Human Services

Program Information

Human Services Generalist

Those majoring in the Human Services Generalist Program often find employment with an Associate of Applied Science degree. Many ECC graduates earn bachelor's and master's degrees in social work, counseling, or psychology. 

Human Services Substance Abuse Counseling 

This program prepares students to help people with substance use disorders manage their disease and choose pathways to recovery. The program is for individuals entering higher education or seeking Illinois Certification as an addiction recovery counselor. Experienced instructors teach all courses in the Human Services Department at Elgin Community College. 

Recovery Support Specialist

Recovery Support Specialists use personal experiences to help others develop and sustain recovery from substance abuse and mental health disorders. RSS is a new recovery treatment, and ECC is proud to be one of the first Illinois community colleges to offer it. Learn more about the Recovery Support Specialist certificate.

Accreditation

The Human Services Generalist Program is accredited by the Council for Standards in Human Services Education (CSHSE).

The Human Services Substance Abuse Program is accredited by the Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association, Inc. (IAODAPCA), the Council for Standards in Human Services Education (CSHSE), and the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC).

Certificate Option

If you already have a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree, you can likely transfer to many of the courses necessary for the Advanced Addiction Counselor Training Program. If you don't have a college degree, you'll earn an Associate of Applied Science while earning credits for the certificate.

What jobs are in the human services field? 

Many graduates find employment in human service agencies. They assist through senior centers and community agencies offering food, shelter, youth services, violence prevention, and substance use recovery.

Is human services a good career?

People who pursue this career are driven by their desire to help people. The work is both hard and extremely rewarding. A human services career offers diverse experiences and opportunities for advancement in fields like leadership, consulting, and private practice.

How long does it take to be a substance abuse counselor?

The Advanced Addiction Counselor Training Program can be completed in three semesters, though it typically takes students longer. Time to completion depends on various factors, such as the number of credits you can transfer. It is also influenced by how many classes you can fit into your schedule each semester.

Can I become a human services counselor without an advanced degree in Illinois?

A postgraduate degree (master's or doctorate) is not required to become a human services counselor. There are many opportunities for those with an associate degree or a certificate. Completing the program qualifies you to take the Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor examination, kickstarting your career. Upon passing that exam, you will be a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), a credential in Illinois. Some students pursue a bachelor's degree at a four-year college in counseling, social work, and psychology.