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Human services workers help individuals and families with daily living needs, such as identifying housing programs, food banks, and public health clinics. They provide counseling and assistance to persons who are unable to solve their problems independently.
Human service workers may work in offices, clinics, and hospitals, while others work in group homes, shelters, sheltered workshops, and day programs.
Human services workers in social service agencies generally spend part of the time in the office and the rest of the time in the field. Most work a 40-hour week. Some evening and weekend work may be necessary.
Other workplace settings:
$51,700
The BLS reports that overall employment of social workers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
About 78,300 openings for social workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Human services workers receive their education by attending community colleges and colleges or universities. The initial programs in human services are offered at the community college level and award associate degrees. Today, in addition to an associate degree, many programs offer certificates in specialized areas, such as addictions and/or gerontology.
Four-year colleges and universities have human services programs and offer bachelor’s degrees and, in some instances, specialized certificates. Programs at this level not only prepare the service worker but also introduce the student to program management, coordination, and supervisory skills.
Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.
National Association of Social Workers
750 First St, NE, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20002
(800) 742-4089
www.socialworkers.org