Human Services Technology Major (A.A.S.)
Program Overview
The Human Services Technology (HST) program offers a two-year course of study leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree. HST courses are offered online or via videoconference. The program offers a generalist approach, placing graduates in a position to choose their path among many diverse settings. Human Services workers are found in every facet of community life, including schools, hospitals, mental health clinics, senior centers, daycare centers, elected office, assistants to clinicians in private practice, prisons, and in numerous community agencies.
The HST Practicum courses (HST 2921 and HST 2922), similar to internships, provide students the opportunity for real-world, first-hand experiences with a wide range of populations. This is an opportunity for the student to explore their interests and learn about career opportunities and future planning. Placements are available in a variety of settings and programs such as: mental health, chemical dependency, social services, domestic violence, adult and juvenile corrections, prevention services, children services, and community action programs, among others. Faculty and on-site supervision is provided throuhout the practicum experience.
While enrolled in the program, students can apply for the Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) Preliminary and Renewal credential through the State of Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board and, upon graduation, graduates can apply for the Social Work Assistant (SWA) License via the State of Ohio Conselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. The HST Program includes clinical knowledge and experience, and can lead to a bachelor's degree in Social Work upon graduation.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the human service technology major, students will be able to:
- Apply skills to diverse settings, including mental health facilities, prisons, social service agencies, and nursing homes.
- Complete a practicum that demonstrates the development of their professional and ethical helping attitudes, values, and beliefs.
- Demonstrate a greater understanding of the culture and diversity of clients.
- Identify evidence-based methods to educate and interact with clients using intervention techniques and strategies.
- Implement the necessary academic skills to pursue additional degrees and certifications.
Admissions Information
Freshman/First-Year Admission
This program may require that students participate in a BCI background check in addition to the Ohio University admission requirements.
Change of Program Requirements
No selective or limited admission requirements are required of Human Services Technology majors.
External Transfer Admission
Students are encouraged to meet with Mary Jane Preece, the Program Coordinator, or an Academic Advisor to discuss the transfer of coursework from another institution. preecem@ohio.edu
Opportunities Upon Graduation
The Human Services Technology program (HST) offers a two-year course of study leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree. The program offers a generalist approach, which provides knowledge and skills applicable to a diversity of settings (e.g., mental health, social services, corrections, etc.) Students may be eligible to apply for a Social Work licensure in the State of Ohio and/or a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant license in the State of Ohio dependent upon current licensure or certification laws, practicum work experience, and supervision specifications.
The HST curriculum allows graduates to further their education by completing a bachelor's degree in social work, communication, criminal justice, technical and applied studies (B.T.A.S. in a social service track) or in specialized studies with as few as two additional years of full-time study. The HST program is part of the Social Work department, allowing students to connect with the Social Work faculty as they progress through the program. Students are also encouraged to progress to either a Master of Education degree majoring in counseling or a Master of Social Work degree.
Graduates may find employment in areas such as human service worker, case manager, chemical dependency counselor assistant, social work assistant, community support worker, mental health technician, prevention specialist, community outreach worker, life skills counselor, children's advocacy worker, or gerontology aide. The social service agencies in which our graduates may expect to find employment are too numerous to list (i.e., child protection services, case management services, mental health centers, adoptions agencies, foster care services).