Location
On Campus
Curriculum
120 credit hours
Program Length
as few as 48 months
Accreditation
Regionally Accredited by SACSCOC
Dare to Make a Difference! Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Human ServicesÌý
Are you seeking a career in the helping professions? A Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ will provide you with a dynamic and comprehensive educational experience and prepare you for a fulfilling career. Ìý
In the Human Services program, you will develop a fundamental understanding of the human services field and establish a clear career path that aligns with your interests and goals. The knowledge and skills gained in the program also prepares you for further study at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels in the health and human services fields.Ìý
CIU Human Services graduates are well-prepared for careers in diverse settings such as clinics, hospitals, group homes, correctional centers, government agencies, day treatment centers, sheltered workshops, extended care facilities, community-based living homes and social service agencies. The Human Services program at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ can provide you with a solid foundation for seeking a fulfilling career in the helping professions.Ìý
By earning a degree in Human Services at CIU, you will be equipped with the tools and knowledge to make a meaningful difference in your community. Through interactions with stakeholders from various fields, you will gain valuable insights and collaborate with others to learn how to bring about positive change. Your education at CIU will empower you to serve individuals and families with compassion, empathy and competence, making a lasting impact on their lives.
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Why Choose ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ for this degree program?Ìý
Here's why CIU is the perfect choice for your Human Services education:Ìý
Comprehensive Course Content: At CIU, you will have access to a well-rounded curriculum that covers a wide range of topics relevant to the field of Human Services. From psychology and sociology to counseling techniques. Our courses will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the diverse needs of individuals and families.Ìý
Hands-On Experience: As part of your program, you will have the opportunity to engage in at least one practicum in a human services environment. This hands-on experience will allow you to apply the theories and concepts learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios, gaining valuable practical skills and enhancing your ability to achieve successful outcomes in your future career.Ìý
Experienced Faculty: You will have the privilege of learning from faculty members who have obtained advanced degrees and possess years of experience. These professors are not only experts in their respective subjects and will provide you with academic advising, mentorship and guidance to help you excel in your studies and future career.Ìý
Holistic Support: At CIU, we prioritize your overall well-being, not just your academic success. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to getting to know you personally, providing the support and guidance you need to thrive spiritually, academically and emotionally. We believe in fostering a community where you can grow not only as a professional but also as an individual.Ìý
Overall Benefits of getting this Degree
Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others? If you have a heart for helping individuals in need and want to pursue a rewarding career in the human services field, then the Human Services major at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ (CIU) is the right choice for you.Ìý
By choosing the Human Services major at CIU, you will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to effectively engage in a wide range of professional and paraprofessional roles within diverse settings. Whether you envision yourself working in clinics, hospitals, law enforcement, government agencies or non-profit community centers, our program will prepare you for success.Ìý
Here's why our program stands out:Ìý
Comprehensive Career Preparation: Our curriculum is carefully designed to provide you with a solid foundation in human services theory, research and practice. You will explore various topics such as psychology, sociology, counseling techniques, case management and social policy. This comprehensive approach ensures that you are well-prepared to navigate the complex challenges of the human services profession and make a positive impact on the lives of those you serve.Ìý
Diverse Opportunities: The human services field offers a wide range of career paths, and the possibilities are vast. Depending on the employment setting and the clients you serve, job titles and duties can vary significantly. Our program prepares you to excel in various roles, allowing you to assist individuals and families facing different challenges. You will have the opportunity to provide guidance, support and resources to help others overcome obstacles and improve their overall well-being.Ìý
Personal Growth and Fulfillment: Engaging in a human services career is an incredibly fulfilling endeavor. By helping others overcome obstacles and providing guidance to those in distress, you will have a direct and positive impact on members of society. As you witness the transformation and growth of individuals under your care, you will experience a deep sense of personal fulfillment and purpose.Ìý
By completing the Human Services major at CIU, you will earn a bachelor's degree and be equipped with the skills and experience needed to excel in a variety of human service occupations. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to:Ìý
- Develop a personal biblical philosophy of human helping, recognizing your strengths and potential areas for growth.Ìý
- Apply principles and skills of ethical decision-making and demonstrate respect for diversity within a biblical worldview.Ìý
- Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills in helping relationships and group dynamics.Ìý
- Understand the social and psychological dimensions of human interactions in diverse settings.Ìý
Embark on a fulfilling career path in human services at CIU, where you will receive a comprehensive education, gain practical experience and make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and communities in need. Your journey towards a rewarding career in the human services field starts here.Ìý
Featured Faculty
What Will I Study?
In addition to the undergraduate core, here are degree specific-courses you can expect to take:
- HMS 1110 Introduction to Human Services
This course gives an overview of human services as a profession and as an academic discipline. It provides a sampling of the knowledge, skills, ethical values, and practical experiences needed to successfully assist others to a higher quality of life. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- HMS 1115 Cultural Diversity
This course introduces the application of diversity perspectives to social science research and practice. It emphasizes why all sub-disciplines within the social sciences need to understand diversity issues. Approaches for serving underserved groups will be examined with current theory and research applied. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- HMS 2110 Social Welfare Policy and Practice
This course is designed to provide students with the concepts to form the ability to analyze contemporary social welfare policy issues and programs in the United States and to understand the relationship between social policy and human services practice. Topics include, influence of social, political, and economic forces, as well as policies affecting individuals, families and children, and social groups. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- HMS 3110 Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis
This course is a concentrated look at the application and practice of applied behavior analysis. This course provides practical knowledge and experience with a critique from the Christian worldview. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- HMS 4310 Case Management
This course is designed to provide students with best practices for case management common to various human services. Topics include interviewing skills, documentation, cultural aspects, self-care, and ethical issues. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- HMS 4320 Working with Older Adults
This course will examine the psychological theories, practices, and issues in working with older adults. Students will have the opportunity to gain an increased understanding of personal development and self- knowledge in the context of the life cycle. Classroom experiences will be designed to enhance communication skills and helping techniques to every day family encounters with older adults. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- HMS 4920 Human Services Practicum
This is an intensive, on-site experiential learning opportunity, involving approximately 100 hours of direct, on-site service and requiring additional paperwork, feedback, and measurements of outcomes. Usually, this practicum is taken during a student's senior year. For this practicum, you are typically placed in a human services occupation setting where your work is supervised and evaluated by both a site supervisor and a college faculty member.
3.00 credit hours
- SOC 3740 Marriage and Family
This course is a study of the societal patterns of marriage and family life. Biblically and sociologically, you will address issues of courtship, choice of a mate, engagement, the marital adjustment, parenting, divorce, and the development of problem-solving skills. You will use personal application and training from the course to develop the skills to communicate more effectively to others about marriage/family issues.
3.00 credit hours
- PSY 3310 Abnormal Psychology
In this course, you will learn about the causes, symptoms, assessment/classification, and prognosis of mental and emotional disorders. You will also focus on treatment and prevention, as well as the influence of personal faith and the local church upon mental health and functioning.
3.00 credit hours
- PSY 3370 Human Growth and Development
In this lifespan course, you will examine developmental psychology covering the stages of physiological, psychological, sociological, and spiritual growth of the individual from conception to adulthood. You will analyze significant terms, theories, methods of assessment, and the biblical nature of the developing person. Special attention will be given to the cultural diversity of developing persons in varied learning environments.
3.00 credit hours
- PSY 3445 Theories of Counseling
This course introduces students to popular approaches to counseling and therapy. The course includes a review of assumptions about personality made by the therapeutic schools and the techniques they typically use to effect change. The course covers a variety of psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive and phenomenological approaches, and addresses the desire for evidence based practice. (3)
3.00 credit hours
- PSY 4540 Integration of Psychology & Christianity
This course is an overview of some basic approaches to the integration of psychological science and practice with Biblical the theological perspectives. Students will be exposed to a variety of beliefs regarding the relationships between science and Christianity, and they will engage in thoughtful discussion on difficult integrative topics while developing their own perspectives and convictions regarding integration. (3)
3.00 credit hours
Accreditation and Accolades
Career Path OpportunitiesÌý
- Social Services ManagerÌý
- Case ManagerÌý
- Probation OfficerÌý
- Group Home ManagerÌý
- Behavioral InterventionistÌý
- Residential CounselorÌý
- Correctional OfficerÌý
- Juvenile CounselorÌý
- Rehabilitation CounselorÌý
- Mental Health WorkerÌý
- Why should you consider studying human services?
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Studying human services offers a meaningful and fulfilling career path for those with a genuine interest in social issues and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
- What are the advantages of studying human services?
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Studying human services opens up a wide range of career opportunities and provides versatility in the field. With a human services degree, you can pursue careers in social work, social services, substance abuse counseling, mental health counseling and rehabilitation counseling. This diversity allows you to explore different areas of interest and find a career path that aligns with your passion and strengths.
- What is the highest level of degree in human services?
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The highest degree attainable in the field of human services is a Doctoral Degree. Pursuing a doctoral degree in human services equips you with advanced knowledge and expertise, enabling you to become a leader in the field, conduct research and contribute to the development of new approaches and theories in human services.
- What skills are essential for success in the field of human services?
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To thrive in the field of human services, you will need a range of skills. These include empathy, effective communication, active listening, strong interpersonal skills, patience, organizational abilities, critical thinking, self-care practices and cultural competence. These skills will enable you to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds, understand their unique needs and provide appropriate support and assistance.
- Is human services the same as social work?
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While human services and social work share similar goals of helping individuals and communities, they are distinct fields. Human services encompass a broader range of professions and focuses on addressing various needs in social work, mental health, rehabilitation and related areas. Social work, on the other hand, is a specific discipline within human services that emphasizes social justice, advocacy and the provision of social assistance programs and services.
- Is human services the same as human resources?
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Human services and human resources are entirely different fields. Human resources primarily involves managing personnel within organizations, including recruitment, hiring, training, employee benefits and performance evaluations. On the other hand, human services focuses on providing care, support and assistance to individuals and communities, addressing their needs in areas such as healthcare, social work, counseling and community services.
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