What is this field like?
Today's social problems continue to increase. As a result, private and government
agencies prefer to hire "paraprofessionals" trained in the social services to assist
social workers and other professionals in serving the public. Paraprofessionals
work with all age groups --- children to senior citizens. And they work in a variety
of settings --- neighborhood centers, child protective agencies, work release facilities
and group homes. Without paraprofessionals, many needs would go unmet. The social
service field attracts people who have an ability to empathize with others and who
have a desire to help.
What programs does Spokane Falls Community College offer?
SFCC's paraprofessional program offers a two-year associate in applied science (A.A.S.)
degree. The two-year A.A.S. degree option prepares a student for work as a paraprofessional
in a human services or social services agency. Paraprofessionals assist with case
management, field visitations, referrals and/ or intake interviews. If an A.A.S.
graduate chooses to continue his or her education, most, if not all, credits are
transferable, depending upon the college or university and the major that student
is pursuing.
What courses will I take?
Students pursuing the transferable A.A.S. degree take courses in interpersonal communication,
introduction to human services, group effectiveness, counseling techniques, social
police, treatment theories and business math skills. In addition, they take courses
in family protective services, English composition, first aid and a variety of electives
tailored to their career interest. Students are also required to complete 400 hours
of practicum training, providing students with on-the-job training in their area
of interest.
Where will I find a job?
Graduates from SFCC's social services programs traditionally find employment with
a wide variety of public or private agencies, including:
- group homes for elderly or adolescent citizens
- neighborhood centers
- alcohol, drug and chemical dependency treatment centers
- job search agendas
- school districts
- hospitals
How much will I earn?
Graduates with the A.A.S. degree may start at minimum wage and may earn over $25 an hour or $35,000-$40,000 a year.
For more information contact:
Human Services (509) 533-3148
or Social Services (509) 533-3797
Spokane Falls Community College
Counseling Center MS 3011
3410 West Fort George Wright Drive
Spokane, Washington 99204-5288
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