Human Services, A.A.S.

Associate in Applied Science
Degree Program (Career‐Oriented)

Hegis Code: 5501
NYSED Code: 27389

Program Description

Students who complete this program earn an Associate in Applied Science degree as well as the certificate in Direct Care Practice. The program is sufficiently comprehensive to qualify graduates for a variety of entry‐level positions in public and private sector human service agencies. Depending on personal interests and career plans, students in this program may elect specialized courses and supervised field work in the areas of family and children’s services, developmental disabilities, mental health treatment, crisis intervention, and gerontology.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of the AAS Human Services Degree program, a student will be able to

• Use critical thinking and problem solving skills to assess the needs of individuals, families and groups within the community;
• Demonstrate understanding of and the ability to meet the entry‐level Community Support Skills Standards;
• Interact professionally and ethically with a variety of human service populations, providers and agencies;
• Describe the influence of one’s own values and beliefs in the role of the human services worker;
• Explain the importance of life‐long learning and professional development.

Employment Potential

Successful graduates of the program are qualified for such positions as case aide in family and children’s services, probation assistant, income eligibility examiner, teacher’s aide, and child care worker in residential facilities. Graduates may also assist in nursery schools, child and adult daycare centers, and after‐school programs. Other possible positions may be as group leaders and recreational counselors in mental health agencies, elder care, family planning, HIV and AIDS prevention services, and residential treatment programs for youth.

Graduates of this program who then earn a baccalaureate or higher degree will be qualified for positions of increased scope and responsibility, including supervisory and administrative positions in such fields as social work, counseling, education, and mental health.

NOTE:  Subject to current New York Correction Law and other applicable law, convictions for criminal offenses may preclude employment in many of the fields of human service and may prevent field placement and internship opportunities necessary to successfully complete this academic program.

Requirements for Program Entry

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Satisfactory placement in Entering Student Assessment

Developmental Assistance Available

For students who do not meet basic reading and math requirements or who have other learning issues, extra assistance is readily available through SUNY Ulster’s Center for Academic Planning and Support (CAPS), the Patrik Math Center, the Literacy Lab, and peer and professional tutors.

For More Information

For more information contact Enrollment and Success Center at 845-687-5022