Associate Degree in Social Work

Full-time students can often complete an associate degree in social work (ASW) in two years. ASW-seekers take introductory courses in psychology, sociology, and core social work concepts. An ASW also lays the academic foundation for a bachelor's degree in social work.

An ASW may also help graduates secure jobs in line with their career aspirations. ASW-holders typically work as case management aides, social work assistants, and community outreach workers. In certain states, individuals with an associate degree may work in social work support positions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for social and human service assistants are projected to grow 17% between 2019 and 2029, much faster than other occupations. In 2019, these professionals earned a median annual salary of $35,060.

Featured Online Social Work Programs

What is the Difference Between a Social Work Associate Degree and a Human Services Associate Degree?

While human services associate degree programs and ASWs share similarities, human services programs focus on the community level. Graduates secure jobs in community services organizations and agencies as case management aides, community outreach workers, and social work assistants. In contrast, ASW programs train social workers to work with individual clients, and ASW degrees function as stepping stones to bachelor's, master's, and doctorates and social work licensure.

Associate degrees typically take two years to complete and consist of 60-90 credits. The human services associate degree curriculum emphasizes case management, crisis counseling, and intervention. Core courses include introductory classes in human service, psychology, and social work, along with developmental psychology, perspectives on human behavior, principles of sociology, and social issues in diversity.

Admission Requirements for a ASW Degree Program

Applicants to ASW programs typically must provide transcripts from high school and any previously-attended college or university. Individual admission departments determine whether students are eligible based on GPA, application materials, and in some cases, English and math placement tests.

Core Concepts and Coursework

ASW curricula introduce learners to concepts in psychology, sociology, and human welfare, developing a broad understanding of individual, family, and community needs. Individuals interested in earning a bachelor of social work (BSW) should look for an associate program that will help them fulfill some prerequisites. Many colleges that offer ASW programs maintain articulation agreements with four-year schools, making it easier to transfer credits towards a bachelor's degree.

Common courses in an ASW program include:

Online Associate of Social Work Programs

Candidates who earn an ASW online gain the skills and knowledge required to succeed in entry-level roles. An ASW also prepares students to pursue a BSW or master's degree in social work, further expanding their career opportunities.

Online programs often run asynchronously, allowing learners to complete their coursework from any location, during any time. This flexibility also enables students to continue working as they earn a degree. Online and on-campus programs typically feature the same coursework and instructors, differing only in the delivery format.

Social Work Licensure

Some states allow ASW-holders to become licensed social work associates/assistants (LSWAs), although requirements vary by state. In Massachusetts, for example, students must pass the Association of Social Work Boards' bachelor's exam after completing an ASW to earn their LSWA.

Jobs with an Associate Degree in Social Work

Graduates with an ASW can explore a variety of entry-level positions in the field. While ASW-holders cannot become licensed social workers, graduates may pursue a bachelor's program in social work and complete the requirements to become a licensed social worker.

Frequently Asked Questions