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The field of Human Services is an ideal career
choice for men and women who are interested in
helping clients of all ages understand themselves
and reach their goals. The career area of Human
Services and Disability Studies prepares students
for entry-level employment or for transfer to a
four-year college or university. Students that
transfer to a 4-year institution may focus on social
work, psychology, counseling or
education/special-education.
The diverseness of career opportunities is a unique
feature of the Human Services and Disability Studies
Program. Below are just some of the areas that
students will be prepared to work:
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Public and private social service agencies
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Treatment centers for addictions
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Group homes for mental illness, domestic
violence, residential treatment, developmental
disabilities
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Supported living and vocational work programs
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State and county Departments of Human Services
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Hospital-based treatment facilities
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Correctional facilities
Students will develop skills in planning and case
management, assessment and referrals, interviewing
and behavioral observations, working with
individuals and groups. They will gain knowledge in
the area of learning and behavior disabilities,
mental illness and mental retardation, dementia and
related disorders.
Practicum Experience:
students in the Human Services and Disability
Studies Program must complete a practicum experience
after the first year of course work. Working at a
human services or disability agency/facility will
provide an opportunity to work with experts in the
field and apply their knowledge and skills in a
real-world setting.
The need for qualified human services workers is
anticipated to grow at a much faster than average
rate and the next few years, according to the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are a variety of
positions to be filled. In Iowa, most starting
salaries range from the upper teens to the mid $20s
and show a significant increase based on experience
and location.
Para-Educator Certification:
The Iowa Department of Education has approved
courses leading to the Iowa Para-Educator
Certification. Completion of two courses: Behavior
Management and Introduction to Human Services and
Disabilities meets the requirement of the Generalist
Para-Educator Certification.
Helping Careers Certification:
This program accommodates high school graduates with
learning challenges who wish to pursue jobs where
they enjoy interacting with others in helping
careers such as nurses aide, child care worker, home
health attendant, residential services staff, or
teaching aides. This program is located on the
Emmetsburg Campus. |
