Immaculata University is offering an associate degree in social services starting in fall 2023. This degree provides a foundation for students to pursue opportunities in social and human services such as education, psychology, and social work. 

The coursework focuses on developing students’ knowledge of social and human services and includes an interdisciplinary curriculum that addresses professional standards, ethics, interpersonal communication skills, and diversity in the workplace. It also lays the foundation to transition into various bachelors’ degree programs at Immaculata.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that job projections for social and human service assistants will grow 12 percent from 2021-2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

“Pennsylvania employers, now more than ever, are looking for skilled and well-educated workers in the field of social and human services. Immaculata University wants to provide this essential training through academic excellence and professional preparation,” stated Melissa Reed, Ed.D., chair of Immaculata’s Education Division, which will oversee the new program. “This degree will offer an advantage for employees looking for opportunities in social service industries such as schools, hospitals, and customer service positions.” 

Various job possibilities exist for graduates with an associate in social services, including patient advocates, student aides, rehabilitation aides, counselor assistants, preschool teachers, teacher’s assistants, case managers, behavior technicians and healthcare intake coordinators.

The new program is available in an accelerated online format or face-to-face, which makes it convenient for working adults. It also includes five cooperative learning courses that combine classroom-related education with full- or part-time, paid employment in a related social services position. These five courses offer students experiential, hands-on learning in social services and provides the deepest level of training and experience so students can excel in the workplace immediately upon graduation.

Since there is both a national and regional demand for social services employees, tuition support from local agencies may be available for students pursuing this major. For more information on Immaculata University’s new associate degree in social services, contact the admissions office at admiss@immaculata.edu or call 1-877-42-TODAY.

Learn more at Immaculata University.