School Earns Approval for its Master of Science in Human Services Degree

March 13, 2006 -- Post University has accomplished two firsts in higher learning with one stroke. It has launched its first master's program, a Master of Science degree in Human Services, which is also the first and only of its kind available from any Connecticut college or university.

Connecticut's Department of Higher Education recently approved the university's Master of Science program, which follows either an administrative or clinical concentration. The field of human services is considered to be one of the fastest growing in the country, and is expected to represent a high percentage of job opportunities over the next decade (according to U.S. Department of Labor and Statistics). Students are able to apply now for enrollment in these new programs beginning in the fall 2006 semester. Interested applicants can visit www.post.edu for more information or call (203-596-4500).

"We have leveraged our successful undergraduate program and highly qualified faculty to be able to offer programs at the master's level for the first time, and to become a leader in the state regarding the study of human services," said Patricia Sanders, Ph.D. vice-president, academic affairs at Post University. "As with all of our programs, we aim to provide students with the knowledge, personal skills and experiences required to advance competitively in their chosen careers."

Dr. Sanders explained that the program stands out because it exposes students to theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of the diciplines that represent the human services field. The school encourages students to assess their own value systems to really understand why they are in the industry and how they hope to earn advancement. The program includes a hands-on research project that aims to solve a problem or fill a need in the agency where they work.

The Human Service's Administration concentration will focus on individuals in management positions who are looking for advancement in the agencies where they are working. THey develop skills and knowledge needed including information technology, financial management, human resources management, and personal and organizational behavior.

The Clinical concentration enables students to obtain practitioner positions in the field, where they deal with clients and support services. Students focus on counseling, family systems, group therapy, psychological assessment, and related topics.

The new master's program is being reviewed by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and approval is expected over the next several months. Additionally, Post University is in the process of submitting additional master's degrees programs to the state for approval.

Post University is experiencing an exciting period of growth and expansion. A new curriculum and new degree programs have resulted in an increased number of applications for traditional, full-time students. In addition, Post University continues to be a leader in online education, as more students than ever before are enrolling into the many degree programs Post is currently offering online.

Founded in 1890, Post University (www.post.edu) is a career-oriented and student-focused university located in Waterbury, CT. Post is known for its quality academic programs, small classes, national award winning student activities, and its NCAA Division II athletic programs. Its 1,400 full- and part-time students come from throughout the country and abroad to pursue their personal and professional goals within academic programs supported by a dedicated faculty who blend both theory and practice within their classroom experiences.