Hiring requirements in group homes tend to be more stringent than in other settings. A small number of programs leading to master's degrees in human services administration were offered as well. Generally, academic programs in this field educate students for specialized roles work with developmentally disabled adults, for example. Students are exposed early and often to the kinds of situations they may encounter on the job. Programs typically include courses in psychology, sociology, crisis intervention, social work, family dynamics, therapeutic interviewing, rehabilitation, and gerontology.
Formal education is almost always necessary for advancement.
In group homes, completion of a 1-year certificate in human services along with several years of experience may suffice for promotion to supervisor. In general, however, advancement requires a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, rehabilitation, social work, or a related field. Job Outlook Opportunities for human services workers are expected to be excellent for qualified applicants. The number of human services workers is projected to more than double between 1992 and the year 2005 making it among the most rapidly growing occupations. Also, the need to replace workers who retire or stop working for other reasons will create additional job opportunities.