Human Services ConcentrationSchool of Arts and Sciences
The Human Services Concentration allows you to pursue state certification in entry-level social work. If you complete the program, you can qualify to sit for the state social work exam, and passing the exam results in award of the state credential, “Certified Social Worker.”
In combination with a major in Sociology, Criminal Justice, or Psychology, the Human Services Concentration trains you to work across a range of human needs and social problems. Returning adult students already holding a bachelor’s degree in one of these three majors can apply for the state’s Social Work Training Certificate as they complete the Human Services Concentration. This allows them to become employed as social workers during the time it takes to complete the concentration.
Madison, WI
On-campus
Program Highlights
More flexible than a traditional social work program, Edgewood College’s Human Services Concentration offers you a choice among three majors: Sociology, Criminal Justice, and Psychology. This allows you to tailor your education to reflect your personal interests and career goals.
All classes are held in small-group settings and are taught by highly experienced, practicing social workers. Our faculty teach from a generalist perspective, using strengths-based and culturally competent models. Our Human Services Concentration is one of only a few in the state approved by the Department of Safety and Professional Services for social work certification.
Career Outcomes
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for social workers is growing 42% faster than the average for all other occupations. Particular need is in the areas of health services, child and family welfare, geriatrics, and corrections. Social workers advance social justice by creating individual and social change, and by advancing the responsiveness of communities and social institutions to social problems and individual needs.
Social work’s mission is “to enhance human well-being and help meet the basic human needs of all people, with particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty.” State certified social workers are qualified for jobs in counseling, community organizing, group facilitation, advocacy, policy, case management, and related roles.
Edgewood College alumni currently serve as social workers in child protective services, hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing facilities, probation and parole departments, adoption and foster care agencies, emergency shelters, drug treatment programs, community services, and other service and advocacy-based agencies. Jobs can be found in the non-profit sector, in government agencies, and in private corporations.
Approximately 90% of Edgewood College’s Human Services graduates find employment in their chosen field after graduation.
Meet Your Faculty
Senior Lecturer, Coordinator of the Human Services Program
Patricia Egan, MSW, PhD
PEgan@edgewood.edu
Related Programs
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Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice -
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Bachelor of Science in Sociology -
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Bachelor of Science in Psychology