Launch Your Career in Social Work and Human Services
Social Work and Human Services AA-T
The Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) in Social Work and Human Services involves both academic as well as practical preparation both for transfer and for work in the human services field. The course of study offers students a foundational understanding of the field of social work and human services and the opportunity to acquire skills necessary in the Social Work field. Completing the degree indicates that the lower division requirements for transfer into a Social Work or Human Services program for many campuses in the California State University system has been satisfied.
Certified Wellness Coach
There is an urgent need to support the mental health needs of California’s children and youth. Certified Wellness Coaches provide care to young people through prevention and early intervention services. These services support overall physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Becoming a Certified Wellness Coach lets you play a role in improving mental health and well-being of children and youth in California. Discover your path to certification today. Visit CAWellnessCoach.org for more information on how to Become a Certified Wellness Coach.
Completing the CWC program requires certain electives be chosen WITHIN the Social Work and Human Services AA-T. Student can achieve both the SWHS degree and the CWC Certificate simultaneously and in 2 years.
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Program Paths
Social Work and Human Services
Associate in Arts for Transfer
Available Fall 2026
Involves both academic as well as practical preparation both for transfer and for work in the human services field. The course of study offers students a foundational understanding of the field of social work and human services and the opportunity to acquire skills in interpersonal, analytical and critical thinking skills, problem-solving, and written and verbal communication.
Certified Wellness Coach
Certificate of Achievement
Forthcoming (likely available Fall 2027)
There is an urgent need to support the mental health needs of California’s children and youth. Certified Wellness Coaches provide care to young people through prevention and early intervention services. These services support overall physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
New Courses
Fall 2026
SWHS 1: Introduction to Social Work and Human Services
3 units
This course provides an introductory overview of social welfare and the societal institutions
in the U.S. that structure the provision of social services. It presents a historical
perspective on the development of U.S. social work and human services. Special attention
is given to current service delivery systems, their policies and procedures, and the
tasks of culturally responsive social workers and human service workers within those
settings.
Spring 2027
SWHS 10: Social Work and Human Services Seminar
1 unit
This course provides the student who is participating in a supervised field experience
in a community organization, agency, or institution with a weekly class meeting that
provides the academic element to the experiential course offering. The application
of concepts gained in the prerequisite or corequisite course to the field experience
will be emphasized. This course is designed to provide the student with an opportunity
to develop skills that would facilitate gaining employment in the human services field.
Must be taken together with SWHS 95.
Spring 2027
SWHS 95: Social Work and Human Services Fieldwork
2 units
This course offers the student a supervised field experience in a community organization,
agency, or institution, allowing the student to apply knowledge and learn new skills
outside of the classroom environment. This course is designed to provide the student
with an opportunity to observe, practice, and develop skills that would facilitate
gaining employment in the human services field. Must be taken together with SWHS 10.
Resources and Transfer
Transferring students who wish to qualify for an Associate degree before leaving Santa Monica College should discuss their plans with a Counselor before selecting classes.
Student Resources
We know college isn't always easy. We are here to help as you navigate through your SMC journey. This resource connects to information about Financial Aid, Tutoring Services, the Center for Wellness and Wellbeing and much more!
Transfers
Philosophy is a career education program that does not directly lead to transfer. Students planning to transfer should talk immediately with an Academic Counselor to discuss what SMC courses will help you transfer.
Career Opportunities
Consider scheduling an appointment with a career advisor with knowledge of the philosophy profession to discuss internship and jobs as well as steps you can take to become job ready.