Human Services

This program will be a regular full time program starting in September 2010

This program is designed to produce graduates who can function as facilitators and "front-line" workers in the delivery of human services. Graduates will be able to prepare and implement developmental programs and supports in a variety of service settings. Students receive a thorough orientation to the field of human services, as well as academic instruction in a variety of topics including human development, human relations, written communication, social role valorization, lifestyle planning, psychology, family support, program planning and support and more. Theory is applied to practicums involving the community and individuals from infants to the elderly with a variety of challenges. Graduates of this program may be employed with family services, early intervention programs, mental health centres, developmental pre-schools, residential services, vocational employment programs, public schools, government agencies and programs and family support and health services. Prospects for advancement exist in supervisory and management positions within these areas of employment.
Graduates of the Human Services program may be able to transfer to the second year of the three-year degree program Bachelor of Arts, Community Studies, at Cape Breton University.  Graduates from this program may pursue the completion of a Bachelor of Professional Arts – Human Services by distance from Athabasca University.

Topics include:
• Orientation to Human Services
• Program Planning and Support
• Observation and Assessment
• Delivering Human Services
• Health for Human Service Workers
• Family Support
• Practicum in Human Services - Child
• Practicum in Human Services - Adult
• Practicum Preparation
• Practicum Report - Human Services - Child
• Practicum Report - Human Services- Adult
• Introduction to Psychology
• Growth and Development 1: Conception to 6 years
• Growth and Development 2: Middle Childhood Through the Lifespan
• Interpersonal Behaviour
• Practicum in Human Services - Job Shadow

Specific Considerations:

This occupation requires a sincere desire to work with and help other people, sometimes under trying cirumstances. The training is emotionally and physically demanding, and requires a mature outlook.

Admission Requirements

Persons seeking admission to this training should:

• Posess a High School Diploma, Adult High School Diploma, or GED Diploma
• Proof of a physical examination and immunization prior to the commencement of training by following instructions on the standard NBCC medical form
• Satisfactory criminal record check using the Canadian Police Information Centre

Duration The Human Services Program is 40 weeks long, and begins in September.

Fees and Requirements

Tuition: $2,600

Text: $800

Student Council: $75

Other: $300