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Human Services

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

The Human Services program provides preparation for employment as a paraprofessional aide with agencies such as correctional institutions, parole, probation, welfare, rehabilitation, mental health, schools, and childcare centers.

A special option is Chemical Dependency Studies, which provides preparation for paraprofessional work with public or private agencies dealing with chemical dependency and addiction.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

A.A. in Chemical Dependency Studies
A.A. in Human Services
Chemical Dependency Studies Certificate
Human Services Certificate

Dean Pamela Chao
Department Chair Andrea Pantoja Garvey
Phone (916) 484-8283
Email ARCHSER@arc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Chemical Dependency Studies

The degree program in Chemical Dependency Studies centers around the specific skills and abilities necessary to provide comprehensive drug and alcohol counseling. Course work includes the twelve counselor core function applications in addiction screening: intake, assessment, orientation, counseling, crisis intervention, consultation, client's education, client's rights, confidentiality, professional ethics, and reports and record keeping.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
HEED 310	Heartsaver First Aid, Adult and Pediatric CPR and AED	1¹
HEED 315	First Aid	0.5²
HSER 300	Introduction to Human Services	3
HSER 310	Ethical Issues and Client's Rights (3)	3
HSER 330	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)	3
or PSYC 365	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
HSER 340	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)	3
or PSYC 400	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
HSER 341	Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs (3)	3
or PSYC 401	Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs (3)
HSER 342	Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery (3)	3
or PSYC 402	Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery (3)
HSER 360	Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling	3
HSER 362	Practices in Human Services	3
HSER 365	Techniques of Group Counseling	3
HSER 498	Work Experience in Human Services	0.5 -4³
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)	3
or PSYC 305	Psychology Applied to Modern Life (3)
or PSYC 480	Honors General Principles (3)
PSYC 340	Abnormal Behavior (3)	3
or PSYC 481	Honors Abnormal Behavior (3)
Total Units:		35 - 38.5

¹This course should be taken before HSER 498.

²This course should be taken before HSER 498.

³Chemical Dependency Certificate or AA students must complete a minimum of 255 internship hours for HSER 498.

The Chemical Dependency Studies Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

evaluate the components of a quality chemical dependency counseling program.
demonstrate the twelve essential counseling skills as they apply to chemical dependency and recovery processes.
utilize counseling strategies based on examination of scientific theories of addiction.
identify the community resources used in assisting clients with addiction issues.
appraise and apply the knowledge of California Professional Codes of Ethics for Drug and Alcohol counselors.
evaluate one's own values and attitudes as they apply to ethical decision making.
demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, social justice, and inclusion.

Career Information

Upon completion of the A.A. degree a student possesses the coursework required for initial certification as a California drug and alcohol counselor (CDAC).

A.A. in Human Services

The A.A. degree program in Human Services centers around the broad array of entry level skills and abilities effectively used in social service delivery systems. Coursework includes the twelve helper core function applications in client screening, intake, assessment, orientation, counseling, consultation, client's rights, confidentiality, crisis intervention, client's education, professional ethics, and reports and record keeping.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
HEED 310	Heartsaver First Aid, Adult and Pediatric CPR and AED	1¹
HEED 315	First Aid	0.5²
HSER 300	Introduction to Human Services	3
HSER 310	Ethical Issues and Client's Rights (3)	3
HSER 330	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)	3
or PSYC 365	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
HSER 340	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)	3
or PSYC 400	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
HSER 360	Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling	3
HSER 362	Practices in Human Services	3
HSER 365	Techniques of Group Counseling	3
HSER 498	Work Experience in Human Services	0.5 -4³
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)	3
or PSYC 305	Psychology Applied to Modern Life (3)
or PSYC 480	Honors General Principles (3)
PSYC 340	Abnormal Behavior (3)	3
or PSYC 481	Honors Abnormal Behavior (3)
SOC 300	Introductory Sociology	3⁴
Total Units:		32 - 35.5

¹This course should be taken before HSER 498.

²This course should be taken before HSER 498.

³A minimum of two units is required.

⁴OR SOC 480.

The Human Services Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

define the functions of social service delivery systems.
analyze public policy issues, complexities and controversies affecting social service agencies and their clients.
integrate different theoretical approaches in working with clients.
identify the community resources used in assisting clients.
appraise and apply the knowledge of existing California professional codes of ethics for the helping professions.
describe the application of clients' rights in the social service delivery system.
evaluate one's own values and attitudes as they apply to ethical decision making.
demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, social justice, and inclusion.

Certificates of Achievement

Chemical Dependency Studies Certificate

The certificate program in Chemical Dependency Studies centers around the specific skills and abilities necessary to provide comprehensive drug and alcohol counseling. Course work includes the twelve counselor core function applications in addiction screening: intake, assessment, orientation, counseling, crisis intervention, consultation, client's education, client's rights, confidentiality, professional ethics, and reports and record keeping.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
HEED 310	Heartsaver First Aid, Adult and Pediatric CPR and AED	1¹
HEED 315	First Aid	0.5²
HSER 300	Introduction to Human Services	3
HSER 310	Ethical Issues and Client's Rights (3)	3
HSER 330	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)	3
or PSYC 365	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
HSER 340	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)	3
or PSYC 400	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
HSER 341	Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs (3)	3
or PSYC 401	Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs (3)
HSER 342	Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery (3)	3
or PSYC 402	Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery (3)
HSER 360	Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling	3
HSER 362	Practices in Human Services	3
HSER 365	Techniques of Group Counseling	3
HSER 498	Work Experience in Human Services	0.5 -4³
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)	3
or PSYC 305	Psychology Applied to Modern Life (3)
or PSYC 480	Honors General Principles (3)
PSYC 340	Abnormal Behavior (3)	3
or PSYC 481	Honors Abnormal Behavior (3)
Total Units:		35 - 38.5

¹This course should be taken before HSER 498.

²This course should be taken before HSER 498.

³Chemical Dependency Certificate or AA students must complete a minimum of 255 internship hours for HSER 498.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

evaluate the components of a quality chemical dependency counseling program.
demonstrate the twelve essential counseling skills as they apply to chemical dependency and recovery processes.
utilize counseling strategies based on examination of scientific theories of addiction.
identify the community resources used in assisting clients with addiction issues.
appraise and apply the knowledge of California Professional Codes of Ethics for Drug and Alcohol counselors.
evaluate one's own values and attitudes as they apply to ethical decision making.
demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, social justice, and inclusion.

Career Information

Upon completion of the certificate a student possesses the coursework required for initial certification as a California drug and alcohol counselor (CDAC).

Human Services Certificate

The certificate in Human Services centers around the broad array of entry level skills and abilities effectively used in social service delivery systems. Coursework includes the twelve helper core function applications in client screening, intake, assessment, orientation, counseling, consultation, client's rights, confidentiality, crisis intervention, client's education, professional ethics, and reports and record keeping.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
HEED 310	Heartsaver First Aid, Adult and Pediatric CPR and AED	1¹
HEED 315	First Aid	0.5²
HSER 300	Introduction to Human Services	3
HSER 310	Ethical Issues and Client's Rights (3)	3
HSER 330	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)	3
or PSYC 365	Issues of Diverse Populations (3)
HSER 340	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)	3
or PSYC 400	Introduction to Chemical Dependency (3)
HSER 360	Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling	3
HSER 362	Practices in Human Services	3
HSER 365	Techniques of Group Counseling	3
HSER 498	Work Experience in Human Services	0.5 -4³
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)	3
or PSYC 305	Psychology Applied to Modern Life (3)
or PSYC 480	Honors General Principles (3)
PSYC 340	Abnormal Behavior (3)	3
or PSYC 481	Honors Abnormal Behavior (3)
SOC 300	Introductory Sociology	3⁴
Total Units:		32 - 35.5

¹This course should be taken before HSER 498.

²This course should be taken before HSER 498.

³A minimum of two units is required.

⁴OR SOC 480.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

define the functions of social service delivery systems.
analyze public policy issues, complexities and controversies affecting social service agencies and their clients.
integrate different theoretical approaches in working with clients.
identify the community resources used in assisting clients.
appraise and apply the knowledge of existing California professional codes of ethics for the helping professions.
describe the application of clients' rights in the social service delivery system.
evaluate one's own values and attitudes as they apply to ethical decision making.
demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, social justice, and inclusion.

Human Services (HSER) Courses

HSER 300 Introduction to Human Services

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a comprehensive overview of the field of human services and an introduction to attitudes and methods that enhance communication skills in human relations and enable effective intervention in problem situations. It emphasizes the roles and skills of associate professionals, such as but not limited to drug and alcohol counselors, mental health workers, and activity directors with the elderly, and adolescent and child welfare assistants. It also emphasizes group techniques. An off-campus site visit is required.

HSER 310 Ethical Issues and Client's Rights

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:HSER 300
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a comprehensive exploration of the basic ethical issues involving human services delivery. Topics include professional ethics, confidentiality, counselor and clients' rights, and other areas involving ethical controversies. This course is not open to students who have completed GERON 304.

HSER 330 Issues of Diverse Populations

Same As:PSYC 365
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLR 340 AND ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area D; CSU Area E1; IGETC Area 4
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study of the values, problems, issues, concerns, and counseling needs of diverse populations by race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical/cognitive/emotional/developmental ability, and age. It also explores the cognitive and emotional aspects of prejudice as it relates to interpersonal, cultural, and institutional discrimination. This course is not open to students who have completed PSYC 365.

HSER 340 Introduction to Chemical Dependency

Same As:PSYC 400
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGRD 310 or ENGRD 312 AND ENGWR 300; OR ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area E1
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course examines the biopsychosociocultural effects of chemical dependency on the individual and the family. It includes an analysis of alcohol and drug use; misuse and abuse across age, gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, and economic conditions contributing to substance abuse; and a description of community efforts at prevention and treatment. This course is not open to students who have completed this course's equivalent.

HSER 341 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs

Same As:PSYC 401
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:HSER 340 or PSYC 400 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study of the absorption, metabolism, and the mechanism of action of alcohol and other psychoactive drugs including opiates, stimulants, depressants, cannabinoids, and psychedelics. It includes the pharmacological mechanisms as well as the social and psychological implications of tolerance, habituation, and substance abuse of the user and abuser. This course is not open to students who have completed PSYC 401.

HSER 342 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery

Same As:PSYC 402
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:HSER 341 or PSYC 401 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is a study and evaluation of techniques used in the treatment of alcohol dependency. This course will cover both physical and psychological effects of alcohol use, abuse and the impact on family and society. Topics include prevention, intervention, individual and group counseling, detoxification, twelve-step program, therapeutic communities, aftercare programs, harm reduction and addressing high risk drinking. This course is not open to students who have completed this course's equivalent.

HSER 360 Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:HSER 300 with a grade of "C" or better
Corequisite:HSER 310
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

The course includes: a survey of interview and counseling techniques appropriate for paraprofessionals in mental health, corrections, and substance abuse counseling. It includes case management practices and skills. Practices and skills include: interviewing techniques, using assessment forms, developing treatment plans, monitoring referrals, notetaking and documentation, learning and practicing effective communication.

HSER 362 Practices in Human Services

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:HSER 365 and 498
Enrollment Limitation:Completion of the American River College Human Services Agency Placement Process.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides advanced study and applied integration of human services theory to prepare students for field experience. It cover techniques in applying concepts, values, and skills acquired in other core courses related to the process of helping others.

HSER 365 Techniques of Group Counseling

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:HSER 360 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers the basic elements of group counseling with the goal of developing effective techniques for conducting groups. Ethical issues are compared and analyzed. Emphasis is on the use of facilitating skills, exploring group dynamics, understanding group procedures and knowledge of the stages of group process.

HSER 495 Independent Studies in Human Services

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

HSER 498 Work Experience in Human Services

Units:0.5 - 4
Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Enrollment Limitation:Students must be in a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position, or job related to human services with a cooperating site supervisor. Students are advised to consult with the Human Services Department faculty to review specific certificate and degree work experience requirements.
Advisory:Eligible for ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340.
Transferable:CSU
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment or advancement within the field of human services. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in transfer-level degree occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce, completion of Title 5 required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at an approved work site, and developing workplace skills and competencies.

During the semester, the student is required to complete 27 hours of related work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units. All students are required to attend the first course meeting, a mid-semester meeting, and a final meeting. Additionally, students who have not already successfully completed a Work Experience course will be required to attend weekly orientations while returning participants may meet individually with the instructor as needed. Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings. This course may be taken up to four times when there are new or expanded learning objectives. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

HSER 499 Experimental Offering in Human Services

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.