Human Services
The Human Services career cluster focuses on professions that provide support, care, and assistance to individuals and communities to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. This cluster covers a diverse range of roles that address various social, emotional, and practical needs of people.
Career Options
The Human Services career cluster offers opportunities to make a meaningful impact on individuals’ lives and communities.Education paths in the Human Services cluster vary. Some roles, like clinical psychologists, require advanced degrees (such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D.), while others may require associate or bachelor’s degrees, or specific certifications. Here’s an in-depth overview of the key components and careers within the Human Services career cluster, tailored for high school students:
Professionals in this area help individuals manage their mental and emotional health. This includes careers such as school counselors, clinical psychologists, marriage and family therapists, and substance abuse counselors.
Social workers support individuals and families facing challenges by connecting them with resources and providing counseling. Careers include child and family social workers, medical social workers, and school social workers.
These professionals care for and educate young children. Careers include preschool teachers, daycare workers, and nannies.
Rehabilitation specialists help people recover from injuries, disabilities, or illnesses. Careers include physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists.
Professionals in this area work with families and communities to address social issues and improve well-being. Careers include family support specialists, community organizers, and nonprofit program managers.
Personal care workers assist individuals with daily activities and personal tasks. Careers include home health aides, personal care aides, and direct support professionals.
In this pathway, professionals manage and oversee government operations and programs. They ensure efficient service delivery and effective resource allocation.
Occupations in this pathway include Public Administrator, Program Manager, and Human Resources Specialist.
Consumer advocates and educators provide information and assistance to individuals in areas such as financial literacy, consumer rights, and product safety.
Emergency responders, including paramedics, EMTs, and firefighters, provide immediate assistance during crises and emergencies.
Youth workers and mentors provide guidance and support to young people, often in after-school programs, community centers, and nonprofit organizations.
Professionals in aging services work with older adults to provide care, support, and assistance in areas such as healthcare, housing, and social activities.
Careers in veterans services involve assisting military veterans with accessing benefits, resources, and support.
Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs)
Industry Recognized Credentials (IRCs) can significantly benefit high school students interested in the Human Services career cluster by enhancing their skills, knowledge, and employability. These credentials can provide a competitive edge when seeking internships, part-time jobs, or further education in the field. Here are some IRCs that high school students can consider pursuing in the Human Services cluster:
This certification focuses on early childhood education and is valuable for students interested in working with young children in daycare or preschool settings.
This certification equips individuals with the skills to provide initial support to young people experiencing mental health challenges or crises.
BLS certification teaches essential life-saving skills, including CPR and first aid, which are valuable in many Human Services roles.
This certification covers basic first aid and safety skills, which are relevant in various Human Services settings.
PCA certification prepares students for roles in assisting individuals with daily living tasks, often in home care or residential settings.
Offered by various institutions, this certificate program provides an overview of the Human Services field and its core principles.
Proficiency in ASL can be valuable for individuals interested in working with deaf or hard-of-hearing populations.
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