Human Services AAS
61.5 - 62 Total CreditsDesigned for people interested in working in one of many helping professions. Students may choose from 2 different emphasis. The Counseling emphasis helps to develop the knowledge and skills required to assist those in need with solving problems. The Child Development emphasis examines the principles and practices associated with a variety of educational settings.
Goals & Outcomes
To provide students with the knowledge they need for employment in human service and/or early childhood education occupations.
- Students will secure employment in a human service or early childhood education setting within one year.
- Students will demonstrate a broad knowledge of theory and principles regarding human development and its relationship to psychosocial function and dysfunction.
- Students will identify and describe the impact of the environment on individual functioning.
- Students will demonstrate a broad knowledge of theory and principles regarding intervention strategies at the individual, family, group, and/or organizational level.
- Students will demonstrate a broad knowledge of theory and principles regarding developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) in teaching and early childhood education.
To provide students with the skills they need for employment in human service and/or early childhood education occupations.
- Students will demonstrate competence in using skills in intervention with or on behalf of people served such as:
- interviewing; problem solving; program planning; needs assessing; goal writing; behavior modification; teaching; group facilitating; advocating; and utilization of appropriate resources.
- Students will demonstrate behaviors that indicate respect for the inherent worth, dignity and self-determination of individuals in the population served.
To provide students with an opportunity to communicate in professional and academic environments
- Students will demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing in academic and professional settings.
- Students will demonstrate understanding and application of professional ethics and behaviors.
- Students will document their own reaction patterns, motivations, and biases in on a log entry for each. Internship site visit. Demonstrate an awareness of their own reaction patterns, motivations, and biases and the impact each has on persons served.
To provide students with an understanding of the process and methods of social science research.
- Students will demonstrate an understanding of the principles and theories of scientific psychology, particularly the methods of social science research used in this field.
To prepare students for transfer to related bachelors programs.
- Graduates will transfer with full junior level status.
- Graduates will maintain or improve their GPA at the transfer institution.
To prepare students to demonstrate information literacy.
- Students will use traditional and contemporary information technology.
- Students will identify, access, and appropriately use authoritative sources of information.
First Semester 18.5 Credits
ED100 College Seminar 1 cr
College Seminar is an opportunity for students to develop the skills necessary to improve the chances for success in the college environment. General College procedures, the fundamental notions of time management and study skills, and the specific responsibilities of today's students in a variety of local and global environments are discussed. One or more collaborative projects will be an integral part of the course. Corequisites: The course must be taken in the student's first thirty hours of study. General first year courses would usually be taken at the same time.
EN101 English 1: Composition 3 cr
English 1 is a composition course. By focusing on several kinds of writing--self expressive, informative, argumentative/persuasive, and others--it teaches the student to produce the clear, correct and effective prose required in a wide variety of professions and occupations. Class meetings are a blend of lecture and discussion with frequent in-class writing activities. Conferences may be required. Readings are studied as models of good writing and for the ideas they contain. There are eight writing assignments altogether, including an in-class essay, a research-based assignment, and a business writing assignment. Prerequisites: Appropriate evaluation on the placement test writing sample, or successful completion of EN099 Introduction to College English, or successful completion of SL116 ESL4 Advanced Composition, or permission of Humanities Department Head or course instructor.
BI103 Human Life Science 1 4 cr
This course explores the form and function of human body systems for non-science students. It stresses normal and abnormal life processes as well as the philosophy and history of science including the scientific method. Laboratory exercises complement lecture topics, which include the study of cells and tissues, and the nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, and reproductive systems. Dissections are required in the laboratory.
PY101 Introduction to General Psychology 3 cr
This course is designed to introduce students to the many and varied facets of psychology. Emphasis throughout the course will be on interactions of individuals in their cultural, social and economic environments as determined by their cognitive, behavioral and emotional experiences and training.
SO101 Introduction to Sociology 3 cr
SO101 is an introductory sociology course. Its main objective is not to make sociologists, but rather to give an understanding of and a feeling for the society in which we live. The concepts and theories discussed in this course relate to humanity, its culture and society, to those forces which contribute to the smooth operation of this society as well as those forces which contribute to conflict and social problems. Key topics include culture, socialization, stratification, population and patterns of social organization. Various forms of media will be used to present the topics of this course.
Please choose one of the following:
HS101 Introduction to Human Services 3 cr
This course provides an exploration of the broad field of human services, introduces theoretical systems for understanding human behavior and examines professional ethics and standards. Communication techniques and procedures are stressed. A continual theme throughout the course is the need for self-awareness.
ED150 Soc/Philos Foundations of Education 3 cr
This course provides a study of the philosophical, historical, sociological, ethical, and political bases of the N-12 American educational system. It includes a comprehensive introduction to the issues, laws, policies, and practices affecting the education system, teaching, learning, and assessment. It explains ways that teachers and schools can work with students and families to provide a meaningful and equitable education. Topics include diversity in student populations, school funding, high-stakes testing, school desegregation and re-segregation, technology, standardized tests, and learning standards. The history of the American educational system is discussed in relation to current issues and topics in education, teaching, and learning. A 15-hour observation in a general education classroom must be completed.
PE Physical Education .5 cr
A wide variety of credit courses including but not limited to swimming, fitness center, badminton, tennis, golf, bowling and aerobic dance.
Second Semester15.5 Credits
EN102 English 2: Ideas & Values in Literature 3 cr
This course seeks to deepen the students' understanding of human nature and the human condition through the study of ideas and values expressed in both imaginative literature and a full-length book of non-fiction. To this end, students use and develop critical thinking and language skills. They do so mainly in their attempts to raise and answer questions in their readings, discussions, and expository writing tasks, which may include exploratory writing, an academic journal, reports and essays. A library-oriented research project is required. Prerequisite: EN101 English 1: Composition or EN105 English Composition for Speakers of Other Languages
Please choose one of the following:
MA108 Concepts in Mathematics 3 cr
This course is a survey of mathematics for students in those programs that do not require a mathematics sequence. It provides an appreciation of mathematical ideas in historical and modern settings. Topics include problem solving, logic, geometry, statistics, and consumer mathematics. Prerequisite: An appropriate placement test result or MA045 Basic Math Skills or MA050 Introductory Mathematics.
MA110 Elementary Statistics 3 cr
This course introduces probability and statistics. Topics include graphs, tables, frequency distributions, measures of central tendency and dispersion, normal distribution, correlation and regression, probability, and inferential statistics. This course is available in two formats: lecture only, or lecture plus laboratory using technology. Prerequisite: An appropriate placement test result or MA045 Basic Math Skills or MA050 Introductory Mathematics.
PY203 Abnormal Psychology 3 cr
This course is designed to familiarize students with historical views of abnormality as well as current classification of abnormal behavior. A major emphasis will be the comparison of various perspectives on abnormal behavior. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology.
HS241 Chemical Dependencies 3 cr
This course provides an overview of the broad field of drug abuse and alcoholism including pharmacology, causes and legal aspects of drug abuse, intervention and prevention, physiology and psychological aspects of alcoholism. The role of the professional and non-professional in counseling and intervention will be examined and be explored. Special emphasis will be placed on alternatives to chemical substance abuse and the self-destructing behaviors which produce them.
PY210 Eval, Research & Msmt in Behavioral Sci 3 cr
This course examines research methodology in the behavioral science including observational/ recording methods, the evaluation of performance (psychometrics) and quasi-experimental research. Emphasis is placed upon the application of the methodologies to research designs and the interpretation of psychological reports. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to Psychology. (Spring and summer semesters only)
PE Physical Education .5 cr
A wide variety of credit courses including but not limited to swimming, fitness center, badminton, tennis, golf, bowling and aerobic dance.
Third Semester15.5 Credits
HS251 Internship 1 3 cr
This course provides the opportunity to gain supervised, practical experience working in a human service setting. In addition to a minimum of 90 hours of field experience, over the course of the semester, participation in a weekly seminar is required. Studentsmust complete appropriate pre-professional courses before beginning their internship, as specified in individual program displays. Prerequisite permission of Internship Coordinator or designee.
Two Human Service Electives
Counseling Emphasis
HS214 Therapeutic Recreation 3 cr
This course explores various adaptive leisure delivery services designed to meet the needs of special populations in hospitals, recreation and rehabilitation centers, schools, and other community settings. Emphasis is placed on understanding the individual in terms of age, psychological and physical development, disabilities, and needs for recreation. Community involvement, leading activities and lesson planning are required. (Spring semester only)
HS231 Ethics, Policy & Law 3 cr
This course provides an introduction to the field of social services with emphasis on ethical and policy considerations faced by human service practitioners, chemical dependency counselors, and educators. Ethical decision-making, professional competence, self-disclosure, confidentiality, and related topics are covered as they apply to working in counseling and educational settings. In addition, the course examines legislation affecting the role of the practitioner and the economic security of the client.
HS222 Theories of Counseling 3 cr
This course is designed to provide the student with an opportunity to explore a number of the various theoretical frameworks of counseling. Emphasis is on the fundamental ideas that form the structure of these theories. Consideration is also given to the history, current status and application. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology. (Fall semester only)
HS232 Counseling Techniques 3 cr
This course focuses on the acquisition and refinement of counseling skills appropriate for the A.A.S. practitioner. Methods used with diverse client systems within a variety of settings and problem areas will be covered. (Spring semester only)
HS233 Group Counseling Skills 3 cr
This course is designed to present the student with a variety of approaches towards the acquisition of group counseling skills and techniques that are applicable for work within various Human Service consumer populations and age groups. Issues addressed include substance abuse, mental health, conflict resolution skills, and trauma. Students practice group techniques and skills. Prerequisite: HS101 Introduction to Human Services or permission of the Department Head
HS245 Case Management 1 3 cr
Utilizing a systems perspective, this course introduces the student to the field of case management. Emphasis is on understanding and accessing the variety of service systems available to the client-consumer. (Fall semester only)
AS201 Intro to Alc/Sub Abuse Counseling 3 cr
This course provides a foundation in alcoholism/substance abuse counseling knowledge and skills, including practice in basic counseling skills. Prerequisite: HS241 Chemical Dependencies.
Child Development Emphasis
ED155 Teaching Assistant/Paraeducator 3 cr
Teaching Assistants/Paraeducators are employed to provide direct instructional services to students under the supervision and guidance of a certified teacher. Students gain knowledge and skills related to the role of teaching assistants/paraeducators in the classroom. Topics include the changing nature of K-12 education in contemporary society; the roles and responsibilities of paraeducators and teachers; developmentally appropriate instructional practices and behavior management strategies for children and adolescents; and the teaching assistant/paraeducator's role in assessment, diagnosis and evaluation. This course is designed for teaching assistants seeking NYS certification and "paraprofessionals" with instructional duties in schools operating Title 1 programs.
ED201 Intro to Early Childhood Educ 3 cr
This course aids in understanding and providing for the needs and education of young children in care/educational settings. Methods and materials used to plan, implement, and assess integrated learning experiences that consider the inter-relatedness of physical, social/emotional, and cognitive development are explored. The importance of planning experiences for young children to develop intellectual curiosity and demonstrate a respect for diversity of backgrounds are emphasized. This course includes a minimum of eight hours of observation in a preschool classroom. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of "C" in ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education, and a minimum grade of "C" in either ED205 Child Development or PY202 Childhood and Adolescence.
ED203 Early Childhood Methods & Materials 3 cr
This course introduces early childhood curriculum development including planning, implementing, and assessment based on the New York State Learning Standards. It covers developmentally appropriate practice, methods, and materials for preschool through primary grade children. Emphasis is placed on curriculum that meets the needs of the whole child: cognitive, social, emotional, language, and physical. Knowledge is gained of early childhood curriculum that is respectful to the backgrounds of all children and families. Early childhood best practices are learned, grounded in early childhood educational theories, including Vygotsky and Plaget, and using play as the vehicle for planning, implementation, learning, assessment, and emphasizing Constructivist practice. Best practice techniques, including lesson plan and thematic unit planning, are demonstrated. This course includes a minimum of eight hours of observation in a preschool classroom. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of "C" in ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education, and a minimum grade of "C" in either ED205 Child Development or PY202 Childhood and Adolescence.
ED204 Infant and Toddler Care 3 cr
This course helps to synergize knowledge of total development from the neonatal stage to age three. These concepts are applied to develop appropriate strategies and care programs that are responsive and supportive of the young child and family. Information gained through observation of infants and toddlers, and through interviews with parents is collected and evaluated in terms of the impact of adult-child interactions and on activity planning. Programming problems and services to families are included. This course includes a minimum of fifteen hours of observation in an 8-week-old to 3-year-old classroom/daycare setting. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of "C" in ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education, and a minimum grade of "C" in either ED205 Child Development or PY202 Childhood and Adolescence.
ED206 Language and Literacy in Childhood 3 cr
This course studies acquisition of language and literacy from birth through age eight, including theories of acquisition, the components of language, development milestones, atypical development, and ESL. Methods are covered for teaching literacy to children from infants through intermediate grades, including learning to read and write, phonics, whole language other techniques, and integrating literacy into the whole curriculum. Topics include childrens literature and how it can be used in the classroom and curriculum. This course includes a minimum of ten hours of classroom observation in a preschool and primary classroom. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of "C" in ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education, and a minimum grade of "C" in either ED205 Child Development or PY202 Childhood and Adolescence.
ED208 Technology in the Classroom 3 cr
This course acquaints teaching assistants, educators, and human service professionals with everyday applications of computers, technology and adaptive technology as an instructional assistive tool. The emphasis is on selecting and using technology to facilitate the education/learning process. Some knowledge of computers, programs and the Internet is recommended. Prerequisite: C or better in ED205 or PY202. (Spring semester only)
ED211 Introduction to Exceptionalities 3 cr
This course provides an overview of the education of children and adolescents with exceptionalities, focusing on those with disabilities and those with giftedness. Topics include the historical, philosophical and legal foundations of special education and other exceptionalities and their prevalence, causes, and characteristics. Educational modifications, accommodations, and teaching strategies for general and specific classrooms are addressed. Current issues and trends educating children with exceptionalities are explored. A minimum of fifteen hours of observations in a special education setting must be completed.
ED212 Educating Ind with Mild Disabilities 3 cr
This course explores the history, etiology and characteristics of individuals who have mild to moderate learning disabilities. The primary focus of the course is on the major theories, learning styles and strategies used to educate individuals with specific learning disabilities in the home, school and community environments. Other topics covered include mental retardation, traumatic brain injury and attention deficit disorder.
ED212 Educating Ind with Mild Disabilities 3 cr
This course explores the history, etiology and characteristics of individuals who have mild to moderate learning disabilities. The primary focus of the course is on the major theories, learning styles and strategies used to educate individuals with specific learning disabilities in the home, school and community environments. Other topics covered include mental retardation, traumatic brain injury and attention deficit disorder.
ED215 Supporting Instruction-Reading & Writing 3 cr
This course focuses on the English Language Arts that children should possess. It includes research-based instructional strategies, activities, and assessments aimed at improving K-12 students' reading and writing abilities. Reading topics include phonological and phonemic awareness, decoding, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. Writing topics include the writing process, types and purposes of writing, and a variety of writing products. Emphasis is placed on strategies for one-on-one and small group instruction. This course is designed for teaching assistants seeking New York State certification; paraprofessionals with instructional duties in schools operating Title I programs.
Development Psychology Elective (3 hours)
ED205 Child Development 3 cr
This course examines childrens physical, social, emotional, language, and cognitive development from pre-natal to age twelve. Topics include childhood development theories and research, the recognition and understanding of significant child behaviors, the role of parenting and culture, the role of the teacher, influence of peers, and play. A fifteen hour child observation must be completed in a pre-kindergarten-6th grade school setting. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology.
PY212 Adolescent Psychology 3 cr
This course explores physical, social, emotional, moral, and cognitive development during adolescence. It examines theories and research about adolescent development. Topics include the changing role of relationships with peers and parents, gender and identity development, problem behaviors, and appropriate interventions to reduce risky behavior and promote successful development. The influence of the social and cultural context on development is considered. Fifteen hours of observation of adolescents in a 7th - 12th grade school setting must be completed. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology
PY205 Adulthood and Aging 3 cr
This course examines the major adjustments faced by the individual from midlife through old age. Particular emphasis is placed on the effect of role changes on the individual's view of self and on his/her functioning. Methods to ease role transitions will be covered. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology.
Psychology Elective (3 hours)
PY201 Learning: Behavior Analysis 3 cr
The purpose of this course is to explore the mechanisms which underlie human learning. Major emphasis will be placed on the examination of the behavioral approach to the study of human learning. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology.
PY204 Social Psychology 3 cr
This course deals with theoretical and applied aspects of the individual in social contexts. Special attention is given to interpersonal relations and group dynamics, so students will better understand their functioning in social situations. Among major topics covered are conformity, aggression, interpersonal attraction, and communication (verbal and non-verbal). Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology. (Fall semester only)
PY206 Theories of Personality 3 cr
This course is designed to present the student with an opportunity to investigate a wide variety of personality theories. Theories from psychoanalysis, humanism, existentialism and behaviorism are explored. Emphasis is on the contribution of each theory to the field. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology. (Spring semester only)
PY208 Death, Dying & Bereavement 3 cr
This course increases personal knowledge about death as an aspect of the life process and assesses the impact of dying and bereavement from psychosocial, cultural and historical as well as developmental, medical and legal perspectives. Various human roles relating to the distinct needs of dying persons and their friends and families are examined. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to Psychology.
PY209 Forensic Psychology 3 cr
Forensic Psychology is the science of psychology applied generically to the legal domain. This course examines the relationship between psychopathology and criminality, and describes the legal context in which forensic psychology is practiced. Unlike other disciplines of psychology, which are therapeutic or habilitative in nature, this course is concerned with the prevention, detection, and reduction of crime. Prerequisites: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology and PY203 Abnormal Psychology.
PE Physical Education .5 cr
A wide variety of credit courses including but not limited to swimming, fitness center, badminton, tennis, golf, bowling and aerobic dance.
Fourth Semester16.5 Credits
HS252 Internship 2 3 cr
This course provides a continuation of the supervised experience in a human service setting with the student assuming greater initiative and responsibility for the provision of services. In addition to the minimum of 90 hours of field experience, over the course of the semester, participation in a weekly seminar is required. Corequisite: HS251 Internship 1 or HS253 Case Management Internship.
Two Human Service Electives
Counseling Emphasis
HS214 Therapeutic Recreation 3 cr
This course explores various adaptive leisure delivery services designed to meet the needs of special populations in hospitals, recreation and rehabilitation centers, schools, and other community settings. Emphasis is placed on understanding the individual in terms of age, psychological and physical development, disabilities, and needs for recreation. Community involvement, leading activities and lesson planning are required. (Spring semester only)
HS231 Ethics, Policy & Law 3 cr
This course provides an introduction to the field of social services with emphasis on ethical and policy considerations faced by human service practitioners, chemical dependency counselors, and educators. Ethical decision-making, professional competence, self-disclosure, confidentiality, and related topics are covered as they apply to working in counseling and educational settings. In addition, the course examines legislation affecting the role of the practitioner and the economic security of the client.
HS222 Theories of Counseling 3 cr
This course is designed to provide the student with an opportunity to explore a number of the various theoretical frameworks of counseling. Emphasis is on the fundamental ideas that form the structure of these theories. Consideration is also given to the history, current status and application. Prerequisite: PY101 Introduction to General Psychology. (Fall semester only)
HS232 Counseling Techniques 3 cr
This course focuses on the acquisition and refinement of counseling skills appropriate for the A.A.S. practitioner. Methods used with diverse client systems within a variety of settings and problem areas will be covered. (Spring semester only)
HS233 Group Counseling Skills 3 cr
This course is designed to present the student with a variety of approaches towards the acquisition of group counseling skills and techniques that are applicable for work within various Human Service consumer populations and age groups. Issues addressed include substance abuse, mental health, conflict resolution skills, and trauma. Students practice group techniques and skills. Prerequisite: HS101 Introduction to Human Services or permission of the Department Head
HS245 Case Management 1 3 cr
Utilizing a systems perspective, this course introduces the student to the field of case management. Emphasis is on understanding and accessing the variety of service systems available to the client-consumer. (Fall semester only)
AS201 Intro to Alc/Sub Abuse Counseling 3 cr
This course provides a foundation in alcoholism/substance abuse counseling knowledge and skills, including practice in basic counseling skills. Prerequisite: HS241 Chemical Dependencies.
Child Development Emphasis
ED155 Teaching Assistant/Paraeducator 3 cr
Teaching Assistants/Paraeducators are employed to provide direct instructional services to students under the supervision and guidance of a certified teacher. Students gain knowledge and skills related to the role of teaching assistants/paraeducators in the classroom. Topics include the changing nature of K-12 education in contemporary society; the roles and responsibilities of paraeducators and teachers; developmentally appropriate instructional practices and behavior management strategies for children and adolescents; and the teaching assistant/paraeducator's role in assessment, diagnosis and evaluation. This course is designed for teaching assistants seeking NYS certification and "paraprofessionals" with instructional duties in schools operating Title 1 programs.
ED201 Intro to Early Childhood Educ 3 cr
This course aids in understanding and providing for the needs and education of young children in care/educational settings. Methods and materials used to plan, implement, and assess integrated learning experiences that consider the inter-relatedness of physical, social/emotional, and cognitive development are explored. The importance of planning experiences for young children to develop intellectual curiosity and demonstrate a respect for diversity of backgrounds are emphasized. This course includes a minimum of eight hours of observation in a preschool classroom. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of "C" in ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education, and a minimum grade of "C" in either ED205 Child Development or PY202 Childhood and Adolescence.
ED203 Early Childhood Methods & Materials 3 cr
This course introduces early childhood curriculum development including planning, implementing, and assessment based on the New York State Learning Standards. It covers developmentally appropriate practice, methods, and materials for preschool through primary grade children. Emphasis is placed on curriculum that meets the needs of the whole child: cognitive, social, emotional, language, and physical. Knowledge is gained of early childhood curriculum that is respectful to the backgrounds of all children and families. Early childhood best practices are learned, grounded in early childhood educational theories, including Vygotsky and Plaget, and using play as the vehicle for planning, implementation, learning, assessment, and emphasizing Constructivist practice. Best practice techniques, including lesson plan and thematic unit planning, are demonstrated. This course includes a minimum of eight hours of observation in a preschool classroom. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of "C" in ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education, and a minimum grade of "C" in either ED205 Child Development or PY202 Childhood and Adolescence.
ED204 Infant and Toddler Care 3 cr
This course helps to synergize knowledge of total development from the neonatal stage to age three. These concepts are applied to develop appropriate strategies and care programs that are responsive and supportive of the young child and family. Information gained through observation of infants and toddlers, and through interviews with parents is collected and evaluated in terms of the impact of adult-child interactions and on activity planning. Programming problems and services to families are included. This course includes a minimum of fifteen hours of observation in an 8-week-old to 3-year-old classroom/daycare setting. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of "C" in ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education, and a minimum grade of "C" in either ED205 Child Development or PY202 Childhood and Adolescence.
ED206 Language and Literacy in Childhood 3 cr
This course studies acquisition of language and literacy from birth through age eight, including theories of acquisition, the components of language, development milestones, atypical development, and ESL. Methods are covered for teaching literacy to children from infants through intermediate grades, including learning to read and write, phonics, whole language other techniques, and integrating literacy into the whole curriculum. Topics include childrens literature and how it can be used in the classroom and curriculum. This course includes a minimum of ten hours of classroom observation in a preschool and primary classroom. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of "C" in ED150 Social & Philosophical Foundations of Education, and a minimum grade of "C" in either ED205 Child Development or PY202 Childhood and Adolescence.
ED208 Technology in the Classroom 3 cr
This course acquaints teaching assistants, educators, and human service professionals with everyday applications of computers, technology and adaptive technology as an instructional assistive tool. The emphasis is on selecting and using technology to facilitate the education/learning process. Some knowledge of computers, programs and the Internet is recommended. Prerequisite: C or better in ED205 or PY202. (Spring semester only)
ED211 Introduction to Exceptionalities 3 cr
This course provides an overview of the education of children and adolescents with exceptionalities, focusing on those with disabilities and those with giftedness. Topics include the historical, philosophical and legal foundations of special education and other exceptionalities and their prevalence, causes, and characteristics. Educational modifications, accommodations, and teaching strategies for general and specific classrooms are addressed. Current issues and trends educating children with exceptionalities are explored. A minimum of fifteen hours of observations in a special education setting must be completed.
ED212 Educating Ind with Mild Disabilities 3 cr
This course explores the history, etiology and characteristics of individuals who have mild to moderate learning disabilities. The primary focus of the course is on the major theories, learning styles and strategies used to educate individuals with specific learning disabilities in the home, school and community environments. Other topics covered include mental retardation, traumatic brain injury and attention deficit disorder.
ED212 Educating Ind with Mild Disabilities 3 cr
This course explores the history, etiology and characteristics of individuals who have mild to moderate learning disabilities. The primary focus of the course is on the major theories, learning styles and strategies used to educate individuals with specific learning disabilities in the home, school and community environments. Other topics covered include mental retardation, traumatic brain injury and attention deficit disorder.
ED215 Supporting Instruction-Reading & Writing 3 cr
This course focuses on the English Language Arts that children should possess. It includes research-based instructional strategies, activities, and assessments aimed at improving K-12 students' reading and writing abilities. Reading topics include phonological and phonemic awareness, decoding, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. Writing topics include the writing process, types and purposes of writing, and a variety of writing products. Emphasis is placed on strategies for one-on-one and small group instruction. This course is designed for teaching assistants seeking New York State certification; paraprofessionals with instructional duties in schools operating Title I programs.
Sociology Elective
SO202 Marriage and Family Living 3 cr
Two of the major social institutions, marriage and family, are explored in this course. Sociological theory provides an understanding of the interconnection between these institutions and other social institutions, such as the economy, religion, education and government. Changing forms and functions of marriage and family are examined in historical and cross-cultural perspectives, while aspects and issues confronting contemporary families are also topics of importance in this course. Prerequisite; SO101 Introduction to Sociology
SO204 Contemporary Issues in Society 3 cr
This course examines current and persistent social issues confronting human society. Emphasis is placed on analysis of the history, causes, and dimensions of social issues such as population, the urban environment, consumer concerns, poverty, crime and criminal justice, racism, sexism, and drug and alcohol abuse. Prerequisite: SO101 Introduction to Sociology or instructor permission.
SO205 Racial and Ethnic Minorities 3 cr
This course will explore various racial and ethnic subcultures which exist in American society. The emphasis will be on those values and behaviors which contribute to the social boundaries of the group, provide a structure for interaction with outside groups, and which maintain the group's integrity as a minority subculture. The adaptive strategies employed by minorities as well as dimensions of disadvantage experienced by minorities within American society will also be explored. Instructional methods may include lectures, simulation, mixed media and sharing of student projects. Examinations and student projects may be expected. Prerequisite: SO101 or permission of instructor.
SO206 The Social Significance of Gender 3 cr
It is the assumption of this course that human life is gendered and that gendered social expectations limit and enrich individuals and groups. Theories of sex and gender development, the history of social movements related to gender equity, and the impact of intersecting systems of stratification are emphasized. Students examine the influence of social forces including biology, religion, family, sexuality, education, the polity, economics, media, law, medicine, social sciences, social policy, and systems of stratification. Prerequisite: SO101 Introduction to Sociology.
SO207 Sociology of Religion 3 cr
This course focuses on religion as one of the basic social institutions. Using the sociological perspective, major world religions will be analyzed, both historically and cross-culturally. The relationship between religion and society, the social origins of world religions, their basic tenets, practices, and the impact that these belief systems have on today's world will be explored. No one religious belief system will be emphasized; rather, the sociological functions of religion, and how various religions serve these functions within the culture context in which they developed and are practiced will be compared and contrasted. Students will be expected to step outside their own religious tradition to objectively analyze and understand the religions of others. Students will also be able to explore more esoteric topics in religion through an assigned research paper. Prerequisite: SO101 Introduction to Sociology.
General Education Elective
Consult with advisor and Tier 2 List of Courses.
Please choose one of the following:
HS104 Ident & Reporting of Child Abuse/Neglect .5 cr
This course provides students with information concerning the responsibilities and procedures for identifying and reporting child abuse and maltreatment. Other topics include characteristics of abusive parents or caregivers, protection of children, and related legal issues. Successful completion of this course will meet the New York State requirement for individuals employed in positions designated as mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect.
ED151 Prev & Safety Iss-Classroom Teacher 1 cr
This course focuses on prevention and safety issues facing professionals working with children. Topics include the identification and prevention of child abuse and neglect, violence in schools, and substance abuse. Traffic, fire, and safety issues are also covered. Students who successfully complete the course earn NYS certificates in Identification & Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect and in School Violence Prevention & Intervention.
PE Physical Education .5 cr
A wide variety of credit courses including but not limited to swimming, fitness center, badminton, tennis, golf, bowling and aerobic dance.
Prerequisite
- High School Math Course A and B or equivalent, and at least two of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (with labs) are required; two years of a foreign language is recommended.
- We will accept you at your current level of readiness and provide opportunities for you to be successful at the college.






