Social and Human Services

The Social and Human Services Associate in Applied Science Degree prepares students for entry-level positions in institutions and agencies that provide social, community, and behavioral health services. Along with core courses, students take courses that prepare them for specialization in specific human service areas. Coursework includes the development of professional knowledge, skills, and values in human services. Opportunities for experiential learning allow students to apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom. Graduates should qualify for positions in government, private, and nonprofit social and human services agencies.  Graduates may choose to transfer and continue their education at various colleges and universities.

The Social and Human Services diploma prepares students for entry-level positions in institutions and agencies that provide social, community, and behavioral health services. Coursework includes foundational knowledge, skills, and values in human services. Diploma graduates should qualify for government, private, and nonprofit social and human services agency positions.  Graduates may choose to continue their education at CCCC with the Social and Human Services degree with two additional semesters.

This certificate provides an overview of the core concepts of addiction and recovery. Topics include an overview of various addictions, their effects on societal members, treatment of addiction, and preventive measures.

Addiction and Recovery Studies Certificate outcomes

• Students will analyze current issues and trends in the field of addiction and recovery, incorporating the evolving landscape of ethical guidelines, diversity and inclusion, and policy changes.
• Students will examine mental health and co-occurring disorders, using assessment tools and diagnostic criteria, to support clients through intervention and prevention strategies.
• Students will demonstrate the skills necessary for effective case management, including the ability to coordinate care, navigate community resources, and advocate for clients within various systems of care.
• Students will apply evidence-based counseling techniques in individual and group settings, demonstrating the ability to support clients through the recovery process with professional competence.

This certificate provides a comprehensive overview of mental health and wellness and the roles, duties, and ethical aspects of providing mental health services. Topics include the history of mental health services, psychopathology, recovery, advocacy, common mental health challenges, professional qualifications, and current trends.

Mental Health Certificate outcomes

• Students will explain the foundational concepts of mental health, including the definition, ethical standards, and various dimensions of diagnosis.
• Students will be able to describe a range of evidence-based mental health interventions, and prevention strategies across varying populations.
• Students will develop service and advocacy skills, enabling them to effectively promote mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and support individuals and communities in providing mental health services.
• Students will demonstrate the ability to apply ethical and professional standards in mental health practice, ensuring confidentiality, informed consent, and culturally competent care in all interactions with clients and communities.

This certificate examines the values, orientation, and professional standards of social work and focuses on the terminology and broader systems of social welfare. Emphasis is placed on the various fields of practice including those agencies whose primary function is financial assistance, corrections, mental and behavioral health, and protective services.

Social Services Certificate outcomes

• Students will demonstrate cultural competency and diversity, enabling them to effectively provide services to clients from diverse backgrounds, respecting cultural differences, and promoting inclusivity.
• Students will describe the various systems of social welfare, including financial assistance, corrections, mental and behavioral health, and protective services, using appropriate terminology and understanding their functions within broader societal contexts.
• Students will exhibit the core values of social work, such as respect for diversity, social justice, and the dignity and worth of individuals, and will be able to apply these values, along with their acquired knowledge and skills, to effectively serve clients in diverse fields of practice.
• Students will examine social work skills, including assessment, planning, coordination, and evaluation of services while adhering to professional standards and best practices to ensure high-quality care and support for clients.

This certificate examines intellectual and developmental disabilities with an emphasis placed on causes of intellectual/developmental disabilities, service provision, and advocacy. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate a general knowledge of serving individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities.

Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities Certificate outcomes

• Students will demonstrate a thorough understanding of various types of intellectual and developmental disabilities, including their characteristics, challenges, and impacts on individuals and families.
• Students will be able to effectively evaluate service plans to meet the unique needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring a person-centered approach that promotes independence and quality of life.
• Students will exhibit a commitment to ethical principles and professional standards in the provision of direct services, and confidential, and competent care that upholds the dignity and rights of individuals with disabilities.
• Students will develop the necessary skills to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in achieving meaningful employment and planning for life-long care, including collaboration with families and other caregivers to ensure comprehensive and continuous support throughout the individual's lifespan.