Holyoke Community College in Holyoke, Massachusetts is offering a new human services certificate and internship program free of charge, thanks to a recent grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health & Human Services.
Intended to fill a local shortage in human services workers, the $1.28 million grant will cover the full cost of tuition and fees as well as paid internships for interested students. Textbooks and any other necessary supplies are also covered by the grant, so it really is a no-cost opportunity for students.
Dean of Health Sciences at HCC, Amy Brandt said, “There is definitely a big shortage of human service workers, and it’s a challenge for agencies who have a variety of workers at different levels. They don’t have a lot of additional resources to develop that talent pool. They really are on shoestring budgets trying to provide services to the community. When you look at this grant, it’s a huge investment that can really help fill their needs.”
The 24-credit hour health services certificate will span two semesters, and students can begin as early as the Fall 2024 semester.
Upon completion, students may opt to apply the credits earned in the certificate program to an associate’s degree in human services or even a bachelor’s degree in social work.
“The program really has the potential to set students up for lifelong learning and career advancement, and it’s also helping these social service agencies meet their needs,” said Brandt.
Interested students can find out more information about the program and submit their application on the school’s website.
Source: HCC Offers Free Certificate & Internship Program in Human Services
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