What Is the Difference Between C-ASWCM and CSWCM?

Major Takeaways:

• The CSWCM credential is ideal for entry- to mid-level social workers with a BSW and at least 4,500 hours of supervised experience in case management.
• The C-ASWCM is a more advanced credential designed for MSW holders with 3,000 hours of clinical case management experience, targeting leadership and clinical roles.
• Both NASW credentials enhance professional credibility, boost job prospects, and support continued professional development through CEU requirements.
• Choosing between CSWCM and C-ASWCM depends on your current education, licensure, and career goals, with a clear path for progression between the two.

Case managers in social work are becoming more important in our society for many reasons.

• Increasing complexity of social issues affecting individuals and families.
• Growing demand for support and social services.
• Increased focus on client-centered and holistic care

Indeed, case managers enable clients to take full advantage of support services.

Do you want to be a case manager? If yes, you should consider earning these NASW certifications for case managers.

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

These certifications are the gold standard for case managers. But these have differences in their education and experience requirements.

So, in this article, we’ll make an in-depth C-ASWCM vs. CSWCM comparison. We’ll discuss their eligibility, scope, and career impact.

Related:

• The Career Benefits of Earning a C-SWCM Certification
• Social Work Certifications and Career Advancement
• How to Become a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work
• Maintaining Your C-SWCM Certification: Continuing Education and Renewal Requirements
• Common Challenges in C-ACYFSW Certification

Overview of NASW Case Management Certifications

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) awards these social worker credentials. It’s the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the US. The NASW sets social work’s professional standards and promotes its growth. 

The NASW case management certifications serve these purposes in the social work profession.

• Affirm the holder’s clinical knowledge and skills in relation to social work.
• Boost their professional credibility and recognition.
• Ensure adherence to NASW’s professional and ethical standards.
• Support career advancement for leadership, advanced, or specialized roles.
• Promote continued professional development through continuing education.

But you must also know the main difference between C-ASWCM and CSWCM. This way, you can plan your steps and achieve your goals.

Of course, both certifications focus on case management. This focuses on helping clients access services and resources across complex systems.

But their education requirements, experience level, and scope are different. The CSWCM is for entry-level social workers. The C-ASWCM is for advanced practitioners. 

What Is CSWCM Certification?

The Certified Social Work Case Manager (CSWCM) credential is a professional credential that:

• Recognizes the specialized knowledge and skills in case management practice
• Affirms the holder’s ability to practice effective case management in diverse settings
• Enables the holder to provide direct services and coordinate care for clients
• Highlights the holder’s commitment to NASW’s professional standards and ethics

As a CSWCM, you’ll serve diverse populations, too. Your clients will include individuals, families, groups, and even communities.

The eligibility requirements to earn the CSWCM credential are as follows:

• A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program
• At least three years or 4,500 hours of paid, supervised case management experience. You must gain it after receiving your BSW degree (i.e., internship or practicum hours aren’t counted).
• An active state-issued BSW-level license or a passing score on the ASWB BSW‑level exam. Alabama, Maryland, and Michigan are among the states that require a BSW-level license.

Candidates must also commit to the NASW Code of Ethics. You must acknowledge a statement of commitment on the online application form.

There’s no certification exam to earn the CSWCM credential. But there are continuing education requirements for its renewal.

The CSWCM credential is an entry-to mid-level credential. As such, it’s a launchpad for more advanced credentials, such as the C-ASWCM certification.

Once you’ve earned the CSWCM credential, you’re more competitive for roles like:

• Social service case manager
• Care coordinator
• Case management specialist

You can also work in a wide range of settings. Healthcare facilities, mental health centers, and nonprofits are among them.

What Is C-ASWCM Certification?

The Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager  (C-ASWCM) credential is a professional credential that:

• Recognizes advanced knowledge and skills in effective case management practice
• Confirms the holder’s ability to handle complex clinical-level cases across multiple systems
• Reflects a solid command of clinical practice and systems navigation

The C-ASWCM is the highest social work case manager certification offered by NASW. As such, it has strict eligibility requirements that candidates must be aware of.

You must have the following credentials to apply for the C-ASWCM credential.

• Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a CSWE-accredited program.
• At least two years or 3,000 hours of paid, supervised experience in clinical case management. The experience must be after earning your MSW degree. Again, internship and practicum hours during your MSW studies aren’t counted.
• Active state-issued MSW-level social work license (e.g., LMSW or LCSW) in case it’s required in your state. If not, a passing score on a clinical-level exam, such as the ASWB MSW, is acceptable.
• Commitment to uphold the NASW Code of Ethics (i.e., as reflected on the application).

NASW membership at the time of application isn’t mandatory. But it’s highly recommended – members get an application fee discount. Members also enjoy access to free or discounted CEUs, among other services.

There’s also no certification exam.

The C-ASWCM credential is for advanced practice and leadership roles only. If you’re involved in staff supervision, policy, or program development, consider it.

The typical roles that C-ASWCMs are in include:

• Clinical case manager
• Behavioral health supervisor
• Program director

Common workplaces include hospitals, social service systems, and managed care centers.

Key Differences at a Glance

Here’s a more concise look at the C-ASWCM vs. CSWCM comparison.

Feature	CSWCM	C-ASWCM
Education	BSW	MSW
Experience	3 years; 4,500 hours	2 years; 3,000 hours
Level	Entry to mid-level	Advanced/clinical
Supervision	General	Clinical, post-MSW
Roles	Support case manager	Clinical lead, supervisor
Scope	Non-clinical settings	Clinical or hybrid settings

Career Outcomes and Advancement

Both case management credentials for social workers open career growth opportunities. But each one has a different impact on your career path.

The entry-to-mid-level CSWCM credential is for frontline roles. The advanced C-ASWCM credential signals clinical competence and leadership skills.

You should start with the CSWCM credential after earning your BSW degree. If you’re into community services, care coordination, or nonprofits, it’s also a good choice. Your case documentation and client advocacy skills will stand you in good stead.

If you want to compete for clinical, advanced, or clinical roles, consider the C-ASWCM. You’ll also enjoy higher salaries in the process.

The average salaries for C-ASWCMs range from $90,000 to $100,000+ per year. In contrast, the median wage for social workers is $61,330/year (BLS, May 2024).

So, in an advanced vs general case management certification comparison, which one wins? Both win because these are sought-after credentials among social workers and employers.

Besides, neither the CSWCM nor the C-ASWCM can replace state licensure. Instead, you can use either one to boost your skills and resume.

Choosing the Right Certification Path

Choosing the right social work certification should be an easy process. You should choose based on your current level of education and experience.

If you’re a new BSW graduate, your credential meets one of the CSWCM certification requirements. You can then gain the required supervised experience requirement.

Now, if you’re an experienced social worker with an MSW degree, the C-ASWCM is a logical step. You can count the number of hours of paid, supervised experience.

You can, of course, pursue both certifications. Earning the CSWCM first and then the C-ASWCM is a career progression. If your long-term career goal is to be in a leadership position, it makes sense.

Continuing Education and Renewal Requirements

Both certifications require renewal every 2 years. Failure to renew your certification on time may result in its loss. But you can still reapply for whatever certification you may have lost.

If you want to renew your certification, you must complete at least 20 hours of CEUs per cycle. At least three hours must be focused on ethics. CEUs can be in the form of approved online courses, workshops, and conferences.

You must also pay the renewal fee and file a renewal application. Be sure to include verifiable and valid proof of completed CEUs, too.

Why maintain your social worker case manager credential? Doing means:

• Highlighting your professional credibility and competence in social work case management practice
• Increasing your competitiveness for highly rewarding social work case management roles
• Achieving a nationally recognized credential (i.e., portable credential)  

Indeed, it’s a must if you want to enjoy professional growth.

Where to Get Help: NASW and Other Resources

The NASW Credentialing Center is the central application hub. You’ll find detailed information about:

• Eligibility requirements
• Required documentation
• Application steps
• Renewal process

These are the best platforms for CEU completion.

• NASW CE Institute
• CE4Less
• PESI

If you want the best professional communities and support, check out:

• NASW local chapters
• Facebook/LinkedIn social work case manager groups
• Alumni networks for mentorship

Conclusion: Making the Right Credential Choice

In a C-ASWCM vs. CSWCM comparison, both credentials are winners. Both offer great value in many ways, from career growth to positive impact.

So, the right certification depends on your current education and experience. Ask yourself, “Where am I in my career? What do I want to accomplish in the future? What certification best fits my current credentials and goals?”

Once you have clear answers to these questions, you can take the next steps. Explore the NASW’s official site for up-to-date information and application steps.