Social Work and Human Services

Napa Valley College offers courses that lead to an Associate in Arts in Social Work and Human Services for transfer. The program requirements are designed to prepare students for transfer to a four-year university and for work in Social Work and Human Services. The required coursework provides students with the fundamental concepts for understanding major principles, theories, and concepts within the field. Students will also receive experiential instruction at a supervised internship where they will apply the skills learned from class. Skills learned in classes will include active listening, critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, personal and professional development.

The Associate in Arts in Social Work and Human Services for Transfer is designed to provide a clear pathway to a CSU institution for students who plan to transfer and complete a CSU major or baccalaureate degree in Social Work. California Community College students who are awarded an Associate in Arts in Social Work and Human Services for Transfer are guaranteed admission with junior standing somewhere in the CSU system and given priority admission consideration to their local CSU institution or to a program that is deemed similar to their community college major. This priority does not guarantee admission to specific majors or institutions.

To fulfill the requirements for this degree, students will complete the required and elective courses in the area of emphasis and Cal-GETC pattern requirements totaling no more than 60 semester CSU-transferable units.

Additional NVC graduation requirements do not apply to this degree. Students must successfully pass all courses in the area of emphasis with a minimum of “C” (or “P”) and maintain an overall minimum 2.0 GPA. Additionally, students pursuing this degree option must work with a counselor and faculty advisor to ensure appropriate elective course selections for their intended area of emphasis for the baccalaureate degree.

Career Opportunities

Human Service Workers, Case Managers, and Social Workers in various fields.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Acquire skills and knowledge that allow them to successfully complete academic work at a transfer institution.
2. Be able to communicate effectively in their verbal and written presentations, using vocabulary, grammar, and technical skills appropriate for a career in the Social Work and Human Services profession.
3. Be able to demonstrate a knowledge of Social Work and Human Services principles and practices appropriate for the major.

Degree Requirements

To receive an Associate Degree for Transfer, students must complete 60 CSU transferable semester units with a grade point average of at least 2.0, and the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC) beginning fall 2025. Consultation with a Counselor is highly encouraged to ensure all requirements are met.