AA/AS in Human Services, General

Herkimer County Community College awards an Associate in Applied Science in Community Health and Human Services to people who want to work in helping professions. Fields it touches include prevention, social work, advocacy, addiction services and mental health. Coursework develops the ability to communicate clearly, engage with clients and assess their situations. Students also examine how human needs, personal values and social conditions relate to one another, and they look at the psychological, economic and social influences on well-being. Training covers crisis management, principles of direct care and trauma-informed practice. Practical preparation includes fieldwork placements, building a resume and portfolio, and mentoring from experienced instructors. The degree is designed to lead directly to employment. Some graduates continue to bachelor's programs, for example at Russell Sage College, Utica University or Hilbert College. Formal articulation agreements also exist with SUNY Buffalo State, SUNY Canton and Bellevue University.