Mercy College

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational social science study with applied practice. Core topics typically include human development across the lifespan, introduction to human services, counselling and interviewing skills, ethics and professional issues, and cultural competence. You will also study assessment and case management, crisis intervention, substance misuse and recovery, family systems, and community resources and advocacy.

Research methods and programme evaluation are taught to help you measure client outcomes and contribute to service improvement. A substantial element is supervised fieldwork or practicum in local agencies (for example community health centres, residential programmes, youth services or social welfare organisations), where you apply classroom learning to real-world practice. Electives may cover areas such as grant writing, trauma-informed practice, gerontology, or child welfare depending on availability.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school qualification or equivalent. Mercy College considers academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining interest in human services, and may request references. Mature students with relevant work or volunteer experience are encouraged to apply. Because placements are a compulsory element of the programme, students should be prepared to undergo background checks and provide required health/immunisation documentation in line with placement partner policies.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across social and community services. Typical positions include case manager, community outreach worker, residential support worker, programme coordinator, youth worker, and behaviour support specialist. With additional credentials or postgraduate training, graduates may progress to roles such as licensed counsellor, substance abuse counsellor, social work (subject to professional requirements) or clinical practitioner.

The degree also provides transferable skills for administrative and policy roles in non-profit organisations, health services and local government, including client assessment, advocacy, record keeping, inter-agency collaboration and programme development.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a practice-focused Human Services programme with strong links to local agencies, giving students access to diverse placement opportunities and community partnerships. Class sizes are typically small, allowing close faculty supervision and personalised feedback during practicum. Faculty usually combine academic experience with practitioner backgrounds, ensuring teaching is grounded in current sector practice.

The college provides student support services including academic advising, career counselling and placement assistance to help students transition into employment. Flexible delivery options and evening classes are often available to accommodate students who are working or have other commitments.