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.
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Career Options/Opportunities Available for Graduates in:
Employment Outlook
Sonoma County currently employs approximately 700-800 human service workers. The annual turnover is approximately 20-29 percent yearly. The U.S. Department of Labor Statistics - January 2000 stated that, "the number of human service workers and assistants is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations between 1998 and 2008 - ranking among the most rapidly growing occupations".
Typical Starting Salary for Graduates
Hourly, $10.52-$14.20
Annually, $18,395-$26,880
Alcohol and Drug Counseling $25,600
Health Worker I $20,600
Deputy Probation Counselor I $23,500
Mental Health Driver $20,600
Independent Living Skills Counselors FT $24,200/yr-$26,880/yr
Advocate/Counselor $20,200
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 36-42 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 (www.santarosa.edu/certificates), in the class schedule and in the college catalog.
Starting the Program
The Human Services core curriculum begins each fall 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 1440 Bussman. 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.
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Last Modified: October 12, 2004