Human Services

Graduates from the Human Services Associate program are employed in county human service agencies, community-based organizations, residential treatment programs, schools, inpatient facilities, and other settings that assist people in need. Depending on their area of interest, graduates work with elders, teens, families, people with disabilities, people in the criminal justice system, domestic/family violence, community development, and prevention.

Some human services careers require education beyond an associate degree. This program has transfer agreements with Upper Iowa University, Loras College, Springfield College, and UW-Stout.

Students entering the Human Services Associate program should:

• Have a genuine interest to work with people in need
• Have effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Be psychologically and emotionally healthy
• Be able to think critically
• Be tolerant of different lifestyles, beliefs, and values
• Be able to maintain confidentiality

• Previous coursework in social science, communication, and human relations.

At the completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Interact effectively with a diverse clientele to interview, instruct, and assess needs and eligibility for services in a variety of settings
• Uphold the Ethical Standards for Human Service Professionals, including confidentiality, boundaries, and dual relationships
• Collaborate effectively with professional staff, team members, clients, and collateral agencies
• Accept and respond appropriately to feedback
• Demonstrate entry-level skills in written and verbal communications and documentation
• Assist with planning, facilitating, and evaluating activities; support services; intake counseling; and emergency or intervention programs
• Apply principles of promotion to market agencies and programs
• Access community resources, including informal and natural supports

• Associate degree, requiring a minimum of 2 years to complete.
• Day classes.
• Financial aid available.
• Classes start in August.
• Some courses available via telecourse/online delivery.
• Modified plan available.
• Students must achieve a grade of C or better in each course of the program curriculum to be eligible to progress to the next semester.
• All first and second semester course work must be completed prior to enrolling in Field Study 1 and Field Study 2.