Human and social services

Be ready to enter the workforce with training in community resources, human behavior, interviewing skills, cultural sensitivity and ethical awareness.

You’ll be eligible to apply to become a registered social work assistant, working under the supervision of a social worker to develop and organize programs related to substance abuse, rehabilitation or domestic violence situations.

Social work assistants interview clients, compile data into reports to be reviewed by the social workers and communicate information about community resources that may benefit clients. You also may choose to continue on to a bachelor’s degree program to become a social worker.

Help meet the diverse needs of individuals and/or families for a more satisfying, self-sufficient way of life as you become knowledgeable about and sensitive to the unique needs and cultural diversity of people of all ages and socioeconomic circumstances.

Students participate in a supervised practicum as well as classroom instruction to help develop and enhance professional skills.

Work in many areas, including

  • mental health
  • addictions
  • family advocacy
  • nursing homes
  • criminal justice
  • crisis intervention
  • children’s issues
  • gerontology

Prepare for a career as a

  • case manager
  • chemical dependency counselor assistant
  • social worker assistant
  • crisis intervention assistant
  • family support assistant
  • group home worker
  • mental health technician

Your pathway to a degree

Associate degree

  • Associate of applied science in human and social services

Program learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate knowledge of social work theory and the behavioral sciences, NASW (National Association of Social Workers) ethics, human and social services programs, and community resources.
  • Demonstrate the ability to provide the following client services: intake and screening, assessment and referral, case management and outreach, documentation of observations and interventions, record keeping, and termination.
  • Demonstrate work readiness skills and professional behavior.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of personal biases and value systems that can impact the helping relationship.
  • Demonstrate employment skills and professionalism through sound work habits, responsibility, and sensitivity to the unique needs of individuals, families, and diverse groups.

Transfer agreements

  • Youngstown State University

Additional fees

  • All students are required to undergo a criminal background check.

Program-related scholarships

  • Joan M. Picone Memorial Endowed Scholarship
  • Katy Hatton Memorial Scholarship
  • Quincy McGuire Memorial Human and Social Services Endowed Scholarship
  • View all scholarships

Student organizations

  • Human and social services student association
  • Student connection club

Great Minds Fellowship scholarship opportunity

Through the Ohio Behavioral Health Workforce Expansion program, students interested in pursuing degrees or certificates in the areas of chemical dependency or human and social services at Stark State College could be eligible for up to $12,000 in scholarships to assist with the costs of obtaining their education, paid internships, and licensing exams. Find out more by submitting the form below.

Step 1. Apply for admission to Stark State

Step 2. Submit the Ohio Behavioral Health Workforce Expansion agreement form after you’re accepted

If you have questions about this scholarship, please email bmoore@starkstate.edu.

Ready to learn more?

Apply now
Schedule a visit
Request information
Stark State Logo