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Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Social Work/Human Services

Social Work/Human Services

Overview

Note: CRC's Human Services (HSER) program will be changing its name in fall 2025 to Social Work/Human Services (SWHS).

The CRC Social Work/Human Services program prepares students for employment as para-professionals with agencies such as youth group homes, youth and family services agencies, schools, probation, welfare, and mental health departments.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

  • A.A. in Chemical Dependency Studies Degree
  • A.A. in Social Work and Human Services
  • Chemical Dependency Studies Certificate Certificate
  • Social Work and Human Services Certificate

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Chemical Dependency Studies Degree

The program in Chemical Dependency Studies centers around the specific skills and abilities necessary to provide comprehensive drug and alcohol counseling. Course work include the twelve counselor core function applications in addiction screening, intake, assessment, orientation, counseling, crisis intervention, consultation, client education, client rights, confidentiality, professional ethics and reports and record keeping.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
HSER 300 Introduction to Human Services 3
HSER 302 Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations 3
HSER 340 Introduction to Chemical Dependency 3
HSER 341 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs 3
HSER 342 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery 3
HSER 350 Employment Skills in Human Services 3
HSER 360 Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling 3
HSER 362 Practices in Human Services 3
HSER 364 Techniques of Group Counseling 4
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology 3
HSER 498 Work Experience in Human Services 0.5 -41
SOC 321 Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3) 3
PSYC 340 Abnormal Behavior 3
Total Units: 37.5 - 41

1Students must complete a minimum of 255 internship hours for HSER 498.

The Chemical Dependency Studies Degree Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See CRC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • Evaluate the components of a quality chemical dependency counseling program
  • Demonstrate the twelve essential counseling skills as they apply to chemical dependency and recovery processes
  • Utilize counseling strategies based on examination of scientific theories of addiction
  • Identify the community resources used in assisting clients with addiction issues
  • Appraise and apply the knowledge of California Professional Codes of Ethics for Drug and Alcohol counselors
  • Evaluate one's own values and attitudes as they apply to ethical decision making
  • Demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, justice, and inclusion

Career Information

Substance Abuse Counselor; Mental Health Social Worker; Social Worker; Child and Family Counselor; Child Protective Worker; Adult Protective Worker; Employee Assistance Counselor

A.A. in Social Work and Human Services

This CRC program prepares students for employment as paraprofessionals with agencies such as youth group homes, youth and family services agencies, schools, probation, welfare, community based non-profits and county mental health departments.

Program Highlights include:
Techniques for Interviewing and Case Management
Group Facilitation Skills
Theory and Application of Social Services
Employment training, including resumes, cover letters, and interview skills
Training in Ethical and Legal Considerations for Paraprofessionals

Coursework includes performance-based training in client screening, intake, assessment, orientation, individual counseling, group counseling, consultation, client's rights, confidentiality, crisis intervention, client education, professional ethics, reports and record keeping.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
SWHS 300 Introduction to Social Work & Human Services 3
SWHS 302 Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations 3
SWHS 350 Ethical Issues in Social Work/Human Services 3
SWHS 360 Techniques for Interviewing and Case Management Services 3
SWHS 364 Advanced Techniques for Working with Groups 4
SWHS 367 Advanced Practices in Human Services 3
SWHS 498 Work Experience in Human Services 0.5 -41
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology 3
PSYC 340 Abnormal Behavior 3
SOC 321 Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3) 3
Total Units: 28.5 - 32

1Students must complete a minimum of 120 internship hours for SWHS 498.

The Social Work and Human Services Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local CRC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See CRC graduation requirements.

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Complete the application process for enrollment in the Social Work Human Services Program.
  • Completion of SWHS 300 & 302 with a C or better.
  • Completion of PSYC C1000 (formerly PSYC 300) with a C or better.
  • Completion of SOC 321 with a C or better.
  • Eligibility for ENGL C1000 (formerly ENGWR 300).
  • Completion of SWHS Associate Degree/Certificate Orientation offered through the course management system.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Students must complete the application for the SWHS Program.
  • Students must complete all prerequisites in the program.
  • Students must complete the online Orientation offered through the course management system.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PLO 1: Define the functions of social service delivery systems.
  • PLO 2: Analyze public policy issues, complexities and controversies affecting social service agencies and their clients.
  • PLO 3: Integrate different theoretical approaches in working with clients.
  • PLO 4: Identify the community resources used in assisting clients.
  • PLO 5: Appraise and apply the knowledge of existing California professional codes of ethics for the helping professions.
  • PLO 6: Describe the application of clients' rights in the social service delivery system.
  • PLO 7: Evaluate one's own values and attitudes as they apply to ethical decision making.
  • PLO 8: Demonstrate effective individual and group setting interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a demographically diverse population.

Career Information

Peer Support Group Facilitator; Youth Group Home Worker; Family, Welfare, and Health Agencies Worker; Consumer Consultant; County or State Eligibility Worker; and Conflict Containment Workers

Certificates of Achievement

Chemical Dependency Studies Certificate Certificate

The program in Chemical Dependency Studies centers around the specific skills and abilities necessary to provide comprehensive drug and alcohol counseling. Course work include the twelve counselor core function applications in addiction screening, intake, assessment, orientation, counseling, crisis intervention, consultation, client education, client rights, confidentiality, professional ethics and reports and record keeping.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
HSER 300 Introduction to Human Services 3
HSER 302 Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations 3
HSER 340 Introduction to Chemical Dependency 3
HSER 341 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs 3
HSER 342 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery 3
HSER 350 Employment Skills in Human Services 3
HSER 360 Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling 3
HSER 362 Practices in Human Services 3
HSER 364 Techniques of Group Counseling 4
HSER 498 Work Experience in Human Services 0.5 -41
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology 3
PSYC 340 Abnormal Behavior 3
SOC 321 Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3) 3
Total Units: 37.5 - 41

1Students must complete a minimum of 255 internship hours for HSER 498.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • Evaluate the components of a quality chemical dependency counseling program
  • Demonstrate the twelve essential counseling skills as they apply to chemical dependency and recovery processes
  • Utilize counseling strategies based on examination of scientific theories of addiction
  • Identify the community resources used in assisting clients with addiction issues
  • Appraise and apply the knowledge of California Professional Codes of Ethics for Drug and Alcohol counselors
  • Evaluate one's own values and attitudes as they apply to ethical decision making
  • Demonstrate appropriate interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a diverse population using principles of equity, justice, and inclusion

Career Information

Substance Abuse Counselor; Mental Health Social Worker; Social Worker; Child and Family Counselor; Child Protective Worker; Adult Protective Worker; Employee Assistance Counselor

Social Work and Human Services Certificate

The A.A. degree program in Social Work and Human Services provides performance-based training for both associate level employment and transfer preparation. This degree provides training for employment as para-professionals with agencies such as youth group homes, youth and family services agencies, schools, probation, welfare, and mental health departments. Coursework includes performance-based training in client screening, intake, assessment, orientation, individual counseling, group facilitation, consultation, client's rights, relevant social justice issues, confidentiality, crisis intervention, client education, professional ethics, reports, record keeping and the ability to work with diverse populations and community members.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
SWHS 300 Introduction to Social Work & Human Services 3
SWHS 302 Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations 3
SWHS 350 Ethical Issues in Social Work/Human Services 3
SWHS 360 Techniques for Interviewing and Case Management Services 3
SWHS 364 Advanced Techniques for Working with Groups 4
SWHS 367 Advanced Practices in Human Services 3
SWHS 498 Work Experience in Human Services 0.5 -4
A minimum of 6 units from the following: 6
SOC 300 Introductory Sociology (3)
PSYC 320 Social Psychology (3)
SOC 321 Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3)
PSYC C1000 Introduction to Psychology 3
Total Units: 28.5 - 32

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Completion of application for Social Work and Human Services.
  • Completion of SWHS 300 and SWHS 302 with a C or better.
  • Completion of Psychology 300 with a C or better.
  • Eligible for ENGWR 300
  • Completion SOC 321 with a C or better.
  • Completion of SWHS Program Orientation offered through the course management system.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Completion of Orientation.
  • Completion of Application
  • Successful completion of all prerequisites courses with a C or better.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PLO 1:Define the functions of social service delivery systems.
  • PLO 2: Analyze public policy issues, complexities and controversies affecting social service agencies and their clients.
  • PLO 3: Integrate different theoretical approaches in working with clients.
  • PLO 4:Identify the community resources used in assisting clients.
  • PLO 5:Appraise and apply the knowledge of existing California professional codes of ethics for the helping professions.
  • PLO 6: Describe the application of clients' rights in the social service delivery system.
  • PLO 7: Evaluate one's own values and attitudes as they apply to ethical decision making and the field of social work and human services.
  • PLO 8:Demonstrate effective individual and group setting interpersonal and social skills in interactions with a demographically diverse population.

Career Information

Substance Abuse Counselor; Mental Health Social Worker; Social Worker; Child and Family Counselor; Child Protective Worker; Adult Protective Worker; Employee Assistance Counselor, Peer Support Group Facilitator; Youth Group Home Worker; Alcoholism Program Worker; Family, Welfare, and Health Agencies Worker; Ombudsman Program Workers; Work with Correctional Agencies; Consumer Consultant; County or State Eligibility Worker; and Conflict Containment Workers.

Human Services (HSER) Courses

HSER 300 Introduction to Human Services

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for for ENGL C1000 (formerly known as ENGWR 300).
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L4
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a comprehensive overview of the field of Human Services in private and public agencies. This course includes learning of agency functions and worker activities through reading, class discussion, and class speakers. The emphasis of this course is understanding the roles and skills of associate professionals such as health workers, activity directors for the elderly, and adolescent and child welfare assistants.

HSER 302 Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an introduction to attitudes, values, and methods that enhance communication skills in human relations. It is required for all students in the Human Services major and open to all students.

HSER 304 Introduction to Counseling Children

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

A study of the tools children use daily to cope with feelings, adjust to changes, overcome disappointment and trauma, make sense out of the world around them and grow in their various relationships. Children's play medium will be experienced, with special emphasis on the importance of imagination and the use of fantasy. Assignments will require association with children.

HSER 340 Introduction to Chemical Dependency

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

A survey course that examines the psychological and physiological effects of chemical dependency on the individual. Also included is an analysis of the effects of substance abuse on the family; the sociological and economic conditions contributing to substance abuse, and a description of communication efforts at prevention and treatment.

HSER 341 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:HSER 340 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of the chemical composition of alcohol, and the mechanism of action of alcohol and other psychoactive drugs in the human body including opiates, stimulants, depressants, psychotherapeutics, and psychedelics. The physiological and psychological mechanisms associated with tolerance, habituation, and withdrawal that occur during the addiction phase of drug use will be studied.

HSER 342 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:HSER 341 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study and evaluation of techniques used in the treatment of chemical dependency. Topics include intervention, individual and group counseling, detoxification, twelve-step programs, therapeutic communities, and aftercare programs.

HSER 350 Employment Skills in Human Services

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:HSER 300 and 302
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces students to the legal and ethical issues of interviewing and counseling individuals, families, and groups. Course topics include family system dynamics, family and drug intervention, crisis intervention, court mandated reporting, legislative mandates required of counselors, and laws pertaining to counseling minors and other client populations within Human Services Agencies. This is a required course for the Human Services degree and certificate.

HSER 360 Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:HSER 300, 302, and 350 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces students to effective counseling and interviewing techniques as applied to associate para professional experiences as counselors, group counselor aides, mental health workers, social service technicians and other new careers in human services. This is a required course for the Social Work/Human Services degree and certificate. This course is not open to students who have completed SWHS 360.

HSER 362 Practices in Human Services

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:HSER 360 and 498
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides advanced study and lecture of the helping profession in settings that include: public and/or private agencies that provide mental health services; corrections and rehabilitation; alcohol and other drugs; and child/adolescent treatment services. This is a lecture-based course that integrates both the theory and concepts of
the helping profession, as well as discussion of the practical application of experiences in the field. Student evaluation is competency-based.

HSER 364 Techniques of Group Counseling

  • Same As:SWHS 364
  • Units:4
  • Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:HSER 350 with a grade of "C" or better; SWHS 360 (Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling), or HSER 360 (Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling) with a grade of “C” or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces the basic elements and techniques of group counseling. Students will learn the knowledge and skills needed for effective group facilitation through class activities such as role-plays, and class discussion. The course emphasizes different types of groups, stages of group process, and techniques for counseling specific populations including individuals with substance use disorders and those from diverse backgrounds. This course is the same as SWHS 364 and only one may be taken for credit.

HSER 494 Topics in Human Services

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:9 - 72 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an exploration of those topics and issues which are most relevant for future and present workers in human services. Emphasis will be on those issues which are not consistently covered by other required human services courses. These issues may include: chemical dependency, interventions in poverty, stress management, child neglect and abuse, patient rights, and organization for advocacy.

HSER 495 Independent Studies in Human Services

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

An independent studies project involves an individual student or small group of students in study, research, or activities beyond the scope of regularly offered courses. See the current catalog section of "Special Studies" for full details of Independent Studies.

HSER 498 Work Experience in Human Services

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 350 and 360 with grades of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:SWHS 366
  • Enrollment Limitation:Before students can enroll or participate in the Work Experience program, Los Rios Community College District must have a signed Employer Agreement on file with the student’s worksite. If the employer already has an active agreement with the district (viewable at losrios.edu/wexpemployeragreement), no further action is required. In addition, students must have a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position, or job that aligns with their career goals in the field of Human Services and a cooperating worksite supervisor who will sign all required course documents. High School students are not permitted to enroll in Work Experience courses. Students must attend a mandatory orientation for SWHS 366 as the corequisite for this course.
  • Advisory: Students must obtain an internship when enrolling in this course and must have an approved internship site at the start date of the course. Students must meet corequisites and prerequisites to enroll. Student also must attend a mandatory orientation session with the SWHS Department Chair that can be scheduled the semester prior to enrollment in the course.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment in their major field of study or advancement within their career. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in transfer level degree occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce; completion of required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. Appropriate level learning objectives are established by the student and the employer. During the semester, the student is required to participate in a weekly orientation and complete 27 hours of related work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units. Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings. This course may be taken up to four times when new or expanded learning objectives are introduced. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

HSER 499 Experimental Offering in Human Services

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

Social Work/Human Services (SWHS) Courses

SWHS 299 Experimental Offering in Social Work/Human Services

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

SWHS 300 Introduction to Social Work & Human Services

  • Same As:HSER 300
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000 (formerly known as ENGWR 300).
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L4
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a comprehensive overview of the field of Social Work and Human Services in private and public agencies. This course includes learning of agency functions and worker activities through reading, class discussion, and class speakers. The emphasis of this course is understanding the roles and skills of associate professionals such as health workers, activity directors for the elderly, and adolescent and child welfare assistants. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 300.

SWHS 302 Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations

  • Same As:HSER 302
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an introduction to attitudes, values, and methods that enhance communication skills in human relations. It is required for all students in the Human Services major and open to all students. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 302.

SWHS 306 Introduction to Counseling Youth in Diverse Settings

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 300 and 302 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

A study of the various ways to engage safely with youth ages 6 -17. Students will learn to support youth with expression of feelings/emotions, adjusting to issues commonly experienced in childhood and adolescence and manage developmentally appropriate feelings and thoughts in these stages of development.

SWHS 340 Introduction to Chemical Dependency

  • Same As:HSER 340
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces and examines the psychological and physiological effects of chemical dependency on the individual. Also included is an analysis of the effects of substance abuse on the family: the sociological and economic conditions contributing to substance abuse, and a description of communication efforts at prevention and treatment. Field trips may be required. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 340.

SWHS 341 Physiology and Pharmacology: Alcohol & Other Drugs

  • Same As:HSER 341
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 300 and 340 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of the chemical composition of alcohol and the mechanism of action of alcohol and other psychoactive drugs, including opiates, stimulants, depressants, psychotherapeutics, and psychedelics. It also includes the social and psychological implications of tolerance, habituation, and substance abuse of the user and abuser. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 341.

SWHS 342 Alcoholism: Intervention, Treatment & Recovery

  • Same As:HSER 342
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 340 or 341 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study and evaluation of techniques used in the treatment of chemical dependency. Topics include intervention, individual and group counseling, detoxification, twelve-step programs, therapeutic communities, and aftercare programs.

SWHS 350 Ethical Issues in Social Work/Human Services

  • Same As:HSER 350
  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 300 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:SWHS 302
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces students to the legal and ethical issues of interviewing and counseling individuals, families, and groups. Course topics include family system dynamics, family and drug intervention, crisis intervention, court-mandated reporting, legislative mandates required of counselors, and laws about counseling minors and other client populations within Human Services Agencies. This is a required course for the Social Work Human Services/Chemical Dependency degree and certificate.

This course is the same as HSER 350 and only one may be taken for credit.

SWHS 360 Techniques for Interviewing and Case Management Services

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 300 (Introductions to Social Work & Human Services), SWHS 302 (Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations), and SWHS 350 (Ethical Issues in Social Work/Human Services) with grades of "C" or better, or the three courses of HSER 300 (Introduction to Human Services), HSER 302 (Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations), and HSER 350 (Employment Skills) with grades of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces students to effective counseling and interviewing techniques as applied to associate para professional experiences as counselors, group counselor aides, mental health workers, social service technicians and other new careers in human services. This is a required course for the Social Work/Human Services degree and certificate. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 360.

SWHS 364 Advanced Techniques for Working with Groups

  • Same As:HSER 364
  • Units:4
  • Hours:54 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 360 (Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling), or HSER 360 (Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling) with a grade of “C” or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces the basic elements and techniques of group counseling. Through class discussions, in-class practice, and role plays students will learn the knowledge and skills needed for effective group facilitation. The course emphasizes different types of groups, stages of group process, and techniques for counseling specific populations including individuals with substance use disorders and those from diverse backgrounds. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 364. This course is the same as HSER 364.

SWHS 366 Practices in Human Services

  • Units:3
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 300 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Students enrolling in this course are required complete externship hours at approved Community Based Organizations. Students may incur travel costs, and have other requirements to complete such as background checks. Student should complete the SWHS/HSER Program application prior to enrolling in this course.
  • Advisory:HSER 302 or SWHS 302 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This advanced practicum course provides research and supervised field experience in public and/or private agencies providing mental health, corrections, chemical dependency, and child/adolescent treatment services. Students integrate concepts, values, and skills acquired from previous courses and apply their knowledge to the process of helping others via internships. Field trips are required and students provide their own transportation. This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 362 or SWHS 367.

SWHS 367 Advanced Practices in Human Services

  • Units:3
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 108 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 366 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This advanced practicum course provides research and supervised field experience in public and/or private agencies providing mental health, corrections, chemical dependency, and child/adolescent treatment services. Students integrate concepts, values, and skills acquired from previous courses and apply their knowledge to the process of helping others via internships. Field trips are required and students provide their own transportation. This course is not open to students who have previously taken HSER 499: Experimental Offering in Human Services (Advanced Practices in Human Services). This course is not open to students who have completed HSER 367.

SWHS 495 Independent Studies in Human Services

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 300 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:None
  • Advisory:SWHS 350
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

An independent studies project involves an individual student or small group of students in study, research, or activities beyond the scope of regularly offered courses. See the current catalog section of "Special Studies" for full details of Independent Studies.

SWHS 498 Work Experience in Human Services

  • Same As:HSER 498
  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:SWHS 360 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:SWHS 367
  • Enrollment Limitation:Before students can enroll or participate in the Work Experience program, Los Rios Community College District must have a signed Employer Agreement on file with the student’s worksite. If the employer already has an active agreement with the district (viewable at losrios.edu/wexpemployeragreement), no further action is required. In addition, students must have a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position, or job that aligns with their career goals in the field of Human Services and a cooperating worksite supervisor who will sign all required course documents. High School students are not permitted to enroll in Work Experience courses. Students must attend a mandatory orientation for SWHS 367 as the corequisite for this course.
  • Advisory:Students must obtain an internship when enrolling in this course and must have an approved internship site at the start date of the course. Students must meet corequisites and prerequisites to enroll. Students also must attend a mandatory orientation session with the SWHS Department Chair that can be scheduled the semester prior to enrollment in the course.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment in their major field of study or advancement within their career. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in transfer level degree occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce; completion of required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. Appropriate level learning objectives are established by the student and the employer. During the semester, the student is required to participate in a weekly orientation and complete 27 hours of related work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units. Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings. This course may be taken up to four times when new or expanded learning objectives are introduced. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

SWHS 499 Experimental Offering in Social Work/Human Services

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

Catalog