Mar 28, 2024  
2023-2024 Course Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Course Catalog

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Human Services, Certificate

Location(s): Ankeny, Carroll, Newton, Urban/Des Moines



The Human Services certificate is designed for those students who are interested in gaining a better understanding of Human Services and the helping professions.  This certificate is designed to increase preparedness for entry level positions in the Human Services field.  The certificate gives people the opportunity for personal exploration and develop a basic knowledge in helping others.  Completion of the Human Services Certificate demonstrates additional education and proficiency in working with those in need.

This certificate is aimed at academically engaging those interested in the Human Services field and preparing them to work as member of a team of professionals.  Completion of a certificate in Human Services can serve as a signal to prospective employers that a person has the motivation and determination to excel.  A person who has completed certificate in Human Services will typically work as direct care staff and support for community and private human service agencies.  Job responsibilities may include coordinating services, interviewing and interacting with people in need, documenting services and helping individuals meet their needs as they explore further educational opportunities.

Program Details


Pathway: Public & Community Services


More information on this Pathway.

Students may start any semester.


Program Graduation Requirements


To earn a Human Services Certificate, a student must complete all required coursework as prescribed and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.

Semester 2


Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 27


Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$185.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs


  Semester 1 Semester 2
Books (approximate) 700 700

Approximate total cost for the program: $6,395**

**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


  • Use assessment practices to respond to the needs of participants and enhance these individuals in leading a life that involves self-empowerment, assertiveness, and strong decision-making skills. 
  • Communicate effectively and establish collaborative relationships to allow planning, implementation of support services, and interventions with participants, agency supports, and other community resources. 
  • Demonstrate knowledge of supports available, while understanding the challenges facing participants, assist in gaining resources for aid, advocate by overcoming challenges and providing supports through community and educational resources. 
  • Demonstrate skill in handling crisis prevention, intervention and resolution techniques to solve problems and keep detailed documentation of the process and outcome of each situation.
  • Participate in the life of a human services agency, being familiar with the mission and “best” practices of human services organizations, demonstrating these skills in professional activities

What Else Should I Consider about this Certificate program?


Students completing the certificate are prepared for generalist careers in a variety of human service agencies including community action programs, daycare centers, educational settings, nursing homes, non-profits, correctional facilities, group homes, and treatment centers.  Human Services graduates can work with children and families, the elderly, those in substance abuse programs, and individuals who may have emotional, physical or developmental problems.

Nondiscrimination Statement


Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in its programs, activities, employment practices, or hiring practices, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law.

Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. ADA questions and concerns may be directed to the Section 504/ADA Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 6, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6857, dso@dmacc.edu. Title IX questions and concerns may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 1, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6216, Title9@dmacc.edu. Questions or complaints about this policy may be directed to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, John C. Kluczysnki Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604-7204, phone 312/730-1560, fax 312/730-1576, TDD 800-877-8339 Email OCR.Chicago@ed.gov.

DMACC offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:
Agriculture, Natural and Environmental Science
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Arts, Design, and Visual Communication
Business, Management, and Marketing
Education, Public, and Human Services
Health Science
Hospitality and Culinary
Information Technology
Manufacturing
Transportation & Logistics

Entrance requirements for specific programs can be found at https://www.dmacc.edu/pathways/.(2021)