Social Work is an interdisciplinary field involving economics, education, sociology, medicine, philosophy, politics and psychology, which as a discipline and profession, seeks to improve the quality of life and well-being of an individual, group or community. This is done through policy, organizing, practice and teaching. While this is one area of practice, child protective services is just a sliver of the scope of social work. Social workers can be counselors in a private practice, work in hospitals, conduct substance abuse treatment counseling, work in government agencies (like the Veterans Administration or in the military setting), provide mental health counseling in psychiatric hospitals, direct and practice in social services agencies.
Service Learning Opportunities
Services learning focuses equally on a service being provided and the learning taking place. Service learning meets a learning goal and involves reflection. Social Work courses seek to embed service learning into the classroom through projects that positively impact the community as well as the students. On-campus and site-based opportunities are available. After completing service hours and projects, you may be eligible to apply for Service Learning Scholarships.
Program Location
Job Titles**
Activist, Addictions Counselor, Advocate, Behavioral Health Coach, Case Manager, Community Educator,
Community Organizer, Counselor, Grant Writer, Parent Liaison, Program Manager, Trauma Worker, Welfare Worker
Program Cost
Associate in Arts: $5,774*
*Please note that these are only estimates and do not include books. These estimates may change based on increases to tuition, course fees and book costs. Estimates are based on the tuition rates for in-county students. Additional fees may apply.
Employment Outlook
**For information about careers in your area of study, visit O*NET OnLine for detailed job descriptions, education requirements, as well as wage and employment trend information. Also visit the National Association of Social Workers job exploration website.