Start Here. Make a Difference Anywhere.
If you’ve ever felt called to help others, social work might be the path for you. At Inver Hills Community College, the Pre-Social Work program offers a powerful, flexible, and purpose-driven beginning.
The program can be completed nearly 100% online,* making it an ideal choice for students balancing school with work, family, or other commitments.
A smart start with a seamless transfer path
The Pre-Social Work Associate of Science (A.S.) degree at Inver Hills isn’t just about getting started, it’s about moving forward with confidence. Designed as a transfer pathway, the program allows you to complete your first two years of college and then transfer directly as a junior into a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at a Minnesota State university and many other four-year programs.
* Two courses required to earn the degree have in-person elements. MATH1103 requires students to attend in person for a midterm and final, and BIOL1114 has three required campus meetings during the semester.
In her own words: Alumna Avery Evans
A wonderful program, amazing support and easy transfer
My experience as a student in the Pre-Social Work Program was wonderful. When I first came to Inver Hills Community College, I had no idea what I wanted to do. That changed when I took an Intro To Social Work course. The rest of the pieces fell into place from that point on.
I highly recommend the Pre-Social Work Program offered at InverHills for anyone who is considering becoming a social worker.
The program provides the foundations of Social Work – engaging hands-on course work, real world social work experience, opportunities to learn about social justice & inequality, and amazing staff support from people who care deeply about student success.
Now I’m continuing my studies in the field of social work at Minnesota State University Mankato.
My credits transferred over easily, and I’m super excited to see where this career path takes me.
Learn by doing through real-world experience
Social work is hands-on, people-centered work. At Inver Hills, your education will reflect that.
As part of the Pre-Social Work curriculum, students complete internship and seminar courses that place them in real professional settings.
These experiences allow you to apply classroom concepts in meaningful ways, all while building your résumé and professional network.
At its core, social work is about connection, and Inver Hills emphasizes the human side of the profession.
A career with purpose and a growing demand
If you’re looking for a career with both meaning and stability, social work delivers on both fronts.
According to recent Minnesota data, social workers earn a median annual wage of about $65,010, which is roughly $4,000 higher than the national median. Demand for social workers continues to grow, driven by needs in mental health, healthcare, schools, and community services, ensuring a steady flow of opportunities.
In Minnesota, opportunities exist across urban and rural communities alike, making social work a flexible and geographically diverse career path.
Becoming a therapist: Added value with graduate-level education
For those who choose to build upon their Pre-Social Work background by completing approximately one year of graduate education after a bachelor’s degree —often as part of a Master of Social Work (MSW) with clinical focus, a Mental Health Counseling degree, or the first year of clinical psychology—you can qualify as a licensed or pre-licensed therapist in Minnesota. This credential significantly enhances both your scope of practice and earning potential.
Masters-Level Therapist
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary in Minnesota is about $66,700 per year, with most entry- to mid-level professionals earning roughly $50,900 to $70,500, and top earners making $92,500 or more, based on recent job market data.
Mental Health Therapist
According to Indeed, the average base salary for mental health therapists in Minnesota is around $74,784 annually, based on over 1,100 salary reports. Salaries generally range from $47,188 to $118,519, depending on experience, setting and licensure.
Mental Health Counselor
According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, the median salary for mental health counselors is about $59,550, with post professionals earning between $53,890 and $68,730, and t op earners reaching $76,600.
Answer the call to serve
Social work isn’t just a career, it’s a calling. It’s about showing up for people when it matters most and helping individuals, families, and communities thrive.
If you’re ready to make a genuine difference in the world, your journey can start here.
Ready to take the next step? The path to a purpose-driven career begins with a single decision, and Inver Hills is ready when you are.
Learn more:
Inver Hills Admissions Team
admissions@inverhills.edu
651-450-3902
