B.S. in Human Services

The B.S. in Human Services provides a comprehensive foundation for careers dedicated to helping people and engaging with communities. Students learn to navigate complex systems, understand policy and process, and provide direct support to diverse populations, including children and families, older adults, and those served by non-profit organizations. The program offers individualized attention through small class sizes and prepares graduates for immediate entry-level roles in various human service settings or for further graduate study in fields like social work, counseling, or gerontology.

Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to be broad and interdisciplinary, drawing from psychology, sociology, health services, law, and criminal justice to provide a holistic understanding of human needs and service delivery. Core courses often include "Introduction to Human Services," "Theory and Policy for the Human Service Professional," "Lifecourse Development for the Human Services," "Helping Techniques," "Case Management," and "Program Design and Evaluation." Students also delve into areas like "Social Aspects of Aging," "Family Diversity and Society," and "Understanding Psychological Diagnosis and Recovery." The program may offer pathways or electives that allow students to explore areas of interest such as youth development, victim/survivor advocacy, criminal justice, or grant writing for non-profits.

Research Focus: While the Human Services program is highly applied and experiential, it integrates a focus on research and evidence-based practices to inform effective interventions. Students learn to critically evaluate social policies and programs, identify client needs, and assess the effectiveness of interventions. Courses like "Program Design and Evaluation" teach students the methodologies for assessing the impact of human service initiatives. Faculty often engage students in community-based research projects, allowing them to apply research methods to real-world social issues and contribute to evidence-informed decision-making within human service agencies.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a central and significant component of the Human Services program at York College. Students gain valuable, hands-on experience throughout their academic journey, starting as early as their second year. This includes direct work with children and families, older adults, and non-profit organizations through community engagement projects. The program culminates in extensive experiential learning opportunities, such as required practicums and internships (like HSV 495 and HSV 496: Experiential Learning in Human Services). These placements immerse students in various human service settings, including hospitals, group homes, schools, court systems, retirement communities, and correctional facilities, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge and build professional networks.

Global Perspective: York College of Pennsylvania offers various study abroad opportunities that can significantly broaden a Human Services major's global perspective. While the curriculum primarily focuses on human services within the U.S. context, engaging in international experiences can expose students to different cultural understandings of social welfare, community support, and human needs. This exposure enhances cultural competence, empathy, and adaptability, preparing graduates to work effectively with diverse populations in an increasingly interconnected world, whether locally or in international aid or development contexts. The college emphasizes global citizenship within its general education, providing avenues to explore different societies and their approaches to human well-being.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.

York College of Pennsylvania offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students in achieving their academic goals while easing financial burdens. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and other special talents among international applicants.

Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to York College are considered for merit-based scholarships automatically during the admissions process. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall application strength. High-achieving students can receive significant tuition discounts, which help make studying in the U.S. more affordable.

International Student Scholarships: York College provides dedicated scholarships for international students, which may include renewable awards throughout the duration of their degree program. These scholarships acknowledge the diverse backgrounds and contributions international students bring to the campus community.

Departmental Scholarships: Certain academic departments at York College offer scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional performance or promise in their chosen field of study. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities by contacting their academic departments directly.

A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Human Services from York College of Pennsylvania equips graduates with the essential skills and knowledge to address a wide range of human needs and contribute positively to individuals, families, and communities. 

Case Manager/Service Coordinator: A very common role, graduates assess client needs, develop service plans, coordinate resources (housing, food, medical care, counseling), and advocate for individuals or families navigating complex social and healthcare systems. They work in various settings like mental health agencies, hospitals, and non-profits.

Community Outreach Worker/Specialist: These professionals connect individuals and communities to vital services and resources. They often work for non-profit organizations, public health departments, or government agencies, educating the public about available programs, promoting wellness, and identifying unmet needs.

Youth and Family Advocate/Worker: Graduates work with children, adolescents, and their families in settings such as youth centers, foster care agencies, schools, or family support programs. They provide guidance, support, and connect families to services, often focusing on positive development and intervention.

Behavioral Health Technician/Assistant: Working under the supervision of licensed professionals, these roles provide direct support to individuals with mental health disorders or substance abuse issues in inpatient facilities, outpatient clinics, or community-based programs. They assist with daily living skills, monitor behavior, and facilitate therapeutic activities.

Gerontology Aide/Activity Coordinator (for Older Adults): With an aging population, there's a significant need for professionals to support older adults. Graduates can work in retirement communities, assisted living facilities, or senior centers, organizing activities, providing companionship, and connecting seniors to resources that promote their well-being and independence.

Victim Advocate/Support Specialist: These professionals provide emotional support, information, and resources to victims of crime or trauma. They may work within legal systems, crisis centers, or non-profit organizations, helping individuals navigate the aftermath of difficult experiences and access necessary services.

Residential Counselor/Direct Support Professional: Graduates work in group homes, halfway houses, or residential treatment facilities, providing direct care, supervision, and support to individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges, or those in recovery. They assist with daily living activities, facilitate skill development, and promote a safe environment.

Grant Writer/Fundraising Assistant (Non-Profit): For those interested in the administrative side, human services graduates can leverage their understanding of societal needs to research funding opportunities, write grant proposals, and assist with fundraising efforts for non-profit organizations that deliver crucial community services.

Probation/Parole Assistant: A human services background is valuable in the criminal justice system. Graduates can work alongside probation or parole officers, assisting in monitoring offenders, connecting them with rehabilitation programs, and supporting their reintegration into the community.

Human Resources Assistant (Entry-Level): The skills in communication, understanding human behavior, conflict resolution, and policy learned in human services can be highly transferable to human resources departments in various organizations, where they assist with employee relations, recruitment, and benefits administration.