Behavioral Health and Human Services Proficiency Certificate

Description:

The 18-Credit Behavioral Health and Human Services Proficiency Certificate serves as a pathway to further educational and career opportunities in behavioral health and human services. It is designed for individuals seeking foundational knowledge and practical skills to pursue careers in the fields of behavioral health and human services. This certificate program equips students with foundational competencies required to support diverse populations including youth, persons with disabilities, and the aging.

Throughout the program, students will explore key topics such as cultural awareness, ethical considerations in human services, and helping skills. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of effective communication and collaborative care in delivering services to diverse populations. Upon completion, students will be prepared to work in entry-level roles in a variety of settings, including community health organizations, social service agencies, and rehabilitation centers.

The certificate program fulfills the 12-credit complementary sequence within the Behavioral Health and Human Services A.A.S. program.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the Behavioral Health and Human Services proficiency certificate, students will be able to:

  • Examine the responsibilities, professional values and ethical standards of human services workers across diverse environments.
  • Apply core helping skills to work effectively with clients using cultural sensitivity and human services values.
  • Understand the diverse populations and their unique needs served within the profession to include: the youth, persons with disabilities, and the aging.
  • Apply ethical values that respond to client needs and incorporate critical thinking to align with professional standards of practice.

Program Entry Requirements:

This certificate is open to interested students. New students are normally required to take the College’s placement test at their time of entry. Students who are identified as needing developmental course work must satisfactorily complete the appropriate English and mathematics courses as part of the certificate when applicable. Students should consult with the program coordinator or BHHS Faculty before enrolling in this proficiency certificate.

Program of Study and Graduation Requirements:

To earn the Behavioral Health and Human Services Proficiency Certificate, students must obtain a minimum of 18 credits. Each of the six listed courses must be successfully completed with a "C" or better. 18 total credits with a 2.0 or higher GPA are required to graduate.

Course Sequence:

Course Number and NamePrerequisites and CorequisitesCredits

 

Gen Ed Requirements

 

Course Number and Name BHHS 101 - Introduction to Behavioral Health & Human ServicesPrerequisites and Corequisites  Credits 3 credits

 

Gen Ed Requirements

 

 
Course Number and Name BHHS 112 – Introduction to Helping Skills & EthicsPrerequisites and Corequisites BHHS 101, which may be taken concurrentlyCredits 3 credits

 

Gen Ed Requirements

 

 
Course Number and Name BHHS 110 - Principles and Practice of Positive Youth Development: Community, Family and Youth EngagementPrerequisites and Corequisites  Credits 3 credits

 

Gen Ed Requirements

 

 
Course Number and Name BHHS 161 - Introduction to Disability StudiesPrerequisites and Corequisites  Credits 3 credits

 

Gen Ed Requirements

 

 
Course Number and Name BHHS 171 - Introduction to Aging StudiesPrerequisites and Corequisites  Credits 3 credits

 

Gen Ed Requirements

 

Cultural Analysis & Interpretation
Course Number and Name BHHS 205 – Interpersonal Group DynamicsPrerequisites and Corequisites  Credits 3 credits

 

Gen Ed Requirements

 

 

Minimum Credits Needed to Graduate:

18

For More Information, Contact:

The Division of Liberal Studies, Room BR-21, 1700 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130, Telephone (215) 751-8450 or the College Information Center (215) 751-8010.