A growing field within the health-related sector, "human services" is a career term encompassing a wide spectrum of job titles.  At the completion of one to two years of study, individuals work as professionals in fields such as nursing, social work, mental health, counseling, rehabilitation, and gerontology.  With additional education and certification, the technical or paraprofessional assistant may become a professional in a human services field and become involved in community and social planning.   

Both direct and indirect services are provided for clients, individuals in need, and families in crisis.  In this field, a strong desire to help others and to maximize their individual potential are valued characteristics to possess.  You will learn about the many and varied roles of human service workers as well as the options available to them, such as community practicums of clinical field experience to further enlighten the possibilities for intervention.

Transferability

Graduates may transfer to four-year institutions in such fields as counseling, social work, social welfare, mental health technology, gerontology, and human services.  While a bachelor’s degree may not be required for entry into this occupation, employers often seek individuals with relevant work experience or education beyond high school.  Formal education is usually required for advancement.  It is recommended that students communicate early with both their Howard Community College advisors and the four-year transfer institutions to facilitate transfer of credits.

Options

             Social Services: Graduates transfer to continue studies in fields such as social work and counseling and take positions as social service interviewers and community organizers.

             Mental Health: Graduates take positions as mental health workers and psychiatric technicians in a variety of in-patient and out-patient settings.

             Chemical Dependency: The focus is one basic counseling skills for individuals and families, substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation. The option provides academic coursework to attain certification as a Certified Supervised Counselor- Alcohol and Drug. Additional clinical fieldwork in the addiction field is required.

             Developmental Disabilities: The field of developmental disabilities includes working with the learning needs, social skills and physical development for individuals ranging in age from infant to the older adult. Human service workers assist with both direct and indirect client services to facilitate access to resources.