Social Work A.A.

Enhance human well-being. Empower communities.

Prepare to transform lives and reshape communities. Uncover complex challenges and everyday inequities people face. Advocate for the oppressed and forge your path to a meaningful and fulfilling career. With an A.A. in social work, you find inspiration and build a foundation of expertise that transfers to a four-year degree program.

What can you do with a degree in Social Work?

Continue to a four-year college or university and earn a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). Become a caseworker in mental health facilities, schools, hospitals or rape crisis centers. Go on to earn a Master of Social Work (MSW) and become a case manager.

With additional education, you can begin a career in any of the following roles:

patient advocate
counselor assistant
intake coordinator
case manager

An affordable, seamless transition to a Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW)

We prepare you for the rigors of a baccalaureate program. Your faculty are experienced social workers in public health, clinical work, addiction counseling, foster care, hospital social work and private practice. Learn an open-minded, unbiased approach to care.

Classwork includes papers, case studies, ethical dilemmas and vignettes, local agency visits and brief fieldwork placements. Expect to learn:

application of the Strengths Perspective
biopsychosocial (biological, psychological, social) assessment
client interviewing skills
introductory counseling skills
social work ethics

Highlights

100% Online

This degree can be completed 100% online. It’s up to you!
Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement).
Transfer Degree

Save money on your first 2 years and transfer your credits to the 4-year school of your choice.
Program Length: 2 Years

Finish in 2 years as a full-time student.

*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

Provide social services and assistance to improve the social and psychological functioning of children and their families and to maximize the family well-being and the academic functioning of children. May assist parents, arrange adoptions, and find foster homes for abandoned or abused children. In schools, they address such problems as teenage pregnancy, misbehavior, and truancy. May also advise teachers.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $48,621
  
  Median
  
  $66,796
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $114,294
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $23.37
  
  Median
  
  $32.11
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $54.94
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  Associate Degree
  
  5.51%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  68.66%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  25.83%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Conduct religious worship and perform other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faith or denomination. Provide spiritual and moral guidance and assistance to members.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $33,851
  
  Median
  
  $57,867
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $81,055
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $16.27
  
  Median
  
  $27.81
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $38.97
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  12.16%
  
  Some college
  
  15.21%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  18.32%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  49.16%
  
  Doctorate
  
  5.14%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Provide individuals, families, and groups with the psychosocial support needed to cope with chronic, acute, or terminal illnesses. Services include advising family caregivers. Provide patients with information and counseling, and make referrals for other services. May also provide case and care management or interventions designed to promote health, prevent disease, and address barriers to access to healthcare.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $46,921
  
  Median
  
  $72,900
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $94,116
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $22.55
  
  Median
  
  $35.04
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $45.25
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  14.81%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  85.18%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Diagnose and treat mental and emotional disorders, whether cognitive, affective, or behavioral, within the context of marriage and family systems. Apply psychotherapeutic and family systems theories and techniques in the delivery of services to individuals, couples, and families for the purpose of treating such diagnosed nervous and mental disorders.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $45,258
  
  Median
  
  $63,958
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $127,755
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $21.76
  
  Median
  
  $30.75
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $61.42
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  Associate Degree
  
  2.05%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  91.31%
  
  Doctorate
  
  6.65%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Assess and treat individuals with mental, emotional, or substance abuse problems, including abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and/or other drugs. Activities may include individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, case management, client advocacy, prevention, and education.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $43,080
  
  Median
  
  $63,590
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $101,971
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $20.70
  
  Median
  
  $30.57
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $49.02
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  18.78%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  81.22%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Provide social services to assist in rehabilitation of law offenders in custody or on probation or parole. Make recommendations for actions involving formulation of rehabilitation plan and treatment of offender, including conditional release and education and employment stipulations.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $57,744
  
  Median
  
  $78,917
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $118,845
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $27.76
  
  Median
  
  $37.93
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $57.13
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  0.85%
  
  Certificate
  
  1.67%
  
  Some college
  
  1.67%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  5.34%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  88.03%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  2.44%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $48,010
  
  Median
  
  $76,237
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $125,421
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $23.08
  
  Median
  
  $36.65
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $60.30
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  7.24%
  
  Some college
  
  2.19%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  8.15%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  50.36%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  32.05%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

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This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

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Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
ENG 121	ENG 121 English Composition I Class Description This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
MTH 142	MTH 142 General Education Statistics Class Description This course focuses on statistical reasoning and the solving of problems using real-world data rather than on computational skills. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results that arise from simulation and technology-based computations using technology more advanced than a basic scientific calculator, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheets, or statistical computing software. Topics will include data collection processes (observational studies, experimental design, sampling techniques, bias), descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data, bivariate data, correlation, and least squares regression, basic probability theory, probability distributions (normal distributions and normal curve, binomial distribution), confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using p-values. Note: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS Division office for details. Credit will not be given in MTH 142 to those with prior credit in MTH 222. This course does not meet the math requirement in the Associate of Science or Associate of Engineering Science, but may be used as elective credits.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
PSY 121	PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology Class Description This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
PHI 125	PHI 125 Introduction to Ethics Class Description In this course, students are exposed to moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. Students also critically evaluate general moral theories, and fundamental moral concepts. Additionally, they apply these moral theories to contemporary moral issues such as animal rights, environmental issues, reproductive technologies, abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, emerging technologies, and other issues. Students develop and defend their own views on these matters, and evaluate the views of others. By studying and applying moral theories to their own lives, students are encouraged to explore different ways of effecting change in their lives and communities. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.	3	Global citizenship Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ENG 121
Course Title	ENG 121 English Composition I Class Description This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	MTH 142
Course Title	MTH 142 General Education Statistics Class Description This course focuses on statistical reasoning and the solving of problems using real-world data rather than on computational skills. Emphasis is on interpretation and evaluation of statistical results that arise from simulation and technology-based computations using technology more advanced than a basic scientific calculator, such as graphing calculators with a statistical package, spreadsheets, or statistical computing software. Topics will include data collection processes (observational studies, experimental design, sampling techniques, bias), descriptive methods using quantitative and qualitative data, bivariate data, correlation, and least squares regression, basic probability theory, probability distributions (normal distributions and normal curve, binomial distribution), confidence intervals and hypothesis tests using p-values. Note: A specific graphing calculator is required for this course. Contact the EMPS Division office for details. Credit will not be given in MTH 142 to those with prior credit in MTH 222. This course does not meet the math requirement in the Associate of Science or Associate of Engineering Science, but may be used as elective credits.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	PSY 121
Course Title	PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology Class Description This course presents the basic concepts and theoretical perspectives for understanding psychology with an emphasis on cultural competence and social justice. It encompasses factors affecting human behavior and mental processes and includes, but is not limited to, the history of psychology, research methodology, the brain and behavior, learning, memory, cognition, language, intelligence, development, personality, abnormal psychology, therapy and social psychology.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	PHI 125
Course Title	PHI 125 Introduction to Ethics Class Description In this course, students are exposed to moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. Students also critically evaluate general moral theories, and fundamental moral concepts. Additionally, they apply these moral theories to contemporary moral issues such as animal rights, environmental issues, reproductive technologies, abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, emerging technologies, and other issues. Students develop and defend their own views on these matters, and evaluate the views of others. By studying and applying moral theories to their own lives, students are encouraged to explore different ways of effecting change in their lives and communities. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.
Credits	3
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
ENG 122	ENG 122 English Composition II Class Description This course furthers the work done in English Composition I by providing students more experience as academic writers, readers, researchers and critical thinkers. To help students construct their own meaning while engaging with the texts of others, they will develop the ability to collect, evaluate, and incorporate varied sources in thoughtfully-written analyses and arguments. Students' work should demonstrate the ability to position themselves within the context of academic and societal conversations using a variety of texts, which may include literature, arguments on various issues, news articles, films, advertisements, and websites.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
GEG 121	GEG 121 Physical Geography Class Description This introductory physical science course examines the processes and agents that help to shape and change the environment in which humans live. Emphasis is placed on the interrelationships that exist between the earth's heat and energy systems and the weather, climate, soils, vegetation, streams, oceans, landforms, and human activities.	3	Online/Virtual options available
SWK 121	SWK 121 Introduction to Social Work Class Description This course provides an introduction to the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for generalist social work in contemporary society. Social welfare services, policies, and their historical origins will be presented along with the unique experiences of diverse and at-risk populations affected by various social problems. It provides an overview of the range of public and private social services available for meeting these problems.	3	Online/Virtual options available
HUS 140	HUS 140 Drugs and Society Class Description This course provides the student with an historical background of drugs of abuse and their impact on individuals and society. Topics addressed include an in-depth study of specific licit and illicit drugs and the pharmacological and behavioral effects within the major classifications of substances. Additional topics include laws and regulations, individual and societal problems, prevention strategies, and trends and statistics.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
SOC 121	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ENG 122
Course Title	ENG 122 English Composition II Class Description This course furthers the work done in English Composition I by providing students more experience as academic writers, readers, researchers and critical thinkers. To help students construct their own meaning while engaging with the texts of others, they will develop the ability to collect, evaluate, and incorporate varied sources in thoughtfully-written analyses and arguments. Students' work should demonstrate the ability to position themselves within the context of academic and societal conversations using a variety of texts, which may include literature, arguments on various issues, news articles, films, advertisements, and websites.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	GEG 121
Course Title	GEG 121 Physical Geography Class Description This introductory physical science course examines the processes and agents that help to shape and change the environment in which humans live. Emphasis is placed on the interrelationships that exist between the earth's heat and energy systems and the weather, climate, soils, vegetation, streams, oceans, landforms, and human activities.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	SWK 121
Course Title	SWK 121 Introduction to Social Work Class Description This course provides an introduction to the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for generalist social work in contemporary society. Social welfare services, policies, and their historical origins will be presented along with the unique experiences of diverse and at-risk populations affected by various social problems. It provides an overview of the range of public and private social services available for meeting these problems.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	HUS 140
Course Title	HUS 140 Drugs and Society Class Description This course provides the student with an historical background of drugs of abuse and their impact on individuals and society. Topics addressed include an in-depth study of specific licit and illicit drugs and the pharmacological and behavioral effects within the major classifications of substances. Additional topics include laws and regulations, individual and societal problems, prevention strategies, and trends and statistics.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	SOC 121
Course Title	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other physical sciences courses instead of GEG 121. Students also can choose other concentration electives instead of HUS 140 and SOC 121.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CMM 121	CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech Class Description For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.	3	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
BIO 141	BIO 141 Concepts in Biology Class Description This course emphasizes scientific inquiry through selected concepts of biology, such as organization, function, heredity, evolution and ecology. Biological issues with personal and social implications will be introduced to enable students to make informed decisions. A laboratory component will reinforce concepts introduced in the lecture portion of class. NOTE: This course is recommended for non-science majors needing a one-semester lab science course and is not intended for students wishing to enter an allied health or pre-professional field.	4	Credit for prior learning available
SWK 228	SWK 228 Human Sexuality Class Description This course provides an examination of the current knowledge and attitudes of the behavioral aspects of human sexuality with particular emphasis on personal, interpersonal, community, and societal influences on sexuality. Topics of interest include sexuality throughout the lifespan, sexual anatomy and physiology, gender roles and gender identity, contraception, pregnancy, birth, lifestyles, love and intimacy, abortion, sexual orientation, sexually transmitted diseases, dysfunction, power/coercion, and sale of sex. PSY 228 and SWK 228 are cross-listed.	3	Online/Virtual options available
ART 121	ART 121 Introduction to Art Class Description This course will introduce students to an appreciation of the visual arts through an intercultural, social/historical approach. The course will also emphasize the nature of the creative process, integrating a study of the conceptual principles, with methods and materials which influence artistic critical thinking, problem solving, exploration, and discovery. Note: A museum visit will be required during the semester at student expense. See course syllabus for approximate cost.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
HUS 128	HUS 128 Introduction to Counseling Skills Class Description This course provides the student with an introduction to the foundational theories and skills necessary in the counseling field and explores the dynamics of establishing positive relationships with people in need of human services. The counseling process and the issues of intervention, therapeutic interviewing, confidentiality, and empathic communication will be presented. This course includes a mandatory field experience of 40 hours with an HUS Department Chair pre-approved social service agency.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CMM 121
Course Title	CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech Class Description For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
Credits	3
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	BIO 141
Course Title	BIO 141 Concepts in Biology Class Description This course emphasizes scientific inquiry through selected concepts of biology, such as organization, function, heredity, evolution and ecology. Biological issues with personal and social implications will be introduced to enable students to make informed decisions. A laboratory component will reinforce concepts introduced in the lecture portion of class. NOTE: This course is recommended for non-science majors needing a one-semester lab science course and is not intended for students wishing to enter an allied health or pre-professional field.
Credits	4
Credit for prior learning available

Course Highlights
Course Code	SWK 228
Course Title	SWK 228 Human Sexuality Class Description This course provides an examination of the current knowledge and attitudes of the behavioral aspects of human sexuality with particular emphasis on personal, interpersonal, community, and societal influences on sexuality. Topics of interest include sexuality throughout the lifespan, sexual anatomy and physiology, gender roles and gender identity, contraception, pregnancy, birth, lifestyles, love and intimacy, abortion, sexual orientation, sexually transmitted diseases, dysfunction, power/coercion, and sale of sex. PSY 228 and SWK 228 are cross-listed.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ART 121
Course Title	ART 121 Introduction to Art Class Description This course will introduce students to an appreciation of the visual arts through an intercultural, social/historical approach. The course will also emphasize the nature of the creative process, integrating a study of the conceptual principles, with methods and materials which influence artistic critical thinking, problem solving, exploration, and discovery. Note: A museum visit will be required during the semester at student expense. See course syllabus for approximate cost.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	HUS 128
Course Title	HUS 128 Introduction to Counseling Skills Class Description This course provides the student with an introduction to the foundational theories and skills necessary in the counseling field and explores the dynamics of establishing positive relationships with people in need of human services. The counseling process and the issues of intervention, therapeutic interviewing, confidentiality, and empathic communication will be presented. This course includes a mandatory field experience of 40 hours with an HUS Department Chair pre-approved social service agency.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course options: Students can choose other courses instead of BIO 141 and ART 121. Students also can choose other concentration electives instead of HUS 128.

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
ANT 221	ANT 221 Cultural Anthropology Class Description This course is a study of the nature and development of culture. The economic, political, religious and social organizations of selected human groups (with an emphasis on non-Western and underrepresented groups) are examined, compared and evaluated. It explores the cultural determinations of individual human behavior and means of adaptation.	3	Credit for prior learning available Global citizenship Online/Virtual options available
PSC 121	PSC 121 American National Politics Class Description This course is an introductory survey of American politics designed to help students better understand the U.S. political system. The focus of the course is on the system’s key political actors, behaviors, processes and institutions. Empirically based explanations are offered to help students understand why these political factors are important to the system’s operation, and what effect they have on both the electoral and policy making processes and their outcomes.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
HUM 127	HUM 127 Critical Thinking Class Description Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.	3	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
HUS 123	HUS 123 Introduction to Group Dynamics Class Description This course introduces basic concepts and theories of group dynamics, including group development and functioning, communication patterns, leadership, and conflict management. Laboratory experiences provide opportunities for self-awareness through observations of group behavior, working within groups, and group leadership.	3	Online/Virtual options available
SOC 225	SOC 225 Class, Race, and Gender Class Description This course uses various sociological perspectives to examine how class, race, and gender structure individual and group access to power, resources, opportunities, and prestige. It examines how these socially constructed categories provide identity and meaning that shape social interaction and institutional structure and practice. Classical and contemporary theoretical and empirical models demonstrate how the intersection of these major dimensions of inequality represent a source of opportunity and privilege, while simultaneously contributing to the reproduction of social inequality.	3	Global citizenship

Course Highlights
Course Code	ANT 221
Course Title	ANT 221 Cultural Anthropology Class Description This course is a study of the nature and development of culture. The economic, political, religious and social organizations of selected human groups (with an emphasis on non-Western and underrepresented groups) are examined, compared and evaluated. It explores the cultural determinations of individual human behavior and means of adaptation.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	PSC 121
Course Title	PSC 121 American National Politics Class Description This course is an introductory survey of American politics designed to help students better understand the U.S. political system. The focus of the course is on the system’s key political actors, behaviors, processes and institutions. Empirically based explanations are offered to help students understand why these political factors are important to the system’s operation, and what effect they have on both the electoral and policy making processes and their outcomes.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	HUM 127
Course Title	HUM 127 Critical Thinking Class Description Students will learn sound reasoning skills (i.e. informal logic) to improve the quality of their education, work, and life. These skills include recognizing, evaluating, and analyzing arguments; obtaining and interpreting data; arguing one’s positions with clarity and precision; problem-solving; and decision-making. Students will learn these skills through examples taken from different academic and professional areas, including the arts, politics, religion, science, business, and law.
Credits	3
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	HUS 123
Course Title	HUS 123 Introduction to Group Dynamics Class Description This course introduces basic concepts and theories of group dynamics, including group development and functioning, communication patterns, leadership, and conflict management. Laboratory experiences provide opportunities for self-awareness through observations of group behavior, working within groups, and group leadership.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	SOC 225
Course Title	SOC 225 Class, Race, and Gender Class Description This course uses various sociological perspectives to examine how class, race, and gender structure individual and group access to power, resources, opportunities, and prestige. It examines how these socially constructed categories provide identity and meaning that shape social interaction and institutional structure and practice. Classical and contemporary theoretical and empirical models demonstrate how the intersection of these major dimensions of inequality represent a source of opportunity and privilege, while simultaneously contributing to the reproduction of social inequality.
Credits	3
Global citizenship

Course options: Students can choose ECO 221 instead of PSC 121. Students can choose other courses instead of HUM 127. Students also can choose other concentration electives instead of ANT 221, HUS 123 and SOC 225.

Total Credit Hours

60

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Social Work at CLC

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Frequently asked questions

Yes! All your classes in this program are offered online, meaning you can complete them from the comfort of your kitchen table or your favorite coffee shop. Earn your degree—without the commute.
This associate degree totals 60 credit hours. Students take an average of two years to complete it.
Most of the students in this degree program are traditional college students who just completed their high school degree, but around 30% have completed some college already.
Yes. There’s a distinct advantage to earning your associate degree—a 30% advantage. The Brookings Institution reports that employees with associate degrees earn 30% more on average than those with high school diplomas. Over a lifetime, the earnings of an associate degree holder are roughly $170,000 higher than those of a high school graduate.
Yes! Researchers have looked at how community college students fare after transferring. The biggest marker for success? Finishing your associate degree before transferring. In fact, those students seem to do better at the 4-year than students who started at the 4-year.

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Enhance human well-being. Empower communities.

What can you do with a degree in Social Work?

An affordable, seamless transition to a Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW)

Highlights

100% Online

Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Transfer Degree

Program Length: 2 Years

Career Outlook

Child, Family, and School Social Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Clergy

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Healthcare Social Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Marriage and Family Therapists

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers

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Top entry-level education

Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Social and Community Service Managers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

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Semester 1 14 Credits

Semester 2 15 Credits

Semester 3 16 Credits

Semester 4 15 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Learn how CLC helps you transfer

Social Work at CLC

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Frequently asked questions

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