Human Services Technician
Make a difference. Our diverse Human Services department will prepare you for a career that touches lives. As a graduate, you could provide daily care and support to children or the elderly. You could also help people in need to overcome a wide range of personal, professional, and/or social barriers. Graduates from Lake Area Technical College with an Associate of Science Degree in Human Services Technician are able to apply for the Social Work Associate license in South Dakota.
Have a rewarding career as a preschool teacher, human service worker, case management aide, social work assistant, mental health aide, community outreach worker, life skills counselor, social services aide, youth worker, psychological aide, or client advocate.
Interested? Check out the following options:
- Mental Health/Activity Technician Option
- Child Development Option
- Developmental Disabilities Option
- Youth Offender Option
Upcoming New Programs
Social Work Associate
Lake Area Technical College is seeking approval to establish an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Social Work to address the workforce need for social work professionals within the region. This new program will replace LATC’s current Human Services Technician degree.
While AAS degrees in Social Work are available in other states, this program will be the first of its kind in South Dakota. Industry demand is driving this new program proposal. Regional industries have communicated a need to hire entry-level professionals who are trained in social work theories and practices. These entry-level professionals are needed to work in a variety of social work settings, including shelters, healthcare facilities, schools, therapist/counselor offices, and several government agencies. These professionals usually work under the direction of a social worker, psychologist, or other social service workers. They will connect clients to resources and benefits, help coordinate services and/or treatment plans, conduct home visits, and serve as an advocate for those in need.
More information will be released soon on this new program.
This information is subject to change as the program is developed.
Child Development
• Childcare Management AAS
• Child Development Diploma
Lake Area Technical College is seeking approval to establish an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Childcare Management to increase the return on investment for our students in the Human Service Technician program. This degree will enable graduates to own their own daycare or become directors of daycare centers. Daycare workers in South Dakota have a median salary of $25,700 compared to $58,464 for Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare according to Lightcast. By including Business and Financial Services courses within the curriculum it will enable graduates the necessary education to become administrators.
Students in the Child Development diploma option will focus on child growth and development, child behavior, basic needs, lesson planning, storytelling, health and safety, and caring for children with special needs. Students can expect interactive, project-based learning and opportunities to practice and develop activity and care methods.
More information will be released soon on the new program.
This information is subject to change as the program is developed.
