Human Services Courses

This course provides a broad overview of the human services discipline using practice settings and social problems as lenses so that the role and function of the human service provider, as well as the clients with whom they work can be understood in context. The course begins with a brief overview of what a human service provider is, and what services these professionals provide. A history of social welfare is provided so that students can gain a historical perspective of how poor and marginalized populations have been cared for in the United States.  Generalist practice skills and intervention strategies are introduced generally, but a more in-depth exploration of intervention strategies are discussed in later chapters as they apply to particular social problems and practice settings.  The course concludes with an exploration of macro practice where change is affected on a broader scale, both domestically and abroad.  Students should leave this class having a good idea of what a human service worker is, what they do, who they work with, as well as the gaining a deeper understanding of the mission, values and goals embraced by the human service profession.  Students will gain knowledge of skills needed to do critical thinking, make oral presentations, function in learning teams, conduct research, and write academic papers in the format of The Publication Manual for the American Psychological Association. Students will be introduced to the university library and learn how to access its resources successfully.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course presents an exploration of the major theoretical areas in the helping professions: cognitive, behavioral, affective/humanistic, and systems. Students learn the theoretical bases for each of the major theories, the approach to change, and the techniques and interventions used by practitioners of these theories. The course emphasizes the development of a personal theory and approach to human services and the creation of a resource file containing practical applications of theory-based techniques for use by the human services worker.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course explores the theory and practice of professional communication skills, including active listening, interviewing, verbal and nonverbal communications, exploration and goal setting skills, and various techniques for helping people change.  Students will develop an understanding of the relationship dynamics between clinicians, clients, and human service staff through application of communication techniques and strategies.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

Ethical principles and practices of human service workers are examined in accordance with The Community Support Skill Standards for Human Service Workers and the Ethical Standards of Human Service Professionals. Major legal issues in the delivery of human services are examined. The roles, functions, and legal and ethical responsibilities of the human service worker are investigated.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course presents students with empirical research findings and theoretical frameworks to foster an understanding of the various stages and dimensions of human development across the lifespan. Emphasis is placed on biological, cognitive, emotional, and social development in a timeframe extending from prenatal development through the elder years and on toward eventual end of life and bereavement processes.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course is a survey of the use of communications technology in Human Services. It examines how technology affects the delivery of Human Services and how technology is used in delivering the service. Students are required to have access to the Internet and have a valid e-mail address to take this course.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course is a survey of basic research methods and appropriate use of statistics in the social sciences. The nature and history of the scientific method, research tools, data collection and analysis will be reviewed. Understanding research reports and developing the ability to critically evaluate published research will be emphasized. While key statistical concepts will be reviewed, students will gain a conceptual understanding of underlying principles enabling them to become "informed consumers" of research. Software for descriptive and inferential parametric and nonparametric statistical procedures will be introduced. Students will practice developing research designs, critically evaluating research reports, and interpreting statistical analyses.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course covers principles, practices, and issues in case management. The diagnosis and treatment of developmental, psychological, and psychiatric problems and treatment resources in lease restrictive and most cost effective settings will be examined.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

Students will explore rich and unique features of ethnically diverse populations and special populations and identify their human services needs. Students will become familiar with available local community services to meet those needs. The development and assessment of cultural competence as it applies to social service agencies and behavioral health professionals is emphasized.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course is designed to explore the potential use and benefits of alternative dispute resolution in human services as a part of the advocacy process. Students will explore the role of the advocate, learn about various dispute resolution models, and identify and practice mediation skills. Attention to overcoming barriers to effective service delivery will be examined. Students will experience the roles of mediator, advocate, and agency representative through role-plays in dyads and small groups.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course covers finding federal, state, and private funding for human services programs and agencies and writing proposals to secure funding. Students will practice designing and evaluating programs. Students will use the Internet to explore funding sources and to identify suggestions for developing successful grant proposals.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description

This course will examine the characteristics and comprehensive functions of effective human service organizations that are client-based and mission-driven. The course material identifies the challenges of assessing environmental factors, while developing and managing human and financial resources. It stresses the importance of leadership in the design and evaluation of best practice programs and organizations that are outcome-based. Students will learn about organizational structures, have opportunities to explore the concepts of organizational change and excellence, and develop their own framework for achieving and maintaining the individual competencies needed to manage human service organizations.

Credits: 3

Full Course Description