Human Services Program

Human Services

Program Number: 10-520-3

• Two-year Associate Degree program
• Human Services Program Cluster
• Center for Human and Protective Services
• Program offered at the following campuses:
  • Downtown Education Center, Madison
• For information call: (608) 245-5888

About the Program

View the Human Services video

General education courses included in the program teach students to better understand social problems. During the second year of the program, students have a fieldwork placement in a human service agency. Travel to fieldwork sites is necessary and is the student’s responsibility. A Caregiver Background Check is required for fieldwork placements.

Some of the aptitudes and interests that are essential for human service students include emotional stability and maturity, an interest in working with people, and an appreciation of cultural diversity.

The Human Services Associate program is accredited by the Wisconsin Certification Board for Alcohol and other Drug Abuse Counselor Certification.

Program outcomes state what a graduate needs to be able to do with the essential knowledge, attitudes, skills, and behaviors acquired in a specific MATC program. The program outcomes communicate expectations to students, as well as other academic institutions and potential employers. The identification and assessment of program outcomes support MATC's efforts in documenting student learning and provide a context for the faculty's academic planning.

Admissions Requirements for All Applications Submitted for the Current Academic Year

High school diploma or GED/HSED with a grade point average of 2.0 or equivalent or satisfactory completion of 12 college credits, and COMPASS or equivalent assessment test.

Prior to taking 10-520-139 Human Services Agency Experience 1, students must show evidence of a physical examination including TB test and will be required to complete a Background Information Disclosure and Criminal History Check (CHC) prior to placement in a human services agency. Information obtained from the CHC may affect the ability to secure a fieldwork placement and the ability to find employment after graduation.

In order to graduate students must achieve at least a 2.0 (C) grade in all program core courses and an overall 2.0 (C) grade point average.

Career Potential

• Case Aide
• Case Manager
• Community Support Worker
• Counselor
• Income Maintenance Worker
• Information and Referral Specialist
• Intake Worker
• Outreach Worker
• Prevention Worker
• Resident Manager
• Social Services Assistant
• Volunteer Coordinator

With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:

• Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselors
• Program Directors
• Social Workers
• Supervisors