2025-2026 Course Catalog
Human Services, Certificate
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 Return to: Urban/Des Moines Campus Programs
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.
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Locations: Ankeny, Urban/Des Moines
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. Option 1: Select One Course
Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 27
Fixed Costs
Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$201.00 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: $6,827** **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. Program Competencies
- Describe the basic concepts, which underlie the human services delivery system.
- Utilize principles of systems analysis to develop an understanding of the political, social and existing welfare programs.
- Describe the complexity and diversity of agencies, which deliver human services.
- Identify the services provided by the major types of human services agencies.
- Recognize the roles and responsibilities of professionals and middle level workers in human service agencies.
- Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Demonstrate the ability to appropriately document assessments and other observations.
- Demonstrate logical and analytical thinking.
- Demonstrate knowledge of important concepts in interviewing.
- Establish interpersonal relationships with interviewees.
- Demonstrate awareness of individual cultural experiences and cultural heritage.
- Analyze stereotypes, assumptions and biases.
- Critically examine majority group domination of marginalized groups.
- Assess ethical dilemmas in the field and appropriately utilize the NASW Code of Ethics to guide decision-making.
- Compare the major therapies used by mental health professionals in the treatment process.
- Explain the signs and symptoms of chemical addiction according to diagnostic criteria.
- Evaluate the biological, psychological and sociological theories of addiction.
- Integrate standard college-level documentation practices.
- Distinguish key concepts, principles, and major perspectives in psychology: development, social, personality, and health.
Competencies revised date
AY2022 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. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs. 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 Executive Campus Dean’s office, the Executive 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, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD 800-877-8339 Email: OCR.Denver@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 Academic Pathway website.(2024) |
Return to: Urban/Des Moines Campus Programs
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