Counselor Education

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Purpose and Focus

The Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services provides students with general training in human services and assists with pre professional counseling skills. Drawing from the knowledge base of the social sciences, the program helps students develop a variety of therapeutic, teaching, counseling, communication, supportive, and preventive methods. Students acquire knowledge of the dynamics operating within the individual, family, and larger social systems. The program has an applied emphasis that will enable the graduate to listen therapeutically; problem solve; help implement and support mental health programs; develop social skills programs; and help those who are disadvantaged, impaired, or needing to develop interpersonal skills. Graduates will be able to work in a wide range of settings that involve helping others.

Career Opportunities

National studies indicate that the human services field is rapidly expanding at the bachelor’s level due to a shortage of master’s and doctorally prepared mental health counselors as well as the need to provide cost-effective services. Undergraduate students will be able to work in a variety of fields, including working as residential counselors, recreation workers, psychiatric and mental health aides and technicians, and working with children with developmental disabilities. Many jobs are in state and local government agencies including clinics, detoxification units, community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, day treatment programs, sheltered workshops, and homeless shelters. The undergraduate student will be well prepared to pursue graduate study in several areas including counseling, psychology, social work, and related healthcare, education, human service, mental health and related fields. Our department also offers master’s degree programs in Clincal Mental Health Counseling, which leads to state licensure as a licensed Clinical Professional Counselor or a Professional School Counselor. The department also offers advanced graduate certificate programs: Addiction Studies and Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Accreditation

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Undergraduate Major

Human Services

Admission to the Major

Minimum GPA: 2.75

Admission Policies

Students with a 2.75 GPA may declare Human Services as a pre-major at any time. Students are formally admitted to the program upon completion of 60 college credits; completion of CED 117, 200, 300, 315 with a grade of B or better; and a 2.75 GPA. Applications for admission are available at the Department of Counselor Education and at the College of Education Advising Center.

Departmental Policies

Academic Policies

Human Services pre-major courses (CED 117, 200, 300, 315) must be completed with a grade of B or better. The major requirements, including restricted electives, must be completed with a grade of C or better.

Fieldwork Experience

During the senior year, students must complete a two-semester fieldwork sequence. This placement must be approved by department fieldwork coordinator, and a written contract of duties, hours, and on-site supervisors must be signed prior to beginning fieldwork. The student’s grade will be determined by the fieldwork instructor with input from the fieldwork supervisor.

Advisement

Upon acceptance in the college, each student is required to meet with an advisor from the College of Education Advising Center (895-1537). Students should meet with their advisor prior to each semester they are taking classes. The department has developed a schedule when classes will be offered and some may not be offered every year. Meeting with an advisor will ensure the student stays on track and can graduate in a timely manner.

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