Academic Programs

General Description

The master of science degree in human services prepares adults to creatively and decisively lead their communities forward; to be human service practitioners with clear vision, caring hearts, and the competency to act; to acknowledge the problems of the past, work in the present, and maintain faith in the future. The interdisciplinary curriculum is designed to promote social analysis, critical and creative thinking, clear communications, and leadership development. Building on what students already know and have experienced, the curriculum links classroom learning to workplace and community issues, offering a powerful educational experience of integrating theory and practice. While teaching about the importance of respect for others and valuing the diversity within and among us all, the School reflects these values by acknowledging the wisdom adults bring to education and building a community of leaders.

These principles find voice and form in the foundation curriculum, the concentrations, and the graduate action research project.

Foundation Courses

Three foundation courses are required of all master’s degree students. These courses explore theories related to how people, organizations, and communities behave, grow, develop, and change.

Leadership: A LifeLong Journey offers participants opportunities to explore models of management and leadership in the context of personal development and ongoing struggles for social justice. Participants are expected to reflect upon their own social background, culture, identity, and experiences to better understand their own and others’ strengths and approaches to leadership and change.

Economics and Social Change examines the history of and current thinking about the causes and consequences of economic inequities in the United States and across the globe, including an analysis of the ideologies and moral justifications for support of existing economic systems. Particular attention is paid to the increasing importance of globalization. Participants also have the opportunity to formulate their own ideas about what a just economic system might look like and to offer informed opinions about the changes that would be needed to achieve such a system.

Building Multicultural Organizations and Communities explores the many issues faced by organizations and communities as a result of the global nature of work activities and the increasing cultural diversity of people in today’s environments. Students examine the many examples, models, and visions of multiculturalism in the context of personal, organizational, and community development.

Concentrations

Graduate students may select one of three concentrations:

1. Organizational Management and Leadership
2. Community Counseling Psychology
3. Mental Health Counseling

Check with the assistant director of recruitment and admissions at the campus you wish to attend to learn which concentrations are offered at that campus.

Instruction

SHS employs full-time faculty who are responsible for teaching, service, and scholarship. The SHS practice-oriented curriculum also includes contributions from part-time faculty who are directly involved in agency and community work. The result is that SHS has a faculty with the flexibility, resources, and expertise required to address academics as well as new developments in human services practice and delivery.