Abstract:

Human services programs are charged with training students to address social problems through delivering services that enhance the standard of living of all people. The coursework generally offered in accredited human services programs are within the framework of mental health and social work, yet human services workers play a critical role in health care delivery and need to convey good health practices to their clients. This study provided an analysis of accredited program curriculum across the United States, and made the argument for the importance of health education courses for field preparation. The 39 accredited human services programs were analyzed for their number of health education courses offered, the type of course, and the number of credits per course. The analysis revealed that health education courses were present in less than half of the accredited programs. While many of the programs offer one course, First Aid/CPR was the only health education course offered to students.

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