Programs

Human Services Associate

Associate Degree

Credits:

62.00

Financial Aid Eligible

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

In Term 5, students are additionally required to take an elective course valuing 3 credits. The recommended course is Human Biology (806-198).

First Term

Course NameCourse NumberCredits

Intro to Human ServicesCourse: 10520100Credits: 4.00

This course is designed to give the student an overview of the human service field by exploring historical influences, theoretical approaches, service delivery systems, best practices, and social issues impacting clients.

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Introduction to GerontologyCourse: 10520150Credits: 3.00

The Gerontology course identifies issues that will increase learner's knowledge in the area of aging. The focus will be on mental health issues, health issues, socioeconomic factors, and other forces that impact the aging process and the individual's adaptation to it. Learners will recognize the common elements to the aging process focusing on dynamics of the individual, social support systems, and programs to help those with special issues in the aging process.

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English Composition 1 Course: 10801136Credits: 3.00

Alternate course English Composition 1 (801-136), English 1 (801-201) or another approved related course.

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Intro to Psychology Course: 10809198Credits: 3.00

Alternate course Intro to Psychology (809-198), General Psychology (809-231) or another approved related course.

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Strengths SeminarCourse: 10890106Credits: 1.00

This course supports learners as they make the transition to college, as appropriate to their area of interest. Students will investigate their strengths to adopt successful academic habits, explore career goals, build digital literacy, navigate campus resources, and foster community, belonging, and wellness.

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Second Term

Course NameCourse NumberCredits

Interviewing and DocumentationCourse: 10520103Credits: 3.00

This course introduces students to interviewing and documentation as practiced in human service agencies. The students will learn theory and human service perspectives in the interviewing process. Students will demonstrate interviewing skills needed for rapport and assessment building and for intervening during a crisis Students will demonstrate skills needed for case note writing. Students also learn about social histories, case assessment, planning, and intervention.

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Cultural Issues in Human SerCourse: 10520105Credits: 3.00

This course prepares learners to critically examine multicultural issues in our community and society. Learner will acquire a foundational understanding of key concepts including culture, multiculturalism, assimilation, pluralism, citizenship, immigration, and refugee status. Learner will gain appreciation for how these concepts reflect global processes and impact community members' lives and society.

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Professional Practices in Human ServicesCourse: 10520106Credits: 3.00

This course prepares students to enter a community field experience and the human services profession. Emphasis is placed on gaining a working knowledge of professional codes of ethics, social/ethical issues, and professional behavior. Students learn what to expect and how to prepare for field placement, credentialing, professional development, and work in the field.

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DisAbilitiesCourse: 10520118Credits: 3.00

DisAbilities prepares students to work with individuals and families impacted by disAbilities. A variety of disAbilities and issues common to persons with disAbilities will explored. Perspectives of disabilities that recognize disAbility as a culture and acknowledge the potential and capabilities of persons with disAabilities are offered.

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Third Term

Course NameCourse NumberCredits

College MathematicsCourse: 10804107Credits: 3.00

algebra, geometry, trigonometry, measurement and data. Algebra topics emphasize simplifying algebraic expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities with one variable, solving proportions and percent applications. Geometry and trigonometry topics include; finding areas and volumes of geometric figures, applying similar and congruent triangles, applying Pythagorean Theorem, and solving right triangles using trigonometric ratios. Measurement topics emphasize the application of measurement concepts and conversion techniques within and between U.S. customary and metric system to solve problems. Data topics emphasize data organization and summarization skills, including: frequency distributions, central tendency, relative position and measures of dispersion. Special emphasis is placed on problem solving, critical thinking and logical reasoning, making connections, and using calculators.

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Intro to American Government Course: 10809122Credits: 3.00

Alternate course Intro to American Government (809-122), American National Government (809-221) or another approved related course.

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Developmental PsychologyCourse: 10809188Credits: 3.00

Developmental Psychology is the study of human development throughout the lifespan. This course explores developmental theory and research with an emphasis on the interactive nature of the biological, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that affect the individual from conception to death. Application activities and critical thinking skills will enable students to gain an increased knowledge and understanding of themselves and others.

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Intro to Sociology Course: 10809196Credits: 3.00

Alternate course Economics (809-195) or Principles of Sociology (809-203) or another approved related course.

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Fourth Term

Course NameCourse NumberCredits

Group Design and FacilitationCourse: 10520113Credits: 3.00

Students will learn about a variety of group types and when to apply each type. Students will also learn principles and techniques needed to design and lead psychoeducational groups in a variety of settings. Students will practice group facilitation skills and will learn how to navigate group dynamics when working with a variety of populations.

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Field Study 1 - Human ServicesCourse: 10520115Credits: 3.00

Learners practice human service skills and professionalism while gaining on-the-job experience through placements local human service agencies. They examine progress towards learning goals through reflection, discussion, and supervision. Documentation processes will be outlined and explored within the field setting. Learners discuss their experiences, challenges, ethics, and boundary issues during the weekly seminar and prepare for Human Services Field Study 2.

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Speech Course: 10801198Credits: 3.00

Alternate course Speech (801-198), Public Speaking (810-201), Oral/Interpersonal Comm (801-196) or another approved related course.

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Abnormal Psychology Course: 10809159Credits: 3.00

Alternate course Abnormal Psychology (809-159), Abnormal Psychology (809-237) or another approved related course.

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Fifth Term

Course NameCourse NumberCredits

Intro to Addiction & Substance Use DisorCourse: 10520107Credits: 3.00

A survey of common and uncommonly used substances available in today's society. Learners will examine the history of drug use along with the changing historical trends of abuse. Learners will explore other types of addictions and how they are similar and dissimilar to chemical addictions. Learners will examine the biology of psychoactive drugs as well as the etiology of addiction.

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Children, Families and GroupsCourse: 10520112Credits: 3.00

Students explore the human service professional's role when working with youth and families. Issues impacting the family system will be explored including trauma and other adverse childhood experiences. Students will examine models of practice and strategies for working within these systems.

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Field Study 2 - Human ServicesCourse: 10520123Credits: 3.00

Students demonstrate advanced skills and techniques used in the field. Students examine their progress toward learning goals through reflection, discussion, and Supervision. Students discuss their experiences, challenges, ethics, and boundary issues during the weekly seminar.

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