The Social Work Assistant program prepares students to begin entry level employment as direct service providers in the field of social work. A Social Work Assistant will find employment in the areas of aging, mental health, addiction, developmental disabilities, healthcare, and will work with families and children. Employment opportunities are found in both public and private social service agencies and organizations.
Graduates of the program may register as a Social Work Assistant (SWA) with the State of Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage and Family Board. It may also be possible for students to apply for the first credential in the field of chemical dependency counseling as a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) or as an Ohio Prevention Specialist Registered Applicant (RA).
The curriculum includes extensive exploration of the biological, psychological, and sociological aspects of human development. In addition, the student will develop skills in communication, problem assessment, documentation, case management, and group facilitation.
Successful students in this program demonstrate an interest in people, a capacity for empathy, an interest in social justice, and a tolerance of intense emotional situations.
Students in this program will be able to:
- Demonstrate ethical and professional behavior in diverse human service settings.
- Apply culturally responsive, strength-based approaches to service planning and delivery.
- Implement evidence-based methods for assessment, intervention, and documentation.
- Communicate effectively in written, oral, and digital formats with diverse audiences.
- Use critical thinking to identify needs, solve problems, and make informed decisions using reliable knowledge and reasoning.
- Promote social justice through advocacy, policy practice, and community engagement.
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