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Course 

Description

HS 101 Introduction to Human Services

Human service professionals are skilled to address the challenges of meeting human needs that arise from the problems of everyday living and the difficulties encountered in our modern world. This course presents both an introduction to and an overview of the Human Services field by examining conceptual underpinnings, historical antecedents and contemporary directions. The role of the helper, the belief system within the Human Service profession and common problems/issues face by the helper are explored. This course will assist the student in assessing his or her own desire to pursue a career in Human Services and will proved a sound theoretical foundation for subsequent courses in the major. This course will benefit any major students are pursuing as the content relates to working with all types of people in a community. This course fulfills the Social Sciences General Education requirement.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 102 Introduction to Chemical Dependency

This course offers an overview of addictive behaviors pertaining to substance use disorders. Students will learn about the prevalent models of addiction, major categories of commonly used substances, their epidemiology (incidence and prevalence rates), etiology (origin), the psychological and physiological effects, and age-related substance use and abuse. Students will also be introduced to available interventions and treatment options.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 103 Introduction to Psychopharmacology

This course will provide students with an understanding of legal and illicit drug use in America from both an historical perspective as well as from the perspective of the user.  Major types of psychoactive substances will be explored including their effects on the user.  Contemporary treatment approaches will be explored within the context of medication-assisted substance abuse treatment.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None  

HS 201 Prevention & Treatment of Chemical Dependency

Drawing from evidence-based research, students of this course will explore various approaches to the assessment and treatment of substance use disorders.  Topics will include assessment and treatment planning, Motivational Interviewing, helping clients change, steps used to empower clients to maintain change.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None  

HS 202 Trauma & Addiction

Drawing upon the pioneering work of Bessel van der Kolk and other contemporary trauma researchers, this course will introduce students to various theories associated with early trauma, disrupted attachment, and adverse child experiences in the development of substance use disorders.   Students will explore attachment theory, the role of neurobiology, family systems, and early trauma in the development of such disorders and their subsequent application to treatment.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 203 Introduction to Counseling

This course concentrates on the various theoretical approaches to counseling and how they may be applied to the process of helping. It is intended to provide students with a sound base which can be used to build a personalized style of counseling that incorporates the cognitive, emotional and behavioral dimensions of human experience. Various personal and professional issues that emerge in the counseling relationship will be explored. Students will have the opportunity to learn from one another through collaborative group work, case studies, and various clinical videos.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None  

HS 204 Basic Interviewing Skills

The primary purpose of this course is to provide students with a concrete framework for interpersonal communication in their work in rehabilitation. The course will focus on the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for the application of Micro-counseling and other communication skills, including exploration, mutual understanding and taking action in addressing human problem situations. Special emphasis is placed on developing the skills of attending, listening and responding in ways that allow the student to engage in a productive helping relationship.  Emphasis is also placed on applying effective communication skills in collaboration with other professionals and coworkers. As part of their development of microcounseling skills, students will gain increased understanding of themselves and their reasons for pursuing a career in rehabilitation services, human services or other professional fields. Students will identify personal strengths and limitations they have in relation to working with other people.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 205 Interpersonal Communication and Effectiveness

Through this course students will explore the nature of interpersonal relationships in various contexts and develop a critical understanding of communication processes. The course will integrate theory with experience to develop student insight as to how communication skills impact both society and their own lives. A great deal of emphasis will be placed on enhancing self-awareness, self-control, and the ability to maximize interpersonal effectiveness in personal and professional relationships. Students will be provided opportunities to develop and practice specific interpersonal skills through the effective use of communication techniques such as listening, observing, paraphrasing and perception checking. This course fulfills the Social Science General Education requirement.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None  

HS 206 American Sign Language

Students will learn basic American Sign Language (ASL) communication through this course including sign vocabulary, finger spelling, numbers, and expressive and receptive signing activities. Students will also develop an understanding the history of ASL as well as aspects of Deaf culture which are integral to meaningful communication. ASL I is designed to provide students a preliminary basis for signed communication. The ASL 1 curriculum will parallel that of a traditional language development and second language learning course.  It will focus on introducing language in context and will engage students in various interactive activities to reinforce learning. A conversational curriculum requires the student to be an active learner. This course fulfills the Foreign Culture and Language General Education requirement.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Sophomore Status

HS 207 Family Systems in Addiction Treatment

In this course, students will explore and identify predominant theories associated with the dynamics within family systems and, more specifically, the role of family and individual dynamics in substance abuse treatment and relapse prevention.  Students will be guided to apply theory to the work of helping families and individuals impacted by substance abuse.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 208 Special Populations in Addiction Treatment

This course will focus on the unique needs of diverse populations within the context of substance abuse treatment and recovery.  While it may be true that many of the dynamics and precursors of substance use disorders are consistent across diverse groups of people, understanding the unique needs of these groups stands to improve both long and short-term outcomes in treatment.  What is the role of age, gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, education, and geographic location in the development and treatment of substance use disorders?  How can we best serve those in the criminal justice system?  This course will highlight the need for cultural competence in the delivery of services to those impacted by substance abuse.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 209 Group Work in Addiction Treatment

Group treatment is one of the most effective means by which those with substance use disorders can build upon their work in individual treatment in order to assist them on the road to recovery.  Knowledge of the dynamics of group work coupled with understanding the unique needs of those in recovery will enable students in the field of addiction to improve their skills in assessment, interpersonal communication, ethical practice, and clinical intervention strategies.  Students will learn the common approaches to group treatment including psychoeducational and process-oriented group treatment.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 210 Human Services Methods

This course familiarizes students with the various concepts, skills, roles, tasks, and activities comprising human services practice. Students will develop a critical understanding of the nature of the professional client/worker relationship, as well as the complexities of the various stages of helping from intake through termination. Applicable techniques within a variety of systems will be addressed, including interviewing, assessment, case management and recording.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): HS 101

HS 215 Social Issues in Addictions

This course introduces students to the range of addictions which are said to predominate in our society. Students are encouraged to critically examine the concept of addiction, particularly as it may be defined as a social phenomenon. Specific addictions to be studied include various alcohol and chemical dependencies, eating disorders, sex and love addictions, compulsive gambling and spending, and addictions to work and exercise.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 305 Research Methods in Social Sciences

This course is designed to familiarize Criminal Justice, Human Service and Psychology majors, as well as potential graduate students, with the conceptual and operational skills to design and conduct research, including: the development of research, questions and hypotheses; selection of research design and data collection strategies, sampling procedures, and data analysis and interpretation. Students will acquire the skills necessary to conduct social science research and to prepare formal research reports.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MA 200

HS 306 Advanced Topics in Chemical Dependency

Building on the concepts developed in HS 300: Introduction to Chemical Dependency, this course will explore in an in-depth manner, some current topics in the field of chemical dependency. Students will investigate issues related to the provision of human services to special populations: namely, the dually diagnosed client, and the criminal justice system client. The implications of Kendra's Law and Assisted Out-patient Treatment (AOT) related to chemical dependency clients will also be explored. The importance of providing medically necessary and time limited treatment in order for services to be reimbursable will be discussed throughout the semester. Students entering the course are expected to have a basic understanding of chemical dependency, models of addiction, bio-psycho-social considerations and general treatment approaches.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): HS 102

HS 307 Gender and the Criminal Justice System

As the position of women changes in society, changes occur within the criminal justice system. This course will provide students with a clearer view of how women have historically been treated by and within the system, the current status of women, the problems which have resulted from rapid changes, and a view of what is likely to happen in the future. Female crime victims, female criminals, and women who work in the criminal justice field will be discussed. Attention will also be paid to the changing status of men in the system, and the special problems they face (i.e. sexual harassment or discrimination complaints).
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Sophomore Status

HS 308 Group Work in Human Services

Focusing on both practice and process, students will acquire knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership in working with groups. The complexities of group practice as it relates to a variety of populations will be considered. Also explored will be some practical considerations in working with groups, the nature of the interactive process, and many of the various issues which are unique to human services group interventions including advocacy. Students will have an opportunity to integrate theoretical concepts while participating in class activities designed to make learning fun and meaningful.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): HS 101

HS 310 Human Service Ethics

This course will focus on the professional principles and conduct of helping professionals. A variety of legal and ethical dilemmas, ranging from informed consent and client self-determination to working with people of diverse backgrounds and abilities will be addressed. Complex topics will require an in-depth examination of personal values, decision-making models, and the role of supervision in professional practice.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): None 

HS 311 Organization, Policy and Practice in the Human Services

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to significant social welfare policies in the United States and the effect of those policies on the practice of Human Services. Students will examine the concepts, history and development of various social welfare policies so as to be able to 'tune-in" on a macro-level to the struggles that the poor and underserved endure. Philosophical and programmatic trends will be traced from early colonial times through the modern social welfare system with an emphasis on the structure and functioning of the social welfare system in the United States.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): HS 101

HS 312 American Sign Language II

This course is intended to serve as a continuation of the American Sign Language (ASL) I course (HS 206). Classes will be conducted in ASL from the start of the course. Students will continue to develop their vocabulary with progression to facilitating communication and interaction with persons from the Deaf community in the hearing world. Interactive and experiential activities will reinforce learning to develop student skills in handling idioms of both languages in preparation for the service learning component that will be an integral part of this course.  Students will assist at the adult Deaf services agency; assist senior citizen Deaf citizens; and spread awareness of Deaf culture with student and/or Scout groups. This course fulfills the Foreign Culture and Language General Education requirement.
  
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): HS 206

HS 314 Understanding Mental Illness Through Film

Movies provide a gateway to understanding mental illness and emotional disorders, particularly for those not familiar with the complex nature of psychopathology.  While some films sensationalize, misrepresent, and trivialize mental illness for the sake of entertainment, others provide a realistic and meaningful window into the lives of those impacted by mental illness. Interdisciplinary in its approach, this course will rely upon a combination of film, online learning modules, and empirical research to explore mental illness and human behavior from the perspective of  "normal".  The depiction of mental illness in film will be used to examine   issues of social (in) justice as students challenge preconceived notions and critically analyze plot and character development as it influences misconceptions about people with mental illness. This course fulfills the Social Science General Education requirement.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): EN 101 and PSY 101

HS 315 Child Abuse & Neglect

This course has been re-titled and updated to more accurately reflect its content with greater emphasis on the abuse and neglect of children.  You should not take this course if you have previously taken HS 315 Child Welfare Services.

While open to all students, this course may have particular relevance to those in the helping professions and criminal justice.  This course will explore the abuse and neglect of children including physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, and neglect.  Among the topics included will be the historical treatment of abused/neglected children, types of abuse and neglect, reporting and investigation, the role and responsibility of child protection and law enforcement, treatment of victims, the legal rights of children, and the treatment of juvenile offenders.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Sophomore Status

HS 317 Family Violence Treatment and Prevention

From a human services perspective, this course offers an introduction to the dynamics of family violence with an emphasis on treatment and intervention strategies. Students will examine types of family violence across the life span, identification and reporting procedures, controversial issues of relevance to the field of family violence, child abuse and neglect, the impact of substance abuse/misuse on family functioning and violent patterns of behavior, sexual offenses and offenders, and current and innovative approaches to treatment and prevention.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Junior Status

HS 320 Loss Grief and Dying

This multi-disciplinary course is developed to sensitize students to the issues of loss, grief, and dying that are part of every individual's life experience. Students will explore their own relationship with death and various loss-related experiences and explore the ways in which societal attitudes influence how and when we die and how we live as we deal with the knowledge of death and loss. Subject matter will encompass a blend of psychological, socio-cultural and historical perspectives on death. Topics will include issues of loss-related to relationships, social role change, and life span development, as well as detailed discussions of topics surrounding death, dying, and loss experiences. Both the roles of the interpersonal self and the professional self in working with those encountering death and grief/loss will be explored.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Sophomore Status

HS 330 Violent Children: Prevention/Treatment

This course offers an in depth analysis of the dynamics of violence perpetrated by young children & adolescents with an emphasis on treatment and intervention strategies.  Students will examine various forms of violence within the context of the family, school, and community including intra-familial violence, sexual violence by children, aggressive behavior, violence in school settings, and violence perpetrated within the community.  This course will offer students the opportunity to explore individual, family and community dynamics that contribute to the manifestation of violent behaviors with an emphasis on current and innovative approaches to treatment and prevention.  Students will further explore the relationship between diagnosis and the selection of appropriate treatment interventions.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Junior Status

HS 332 Marriage and the Family

This course examines current and historical trends and dynamics related to marriage, family, relationships, and alternative lifestyles. A major theme of the course is the interaction between individuals and the societal environment in which they make many difficult choices with regard to family values and personal autonomy; students will explore how these decisions are often being made in the context of contradictory cultural values. Another focus of the course is the shift from viewing marriage as an institution to viewing it as a relationship in which the partners expect to find companionship and intimacy.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Sophomore Status

HS 360 Internship I

A supervised short-term internship experience in a human service/rehabilitation agency allows students to apply classroom learning to practical situations.  This one semester internship consists of a 120 hour placement in an agency or school setting. In addition, a weekly seminar provides students with the opportunity to discuss and share questions and problems related to the field work.  Students will begin to create a professional portfolio, research graduate school programs and professions within the field of human services. The practicum is reserved for students in their third year of the Human Services major. All prospective students are required to have a meeting with the HS Internship Coordinator to arrange an appropriate placement.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Sophomore Status

HS 410 Child and Family Law

This interdisciplinary course will provide an overview of the various laws and legal concerns which currently affect family life. Among issues to be examined will be laws and social concerns that are relevant to marital relationships, parent-child relationships, child custody and support, family violence, and the rights of minors. The course is intended to assist students, particularly those in the helping professions, to become more knowledgeable of the various legal issues surrounding families today. The course is very useful for students in paralegal studies, criminal justice, and human service programs.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Junior Status

HS 420 American Sign Language III

American Sign Language I and II established the vocabulary base and the syntax featured in American Sign Language.  However, the language is a concept based language.  That means that signs are chosen by the meaning of the word; not the sound of the work.  Hence the word “right” has four signs: correct, right (direction), legal rights, and to write with a pen.  ASL III will begin to address the dilemma of what sign to use in a given sentence. 
          
As with all languages, the use of idioms, in the source language or the target language is always a challenge.  English and American Sign Language both have idioms.  This class will introduce and help students grow more comfortable with conveying the meanings of the idioms into the target language.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): HS 206 and HS 312

HS 430 Senior Seminar

Senior Seminar, the departmental capstone course, has three primary purposes that are related to the preparation of students to pursue either a human services career or further education upon graduation. First, the seminar will offer students the opportunity to achieve maximum integration of the range of knowledge, skills and values experienced in previous human service coursework and internships. This will be done with a flexible seminar structure where the broad issues of diversity and social justice will be used as a foundation for the exploration of issues impacting professional practice. Secondly, students will have the opportunity to analyze their own counseling and interactional style in order to increase their self-awareness and enhance their professional skills. The third purpose of the seminar is to facilitate the transition from the Hilbert environment to either the world of work or graduate education. Students will have the opportunity to clarify career goals and learning goals for the future and develop objectives to meet those goals. Students will also participate in exploring their understanding of global citizenship and how this impacts them professionally and personally.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Senior Status

HS 460 Senior Internship I

This course offers students field instruction in social agencies under faculty direction and agency supervision. Students are to complete HS 460 and 461 in two successive semesters in order to experience the benefit of a long-term internship. (Students are encouraged to plan their schedules carefully as tuition assistance may not be available for summer courses.) A variety of settings are available to the student. There is an attempt to match the choice of agency within the students’ area of interest. A supervised experience in a community service agency allows students to apply classroom learning to practical situations.  In addition, a weekly seminar provides students with the opportunity to discuss and share questions and problems related to the field work. All prospective students are required to schedule a conference with the Internship Coordinator during the pre­registration period to make arrangements for appropriate placement in a Human Service agency.  The internship is reserved for senior students in the Human Services program.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): HS 360 and Junior Status

HS 461 Senior Internship II

This is the second half of a two-semester supervised experience in a community service agency which allows students to apply classroom learning to practical situations. In addition, a weekly seminar provides students with the opportunity to discuss and share questions and problems related to the field work.
 
Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): HS 460 and Junior Status