Description
The Human Services certificate/associate degree is a performance-based training program designed to prepare students for employment in the field of human services/social services. Coursework also meets many of the lower division requirements for advanced degrees in related fields. The certificate offers students excellent preparation in the knowledge and skills needed for successful employment. The certificate also provides an overview of local human services agencies including fieldwork in the student's emphasis of choice.
Program Highlights
- Skill development for job readiness
- Education and Training for Employment in the Helping Professions
- Internships with Local Employers
- Preparation for Drug and Alcohol Certification (CAADE/CAADAC)
- Advocacy and Disability Awareness
- Crisis Intervention, Ethics and Case Management Training
- Coursework in Identity and Cultural Diversity
- Personal growth/professional growth
Career Options/Opportunities Available for Graduates
- Child Abuse
- Crisis Intervention
- Halfway House Counselor
- Youth Group Home
- Alcoholism Program
- Family, Welfare and Health Agencies
- Ombudsman or Advocate Program
- Community Action
- Assistant Case Manager
- County or State Eligibility
- Conflict Resolution
- Chemical Dependency
- Disability
- Domestic Violence
Employment Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of social and human service assistants is projected to grow 22 percent from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. Job prospects are expected to be excellent, particularly for applicants with appropriate post secondary education.
According to the California Occupational Guides, jobs for Social and Human Service Assistants are expected to increase by 17.3 percent, or 6,900 jobs between 2012 and 2022. In Sonoma County, jobs for Social and Human Service Assistants are expected to increase by 17.6 percent between 2012 and 2022.
Typical Starting Salary for Graduates
State government $35,510
Local government $32,560
Individual and family services $26,250
Vocational rehabilitation services $23,910
Residential mental retardation, mental health and substance abuse facilities $23,580
Many employers provide medical insurance and other benefits, including dental insurance, paid sick leave and a paid vacation. Also, some provide retirement plans.
Fees/Financial Aid
Santa Rosa Junior College is a public community college. Fees are $26 per unit for California residents. Out-of-state and international students will pay higher fees. The minimum number of units required for a degree is 60 units, and a certificate in Human Services ranges from 43.5 - 46.5 units depending on the certificate emphasis chosen. Books and materials are additional costs. Some students may have their fees waived by the Board of Governors' Grant awarded by the State of California. For information on the Board of Governors' Grant and on the many other forms of aid, visit or contact the Financial Aid Office at (707) 527-4471.
What is the First Step I Need to Take to Enroll in the Program? Take the English reading/writing and mathematics assessments and meet with a counselor for course planning.
Recommended Preparation
English skills are critical for success in the Human Services classes. Students should plan to take the SRJC's English assessment for placement into appropriate English classes. Students entering the Human Services core curriculum would ideally have a score recommending placement in English 100. Good writing and computer skills are necessary for employment within the human services field.
Required Courses
A complete list of required courses are available online certificate programs and majors, in the class schedule and in the college catalog.
Starting the Program
The Human Services core curriculum begins each fall or spring semester. Students should begin, pending English assessment results, by enrolling in COUN 90, Introduction to Human Services. See recommended sequence of courses.
Internships
When the Human Services student has decided on an emphasis, he/she should see the Intern Instructor/Coordinator for intern placement in the final semester of their studies. The 3-unit requirement (6 units if the emphasis is Alcohol and Drugs) requires 12 hours per week for a non-paid (volunteer) position or 15 hours per week for a paid position. Students may develop their own position or utilize the assistance of the placement office. Call (707) 527-4329 for an appointment or stop by Work Experience Department, 3rd floor of the Bertolini Student Center on the Santa Rosa Campus. Plan ahead, because the Intern Instructor's/Coordinator's schedule is usually full at the beginning of each semester. Enrollment in the intern units occurs after the position has been secured and approved. There is an application to complete. Students may enroll until the end of September (for the fall semester) and February (for the spring semester). The intern program is also available during the summer semester.
Placement Services
Assistance with job placement is available through SRJC's Student Employment Office. Students are encouraged to register with the Career Developer to receive guidance with resume development and referral for job opportunities. The phone number is (707) 527-4690 for placement assistance and/or labor market information.