Department of Health and Community Studies, Woodring College of Education
76 credits
Introduction
The Human Services curriculum aligns with national standards in human services education as outlined by the Council for Standards in Human Services Education (www.cshse.org). The Human Services major prepares students to work in a variety of settings as case managers, advocates, grant writers, youth workers, volunteer coordinators, human resource specialists, fundraisers, trainers, para-educators or advocacy specialists for victims of child abuse, domestic violence, homelessness, or other social issues.
The program has a social justice orientation, engaging students in critical analysis and reflection as they examine social issues at the individual, group, organization, community, and global level. The program emphasizes community engagement and requires 380 hours of field experience that allows students to integrate theory, knowledge, and skills through work in human services organizations.
Why Consider a Human Services Major?
Are you interested in a career working to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, communities and organizations? Do you learn effectively through student-centered activities that encourage collaborative inquiry and active engagement to address real world challenges? If so, you may want to consider a major in Human Services. The Human Services major attracts students from diverse backgrounds with a strong commitment to social and economic justice, human dignity, self-determination, and the desire to facilitate change. Thousands of Western’s Human Services Program graduates are currently working in meaningful positions in nonprofit, government, and community-based services.
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Children, Youth, and Family Services | Veterans Services | Mental Health Services | International Relief | Rehabilitation Counseling & Disability Services | Corrections & Law Enforcement | Community Development & Organizing | Faith-Based Services | Non-profit Management | Community-based Sports and Recreation | Alternative Education Housing | Food Securities
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How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
Applicants to Human Services must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher (with some exceptions as noted below) and must submit the following materials to be considered for admission to the major:
- A completed Human Services Program application, including required essay
- A completed self-assessment of essential functions
- A criminal history background check, which may also include fingerprinting
- A signed contract indicating an understanding and intention to comply with the program’s expectations for academic and professional performance
Interviews may be required for admission to the program. Prospective students are encouraged to seek information online at wce.wwu.edu/hs/human-services or in Miller Hall 318C, 360-650-7759, prior to submitting an application. Please contact the program for application deadlines. Students with a transferable Associate of Arts degree from an accredited institution in Washington State must apply both to Western and the major.
Admission Expectations
Applicants to the major in Human Services with a GPA below 2.75 may contact the department to discuss the admissions exceptions policy. A personal interview may be required.
Applicants must be within 10 credits of completing Western’s GURs or be within 5 credits of completing a direct transfer degree (AA) from a Washington state community college by the start of program classes, or have completed their direct transfer degree (AA) from a Washington state community college.
A minor in Human Services is not available. Non-matriculated students, undeclared majors, and/or students from other majors at Western are able to enroll in some courses on a space available basis, with permission of the department.
Technology Competency and Access
Many courses in the major have an online learning component, or require use of technology. Therefore, students admitted to the Department of Health and Community Studies are expected to maintain regular high speed internet access and possess competence in the use of word processing and database applications.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
Retention in the Human Services Program is dependent upon each student’s ability to meet university requirements and the program’s essential functions and expectations for academic and professional performance. Prior to entering an internship placement, all students are required to successfully complete HSP 340 and a benchmark examination.
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