LMSW CE Requirements in Michigan
This page summarizes the current CE requirements for the LMSW (Licensed Master's Social Worker - Michigan's clinical-level license; no separate 'LCSW'). LBSW (bachelor's) has the same 45-hr/3-yr CE structure. license in Michigan — renewal model, mandated topics, live/interactive rules, and home-study limits — with links to the official regulator.
LMSW
- Ethics — 5 hMinimum 5 of the 45 hours.
- Pain and pain symptom management — 2 hMinimum 2 of the 45 hours (behavior management, psychology of pain, behavior modification, stress management).
- Implicit bias — 3 hRECURRING every renewal: 1 hr per year of the license cycle = 3 hrs for the 3-yr cycle (R 338.7001-7005). New applicants: 2 hrs within 5 yrs before issuance. Counts toward the 45 hours. Hours cannot be carried forward between cycles.
- Human trafficking identificationONE-TIME training on identifying victims of human trafficking (Public Health Code / R 338.7051 et seq.), required before first licensure or first renewal; rule sets content, not a fixed hour count (provider courses typically ~1-2 hrs). Counts toward the 45 in the cycle taken.
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How many CE hours does an LMSW need in Michigan?
An LMSW must complete 45 CE / continuing-education hours every 3 years in Michigan. That total includes 5 hours of ethics. At least 22 of those hours must be live or interactive.
Are there required CE topics for LMSW in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan requires the following CE topics for LMSW: Ethics (5 h); Pain and pain symptom management (2 h); Implicit bias (3 h); Human trafficking identification.
Can LMSW CE be completed online in Michigan?
Not entirely. Michigan requires at least 22 live or interactive hours per cycle; the remaining hours may generally be completed through approved home-study / online courses. Home-study note: One-half (22.5 hrs) must be completed in person using live, synchronous contact; the remaining half (up to 22.5 hrs) may be any other approved format including home study/online..
What else should LMSW renewals know in Michigan?
Triennial renewal; 45 hrs/3 yrs incl. 5 ethics + 2 pain (R 338.2965 series). Retain CE records 4 years; LARA may audit. Human trafficking is a ONE-TIME requirement; implicit bias is RECURRING each renewal (1 hr/yr of cycle) and counts toward the 45 - corrected from the baseline which incorrectly labeled implicit bias one-time and left its hours blank.