Human Services - Generalist
Human services professionals seek to meet the needs of people through valuing the capacity for human growth and change; advocating for social justice; designing interdisciplinary approaches to human needs; and recognizing people’s strengths and abilities. Students are exposed to both educational and experiential learning methods in assessment, social policy, individual and group treatment, rules and regulations pertaining to the profession, and personal and professional self-awareness. Graduates are prepared for potential employment in non-profit organizations, government agencies, hospitals and healthcare facilities, community social service agencies, and advocacy groups.
Entrance Requirements
None
Program Requirements
Students must provide their own transportation to and from field experience sites.
Transferability
The Associate of Applied Science in human services transfers to many four-year institutions. See a list of these institutions at elgin.edu/humanservices.
- Demonstrate knowledge and theory of the interaction of human systems including: individual, interpersonal, group, family, organizational, community, and societal.
- Develop knowledge and skill development in systematic analysis of service needs; planning appropriate strategies, services, and implementation; and evaluation of outcomes.
- Incorporate human service values and attitudes and promote understanding of human services ethics and their application in practice.
- Develop awareness of the students’ own values, personalities, reaction patterns, interpersonal styles, and limitations.
Human Services Generalist Option - Associate of Applied Science
| First Semester | Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| PSY 100 | Intro to Psychology | 3 |
| HUS 102 or RSS 101 | Principles & Prac. of Human Services or History and Core Functions | 3-3.5 |
| HUS 151 | Rules and Regulations | 3 |
| Required Communications Course | 3 | |
| HUS 212 or PSY 216 | Mental Health Basics or Abnormal Psychology | 3 |
| Total | 15-15.5 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| CMS 101 | Fundamentals of Speech | 3 |
| HUS 200 | Pre-Field Experience | 3 |
| HUS 110 | Issues in Human Services | 3 |
| HUS 205 | Introduction to Group Processes | 3 |
| Required Communications Course | 3 | |
| Social/Behavioral Sciences Elective | 3 | |
| Total | 18 | |
| Third Semester | ||
| Field Experience Take (1) HSG 201 & HSG 202; or (2) RSS 107 & RSS 109; or (3) RSS 111 | 6 | |
| HSG 210 | Working With Families | 3 |
| HUS 214 | Crisis Intervention | 3 |
| HUS 223 | Behavior Management | 3 |
| Required Humanities/Fine Arts Course | 3 | |
| Total | 18 | |
| Fourth Semester | ||
| Field Experience: | ||
| Field Experience II & Seminar or Field Experience II | ||
| Required Math/Science Course | 3 | |
| Human Services Electives | 6 | |
| Total | 9 | |
| Program Total | 60-60.5 | |
Human Services Electives
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HSG 106 | Experiential Learning in Human Svcs | 1-3 |
| HSG 125 | Special Populations | 3 |
| HSG 150 | Interpersonal Violence | 3 |
| HSG 217 | Intimate Relations | 3 |
| HSG 253 | Topics in Human Services | 1-3 |
| SOC 215 | Social Psychology | 3 |
| SUB 215 | Substance Abuse & Treatment | 3 |
| SOC 225 | Human Sexuality | 3 |
| ACC 100 | Introductory Accounting | 3 |
| CRJ 101 | Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
| CRJ 110 | Introduction to Corrections | 3 |
| CRJ 120 | Introduction to Probation and Parole | 3 |
Social/Behavioral Sciences Electives
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Any 200 level PSY Course | 3 | |
| Any SOC Course | 3 | |
Human Services Generalist - Vocational Specialist
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HUS 102 | Principles & Prac. of Human Services | 3 |
| HUS 110 | Issues in Human Services | 3 |
| HUS 151 | Rules and Regulations | 3 |
| HUS 200 | Pre-Field Experience | 3 |
| HUS 205 | Introduction to Group Processes | 3 |
| HUS 212 | Mental Health Basics | 3 |
| or PSY 216 | Abnormal Psychology | |
| HUS 214 | Crisis Intervention | 3 |
| HUS 223 | Behavior Management | 3 |
| HSG 201 | Field Experience I & Seminar | 3 |
| HSG 210 | Working With Families | 3 |
| PSY 100 | Intro to Psychology | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 33 | |
Human Services - Core Courses
The Human Services Generalist and Substance Abuse Counseling programs of study require students to complete each of the following core courses in order to earn a certificate or degree in these areas.
HUS 102 Principles & Prac. of Human Services (3)(3,0)
This course introduces students to the human service professions. Students analyze how the integration of information is used to provide services to people as well as begin exploring assessments and service planning. The impact of structures and dynamics of organizations, communities, and society on human services delivery is emphasized. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available NOTE: This course is one of four core courses (HUS 102, HUS 110, HUS 200, HUS 205) students must complete for the Human Services Generalist, and Substance Abuse Counseling programs of study.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HUS 110 Issues in Human Services (3)(3,0)
Students are introduced to a range of challenges, dilemmas, and issues in the human services field. Examples include welfare, domestic violence, racism/diversity, health/wellness, poverty, etc. Historical and current legislation affecting the delivery of human services is examined. Approaches used to provide services are explored. Students also study the changing family structure as well as organizational structures and communities. (1.2) NOTE: This course is one of four core courses (HUS 102, HUS 110, HUS 200, HUS 205) students must complete for the Human Services Generalist, and Substance Abuse Counseling programs of study. Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HUS 151 Rules and Regulations (3)(3,0)
This course will review the regulations and ethics across a spectrum of human service endeavors. This will include the relevant laws and regulations regarding human services, mental health, substance abuse, and partner violence. This course will also review and discuss the ethical issues pertinent to all human services practitioners, and specifically to those working in the above specialties. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HUS 200 Pre-Field Experience (3)(3,0)
This course will prepare the student for a successful field experience class. A successful field experience includes three significant aspects of student's development: personal, professional, and civic. Students will develop skills to prepare them for the field experience courses required as part of their program of study. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Available (2 EI) Pass/No Credit Not Available NOTE: This course is one of four core courses (HUS 102, HUS 110, HUS 200, HUS 205) students must complete for the Human Services Generalist and Substance Abuse Counseling programs of study.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor (Student must successfully complete at least one Disposition and Personal Conduct form with their program instructor)
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HUS 205 Introduction to Group Processes (3)(3,0)
A course designed to introduce the student to the history of groups. A study of how small groups are used in human services settings, theories of group dynamics, and a strong emphasis on group facilitation skills. The course also covers the importance of diversity in managing small groups. The course provides students with the understanding of confidentiality, and the appropriate use of client data. Also, students have the opportunity to practice managing conflict, and establishing rapport with clients. (1.1) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available NOTE: This course is one of four core courses (HUS 102, HUS 110, HUS 200, HUS 205) students must complete for the Human Services Generalist and Substance Abuse Counseling programs of study.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in HUS 102, or consent of instructor.
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HUS 212 Mental Health Basics (3)(3,0)
This course examines prevalent mental health conditions encountered in the human services field and explores the factors that support good mental health. The course examines the use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), basic assessment processes, and evidence-based interventions. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HUS 214 Crisis Intervention (3)(3,0)
The purpose of this course is to give students a working knowledge of how to deal with persons in crisis. Special application of the concepts will be stressed. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HUS 223 Behavior Management (3)(3,0)
This course will introduce students basic techniques of behavioral management used in the Human Services field. Emphasis will be placed on applying the strategies as well as ethical and legal considerations. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
Human Services - Generalist Courses
HSG 106 Experiential Learning in Human Svcs (1-3)(1,0)
(1-3, 0) This course is designed to promote growth and development as a professional in the area of Human Services that the student is studying. The student will participate in a variety of workshops, conferences, meetings, and/or service-learning opportunities as agreed upon by the instructor and the student. Verification and reflection of learning will be assessed by the instructor. This course will be taught as an independent study.(1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available NOTE: This course is offered concurrently as SUB 106. The student must decide whether to earn credits for Human Services Generalist (HSG) or Substance Abuse (SUB) prior to enrolling.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HSG 125 Special Populations (3)(3,0)
This course will address special populations in substance abuse and mental health treatment. Special populations will be identified and issues regarding addiction and mental health; engagement strategies; treatment planning; and client and community education strategies will be discussed. Methods to gain cultural competence and to become a lifelong learner will be addressed. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HSG 150 Interpersonal Violence (3)(3,0)
This course is an overview of interpersonal, domestic violence. The course examines the history of the interpersonal violence, current statistics, legislation, and cultural norms related to the issue. The course explores gender roles, family impact and the effect on children. The cycle of violence and power and control issues will be explored. This course emphasizes working with interpersonal violence through exploration of treatment options, empathetic responses and advocacy. Students completing this course with a C or higher will earn a 40 hour training certificate in Domestic Violence. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall
HSG 201 Field Experience I & Seminar (3)(0,10)
Training is a supervised opportunity for the student to have first-hand experience in an institutional setting that meets his/her area of interest. In this setting, it is expected that the student will develop proficiency and display the skills required to perform adequately on-the-job. (1.2) NOTE: One hundred fifty (150) hours of field work is required for this first experience, as well as weekly class sessions with instructor. Proficiency Credit Available (2 EI) Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in HUS 102, HUS 110, HUS 200, HUS 205 or consent of instructor
Semester(s) Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer
HSG 202 Field Experience II & Seminar (3)(0,10)
Training is a supervised opportunity for the student to have firsthand experience in an institutional setting that meets his/her area of interest. In this setting, it is expected that the student will develop proficiency and display the skills required to perform adequately on the job.(1.2) NOTE: One hundred fifty (150) hours of field work is required for this second experience, as well as weekly class sessions with the instructor. Proficiency Credit Available (2 EIS) Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: C or better in HSG 201
Semester(s) Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer
HSG 210 Working With Families (3)(3,0)
This course is a course for human service students interested in learning theories of family functioning, and intervention approaches. Emphasis is placed on the integration of theory and practice. The course is designed so that students understand capacities, limitations, and strengths of clients, and families. The course provides the student with an understanding of human service delivery systems. The course also focuses on effective communication skills, client and professional relationship, and ethical practice. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HSG 215 Substance Abuse & Treatment (3)(3,0)
This course will introduce the student to the nature and extent of substance abuse. Clinical manifestations and methods of treatment will be discussed. Concepts and resources in helping the substance abuser and his/her social environment will be included.(1.2) Proficiency Credit Not Available Pass/No Credit Not Available NOTE: This course is offered concurrently as SUB 215. The student must decide whether to earn credits in Human Services Generalist (HSG) or Substance Abuse Counseling (SUB) prior to enrolling.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: **This course will be withdrawn effective Summer 2026** Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring
HSG 217 Intimate Relations (3)(3,0)
This course provides an overview of intimate relations across the lifespan, including: relationship to self, friendships, siblings, dating, marriage, sexuality and relationship endings. The science of intimacy is utilized to explore relationship development, communication, relationship processes, communication, diversity in relationships, and cultural and contextual variations in relationships. Experiential learning is used to promote application of course concepts to the real world. (1.1) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer
HSG 253 Topics in Human Services (1-3)(1,0)
(1-3, 0) This course is designed to meet the demands of a rapidly changing Human Services field. This course is repeatable 3 times. (1.2) Proficiency Credit Available (2 IE) Pass/No Credit Not Available.
In-District Tuition/Fees: $444 (effective 2026/27 academic year)
In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.
Prerequisite: None
Semester(s) Offered: Varies
Human Services - Generalist Courses