All About Human Services Programs in Psychology

If you are passionate about helping others and have an intuitive understanding of human behavior, then a career in human services may be the right choice for you. The main aim of this discipline is to improve the quality of life of clientele. Formal education is expected of those choosing a career path in this industry. It helps in honing your abilities including technical knowledge and making you more competitive in the job market while also ensuring that your clients are taken care of more effectively.

Education programs for human services are available through Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate level degrees. Though certifications and diplomas are available, career prospects are sharper with at least Bachelor’s degrees. These programs are available through campus and online modes. This is especially convenient for working staff since they can work and study simultaneously. Course work usually covers psychology, sociology, counseling methods, interviewing techniques, fitness, human growth and development, abnormal psychology and case management procedures. Specializations can be chosen in addictions, gerontology, child protection, deaf studies and more.

Career opportunities are strong in this industry forecasted to grow at 34% through 2016. Typical roles are human services workers, case management aides, social work assistants, community support workers, mental health aides, community outreach workers, life skills counselors and gerontology aides. Most opportunities exist in nursing, psychiatry, psychology and rehabilitative fields. Salaries are steady and lucrative. Human service assistants recorded median annual wages of $26,630 in 2007 whereas child, family and school social workers earned $38,620. A Master’s degree usually doubles wages though it is not guaranteed.

University of Phoenix and Argosy University lead the group offering quality programs. Everest College of Business and South University drive their programs through personalized attention and skilled educators. Brown Mackie College offers customized programs that focus on students reaching their goals.