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Human & Social Services

Thinking about a bachelor’s degree but unsure where to begin? Start your journey to becoming a licensed social worker with our hands-on Pre-Social Work program!

The Pre-Social Work Pathway Associate of Science degree lets you complete the first two years of a bachelor's degree in social work before transferring to a university. Graduates are prepared for roles as human services technicians.

In our program, students learn essential skills for a career in social work. You'll study topics like psychology, sociology, social welfare policy, and human behavior. You'll also gain practical experience in case management, crisis intervention, and community outreach. Our program includes general education and Human Services classes, plus 120 hours of field experience to prepare you for a career in helping others.

All seven Minnesota State universities accept this two-year degree as credit for the first two years of a Bachelor of Science in Social Work. If you plan to transfer outside Minnesota State, check with your chosen university to confirm transfer options.

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100% Online Program

Learn from anywhere on your schedule so you can balance school, work, and life.
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Real-World Accounting Skills

Build skills in financial reporting, bookkeeping, and tax preparation that employers look for.
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Career-Ready Training

Graduate prepared for entry-level accounting jobs in business, non-profits, and government.
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Overview
Class Time Online
Semester Fall | Spring | Summer
Campus Online
Awards

Pre-Social Work Transfer Pathway Associate of Science

Save money by completing the first 2 years of social work degree at Hennepin Tech!

Tuition & Learning

Planning your investment is easy. Our program provides comprehensive training that prepares you for immediate entry into your chosen field. Below you'll find detailed information about program costs and required materials.

Tuition Estimates by Award

Costs below apply to each specific award option:

Associates Degrees

Pre-Social Work Transfer Pathway
$12,584
Associate of Science
The tuition rate for 2025-2026 academic year is
$209.73 per credit

Scholarships & Savings

Ready to turn your dreams into reality? At Hennepin Tech, we believe that nothing should stand in the way of your education. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the ins and outs of paying for college, so you can focus on what really matters – your future.

FAFSA

Your key to financial aid. The first step to unlocking financial assistance for college is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). By completing this form, you’ll qualify for a variety of federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study opportunities that can help offset the cost of tuition, books, and other expenses.

Not sure if you’re eligible? Don’t worry, our financial aid advisors are here to help, even if you have unique circumstances or are an undocumented individual.

Check out your first step to funding college

North Star Promise

If you’re a Minnesota resident who meets certain income criteria, you may also qualify for the North Star Promise, which provides additional financial support to cover the cost of tuition and fees. It’s another way we’re making college more accessible and affordable for students like you.

See if you qualify for free tuition

Foundation Scholarships

The Hennepin Tech Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to help students offset the cost of tuition, textbooks, and other expenses. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and other criteria. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reduce your college expenses!

Explore scholarships just for our students

PSEO & Concurrent Enrollment

High school students can jumpstart their college education by participating in our Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) or Concurrent Enrollment programs. Earn college credits while still in high school and save on future tuition costs!

Discover how you can earn college credit in high school

VA Benefits

Veterans and their dependents may be eligible for education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits can help cover tuition, housing, and other costs associated with attending college. Contact our veterans services office for assistance in accessing and maximizing your VA benefits.

Maximize your military education benefits

Third-Party Payments

Did you know that some employers, organizations, or government agencies offer tuition assistance programs? If you’re eligible, you can use these funds to help cover your college expenses. Be sure to check with your employer or inquire about any available benefits.

Let a sponsor help fund your education

Transfer Credits

Transfer the credits you’ve already earned from previous colleges or programs to reduce the classes you need, helping you finish your degree faster and at a lower cost.

Make your hard work count twice

To maximize your savings, apply for FAFSA early, explore scholarships, and review your potential for credit through prior learning and transfer evaluations.

Accreditation & Recognition

Articulations

For a full listing of current articulation agreements, visit the Minnesota Transfer website.

  • Bemidji State University
  • Metropolitan State University
  • Minnesota State University Mankato
  • Minnesota State University Moorhead
  • Southwest Minnesota State University
  • St. Cloud State University
  • Winona State University

Industry Partners

The advisory committee is made up of professionals in the field of social work and human services. They help guide the program to keep curriculum current.

How to Apply

Skills Required

*Note: To become gainfully employed as a Social Worker in the State of Minnesota, upon completion of this program, the student will transfer to a qualifying university to complete a bachelor's degree in Social Work. Additionally, individuals will need to apply for and pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Bachelors exam.

Application Process

Applying to Hennepin Tech is easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to get started on your educational journey:

  1. Submit Your Application
    Visit our Get Started page to complete your application online. As part of the application process, you will need to pay the application fee. This helps us process your materials quickly.

  2. Submit Transfer Requests (If Applicable)
    If you have previously completed college courses or earned a degree, you can save time and money by transferring your credits. Be sure to submit official transcripts or transfer requests from any previous colleges or high schools you attended. This allows us to evaluate your credits and apply them toward your new program.

  3. Receive Your Admission Decision
    Once your application is reviewed and accepted, you will receive an official admission decision.

  4. Placement Testing for New Students
    If you are new to college, you will need to take a placement test after you have been accepted. The placement test helps identify your current skills in reading, writing, and math. It is used to determine if developmental courses are necessary before you start certain college-level classes. Please note that the placement test does not affect your admission status.

  5. Plan Your Courses
    Based on your placement test results and transfer credit evaluation, you will work with an advisor to select the right courses to ensure your success.

Special Admissions Processes

  • If you are an international student, please visit our international admissions page for specific instructions.

  • If you are a PSEO (Postsecondary Enrollment Options) student, please visit our PSEO admissions webpage for details on the application process.

If you have questions or need help during the application process, our admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.

Faculty & Staff

Andrew Best HSER Adjunct Faculty Phone: ${phone} E-mail: Andrew.Best@HennepinTech.edu
Amber Fogel HSER Adjunct Faculty Phone: ${phone} E-mail: Amber.Fogel@HennepinTech.edu

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College Honors Adoptees

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

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Each November, National Adoption Month reminds us of the human need to belong.

$4.1M DEED Grant Received

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

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Hennepin Tech receives $4.1M from DEED to expand semiconductor training and grow Minnesota’s high-tech workforce.

Invitation to Vote on New Website Design Theme

Monday, October 20, 2025

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Help choose the new Hennepin Tech website design and score some swag! Vote now for your favorite theme before October 31.

Celebrating Manufacturing Month

Friday, October 3, 2025

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October is Manufacturing Month in Minnesota and across the nation.

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