Human Service Associate
Associate in Applied Science Degree - Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program code: 10-520-3

This curriculum goes into effect with the summer 2008 semester.

This page was last updated in July 2007.

Overview - The Human Service Associate degree program prepares you for employment as a social service worker. Places of employment include community outreach programs, mental health, counseling or educational facilities and correctional institutions. MATC's program offers you opportunities to pursue special interest areas such as working with youth, the elderly, or people with disabilities. This program requires an early field experience, as well as the completion of an advanced field placement experience in the final semester of the program. The program is endorsed for substance abuse training. Students who complete the associate degree with specific elective choices also complete all the education hours needed for certification as a substance abuse counselor.  Additional work experience and testing is required for certification.

Career Outlook - The employment outlook for trained human service associates is favorable. Typical positions available to program graduates include community outreach worker, mental health worker, counselor assistant, case manager, corrections counselor, youth care specialist, educational assistant and program assistant.

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes - When you seek placement as a program graduate, employers will expect you to demonstrate:

• Record keeping and interviewing skills, including the preparation of clinical records, assessments, and interim notes and development of service plans
• Capabilities in group leadership, and the ability to effectively perform critical listening, observation, and engagement skills with individuals and groups
• Cultural awareness and skills in relating to diverse cultural, ethnic and racial groups

Preparation for Admission - The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment  
• Documentation of compliance with Wisconsin's Caregiver Law.

Core skills include cultural awareness and an understanding of diverse cultural groups, a responsible attitude and commitment to serve others. You should be a good listener and communicator.

Future Opportunities - If you are interested in a baccalaureate degree upon completion of the program, check with a program counselor or advisor, and the institution you plan to attend regarding the transfer of MATC credits.

This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.

Possible Careers:

Case Manager
Community Outreach Worker
Corrections Counselor
Substance Abuse Counselor
Assistant Mental Health Worker
Youth Care Specialist

Related Programs:

Early Childhood Education
Interpreter Technician
Liberal Arts and Sciences (Teacher Education Program)

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2008-2009.

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

* Prerequisite Required.

NOTE: Students who have not been accepted, or have not decided on a program, may begin with GENERAL STUDIES courses, if course prerequisites have been met.

For course descriptions, times, locations or to register online, visit INFOnline.