Human Services Associate
- Associate Degree
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Helping others is as much of a calling as it is a career choice. As a human services associate, you will provide crucial information, resources, support, and advocacy for those facing a wide range of challenges. Western's program combines classroom instruction and field experience activities to give you the skills necessary to assist diverse groups of youth and adults dealing with issues like poverty, discrimination, child abuse, homelessness, addictions, physical and mental health problems, and disabilities.
Graduates find employment opportunities in various agencies, including county human services, community-based organizations, residential treatment programs, and other settings dedicated to assisting individuals in need. Additionally, you have the option to pursue a bachelor degree in social work or related human service programs through Western's transfer opportunities.
Read our blog to find out more about this career in action: Human Services Associate: Bridging Gaps, Transforming Lives [1]
In addition to the standard fall term start, this program has a spring term evening program with course sequences differing from those listed below. Please speak with an Admissions Coach [2] for more information.
To view the Human Services Associate program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here [3].
Human Services Associate 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 117 |
| Graduates Responding | 50 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 15 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 10 |
| Seeking Employment | 0 |
| Continuing Education | 24 |
| Not in Labor Market | 25 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 7 | 8 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 19 | 40 |
| Average Hourly Wage | $27.65 | $18.83 |
| Hourly Wage Range | $15.45-$52.00 | $17.00-$22.06 |
| Average Annual Salary | $32,815 |
Respondents in Related Occupations
- Mental Health Tech, Library Asst, Server, Mentor, Recovery Coach, Behavioral Therapist, Special Ed Para, Reg Behavioral Tech, Caregiver, Housing/Fin Literacy Counselor, Neurodiversity Navigator, Probation/Parole Agent, Operations Mgr, Social Services Asst
Career Opportunities
Program Outcomes
- Model a commitment to cultural competence
- Uphold the Ethical Standards and Values for Human Service Professionals
- Demonstrate professionalism
- Utilize community resources
- Apply human services interventions and best practices
- Cultivate professional relationships
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Program Specific Requirements
To enroll in the Human Services Associate program, apply for admission to the College, contact the Welcome Center to make an appointment with a Health & Public Safety College Advisor [4] to be sure all required admission requirements are completed. Please keep your contact information up to date at all times.
Software and Technology
Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.
If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form [5].
Computer/Laptop Hardware
- Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
- Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
- Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.
Software Needs
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [6].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [7] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [8]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [9].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [10] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [11]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Additional Information
- Program Details [12]
Courses
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 [13] 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 [14] 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).