Human Services

Hello! Thank you for inquiring about the Human Services Program at CSI. Within this booklet, you will find information about the training and education of Human Service Workers as well as admission/enrollment steps.

Certificates/Degrees:
Technical Certificate (1 year)
Associate of Applied Science Degree (2 years)

Program Length

This is a nine-month program beginning in August and ending May for core-curriculum leading to the certificate. Some introductory courses may be offered during the spring semester and with additional general education and elective courses, students may earn the degree. Students requiring classes prior to placement in the core classes must complete preparatory classes prior to beginning the program.

Overview of Human Service Workers

Nature of the work-"Human services worker" is a generic term for people who hold professional and paraprofessional jobs in such diverse settings as group homes and halfway houses; correctional, develop­mental disability agencies, and community mental health centers; family, child, and youth service agencies and programs concerned with alcoholism, drug abuse, family violence, and aging. Depending on the employment setting and the kinds of clients served there, job titles and duties vary a great deal.

The primary purpose of the human service worker is to assist individual and communities to function as effectively as possible in the major domains of living.

A strong desire to help others is an important consideration for a job as a human services worker. Individuals who show patience, understanding, and caring in their dealings with others are highly valued by employers. Other important personal traits include communication skills, a strong sense of responsi­bility, and the ability to manage time effectively.

Program Description

The generalist approach is achieved through a core of courses which stress the holistic nature of indi­viduals and prepare the student for direct care positions. The curriculum includes specialized coursework in knowledge of Human Service models, the establishment of helping relationships, communication and interviewing techniques and the implementation of therapeutic group activities/group communication in various settings. The courses include clinical practice experiences, ensuring student participation in "real world" situations.

Related instruction and technical support coursework include Communications/English, Math and other academic courses to satisfy the Allied Health curriculum. The program has a major focus on self­awareness and includes a special course addressing pertinent ethical and legal issues.

AAS graduates of the Human Services or Addiction Studies program may now pursue their Bachelor of Science degree on-line through our partnership with the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh. For more information about the Bachelor’s program contact Mary Christy at 732-6713 or click here.

Contact Information and Location: Contact Person: Mary Christy HSHS Building 132 315 Falls Avenue PO Box 1238 Twin Falls, ID 83303-1238 Phone: 208-732-6713 or 800-680-0274, ext. 6713 Fax: 208-736-4743 (This is a shared fax. Please use a cover sheet.) Our Department's Main Page