Special licensure or State certifications may also apply. Master's degree programs in human services administration are offered as well. Generally, academic programs in this field educate students for specialized roles. Human services programs have a core curriculum that trains students in observation and recording, interviewing, communication techniques, behavior management, group dynamics, counseling, crisis intervention, case management, and referral. General education courses in liberal arts, sciences, and the humanities are also part of the curriculum.
Many degree programs require completion of an internship.
Formal education is almost always necessary for advancement. In general, 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 grow much faster than the average for all occupations between 1994 and the year 2005-ranking 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.