5 credits

This course is designed for students to receive a doctoral-level foundation in the history and development of the various human services professions. Students integrate information from various specializations, in areas such as counseling, social work, psychology, family studies, and criminal justice. Examining both the strengths and weaknesses of the human services delivery systems, students will review the origins of the profession as well as its various responses to the changing needs of society. Students can begin to develop their identities as leaders, researchers, and best practices informants in the area of human services. They do this through critical literature reviews related to research, policy, and practice; discussions about human services and contemporary society; and course assignments. The focus of this course is on the competencies and ethics of human services professionals.