Human Services Technology Major (A.A.S.)

Program Overview

The Human Services Technology program provides a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree with a generalist approach, preparing graduates for diverse roles in community settings. Through online or videoconference courses and hands-on practicum experiences, students gain real-world skills and can pursue credentials such as Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant and Social Work Assistant. The program also offers pathways to further education in social work, counseling, and other related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• The Human Services Technology (HST) program offers a two-year course of study leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree.
• HST courses are offered online or via videoconference.
• The program offers a generalist approach, placing graduates in a position to choose their path among many diverse settings.
• Human Services workers are found in every facet of community life, including schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, senior centers, daycare centers, elected office, assistants to clinicians in private practice, prisons, and in numerous community agencies.
• The HST Practicum courses (HST 2921 and HST 2922), similar to internships, provide students with opportunities for real-world, first-hand experiences with a wide range of populations.
• This provides an opportunity for students to explore their interests and learn about career opportunities and future planning.
• Placements are available in a variety of settings and programs such as: mental health, chemical dependency, social services, domestic violence, adult and juvenile corrections, prevention services, children services, and community action programs, among others.
• Faculty and on-site supervision are provided throughout the practicum experience.

Careers:

• Graduates may find employment in areas such as human service worker, case manager, chemical dependency counselor assistant, social work assistant, community support worker, mental health technician, prevention specialist, community outreach worker, life skills counselor, children's advocacy worker, or gerontology aide.
• The social service agencies in which our graduates may expect to find employment are too numerous to list (i.e., child protection services, case management services, mental health centers, adoption agencies, foster care services).
• The HST curriculum allows graduates to further their education by completing a bachelor's degree in social work, communication, criminal justice, technical and applied studies (B.T.A.S.
in a social service track), or in specialized studies with as few as two additional years of full-time study.
• The HST program is part of the Social Work department, allowing students to connect with the Social Work faculty as they progress through the program.
• Students are also encouraged to progress to either a Master of Education degree majoring in counseling or a Master of Social Work degree.