June 27, 2025 | British Columbia

If you’re considering a career in helping others, you’ve probably come across two terms that seem closely connected: human services and social work. But are they the same? What are the differences? And which path is right for you? 

 
In this blog, we’ll unpack the similarities and differences between human services and social work and show how CDI College’s Social Services Worker Professional Diploma in British Columbia provides a practical, in demand entry point into the world of community support and advocacy. 

What Are Human Services? 

Human services is a broad, interdisciplinary field focused on improving quality of life by preventing and solving problems related to basic human needs. It brings together elements from:   
 

• Psychology   
• Sociology   
• Public health Counselling   
• Social justice 

 
Human services professionals often work in community agencies, nonprofits, or government organizations to address:   

• Homelessness   
• Addiction   
• Poverty   
• Domestic violence   
• Family crisis   
• Disability support 

What Is Social Work? 

Social work is a regulated profession that focuses on helping individuals, families, and communities cope with and overcome various life challenges. It involves:   
 

• Advocacy for social justice   
• Clinical counselling and therapy (with the right credentials)   
• Navigating legal, healthcare, and welfare systems   
• Empowering people through education, resources, and support 

Social workers may work in hospitals, schools, correctional facilities, or private practice.  

How Are Human Services and Social Work Similar? 

• Both fields are driven by compassion and advocacy 
• Aim to support vulnerable or marginalized populations   
• Address mental health, addiction, trauma, and poverty   
• Require strong interpersonal and communication skills   
• Emphasize ethics, boundaries, and professionalism 

Key Differences Between Human Services and Social Work 

Where Does Social Services Work Fit In? 

Social services work is a branch of human services. It focuses on practical, frontline support for people dealing with poverty, addiction, trauma, and other systemic barriers. Professionals in this field often hold a college diploma rather than a university degree and work in settings such as:   
 

• Group homes   
• Shelters   
• Community centres   
• Addiction recovery programs   
• Youth outreach organizations 

Why Choose Social Services as a Starting Point? 

If you want to enter the human services field quickly, gain hands on experience, and make a direct impact in your community, social services work is a smart first step. 

• The Social Services Worker Professional Diploma at CDI College offers:   
• 59 weeks of fulltime training   
• Two practicum placements (260 hours total)   
• Courses in addiction, mental health, youth justice, ethics, and communication   
• Certifications including Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) First Aid/CPR WHMIS and FoodSafe 
   

It’s ideal for students who want to:   
 

• Start working in just over a year   
• Make a real difference right away   
• Decide later whether to pursue a degree in social work   
• Build valuable, transferrable skills across healthcare, community services, and education 
   

Which Is Right for You? 
 

Ask yourself:   
 

• Do I want to make an impact quickly?   
• Am I more interested in community support than clinical therapy?   
• Do I want flexibility and mobility within the helping professions? 
   

If you answered yes to these questions, starting in social services work through CDI College might be the perfect fit. 

Final Thoughts: Different Paths, Shared Purpose 

So, are human services the same as social work? Not exactly but they share the same heart: a desire to help, support, and uplift those in need. 
Whether you see yourself in a group home or a counseling office, the journey can begin with one powerful step. The Social Services Worker Professional Diploma at CDI College prepares you for real world success and gives you the experience to grow your career on your own terms.