Human Services, Associate of Applied Science

The A.A.S. degree is specifically designed for individuals currently employed in a human service setting and is particularly appropriate for direct support professionals (DSPs) working with individuals with disabilities, older adults, in social service agencies or state run programs such as DYFS, and in state institutions for persons with mental illness or developmental disabilities.

The course sequence is intended to expand students’ understanding of the broader social service system in which they function and ground their daily practices within a social systems framework and code of professional conduct. Students can tailor the program to their career needs through the selection of a specialized elective in human services and an assortment of social science electives. College credit may also be awarded for previously completed training through the Department of Human Services or the College of Direct Support. The student should present the original certification to the Student Enrollment Center to receive credit.

Through the designation of a specialized elective and on-the-job experience, students customize their education to meet their immediate career needs in the fields of disability, gerontology, child welfare or other social service settings. The curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to function more effectively and efficiently within any human service setting.

Graduates are able to:

• apply a set of professional values and critical thinking skills to the day-to-day judgments common to direct support positions
• interpret, explain and navigate the complex system of programs, benefits and rules that comprise the broader social welfare system
• advocate for change within their organizations and political process

Students interested in transferring into a Bachelor degree program upon completion of their Associate degree should enroll in the A.A. degree in Human Services/Pre-Social Work in order to meet the transfer requirements of the 4-year institutions. The A.A.S. degree is primarily designed for current DHS or community provider agency employees wishing to advance within their current setting.