Do you enjoy helping others and making a difference in your community? Are you interested in psychology, relationships, social justice, mental health, or understanding why people do what they do?

The Human Services Program at Cabrillo College provides students with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support individuals, families, and communities while preparing for meaningful careers in helping professions.

Human Services is an excellent choice for students who want flexibility. Graduates work in behavioral health, substance use treatment, case management, peer support, schools, hospitals, domestic violence programs, youth services, homeless services, outreach programs, and many other community-based organizations. Employment opportunities in helping professions continue to grow, making Human Services a strong pathway for students interested in careers that combine purpose with job stability.

The program also provides an excellent foundation for transfer. Students can earn a certificate or associate degree and begin working right away, or continue their education in social work, psychology, counseling, public health, sociology, human development, and related fields. Many students choose Human Services because it allows them to explore different career options while building skills that are valuable in any profession, including communication, empathy, self-awareness, cultural responsiveness, and professional boundaries.

Hands-on learning is an important part of the Human Services Program. Through strong community partnerships, approximately 40 students each semester complete internships with local agencies throughout Santa Cruz County and the surrounding region. These experiences allow students to apply classroom learning in real-world settings, gain valuable professional experience, and begin building connections within the helping professions.

For students interested in substance use disorder counseling, Cabrillo’s Human Services Program is accredited by the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP), ensuring coursework meets recognized industry standards. Cabrillo is also an approved AB 2473 pathway, allowing students to complete California’s required 80-hour core competency training for substance use disorder counselor registration through designated coursework.

AB 2473 Pathways

Fall Semester

• HSERV 51 + HSERV 60

• HSERV 164 + HSERV 60

Spring Semester

• HSERV 51 + HSERV 161

These pathways provide students with the educational foundation needed to begin the certification process and prepare for careers in substance use disorder counseling.