Undergraduate Studies in Human Services
The Human Service profession is dedicated to improving the human condition by intervening during crises, preventing future crises, helping people access resources, and advocating for change in the systems that affect the lives of those in need. Simply put, the primary purpose of Human Services is to empower individuals, families, and communities to survive, function and thrive, even in the face of adversity.
The HDFS program in Human Services trains students for careers in the field upon graduation, as well as prepares them for further study in graduate school programs such as Human Development and Family Sciences, Social Work, Counseling, and Marriage and Family Therapy. Our graduates work in fields such as social services, employment, housing, child welfare, community prevention, youth recreation, youth leadership development, gerontology, mental health, and public policy. They have many titles including case worker, family support worker, family life educator, therapeutic assistant, alcohol counselor, probation officer, residential treatment worker, life skills instructor, and psychological aide. According to the U.S. Department of Labor (2003), job opportunities for Human Service workers are expected to be excellent, ranking among the most rapidly growing occupational fields between 2000 and 2010.
Be forewarned - this occupational field is not for everyone. The pay is relatively low at the entry level, and the work can be emotionally draining. However, few careers offer as many opportunities to directly impact lives in such a profound manner. Human Service professionals choose this path because they believe strongly in advocacy and the difference that each of us can make. Indeed, the end result is that they change this world for the better… one individual, family, and community at a time.
If you have what it takes for a career in Human Services, the HDFS program will give you the knowledge base, practical experience, and training to excel in the field. Bring your sense of optimism, integrity, and compassion to our table. We will take care of the rest.
Strengths of the HDFS Human Services Program
| A strong base in the most current research and theory in human development, family studies, systems theory, as well as social policy and programs | Numerous courses focusing on practical skills such as communication, fundraising, and agency management | A heavy emphasis on hands-on learning and real world experience through the HDFS Internship Program |
What is the Philosophical Approach of the Human Services Program in HDFS?
- A foundation in human services including history, models of delivery, characteristics of effective helpers, client problems, crisis intervention, the helping process, systems theory and ethics.
- A multi-disciplinary approach including human development, counseling, social work, psychology and sociology.
- A strength-based philosophy recognizing the importance of physical, mental and psychological wellness and crisis prevention.
Internal Documents
- Required Core Competencies for the Human Services Option (pdf)
- HDFS Student Admission, Retention and Dismissal Policies
- HDFS Advisory Board Charge and Membership
- HDFS Mission Statement and Philosophical Base
- Ethical Standards of Human Services Professionals
- Human Services Student Newsletter
- Double Option Requirements and Student Activities
