Social work is a profession dedicated to enhancing human well-being and helping meet basic human needs, with particular attention to vulnerable and oppressed populations. Social workers use a range of skills, approaches, and interventions to help individuals, families, groups, and communities solve problems, cope with challenges, and improve their quality of life.
Social workers embody public service values through:
- Advocating for vulnerable populations
- Connecting people with essential resources and services
- Developing and implementing social programs
- Working to address systemic inequalities
- Promoting community wellbeing and social justice
If you're interested in making a tangible difference in people's lives while serving the greater community good, social work offers a powerful way to contribute to improving society and people’s lives.
Students should work with their advisor to tailor course selections to align with their chosen transfer university. The transfer plan on this page shows a tailored example for a university commonly chosen by Lee College students. However, students may choose to continue their education at any university.
Social work is a rewarding profession focused on helping individuals, families, and communities overcome challenges and improve their quality of life. Students pursuing social work education will develop a comprehensive foundation of knowledge and practical skills essential for effective practice.
Core Knowledge Areas
Human Behavior and Social Environment Students learn how biological, psychological, and social factors influence human development across the lifespan. This includes understanding family dynamics, group processes, organizational behavior, and community systems. You'll explore how culture, race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status shape individual experiences.
Social Work Theory and Practice Methods Coursework covers major theoretical frameworks that guide social work intervention, including systems theory, ecological perspective, and strengths-based approaches. Students learn various practice methods such as case management, crisis intervention, group work, and community organizing.
Social Policy and Services This area examines the development, implementation, and impact of social policies and programs. Students analyze how legislation affects vulnerable populations and learn to advocate for policy changes that promote social and economic justice.
Research and Evaluation Students develop skills in research methodology, data collection, and program evaluation. This knowledge enables social workers to use evidence-based practices and contribute to the profession's knowledge base through research and evaluation activities.
Essential Skills Development
Communication and Interpersonal Skills Social work education emphasizes active listening, empathetic responding, and effective verbal and written communication. Students practice interviewing techniques, documentation skills, and learn to communicate with diverse populations across different settings.
Assessment and Problem-Solving Students learn systematic approaches to assess client needs, identify strengths and resources, and develop intervention plans. Critical thinking skills are developed through case analysis and problem-solving exercises that prepare students for complex real-world situations.
Cultural Competence Programs emphasize developing cultural awareness and sensitivity to work effectively with diverse populations. Students examine their own biases and learn culturally responsive practice approaches that honor client dignity and self-determination.
Ethical Decision-Making Students study professional ethics codes and learn to navigate ethical dilemmas commonly encountered in social work practice. This includes understanding boundaries, confidentiality, informed consent, and dual relationships.