Human Services

Faculty

Barbara J. Keyes, director, human services concentration; professor of psychological science.
B.A., 1970, College of Wooster; M.A., 1973, Ph.D., 1976, Bowling Green State University.

Introduction

Albion’s human services concentration, which is selected in addition to an academic major, is designed to allow students to explore their interest in various human service careers, as well as to prepare them for entry-level positions upon graduation and/or for graduate school in human services disciplines. Students interested in the helping professions are expected to learn about underrepresented populations, administration and public policy, ethics, and professional practice. Human services promote physical and mental health through prevention, outreach, community organizing, and provision of services. Although human services workers will be employed primarily in applied settings, they may also have opportunities to conduct research that promotes physical and mental health.

Admission—Admission to the human services concentration is based on a genuine interest in exploring one or more of the human services areas and evidence of academic ability. Students must apply for admission to the concentration and are advised to do so during their sophomore year. For more information and an application form, contact the director of the human services concentration.

Career Opportunities

Students who have completed the human services concentration may pursue entry level jobs right out of college, or they may go on to graduate school to earn any number of degrees, including an M.S.W. (social work), M.P.H. (public health) or an M.A. or Ph.D. (psychology, counseling). Careers in human services include: legal aid and advocacy; social justice; individual, marriage and family therapy; social work; child and family services; health and wellness; non-profit organizations; policy development; community service; and pastoral counseling.

Concentration

Eight units are required for the concentration.

• Introduction to Human Services (HUSV 101), one unit.
• Four units, drawn from an approved list of courses each focusing on a different area of competence, to be chosen in consultation with the director of the concentration. A student may not take more than two core courses in their major field. See detailed list.
• Two units of supplemental courses, to be chosen in consultation with the director of the concentration.
• Internship, one unit. See detailed information.

Human Services Courses

101 Introduction to Human Services (1)
Acquaints the beginning student with the human services field, including the philosophy, values, methods and broad scope of the human services, and examines the student's motivation and values in relation to a career in a helping field. An interdisciplinary course designed specifically for the human services concentration. Keyes, Staff.

391, 392 Internship (1/2, 1)
Offered on a credit/no credit basis. Staff.

401, 402 Seminar (1/2, 1)
Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing or permission of instructor.
Staff.

411, 412 Directed Study (1/2, 1)
Staff.