Associate in Science

Program Description:

The Human Services Associate in Science degree program prepares students for a variety of positions in the diverse field of human services. A strong general education component provides essential broad-based knowledge of individuals and society. The development of effective communication and counseling skills is emphasized. The cornerstone of the program is a field placement, which students complete under the guidance of human-service professionals. Students have the opportunity to explore career options working with children, elders, people with physical and mental disabilities, minority and refugee populations, homeless individuals and families, and other groups in need.

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Career and Transfer Outlook:

Graduates are competitive candidates for employment advancement in human-service agencies.

Helpful Hints:

Students should enroll in Introduction to Human Services (HUS 101) during their first semester.

Service-Learning: Students are encouraged to gain experience in community organizations by participating in Service-Learning opportunities offered in courses throughout the degree program.

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the Human Services program are prepared to:

• Demonstrate basic counseling skills, including active listening, paraphrasing, confronting and engaging clients;
• Discuss the theory of human services, the current operation of the service system, and major issues facing human services in the United States;
• Define career options in human services and demonstrate the significant differences in prevention and treatment programs serving various populations;
• Demonstrate ability to work with diverse populations;
• Explain and discuss fundamental psychological concepts;
• Examine the principles and concepts of society’s social problems and develop and analyze strategies for change;
• Discuss and demonstrate group process and inter-personal relations as it applies in the work place and for clinical use in the field;
• Apply the Direct Support Skill Standards in their coursework and field work;
• Develop research and writing skills, particularly those needed for accurate record keeping.