1. What is “Human Services” anyway?
Human Services is one of the helping professions along with Counseling and Social Work. It is a profession that helps people in need. This can cover a number of different issues such as substance abuse, family violence issues, homelessness and the like. Students that take courses in Human Services will be introduced to the skills, knowledge and attitude necessary to work in this important profession.
2. What kind of degree will I get?
You will receive an Associate in Public Service (APS) in one of four career paths (also known as areas of specialization). Currently, you may choose from:
- Addictions/Substance Abuse
- Family Intervention Studies
- Gerontology
- Human Services Generalist
- Issues in Family Violence
- School-Age Child and Youth Development
Or, you may prefer to begin with a certificate.
3. What is a certificate?
A certificate is simply a document that acknowledges your successful completion of a group of courses that you have taken in a certain area of study.
4. What are the certificate choices in Human Services?
You may choose one or several. They are:
- Addictions/Substance Abuse Certificate
- Family Intervention Certificate
- Gerontology Certificate
- Human Services Generalist Certificate
- Issues in Family Violence Certificate
- School-Age Child and Youth Development Certificate
5. Do the courses in the certificates count towards the Associate Degree in Human Services?
Yes. All the courses you take for the certificate can be used towards obtaining your APS.
6. What kind of job can I get with a certificate or APS in Human Services?
Human Services is a large field with lots of job opportunity. Human Services is consistently rated as one of the top growing professions (hyperlink to data). Examples of some job titles in the field are:
Caseworker
Case Manager
Counselor
Parent Educator
Advocate
Community Educator
Job Coach
During the second half of your course of study, you will participate in an internship, also known as field placement. This gives you an opportunity to practice the skills learned in the classroom. It also provides an important link to the profession in obtaining employment after graduation.
7. How long does it take to get a certificate or an APS?
That depends on you and your individual circumstances. If you can go full time, it will take you approximately 5 semesters to complete your APS in Human Services. If you go part-time, you can take as long as you like, at your convenience. For the certificates, it will take you about 3 semesters, if you can go full time. As with the APS, you may take only one class at a time, if you wish.
8. How are courses offered?
Courses are offered in the traditional manner, in class once or twice a week. Some courses are also offered on-line.
9. Where are courses offered?
Most courses are offered on Main Campus; however, we do offer some courses at Palmer Campus and at Berkeley Campus.
10. Are there any admissions requirements?
Yes. You must have proof of high school graduation or GED and qualifying scores on the SAT, ACT or the TTC placement test. (Click here for High School Admissions Page)
11. Are there any scholarships or grants to help with tuition?
There are numerous scholarships and grants available to students based on academic performance, financial need or other criteria. Please see the Financial Aid Department for specific information. (Click here for Financial Aid information)
12. How do I get started?
It’s easy. Simply complete the admission application and return it with the $25 application fee or credit card information to TTC’s Admissions Office before the application deadline of the term you plan to enroll. The Admissions Office staff will be happy to assist you in the process. (Click here for Admissions information)