SOCIAL WORK AND HUMAN SERVICES

The Associate in Arts in Social Work and Human Services for Transfer degree (AA-T in Social Work and Human Services) is designed to prepare students for transfer into the CSU system to complete a baccalaureate degree in Social Work and Human Services or similar major. Social Work and Human Services is an applied behavioral science that emphasizes the application of behavioral science principles in a variety of cultural contexts. Social Work and Human Services students are expected to think critically and scientifically about behavior, to apply the principles of the behavioral sciences, and to understand the role of values in diverse cultural settings. As a profession, Social Work and Human Services focuses on methods for helping people from many different social groups to improve the quality of their lives.

The Associate Degree for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) is a special degree offered at California Community Colleges. Students who earn an AA-T or AS-T degree are guaranteed admission to a campus within the California State University (CSU) system in a similar major, although not necessarily to a specific campus. Students who complete an AA-T or AS-T are given priority consideration when applying to a particular program that is similar to the student’s community college major and will be given a special GPA advantage when applying to CSU impacted campuses or majors. Students who are planning to pursue an AA-T or AS-T are strongly advised to meet with a counselor for additional information about this transfer program.

The Cuesta College AS-T degree in Social Work & Human Services requires:

(1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:

(A) California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC).

(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.

(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

(3) Earn a “C” or better grade in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A “P” (Pass) grade is an acceptable grade for courses in the major.

Learning Outcome(s):

1. Demonstrate a foundational understanding of social work and human services outlining the evolution of social welfare and human services in the U.S.
2. Identify the legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities associated with social welfare delivery and explain the current service delivery system in which social work and human service clients’ needs are met.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of cultural humility and systems of oppression/privilege using critical thinking skills to envision ways to collaborate, negotiate, and advocate with and within social welfare institutions and organizations.