An In-Demand Job in a Growing Field
Overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 9 percent from 2021 to 2031,
faster than the average for all occupations.
- Family and Children
- Healthcare
- Mental health and substance abuse
*Bureau of Labor Statistics
Mental Health & Social Work Career Paths
Graduates are prepared to apply for these positions in the social service field. These
positions may include the following:
- Social Work/Psychiatric Technician
- Social Service Assistant
- Case Manager
- Youth Outreach Specialist
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Peer Recovery Coach
- Foster Care Specialist
OCC Helps Student Discover a Better Path
Discover how OCC helped Kalie Fishman find a better path and a promising career
"I give so much credit to OCC. I couldn't be more grateful."
Read Kalie's story
Develop Your Skills in a Supportive Environment
Oakland Community College’s social work program is designed with you in mind:
- Small class sizes
- Experienced faculty
- Professional networking
- The opportunity to develop relationships with like-minded students
- Hands-on experience and internships
- Knowledge of the NASW Code of Ethics
Students learn through a combination of classroom work and fieldwork, spending 135 hours in human services agencies such as mental health centers, social service agencies,
substance abuse counseling sites, and other facilities.
Transferring to a Four-Year University
The Mental Health/Social Work program at Oakland Community College has strong articulation
agreements with many Michigan universities, including the following:
- Oakland University
- Eastern Michigan University
- Wayne State University
- Madonna University
Graduates of the Mental Health and Social Work program who gain admission into these
BSW programs are allowed to transfer between 71 to 73 credits from Oakland Community
College. On average this can save students $20,000.
Looking for Flexibility?
All courses within this program are available online or in-person. Browse all online
programs, learn what you’ll need to get started, and access technical support.
Learn More About OCC Online
Degree Program
The Associate of Applied Science Degree in Mental Health/Social Work (MHS) is designed
to prepare students for transfer into partnering university programs and entry level
employment in a range of social service careers.
Associate Degree Information & Course List
Certificate in Addiction Studies
This certificate provides students with the knowledge and skills to work in the field
of substance abuse and addiction while earning the Michigan Certified Addiction and
Drug Counselor license. You will obtain the 300 educational hours required by the
Michigan Certification Board of Addiction Professionals (MCBAP).
Certificate Degree Information & Course List
Meet OCC Grad: Ebony Boatman
Associate in Applied Science—Mental Health & Social WorkMom of five starts over, invests in herself and creates change to help others.
Meet Ebony
Experienced Faculty
Our faculty brings real-world experience to the classroom which allows students to
connect complex theories to real-life practice.
Our full-time and adjunct faculty have actively worked in the social work field, many
for over 20 years, in a variety of industries:
- Schools
- Corrections
- Law enforcement
- Hospitals
- Government
- Private practice
- Hospice
- International social work
- Non-profit
- Community services organizations.
Information Sessions
Mental Health faculty hold virtual and in-person events throughout the year for prospective
students to attend.
10:00AM Orchard Ridge Campus - Building J
A Nest Is Coming Near YOU! The Nest is coming this Fall, but we want to connect with you this...
10:00AM Royal Oak Campus - Building B
A Nest Is Coming Near YOU! The Nest is coming this Fall, but we want to connect with you this...
10:00AM Auburn Hills Campus - Building G
A Nest Is Coming Near YOU! The Nest is coming this Fall, but we want to connect with you this...
4:00PM Auburn Hills Campus - Building G
A Nest Is Coming Near YOU! The Nest is coming this Fall, but we want to connect with you this...
Eligibility Information
Depending on agency requirements, a criminal background check may be required to participate
in the internship course (MHS 2600). If any student has questions or concerns, they
may make an appointment with the Program Coordinator prior to enrolling in the program.
Get Started Today!
Ready to begin your studies? Get started now:
- Apply to OCC. If you’re not already an OCC student, .
- On the application select the degree program ‘Mental Health/Social Work’.
- Existing OCC students can update their academic program using the Change of Program Form.
I am interested in the Social Work/Mental Health Program
For more information about OCC's Social Work/Mental Health program complete the form
below
Prepare to Transfer – Even if You Are Not Planning to Today!
Maximize your OCC-applicable credits upon transfer. Plan early and work with an OCC counselor or advisor throughout your OCC experience. If you pursue an associate in applied science, you
may satisfy the Michigan Transfer Agreement by taking as few as four additional courses. Save time, money and aggravation!
Whatever your program of study, OCC has many Transfer Credit Agreements with colleges and universities to help you navigate your way to a bachelor's degree.
View the College Transfer Success Guide for more information.
