Best Associate Degrees in Social Work

People often pursue social work because they want to help others. Social workers give aid to vulnerable people, guiding them through challenges, such as addiction or an abusive family life. Although professionals usually need at least a bachelor’s degree to become a social worker, an associate degree in social work (ASW) can help them prepare for further education or similar jobs.

Learn what to expect from an associate in social work and how this degree can set the foundation for a fulfilling career in social work.

Featured Online Associate Social Work Degrees

Associate in Social Work Degree Overview

An associate degree in social work offers students the foundational education they need to work in the social services field. Typically billed as a two-year degree for full-time learners, students can often transfer credits from their ASW to a bachelor of social work (BSW).

Interested individuals can find both online and on-campus programs, and schools may offer part- and full-time enrollment options.

ASW courses provide a foundation for further education. In additional to general courses, such as college writing, ASW classes might include:

• Introduction to sociology
• General psychology
• Cultural diversity in the United States
• Introduction to social work
• Social services delivery systems

Unlike bachelor’s or master’s degrees, associate degrees do not always require fieldwork as part of the curriculum. However, some ASW programs might offer students the opportunity to gain practical experience by visiting professionals in the field or carrying out some supervised work.

Key Factors for Selecting an Associate in Social Work Program

With so many social work degrees to choose from, it can seem difficult to narrow down a list of the best programs for you. Consider key factors like accreditation and curriculum when deciding on a program. These considerations can help you determine program quality.

• Accreditation: The accreditation process involves independent reviews of academic programs. Accreditation ensures that programs offer students a first-rate education and adequately prepare them for their careers.
• Curriculum: You can usually find the program curriculum on the school’s website. The curriculum gives insight into what you can expect from the program’s academics, such as whether you’ll be taking more general education or specialization classes.
• Faculty: College websites often list faculty members in each department with a short biography. Read through faculty member’s academic credentials to see if their expertise matches your interest areas.

The Best Associate in Social Work Programs

You can find associate in social work programs at colleges across the country, both online and on campus. Explore what the best associate degrees in social work have to offer with this ranking.

We use a data-driven methodology to determine the best associate in social work programs based on four primary factors: academic quality, overall cost, reputation, and accessibility.

Advantages of Earning an Associate in Social Work

Even though an associate degree in social work does not lead to qualification as a social worker in most states, an ASW offers value in many other ways.

• Explore if the social work field is good for you: Some students might consider becoming a social worker but do not want to fully commit to a BSW. If this sounds like you, an associate degree can introduce you to the foundational concepts that a BSW program teaches at a higher level. It’s a smart way to become familiar with the subject and decide if social work is the right career path for you.
• Transfer credits to a bachelor’s degree: Community colleges frequently offer lower tuition rates than four-year colleges. Some students decide to begin the first two years of their degree at a community college to save money, and then transfer the credits to a university to finish their BSW.
• Start your career in social services: An ASW can also give you the educational training you need for roles like patient advocates, rehabilitation aides, or social services assistant.

How to Apply to an Associate in Social Work Program

Since you can typically find ASW degrees at community colleges, follow your prospective college’s guidelines for applications.

This process involves filling out an application with your demographic, extracurricular, and past academic information. Colleges increasingly offer application forms online, though some colleges may offer paper applications too.

Prospective students need to submit their high school transcripts or GED scores if the community college accepts them. Some colleges require additional documentation, such as a resume, personal essay outlining your academic and career goals, and letters of recommendation.

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What Can I Do with an Associate Degree in Social Work?

Most states require either a BSW or master of social work (MSW) to qualify for a social work license. Some states may allow ASW graduates to become social workers with limited responsibilities. However, most associate degree graduates either further their education with a bachelor’s degree or go for another job in the social services field.

ASW graduates can pursue careers, including:

• Social and human service assistant
• Community outreach worker
• Community health worker
• Patient advocate
• Rehabilitation aide
• Home health and personal care aide
• Counselor assistant
• Case manager

For individuals who go on to earn their BSW or MSW degrees —or even a doctorate in social work — opportunities abound. Graduates can become social workers or clinical social workers. They can also work at the managerial level for social services organizations.

Average Associate in Social Work Salary

Graduates with an associate degree in social work earn an average base annual salary of $40,000, according to data gathered by Payscale. That breaks down to an average of $15.35 per hour. Keep in mind, the salaries vary based on career path, location, and years of experience.

How to Decide if an Associate in Social Work Is Right for You

Although an associate degree in social work may not be the right decision for everyone, its advantages make it a smart option for others.

First, consider your level of interest in becoming a social worker, then familiarize yourself with the field through an ASW. If you know with certainty that becoming a social worker is your ultimate goal, pursuing a BSW may prove the better option.

Next, consider your finances. If money is a concern, enrolling in a community college can help you save money and avoid taking out loans.

Frequently Asked Questions About Associate in Social Work Programs

Can I earn an associate in social work online?

Yes. Many colleges offer online associate degrees in social work. These programs allow students to enroll in classes through distance learning, completing their coursework online at locations convenient to them. Many schools offer asynchronous courses, which give students the option to study at their own pace.

What’s the difference between an associate and a bachelor’s degree in social work?

An associate degree gives students an introductory and foundational education in the social work field. These programs traditionally last two years. In most states, graduates cannot become licensed social workers.

A bachelor’s degree follows a traditional four-year format and teaches students foundational, advanced, and specialized knowledge in the social work field. Students must also complete supervised fieldwork on location. A BSW prepares students for careers as social workers.

What’s the difference between an associate of arts and associate of science in social work?

These degrees offer similar curricular options. However, an associate of arts degree typically includes general education classes that focus more on the humanities. An associate of science degree, in contrast, offers a general education curriculum with a greater math and science focus.

Is earning an associate in social work worth it?

The answer to this question depends on the student and their academic and career goals.

If you wish to land a job in the social services — but not become a social worker — then this degree can prepare you for that career. It can also provide a head start for students who want to consider bachelor’s degrees but are unsure about their career path.

An associate degree may not be worth it for those who know they want to become social workers and earn a BSW.

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Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.