In accordance with the Governor’s Proclamation 20-25, “Stay Home, Stay Healthy,” and to protect the health and safety of Washingtonians and our employees, at this time, there is restricted public access to the OSPI building. OSPI will continue serving the public via phone, email, and the website.
See OSPI’s COVID-19 guidance and resources for educators, students, and families.
The Human Services Career Cluster prepares you for jobs that relate to families and human needs. Whether you want to be a social worker, a childcare provider or a hairdresser, you will be addressing human needs.
This career cluster is organized into seven career pathways:
Note: The other two pathways are Culinary Arts, and Arts, A/V Technology and Communications. We have chosen to include information about these pathways and anything related to food service, including becoming a chef or baker, on the Hospitality and Tourism Career Cluster page.
Students in human services learn and practice skills that prepare them for diverse post-high school education and training opportunities, from apprenticeships and two-year college programs to four-year college and graduate programs.
CTE classes in this cluster will introduce you to a variety of interesting careers including:
Note: Each school and school district has different CTE options. Not every district has classes in every cluster, nor does every district offer CTE dual credit and Advanced Placement options.
Career and technical student organizations are much more than clubs. They provide opportunities for hands-on learning, and for applying career, leadership and personal skills in real-world environments. Participants build their skills by developing projects, attending events, and competing regionally and nationally.
The student organization for human services is Washington Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).
It is fact that young people who have at least one year of post-high school education earn thousands of dollars more a year. So, if you spend even one year at a two- or four-year college, in a certificate program at a technical school, or in an apprenticeship after you graduate from high school, you will very likely earn higher wages all your life. By furthering your education, you will be better-prepared to successfully navigate the world of work.
After taking CTE classes in human services, you could pursue any number of opportunities including:
For information about your district's CTE offerings and how to move forward with planning for your future, contact or visit:
More than 1,000 jobs in Washington are connected to an active, registered apprenticeship program. For more information about apprenticeships and colleges, visit:
Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Codes assist in tracking, assessment, and reporting CTE courses.
CIP Codes for this cluster: