who has let Lapsed  
his or her Michigan license lapse and is 0-3 years  
currently licensed or registered in another  
state or province of Canada.  
Lapsed  
Lapsed  
more than 3 7 years or  
years, but more  
less than 7  
years  
(i)  
Submit a completed application on a √  
form provided by the department,  
together with the required fee.  
√
√
√
(ii)  
Establish that the applicant is of √  
√
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good moral character as defined  
under 1974 PA 381, MCL 338.41 to  
338.47.  
(iii)  
(iv)  
Submit fingerprints as required  
under section 16174(3) of the code,  
MCL 333.16174.  
√
√
√
√
Submit proof of having completed √  
45 hours of continuing education in  
courses and programs approved by  
the board, including at least 5 hours  
in social work ethics, 2 hours in pain  
and symptom management, and 2  
hours in human trafficking as  
provided under R 338.2961, which  
was earned within the 3-year period  
immediately  
preceding  
the  
application for relicensure.  
(v)  
An applicant who is or has ever been √  
licensed, registered, or certified in a  
health profession or specialty by any  
other state, the United States  
military, the federal government, or  
another country, shall do both of the  
following:  
√
√
(A)  
Disclose  
each  
license,  
registration, or certification on the  
application form.  
(B) Satisfy the requirements of  
section 16174(2) of the code, MCL  
333.16174,  
verification from the issuing entity  
showing that disciplinary  
which  
includes  
proceedings are not pending against  
the applicant and sanctions are not in  
force at the time of application.  
(2) Supervised work experience must be earned under a Michigan limited license  
pursuant to R 338.2947.  
(3) A licensee with a limited license for supervised work experience for relicensure shall  
comply with the supervisory requirements in R 338.2949(2) to (4).  
(4) If relicensure is granted and it is determined that a sanction has been imposed by  
another state, the United States military, the federal government, or another country, the  
disciplinary subcommittee may impose appropriate sanctions under section 16174(5) of  
the code, MCL 333.16174.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
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R 338.2957 Master’s social work licensure by endorsement.  
Rule 57. (1) An applicant for licensure by endorsement shall meet the requirements of  
the code and the administrative rules promulgated under the code, and submit a  
completed application on a form provided by the department, together with the required  
fee.  
(2) If an applicant holds an active master’s of social work license or registration in good  
standing from another state or license in good standing from a province of Canada and  
has been engaged in the practice of social work at the master’s level for a minimum of 10  
years before the date of application for Michigan licensure, it is presumed that the  
applicant meets the requirements for licensure under section 16186 of the code, MCL  
333.16186. The applicant shall apply for either the macro designation or the clinical  
designation and provide an attestation that he or she had engaged in the practice of social  
work at the master’s level as defined under section 18501(1)(g)(ii) or (iii), MCL  
333.18501, as applicable. An applicant may apply for a second designation by satisfying  
the requirements in R 338.2949(4) or by submitting proof that he or she currently holds  
both designations in the state or province of Canada where he or she is currently licensed.  
(3) If an applicant holds an active license or registration in good standing from another  
state or license in good standing from a province of Canada, but does not satisfy the  
requirements for licensure by endorsement in subrule (2) of this rule, then the applicant  
shall comply with both of the following:  
(a) Pass the advanced generalist or clinical examination, as applicable, of the  
examination approved pursuant to R 338.2925.  
(b) Submit documentation verifying that the applicant has completed a minimum of  
4,000 hours of supervised work experience, work experience, or both, at the master’s  
macro or clinical level, as applicable.  
(4) An applicant for licensure by endorsement shall comply with both of the following:  
(a) Disclose each license, registration, or certification in a health profession or  
specialty issued by any other state, the United States military, the federal government, or  
another country on the application form.  
(b) Satisfy the requirements of section 16174(2) of the code, MCL 333.16174, which  
includes verification from the issuing entity showing that disciplinary proceedings are not  
pending against the applicant and sanctions are not in force at the time of application.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
PART 5. CONTINUING EDUCATION  
R 338.2961 Bachelor’s and master’s of social work license renewals; continuing  
education requirements.  
Rule 61. (1) An applicant for license renewal who has been licensed for the 3-year  
period immediately preceding the expiration date of the license shall satisfy the  
requirements of R 338.7001 to R 338.7005, and accumulate not less than 45 continuing  
education contact hours that are approved by the board under R 338.2963 during the 3  
years immediately preceding application for renewal.  
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(2) At least 5 of the 45 continuing education contact hours in each renewal period must  
be in ethics.  
(3) At least 2 of the 45 continuing education contact hours in each renewal period must  
be in pain and symptom management. Continuing education contact hours in pain and  
symptom management may include, but are not limited to, courses in behavior  
management, psychology of pain, behavior modification, and stress management.  
(4) At least 2 of the 45 continuing education contact hours in each renewal period must  
be in human trafficking.  
(5) Submission of an application for renewal constitutes the applicant's certification of  
compliance with the requirements of these rules. A licensed master's or licensed  
bachelor's social worker shall retain documentation of meeting the requirements of this  
rule for a period of 5 years from the date of applying for license renewal. The board may  
require an applicant or licensee to submit evidence to demonstrate compliance with this  
rule. Failure to comply with this rule is a violation of section 16221(h) of the code, MCL  
333.16221.  
(6) The department shall receive a request for a waiver under section 16205 of the code,  
MCL 333.16205, before the expiration date of the license.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338. 2963 Acceptable continuing education; limitations.  
Rule 63. (1) One half of the required continuing education contact hours must be  
completed in person or using a format that permits live, synchronous contact. The  
remaining continuing education contact hours may be completed in any other approved  
format.  
(2) The continuing education credit hours earned during 1 renewal cycle may not be  
carried forward to the next renewal cycle.  
(3) A licensee may not earn continuing education credit for completing the same course  
twice within the same renewal cycle.  
(4) The board approves all of the following as acceptable continuing education:  
ACCEPTABLE CONTINUING EDUCATION  
(a)  
Attendance at a continuing education Contact hours may be earned without  
program related to the practice of limitation under this subrule.  
social work approved or offered by  
any of the following:  
The ASWB.  
The National Association of Social  
Workers (NASW).  
A state chapter of the NASW.  
If audited, a licensee shall submit a  
copy of a letter or certificate of  
completion showing the licensee’s  
name, number of credits earned,  
sponsor name or the name of the  
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organization that approved the  
program or activity for continuing  
education credit, and the date or dates  
on which the program was held or  
activity completed.  
(b)  
Attendance of an academic course or Fifteen continuing education contact  
a
continuing education program hours may be earned for each semester  
related to the practice of social work credit earned. Ten continuing education  
offered by an educational program contact hours may be earned for each  
approved by the board under R quarter credit earned.  
338.2923.  
One hour of continuing education contact  
If audited, the licensee shall submit an hours may be earned for each hour of  
official  
transcript  
documenting attendance of a continuing education  
successful completion of the course, program. Credit may be earned without  
or the licensee shall submit a copy of limitation.  
a letter or certificate of completion  
showing the licensee’s name, number  
of credits earned, name of the  
educational program offering the  
academic course or continuing  
education program, and the date or  
dates on which the academic course  
was attended or the continuing  
education program was held or  
completed.  
(c)  
Attendance at a continuing education Continuing education contact hours may  
program that has been granted be earned without limitation.  
approval by another state board of  
social work.  
If audited, a licensee shall submit a  
copy of a letter or certificate of  
completion showing the licensee’s  
name, number of credits earned,  
sponsor name or the name of the  
organization that approved the  
program or activity for continuing  
education credit, and the date or dates  
on which the program was held or  
activity completed.  
(d)  
Presentation of a board-approved Three continuing education contact hours  
continuing education program that is may be earned for each 60 minutes of  
not part of the licensee’s regular job presentation.  
description.  
Credit may be earned for the same  
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If audited, a licensee shall submit a program only once in each renewal  
letter from the program sponsor period. A maximum of 15 continuing  
confirming the licensee as the education contact hours may be earned  
presenter and the presentation date per licensure cycle.  
and time, or a copy of the presentation  
notice or advertisement showing the  
date of the presentation, the licensee’s  
name listed as a presenter, and the  
name of the organization that  
approved or offered the presentation  
for continuing education credit.  
(e)  
Publication in a peer reviewed journal Ten continuing education contact hours  
or textbook of an article or chapter may be earned for publication in a  
related to the practice of social work. journal or textbook, with a maximum of  
10 contact hours per licensure cycle.  
If audited, a licensee shall submit a  
copy of the publication that identifies  
the licensee as an author of the  
chapter or a publication acceptance  
letter.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS; 2022 MR 8, Eff. April 25, 2022.  
R 338.2965 Rescinded.  
History: 2016 AACS; 2019 AACS; 2021 AACS.  
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;