Human Services, Certificate of Achievement

The Human Services program prepares students for entry-level positions as program specialists, community outreach workers, life skills counselors, eligibility workers, and social services assistants. Paraprofessional jobs in Human Services can be found in state and local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private social services agencies. Career advancement is available with experience and additional training. Courses in the program transfer, allowing the student to pursue advanced degrees in fields including Social Work and Health and Human Services.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • Describe standards of professional behavior, confidentiality, and respect expected in the field of human services.
  • Explain how to use a strength-based and self-reliance approach in the study and delivery of human services.
  • Understand what is required to participate as part of an effective team when collaborating with families, agencies, and community-based organizations, while maintaining suitable values and ethics for Human Services.
  • Discuss the many facets of diversity (cultural, racial, LGBTQIA+, age, ability,...), consider sensitivity training options, and develop strategies to ensure respectful and effective communication.
  • Describe and practice the steps required to establish mutually respectful, trusting and supportive relationships.
  • Understand how to best assist families and individuals in using specialized services and in self-assessment.
  • Explain the background, elements, and resources of human services and family development support systems.

Certificate of Achievement Requirements

Required Core
HUMS 50Introduction to Human Services and Social Work3
HUMS 53Introduction to Counseling3
HUMS 54Family Development3
HUMS 60Practices in Human Services1
HUMS 61Introduction to Alcohol/Drug Studies3
HUMS 62Introduction to Gerontology3
Select 3 units from the following:3
MS Office Applications
and MS Office Applications Lab
Human Services Work Experience
Child Growth and Development
Teaching in a Diverse Society
Healthy Living
Introduction to Social Psychology
Lifespan Development
Contemporary Social Problems
Interpersonal Communication
Intercultural Communication
Total Units19

Please refer to the graduation requirements section of the Catalog for information about degree and certificate requirements including Reading and Writing, Mathematics, Information Competency, and General Education requirements.  
 

Ready to Work!MPC “Ready to Work” Career Education programs offer students the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills needed for employment and job advancement.

All students should consult with a Counselor to discuss career pathways, for support with career exploration and planning, and to create a personalized education plan to help them meet their academic, career, and personal goals. Visit MPC’s Counseling website for more information about Counseling services provided by MPC and to connect with a Counselor.

Additional resources are available through MPC’s Career & Transfer Resource Center (CTRC). The CTRC offers career resources, workshops, guidance and referrals. Visit the CTRC for support finding online career information and other resources to explore majors, occupations, and employment information.