ASW-G (NASW) - Advanced Social Worker in Gerontology

The Advanced Social Worker in Gerontology (ASW-G) certification is a professional credential for social workers who specialize in working with older persons. This certification, offered by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), demonstrates advanced competence in gerontological social work practice. The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) owns and maintains the social work licensing exams used by the NASW to test a social worker’s competence to safely and ethically practice.

The ASW-G certification is designed for social workers who provide services to enhance the quality of life and promote the well-being of aging adults and their families. It signifies expertise in areas such as assessment, care planning and advocacy for the elderly.

Eligibility

The ASW-G certification is available to all qualified social workers. General eligibility includes:

• Master’s degree in social work from a Council on Social Work Education-accredited graduate program

• 20 hours of professional continuing education (CE) related to working with older adults

• 2 years (equivalent of 3,000 hours) of documented paid, post-MSW experience working with older adults

• Current state MSW-level license or passing score on an ASWB MSW-level exam

• Adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics and the NASW Standards for Continuing Professional Education

Completion Time: Not available

Cost: 

• NASW Member: $165

• Nonmember: $450

Exam Format

Not available.

Renewal must occur every 2 years. To apply for renewal, applicants must:

• Submit a copy of their current social work license

• Complete continuing education

• Complete renewal application with CE documented

• Submit renewal fee

Renewal Fees

• $95 for all NASW members in good standing

• $350 for nonmembers

The continuing education requirement for ASW-G certification renewal is 20 contact hours within the past 2 years.

• Information Booklet

• NASW Credentialing Center FAQ

The NASW also offers the following certifications:

• Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW)

• Advanced Social Worker in Gerontology (ASW-G)

• Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM)

• Certified Hospice & Palliative Social Worker (CHP-SW)

• Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM)

• Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC)

• Clinical Social Worker in Gerontology (CSW-G)

• Social Worker in Gerontology (SW-G)

• Qualified Clinical Social Worker (QCSW)