Building Critical Skills for Career and Community Impact

St. Petersburg College is committed to preparing students to be informed, responsible citizens in local, national and global communities. In our Social and Behavioral Sciences community, you will gain a solid foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving and intercultural communications that will prepare you for an exciting and rewarding career.

Human Services credentials

A credential in Human Services provides opportunities to help others in the fields of mental health, addiction, counseling, social work, sociology and youth development.

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B.S. Degree in Human Services

SPC launched its B.S. Degree in Human Services degree and Applied Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate to fill the critical need for human services employees. The certificate offers critical skill sets to first responder professionals who face mental health issues both in their own ranks and in the communities they serve.

Teaching Global Citizenry

Our social and behavioral sciences and classes and A.A. transfer plans give you an understanding of human behavior in society from economic, political and historic perspectives.

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Student Support

"If you put effort into your studies here, everyone is really supportive and helps you get where you want to be."

Maia Farley, SPC Student
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Serving a greater good

Alumni Rayford Dennis said St. Petersburg College was a "turning point" in his life. "It was the foundation upon which I built my career and it gave me all the necessary tools to succeed with the transformation of my life."

Median Salaries Careers in Tampa Bay Area

Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors
$55,570

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Community Health Workers
$45,370

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Social and Human Service Assistants
$45,000

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Learning in the real world

As scholars in their disciplines, our faculty teach students through lecture and field experiences. You can take part in volunteer service on campus and in the community through service learning, internships, Model United Nations inter-college competitions and Study Abroad opportunities.

Model United Nations students lead the way

Over the last several years, St. Petersburg College has gained worldwide recognition for its award-winning Model United Nations program, which competes against large four-year universities, including Ivy League schools. Students who take part in the Model UN initiative travel to the annual conference in New York, where they learn about global diplomacy.

Internships to help you on your career path

St. Petersburg College has forged strong partnerships with many local organizations, which provide students with internships to help you build your resume, apply your knowledge in real-world situations and make connections to help in your job search.

Social and Behavioral Sciences and Human Services News

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May 22, 2026

First Responders Complete Applied Mental Health Program

A total of 14 graduates earned the Applied Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate from SPC.

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May 01, 2026

First Responders to Graduate with Mental Health Certificates

Graduates will advance mental health support within law enforcement and their communities.

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Apr 24, 2026

College Celebrates America 250 with Yearlong Civic Engagement Initiative

As the United States nears its 250th anniversary in July 2026, SPC celebrates all year.