2024-2025 Catalog 
    
    May 17, 2024  
2024-2025 Catalog

Mental Health (AAS)


CIP 51.1599
Degree: Associate of Applied Science (AAS (Human Services Specialization)
Program Code: 480-01
Program Length: 2 years - 4 Semesters
Minimum Credits: 69
Distance Learning Option Available

Program Advisor:
Seth Helmandollar 

Russell Hall 134
276.964.7385

Purpose: The Associate of Applied Science Degree is designed to prepare students as paraprofessionals in the field of human services. Successful completion of the program will qualify students for entry-level jobs in social services, mental health, intellectual disabilities, child care, nursing homes, substance abuse, and correctional facilities. The program will expose students to the characteristics, basic skills and knowledge necessary for human services providers.

Occupational Objective: Preparation for positions as human services workers in the following settings: Alcohol Treatment Programs, Nursing Homes, Sheltered Workshop Programs, Social Services Departments, Senior Citizens Centers, Correctional Institutions, Group Homes and Clubhouses, Juvenile Treatment Centers

Admission Requirements: In addition to the admission requirements, established for the College (as listed under the general admission), Including but not limited to applying for Admission prior to enrollment. HMS 190: Coordinated Internship: Many sites require a background check and/or drug screening prior to placement. Please visit the Virginia Board of Counseling’s website, or the board of your state, for questions related to criminal history, misconduct, and future licensure eligibility. 

Note: This program is designed to run on a seven-week rotation. 

Semester Total:


  • Lecture Hours: 16
  • Lab Hours: 0
  • Course Credits: 16

Second Semester:


Semester Total:


  • Lecture Hours: 15
  • Lab Hours: 2
  • Course Credits: 17

Semester Total:


  • Lecture Hours: 18
  • Lab Hours: 0
  • Course Credits: 18

Fourth Semester:


Semester Total:


  • Lecture Hours: 18
  • Lab Hours:0
  • Course Credits: 18

Total Minimum Credits: 69


*Corequisite coursework may be required prior to or along with the course. Please complete the Direct Enrollment Survey at https://desurvey.vccs.edu/ to determine your eligibility. 

**Select from Humanities Block II of the UCGS or determine transfer institution requirements prior to selection. 

***Select from Social Science Block III of the UCGS or determine transfer institution prior to selection.