About the Program

The Family Support Services program is designed to provide pre-employment training and education for entry-level family support workers through classroom studies and practical training. Graduates may serve families as family advocates, home visitors, parent educators, or family outreach workers, among other occupations. Coursework for this program spans the disciplines of human services and early childhood development to provide a strong base for work with children and families in a variety of settings. It is designed to accommodate both full- and part-time students and those currently employed in the field. Embedded within the program is training which meets requirements for community health worker certification through the Oregon Health Authority.

Some courses in this program may not transfer to other institutions. Students intending to transfer should seek advisor assistance to determine transferability.

Program Learning Outcomes

The curriculum in RCC courses is derived from a set of identified learning outcomes that are relevant to the discipline. Program learning outcomes for the Family Support Services Associate of Applied Science are:

Explain the benefits of supporting the parent-child relationship in creating healthy, stable, and attached families.

Demonstrate strategies to build positive reciprocal relationships with families as the foundation of supporting growth and development.

Develop strategies to engage families in the support of their children’s developmental characteristics and needs within the context of their environment.

Participate in effective collaboration with other agencies and organizations to support and advocate for children and families.

Utilize reflective practices to apply ethical decision-making principles within the helping relationship.

Function effectively as a member of a team in providing comprehensive services for children and families.

Entry Requirements

Students are required to complete the Placement Process to determine skill level and readiness in math, reading, and writing. As part of their training program, students must begin with the courses within their skill level as determined through the Placement Process.

Many courses in this department require participation in community schools, programs, and agencies for observation and practicum experiences. Practicum placement and classroom observations will require proof of measles immunization status, RCC Student ID, and may require proof of COVID vaccination status or criminal history background check. More information is available from the Early Childhood and Elementary Education Department.

Advanced Standing

Coursework from accredited colleges and universities will be accepted in accordance with college policies and the Early Childhood and Elementary Education Department Chair’s approval. In order to ensure that coursework is current, program courses over 10 years old must be reviewed and approved by the appropriate department chair before being accepted toward core requirements. Each College Now credit student must meet with the Early Childhood and Elementary Education Department Chair to determine placement.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate, students must complete all courses in this program with a grade of “C-” or better. Certain prerequisite courses are graded on a pass/no pass basis only. A grade of “P” for these courses indicates a student earned the equivalent of a “C-” or better grade.

This guide lays out an optimal path to graduate. Where zero credits are listed in the prerequisites, students may place into a higher level(s) based on designated placement. Note: some prerequisites may be required for graduation. Please consult an advisor with any program completion questions.