Statement of Purpose
The Associate of Arts in Social Work program equips students to engage with diverse groups, including children, families, the elderly, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Throughout the program, students delve into fundamental social work principles through courses that foster a robust understanding of social work ethics and values. The curriculum accentuates the development of critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, students volunteer with local community organizations, gaining hands-on experience through active participation.
Upon successful completion of the program, students may earn:
- Associate of Arts-Social Work
Who the Program Serves
The social work program is designed for a diverse range of students seeking entry-level employment in social services organizations, as well as students who plan to further their educational by pursing a bachelor’s degree program in social work or a related social services discipline.
If you are interested in learning more about whether this program is the right fit for you, contact one of our academic advisors today.
Skills and knowledge you will gain
Graduates will be able to:
- explain the nature of human systems: individual, group, organization, community and society;
- describe human needs in a contemporary multicultural society and the social supports necessary in meeting those needs; and
- plan, implement, and evaluate interventions which promote growth and goal attainment.
Career Options
An associate degree in Social Work will help a student prepare for an entry-level career, such as a social service aide or social and human services assistant, within a variety of settings including:
- state agencies
- senior care facilities
- food banks
- community outreach centers
- youth program
- government entities
Job search assistance
TSC connects students to high-wage, high-demand jobs by aligning academic and continuing education pathways to the workforce. Texas Southmost College provides valuable experiences that make our graduates exceptionally marketable, such as:
- Academic Cooperative course: Students volunteer with local community organizations, gaining hands-on experience through active participation.
- Job Fairs: Each spring TSC hosts a job fair that features more than 70 employers, all looking for the next generation of qualified candidates. Students and alumni are invited to bring their resumes and strengthen their contacts in their chosen fields.
- Career Services: TSC’s Transfer, Career, and Employment Services team assists students in mapping out college transfers, shaping career aspirations, and aiding in post-graduation job placements. Their services encompass guidance on job hunts, crafting compelling resumes and cover letters, and conducting interest inventory evaluations. More information may be found here.
Funding your education
Texas Southmost College remains the most affordable institution of higher education in the entire Rio Grande Valley. When we talk about financial literacy, we talk about accumulating wealth, not debt. If you want to make a good return on investment, Think TSC, and study local.
TSC offers a number of grants and scholarships for those who qualify.
- Applying for scholarships is easy. Submit one application, and you are automatically matched with all of the scholarships you qualify for at TSC. Click here to learn more about the TSC scholarship portal.
- Federal financial aid is available through grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Applying for financial aid is free! Click here to learn more.
FAQ
How long does it take to complete the program?
- Students attending full-time may complete the program in two years.
How much time will I need to commit to coursework and assignments?
- Students should plan to spend about 2-3 hours each week on coursework for every credit hour they take. For example, a full-time student taking 12 credits may spend around 24-36 hours per week attending class, reading, studying, and completing assignments. Time commitments vary depending on the course, study habits, and whether classes are online or in-person. Building regular study time into your weekly schedule can help you stay on track towards success.
How do I apply to the program?
- To apply, complete the ApplyTexas application and follow the admissions process. If you need assistance, our advisors are available to guide you through the steps.
Testimonials from students, faculty, and/or employers
Please provide contact information for 2-3 individuals here. The Marketing Department will follow up with your contacts. *Program Coordinator has reached out to several students and pending confirmation if students are willing to participate.
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Program Student Learning Outcomes
Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLO) are statements that specify what students will know, be able to do or be able to demonstrate when they have completed the program.
- Graduates of the Associate of Arts degree in Social Work will be able to explain the nature of human systems: individual, group, organization, community and society.
- Graduates of the Associate of Arts degree in Social Work will be able to describe human needs in a contemporary multicultural society and the social supports necessary in meeting those needs.
- Graduates of the Associate of Arts degree in Social Work will be able to plan, implement, and evaluate interventions which promote growth and goal attainment.
Program of Study
1st Semester
2nd Semester
| ENGL-1302 | Composition II | 3 |
HIST-X3XX
| American History Elective | 3 |
XXXX-X3XX
| Creative Arts Elective | 3 |
| SOCI-1306 | Social Problems | 3 |
| PSYC-2301 | General Psychology | 3 |
3rd Semester
| GOVT-2305 | Federal Government (Federal Constitution and Topics) | 3 |
XXXX-X3XX
| Language, Philosophy, and Culture Elective | 3 |
XXXX-X3XX
| Life and Physical Sciences Elective | 3 |
XXXX-X3XX
| Component Area Option Elective | 3 |
| SOCI-2301 | Marriage and the Family | 3 |
4th Semester
| GOVT-2306 | Texas Government (Texas Constitution and Topics) | 3 |
XXXX-X3XX
| Life and Physical Sciences Elective | 3 |
XXXX-X3XX
| Social and Behavioral Sciences Elective | 3 |
| SOCW-2362 | Social Welfare: Legislation, Programs, And Services | 3 |
| SOCW-2389 | Academic Cooperative | 3 |
ENGL-1301, MATH-1342, PSYC-1300, SOCW-2361, SOCI-1306, SOCI-2301, SOCW-2362, and SOCW-2389: Grade of “C” or better is required for graduation.
XXXX-X3XX (Language, Philosophy & Culture Elective), XXXX-X3XX (Life and Physical Sciences Elective), and XXXX-X3XX (Component Area Option Elective): Students may take any course within this category of the TSC General Education Core Curriculum.
History courses must be taken in sequence: United States History I and United States History II or Mexican American History I and Mexican American History II