Social Work Concentration
Program Description
The Social Work Concentration is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related human services field.
This concentration provides a foundation in human behavior, social systems, and community support structures. Students examine social justice, diversity, public policy, and the role of social services in promoting individual and community well-being. Coursework emphasizes critical thinking, communication, ethical decision-making, and understanding how social environments influence behavior.
The program combines a broad behavioral science foundation with focused preparation for students interested in advocacy, community engagement, and helping professions.
Transfer Information
The Social Work concentration is structured to align with bachelor’s degree programs in social work (BSW) and related disciplines such as human services, counseling, and public health.
Students are encouraged to work closely with faculty and Advising & Transfer Services to ensure coursework aligns with the requirements of their intended transfer institution. Students planning to transfer within New Jersey should explore the “Transfer Programs” feature on NJ Transfer (www.njtransfer.org) to review articulation agreements and institutional requirements.
Because professional social work practice typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree and, for many roles, a master’s degree and licensure, early academic planning is strongly recommended.
Career Information
The A.S. in Behavioral Science and Public Service – Social Work Concentration is designed primarily for transfer. A bachelor’s degree in social work is required for many entry-level professional roles, and advanced positions often require a Master of Social Work (MSW) and state licensure.
With further education, graduates may pursue careers such as:
- Social Worker (with degree and licensure)
- Case Manager
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Child and Family Services Professional
- Behavioral Health Support Specialist
- Nonprofit Program Coordinator
Students are encouraged to consult with faculty and Career Services early in their academic journey to explore transfer options and professional pathways. OCC students may also use Focus2 Career through Ocean Connect to research careers in social services and related fields.
| Fall One | Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| Any STSC - Student Success Seminar course 1 | 2 | |
| ENGL 151 | English I | 3 |
| PSYC 172 | General Psychology | 3 |
| SOCI 181 | Introduction to Sociology | 3 |
| SOWK 101 | Introduction to Social Work | 3 |
| Credit Hours | 14 | |
| Spring One | ||
| ENGL 152 | English II | 3 |
| CSIT 110 | Introduction to Computers and Computer Applications | 3 |
| MATH 156 | Introduction to Statistics | 3 |
| SOWK 194 | Counseling Communication Techniques | 3 |
| Choose one of the following Lecture and Lab pairs: | 4 | |
| Principles of Biological Science Lecture and Principles of Biological Science Lab | ||
| Science and the Human Body Lecture and Science and the Human Body Lab | ||
| Credit Hours | 16 | |
| Fall Two | ||
| PHIL 191 | Introduction to Philosophy | 3 |
| SOWK 201 | Human Behavior and the Social Environment | 3 |
| POLI 161 or ECON 152 | American Federal Government or Microeconomics Principles | 3 |
| PSYC 271 | Abnormal Psychology | 3 |
| SOWK 171 or ALDC 101 | Social Work in Health Care Settings or Addictions Disorders and Recovery Supports | 3 |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Spring Two | ||
| SOCI 238 | Race and Ethnicity | 3 |
| SOCI 282 | Sociology of the Family | 3 |
| SOWK 202 | Social Work Seminar and Practicum | 3 |
| ALDC 101 or PSYC 278 | Addictions Disorders and Recovery Supports or Life Span Development | 3 |
| SOWK 170 or PSYC 278 | Trauma and Healing or Life Span Development | 3 |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 60 | |
- 1
A variety of STSC -Student Success Seminar courses are available.