HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Calhoun Community College is offering a new social work degree program for students during a critical point of a social worker shortage in Alabama.
The recent announcement of the program is set to address Alabama’s growing need for skilled social workers, one of the state’s most important and in-demand fields.
With two degree pathways available, students will now be able to enter into the world of social work, where they can either join the workforce immediately or continue pursuing a four-year degree.
The Associate of Applied Science in Social Work Technology is a hands-on, two-year degree that prepares students to begin working in human services immediately after graduation.
While pursuing this degree, students gain exposure to various social work environments and learn how to navigate vital community resources. Following graduation, graduates will be able to take on roles such as case managers, health advocates, counseling assistants, and behavioral health aides in hospitals, nonprofits, and social service agencies throughout North Alabama.
For those who wish to obtain a four-year degree, Calhoun is offering an Associate of Science with a concentration in social work.
According to the college, the Alabama Transfers initiative will allow students to transfer their general education credits to any public university in the state.
Calhoun already has a formal transfer agreement with Alabama A&M University and is currently finalizing one with The University of Alabama.
Additionally, students interested in advanced degrees can complete their bachelor’s and master’s programs fully online.
Dr. Donna Estill, Calhoun’s Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences, highlights the practical nature of these programs.
“These programs represent a fresh and practical approach to social work education,” said Dr. Estill. “We are thrilled about the opportunities they provide our students and are also deeply grateful to the community partners who have helped us shape them,” Dr. Estill added.
Social Work Instructors have designed the curriculum with a simple goal in mind: to prepare students for the realities of the profession.
Florence “Flo” Doughty, Calhoun’s lead social work instructor and a seasoned social worker with over 30 years of field experience weighed in on the program.
“Students won’t just learn theory in this program,” said Doughty. “They will develop the ability to handle difficult conversations, which are a regular part of this field. They will learn to connect clients with the right community resources and become strong advocates for individuals and families in need. These are the essential tools for success in social work,” she added.
These programs were thoughtfully created in direct response to the growing shortage of social workers in Alabama.
To learn more about this program, click here., or contact Instructor Florence Doughty at [email protected].
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