Human Services AAS:
Substance Abuse Counseling Track

The Human Services AAS degree offered at LSC-Montgomery and has two tracks: General Human Services Track (AAS_HSGN) and Substance Abuse Counseling Track (AAS_HSSA). For more information, please contact the Human Services Department.

Visit the Human Services cluster page for similar careers.

Program Description

The human services program provides the skills and competencies required for a variety of positions in the helping professions field. Human service professionals work with those experiencing a wide range of issues, struggles or problems, including those with developmental disabilities, individuals with mental health problems or disorders, people with substance abuse problems, clients with work- or educational related issues, or those needing assistance with basic life need issues such as housing, food, and clothing. Human service professionals work with children, adults, groups, families and the elderly.

Human service professionals are motivated by helping others. Effective professionals are patient, have empathy and compassion for others, and enjoy giving of themselves and working with others.

Human service professionals should also be able to manage their time well and possess effective communication skills. Because of the nature of the work in this field, professionals should be mature, stable and dependable.

Students with a degree in human services often work in any number of capacities and jobs, including case managers or case workers, counselors, advocates, and prevention or education specialists. Many graduates work one-on-one with clients in direct care positions, while others work behind the scenes or in administrative or management positions. Human service professionals work in government- or state-funded agencies, in non-profit agencies, in residential treatment programs and hospitals, and in private offices or agencies.

All course work required for licensing as a chemical dependency counselor, as well as the supervised practicum training, is provided. Students pursuing the associate's degree in human services may select from one of two concentrated areas of study: substance abuse counseling or general human services.

At some placement sites, students may be required to successfully pass a background check and drug screen.

The general education core will transfer to a variety of colleges and universities. Contact a counselor or faculty member at any of the colleges for specific information and to obtain the recommended sequencing of courses.

Program Plan

First Year Credits

Second Year Credits

Total Credits