Social Services Certificate

The Social Services Program has a strong core focusing on key foundational knowledge and skills needed in helping professions. All students study:

• Diverse Populations of Communities
• Child & Human Development and General Psychology
• Systems Theory and Sociology
• Service Coordination
• Interpersonal Communication Skills
• Ethics and Professionalism

Working with an advisor, students select program electives to prepare for entry into a career or for continued study in a specialty area. Program electives may include courses in: 

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Criminal Justice
• Early Childhood Education

Graduates of RVCC’s Social Services Program are prepared to work in a variety of settings including, but not limited to, the following: city and state offices, non-profit agencies, community action programs, correctional & transitional facilities, area agencies, behavioral & mental health centers, and schools.

RVCC’s Social Services degree prepares students for a variety of entry-level positions such as outreach worker, program manager, residential counselor, and support aide. Other positions, such as social worker, substance abuse counselor, and psychologist or psychiatrist, require an advanced degree. 

In addition to the Associate Degree, the College also offers a Certificate in Social Services. This certificate focuses on the major courses required for beginning level positions, as well as providing students with an entry point for continuation in the Associate Degree. 

The applicant for the Social Services Program should meet the general requirements for admission to the College. A Criminal Background Check is the responsibility of students and may be required for fieldwork and/or employment. See the full Criminal Background Check Policy in the Admissions section of this catalog. Students are required to have liability insurance during fieldwork. Transportation to fieldwork is the responsibility of the student.

The Social Services certificate may be combined with other programs at the College for a dual degree option.