SOUTH BEND, IND. (Dec. 22, 2006) – Ivy Tech Community College-South Bend's Human Services Program now gives students the opportunity to entirely complete an associate of applied science degree by taking classes at the South Bend campus.  Program courses were previously offered largely through distance education. Distance education and online courses for the Human Services associate degree program will also continue to be available for students at the South Bend, Elkhart and Warsaw campuses. Students can then enter a career in social services and have the option of transferring to a four-year college or university to complete a baccalaureate degree.

The program offers specialty areas in mental health, substance abuse, gerontology and correctional rehabilitation, according to Joann Phillips, the program chair. She recommends that students interested in beginning the program enroll in Introduction to Human Services, which is offered on Monday evenings starting January 8. Students can register up until that date.

The associate degree program includes courses in helping techniques; interviewing and assessment skills; group techniques; and behavior techniques in addition to the specialty-related courses and general education core requirements. Two internships are included, to provide practical clinical skills.

For more information about the program, contact Joann Phillips at 289-7001 or jphillips148@ivytech.edu.

Ivy Tech Community College is the state’s second largest public post-secondary institution.  Ivy Tech has 23 campuses throughout Indiana and it serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering affordable degree programs and training that are aligned with the needs of its community along with courses and programs that transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana.  It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.