HSER 120
3 credits
Interpersonal Communications for Human Services
Prerequisite(s): None. Note: As of September 2027, prerequisites will change to one of the following: (C+ or better in English Studies 12, English First Peoples 12, or English 12), or evidence of any test score or course grade listed under the Degree/diploma-level English language proficiency standards in the UFV academic calendar at www.ufv.ca/calendar/current/General/EnglishProficiency.htm.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Introduces students to effective interpersonal communications for human services. Topics include active listening, building rapport, conflict resolution, cultural humility, emotional intelligence, empathy, Indigenous cultural safety, personal and professional values, use of self, verbal and non-verbal communications, paraphrasing, questioning, and worldview.
HSER 130
7 credits
Social Service Worker Practicum I
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Service Worker diploma, HSER 120, and (CMNS 125 or ENGL 105).
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): HSER 140, (PSYC 101 or 102), and SOWK 110.
Supervised field experience in a community-based social service setting. Students must also attend field education workshops and seminars that are grounded in social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
HSER 140
3 credits
Introduction to Indigenous-Centred Human Services
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Service Worker certificate or diploma.
Corequisite(s): None
Pre- or corequisite(s): HSER 120 and SOWK 110.
Introduces Indigenous-centred human services in Canada in relation to the distinct histories, experiences, and worldviews of the First Nations, the Inuit, and the Métis Nation. Explores how colonization continues to impact Indigenous Peoples. Examines Indigenoussettler relationships and culturally safe practices within human services.
HSER 160
3 credits
Introduction to Aging & Working with Older Adults
Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Pre- or corequisite(s): CMNS 125 or ENGL 105.
Introduces the concept of aging at the individual and societal level within the context of changing demographics and biological, psychological, and sociological determinants: health, economics, employment, housing, family life, cultural diversity, elder abuse and neglect, and end-of-life issues.
HSER 195
3 credits
Relationships and the Community
Prerequisite(s): HSER 190
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
This course will provide you with clear insight and understanding into the critical issue of relationships with and of people with disabilities. It will offer a challenging look at individual values and belief systems, and provide you with strategies for creating and maintaining supportive and value-enhancing relationships. The impact of critical issues such as segregation, institutionalization, deinstitutionalization, family support, friendships, intimacy and sexual relationships, leisure and recreational opportunities, with an emphasis of community participation, will be examined.
HSER 200
3 credits
Interview and Assessment Skills for Human Services
Prerequisite(s): HSER 120. Note: As of September 2027, prerequisites will change to admission to the Social Service Worker certificate or diploma, HSER 120 with a C or better, and HSER 130.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): None.
Develops competencies in interviewing, assessment, and intervention. Students practice interpersonal communication skills in the context of a helping relationship, engage in reflective practice, and demonstrate the use of a client-centred approach. Students explore their own worldview, values, and beliefs in relation to helping others.
HSER 230
7 credits
Social Service Worker Practicum II
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Service Worker diploma, HSER 130, and HSER 140.
Corequisite(s): None.
Pre- or corequisite(s): HSER 200, SOWK 210, and SOWK 297.
Building on HSER 130, this is a supervised field experience in a community-based social service setting. Students must also attend field education workshops and seminars that are grounded in social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
