Human Services
What Can I Do With A Degree In Human Services?
A bachelor's degree in human services prepares individuals for entry-level positions in the helping professions. A master's degree in counseling, social work, occupational therapy, or related field, in addition to appropriate professional licensure, is usually necessary to provide therapy and for advancement to supervisory or administrative positions. Complete practicum experiences and internships to determine suitability for the helping professions and to gain exposure to various practice settings and clients. Candidates should possess empathy for others, an appreciation for diversity, and an interest in social change. Gain experience with a diverse range of clients and client systems including individuals, families, groups, communities, and minorities.
Social Services/NonprofitSocial services are designed to provide support for poor, disabled, ill, elderly, or juvenile clients. Careers Employers GerontologyGerontology involves working with older adults, healthy or ill, and their families. Become involved with programs or organizations designed for senior citizens. Careers Employers Developmental DisabilitiesHuman services workers specializing in this area help people with disabilities to adjust to and lead productive lives. Volunteer at special needs camps, child care centers, schools, or hospitals to gain experience. Gain experience with and knowledge of a variety of disabilities. Obtain specialized training in areas such as sign language or assistive technology for additional opportunities. Earn a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling for opportunities in Vocational Rehabilitation. Careers Employers AdministrationAdministrators are involved with planning, budgeting, public relations, management, fund raising, and other crucial operating responsibilities that keep an organization functioning. Obtain a master's degree in social work or related field for additional opportunities. Gain management experience through internships, part-time employment, or leadership in relevant student organizations. Supplement curriculum with course work in areas such as public relations, advertising, accounting, or management. Careers Employers Business and IndustryGraduates of human services programs may apply their skills and knowledge in the private sector of business and industry. Earn a minor in business or related field. Develop computer skills particularly with spreadsheets, databases, word processing, and desk top publishing. Gain experience through part-time jobs, summer jobs, and internships in business environments. Careers Employers |
Criminal Justice/CorrectionsHuman services workers in corrections focus on rehabilitating clients and assisting victims. Obtain experience by volunteering at a corrections facility or a victim services organization such as a rape crisis center. Careers Employers Child WelfareChild welfare workers strive to ensure the safety and well-being of children through interventions and programming. Volunteer at day care centers, children's shelters, camps, YMCA/YWCA, Scouts, or other agencies that aid youth and children. Take additional courses in child development or early childhood education. Careers Employers Health CareHuman services workers in health care facilitate the medical and emotional treatment of patients. Volunteer in health related settings such as hospitals or the American Red Cross to gain experience. Supplement curriculum with course work in nursing or health. Complete appropriate prerequisites for entrance into professional programs such as occupational therapy, physician's assistant, or physical therapy. Careers Employers EducationHuman services graduates working in education focus on providing instruction for a wide range of students including children with disabilities as well as adult community members. Learn American Sign Language and manually coded forms of English for specialized opportunities. Volunteer in schools or programs that serve disabled children. Obtain appropriate teacher licensure for public school teaching opportunities. Earn a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling, mental health counseling, school counseling, social work, or college student personnel. Seek campus leadership positions such as peer mentor or resident assistant. Obtain a doctorate degree for teaching and research opportunities in colleges and universities. Careers Employers
|
