New Human Services credentials among programs to launch this fall at SPC
St. Petersburg College continues to take the lead in responding to and meeting community needs with the launch of its new Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree. The degree includes an embedded Applied Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate that will offer critical skill sets to professionals, particularly in the law enforcement field, who face mental health issues – both personally and among the citizens they serve. Fall Term registration is now open for both programs.
SPC will be the first in the Florida College System to offer the combined bachelor’s degree and certificate. Graduates will help fill a critical need for substance abuse counselors, case managers, outreach workers, and community and social services specialists. The certificate can also be earned as a stand-alone credential, particularly aimed at current and retired law enforcement officers.
“As St. Petersburg College, we have stepped up to the plate to assist our overall and law enforcement communities by giving them the specialized skills they need,” said Human Services Program Director Latresha Bighem-Moore. “The advocacy piece is crucial to raise awareness of these issues and to take better care of our community. This awareness is very important in how we support each other and face the challenges of our society. The support for this degree illustrates how an institution of higher learning can have a real impact – by preparing students who are on the front lines of our community.”
Students who earn SPC's Associate in Science in Social and Human Services degree are a great fit for the new bachelor's degree, which can lead to higher wages, increased opportunities and licensure. The bachelor's degree also prepares students for graduate work in human services, counseling, psychology, addiction studies, health sciences and social work.
“A lot of our A.S. degree students are very interested in the new degree,” said Joseph Smiley, Dean of Social/Behavioral Sciences and Human Services at SPC. “They can move into the new program seamlessly and prepare to be part of meeting the growing human services workforce needs.”
Other new programs for Fall 2023
SPC will also launch the following certificates aimed at filling industry needs.
The Biotechnology Laboratory Specialist Certificate provides a credential for those who want to work in the field of biotechnology as soon as they graduate. This hands-on certificate covers the core skills that are part of SPC's Biotechnology Laboratory Technology Associate in Science degree but can be earned as a stand-alone credential. Certificate courses can also be applied to SPC's Biology Bachelor of Science degree and prepare students for the nationally recognized Biotechnology Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE).
The Business Analyst Specialist Advanced Technical Certificate is the perfect credential for those looking to expand their skills in business operations. The program gives students a blend of the most sought-after skills needed by businesses, including business operations, management, customer needs analysis, data flow and design, and continuous process improvement. The certificate is particularly suited for technology students who want to transfer to business roles and for business students who want to expand their technical and data skills.
“In the process of speaking with businesses, we found there was no real training to bridge the gap between business management and technology,” said Greg Buschman, College of Business faculty member. “This certificate will help fill that niche and give graduates the tools to succeed in the ever-changing global economy.”