The Pitfalls of Progress: An Analysis of the Social Work Certification System in Mainland China

Background and purpose

In mainland China, the social work certification system was formally established in 2006 and provided professional qualifications to entry-level and mid-level practitioners. The introduction of certification measures for senior social workers in 2018 marked the development of a tiered system by introducing senior level qualifications to the existing structure. Over the past 19 years, this certification framework has played a significant role in assessing the professional competence of social workers in China. However, limited research has critically examined the impacts of certification in advancing social work professionalization. Building on contemporary discussions, this study is a systematic approach to examine both the contributions and the limitations of the current certification system in promoting the development of the social work profession in China.

Methods

Document analysis combined with inductive thematic analysis were employed as the primary qualitative research method to examine the contributions and limitations of the social work certification system in China. Using systematic search in Chinese policy and academic databases, a total of 37 documents were identified and analyzed, including 5 national-level policy documents, 3 local-level policies, 6 examination guidelines, 14 national reports, and 9 peer-reviewed academic articles. Data were extracted and analyzed based on the purpose of the document, context behind the document, its scope and implication on practice. In addition, two semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants who serve as directors of the social work certification system. These interviews provided valuable triangulation and deeper insights into the challenges facing the certification process.

Results

Preliminary findings suggest that the current certification system has contributed to the professionalization of social work in China by establishing foundational recognition of the profession, creating standardized entry and continuing education mechanisms, promoting policy engagement and collaboration with government entities, and expanding workforce capacity through skills development. However, several limitations and challenges remain. These include a disconnect from practice realities, an overemphasis on testing rather than practical training, a mismatch between workforce quantity and quality, diminished professional autonomy, incomplete registration systems, and ongoing concerns regarding the reliability and validity of certification exams.

Conclusions and Implications

The social work certification system in Mainland China has significantly contributed to professionalization by expanding the certified workforce and enhancing in-service development. However, growth driven by top-down policy mandates has not guaranteed service quality, revealing a persistent gap between certification and practical competence. Policy recommendations emerging from this study include integrating practice-based assessments, bridging the disconnect between social work education and the certification system, and enhancing alignment with the specific demands of substantive fields. For international social work, China’s experience underscores the importance of strong policy support while also highlighting the need to adopt more flexible, field-specific approaches to competency development. These are crucial steps toward building a truly effective and professional workforce.