New Transfer Agreement Creates Social Work Pathway from Isothermal to ECU

By: Blakely Hollifield
Published: April 02, 2026

Spindale, NC (April 2, 2026) - Students at Isothermal Community College pursuing careers in social work now have a new pathway to continue their education through a transfer agreement with East Carolina University.

The agreement allows students who complete the Associate of Applied Science in Social and Human Services at Isothermal to transfer into ECU’s Bachelor of Social Work program. The partnership creates a clear academic pathway for students to begin their studies locally and continue toward a four-year degree in social work.

Isothermal’s Social and Human Services program prepares students for entry-level roles in agencies that provide social, community, and behavioral health services. Through coursework and experiential learning opportunities, students gain knowledge in areas such as case management, professional communication, ethical decision-making, crisis intervention, and client support. Once graduates have two years of experience in the field, they can become Qualified Professionals.

Graduates of the program are prepared to work in a variety of settings, including mental health services, family and child services, rehabilitation programs, corrections, and community-based organizations. For many students, the program also serves as a steppingstone toward advanced education in social work or related fields.

The new transfer agreement helps remove barriers for students who plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree. By beginning their studies at Isothermal, students can complete foundational coursework close to home before transferring to ECU to continue their education and expand their professional opportunities.

The agreement is part of a broader effort by ECU’s College of Health and Human Performance to expand transfer pathways with community colleges across North Carolina. ECU has established several bilateral agreements with community colleges across the state to create clear academic pathways into programs such as social work, family and community services, and recreation management.

Students interested in pursuing the Social and Human Services program or learning more about the transfer pathway to ECU can contact Kim Snyder, Social and Human Services Instructor at ksynder@isothermal.edu or 828-395-4165.