Associate Degree in Human Services Online

Program Overview

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The Associate of Arts in Human Services Online program at NEC prepares students for careers supporting individuals facing challenges, such as developmental disabilities, aging, and substance abuse. Delivered online with a collaborative format, the program equips students with a strong liberal arts foundation, career-focused curriculum, and ethical leadership skills for entry-level positions in human services. Graduates are prepared to work in various settings, including government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare facilities.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Program Aims:

• Prepare students for a career supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, older adults, immigrants and refugees, victims of substance abuse, and others facing various challenges.

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Program Description:

• 100% online program for flexible learning.
• Utilizes a collaborative and interactive format fostering engagement with faculty and peers.
• Delivered by experienced and active professionals in the human services field.
• Offers multiple start dates for convenient enrollment.

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Learning Outcomes:

• Understand human services delivery, assessment, and planning processes.
• Strengthen critical thinking skills for comprehensive analysis.
• Develop a strong ethical worldview and leadership abilities.
• Career-focused curriculum exploring human services delivery, client assessment, and planning.

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Outline:

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Program Structure:

• 60 credits required for completion.
• Up to 44 transfer credits accepted.
• Seven-week terms for faster credit accumulation and graduation.
• Full-time and part-time enrollment options available.

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Course Components:

• Human Services Major Requirements (36 credits):
• Exploring the Mechanisms of Prejudice, Discrimination, and Social Justice
• Introduction to Human Services
• Social Psychology
• Writing and Research in Social Sciences
• Life-Span Development
• Systems of Care
• Perspectives in Mental Health and Mental Health Disorders
• Culture and the Practice of Psychology
• 4 credits of 2000+ level CJ, PS, or SO Electives
• Liberal Arts & Sciences Core Curriculum (24 credits):
• Composition or approved LAS Writing course
• LAS 1 (The Natural Environment)
• 12 credits of Liberal Arts electives
• Electives (12 credits):
• Select additional electives to fulfill the 60-credit requirement.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A variety of assessment methods may be utilized, including:
• Examinations
• Projects
• Presentations
• Papers
• Class participation

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Assessment Criteria:

• Specific criteria will vary depending on the assessment method.
• Generally, assessments will focus on evaluating students' understanding of course material, their ability to apply concepts to real-world scenarios, and their critical thinking skills.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Discussions
• Group work
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Online activities

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Faculty:

• The program's faculty are experienced professionals with expertise in the field of human services.
• Faculty are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality educational experience and are committed to helping students achieve their academic and professional goals.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program utilizes a collaborative and interactive learning environment to promote active engagement and deep understanding of the material.

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Careers:

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Career Opportunities:

• Completion of the program can lead to entry-level positions in human services, such as:
• Client Advocate
• Case Management Aide
• Social Services Assistant
• Youth Care Worker
• Community Outreach Specialist
• Human Services Specialist
• And more

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates of the program are prepared to work in a variety of settings, including:
• Government agencies
• Non-profit organizations
• Healthcare facilities
• Educational institutions
• Private companies

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Career Resources:

• NEC provides students with access to career resources, including:
• Career counseling
• Resume and cover letter writing workshops
• Internship opportunities
• Job fairs

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Other:

• The program is fully accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
• The program is designed to be affordable and accessible, with a variety of financial aid options available.
• NEC is a private, non-profit college with a long history of providing quality education.
• NEC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.