Due to our Fall Break, Blue Ridge will hold no classes on Friday, Oct. 9, and Monday, Oct. 12, 2026. On both days, the College’s offices will close at 3 p.m.

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Technical Standards for Students of: Human Services Technology

Purpose Statement:

All students in this program are expected to meet certain essential functions/technical standards which are essential for successful completion of all phases of the program and which reflect industry requirements and standards. To verify the students’ ability to perform these essential functions, students may be required to demonstrate the following technical standards: 

StandardDefinition of StandardExample(s) of Technical Standard
1. Critical Thinking Skills
  • Requires general understanding of Human Services guidelines and practices
  • Requires the use of judgment and problem-solving
  • Requires the application of ethical standards
  • Follow the rules and guidelines for ethics and professional standards in the field.
  • Use supervision and make case decisions for clients.
2. Mobility/Motor Skills
  • Requires long periods of standing
  • Requires tolerance for various environmental assignments
  • Requires the use of computers and keyboards
  • The physical wherewithal to work in a multitude of settings in an office, home visits, in court and other places a client may need services.
  • Use technology for record keeping and other reasons.
3. Tactile SkillsN/AN/A
4. Auditory Skills
  • Requires the use of an interpreter for those whose auditory or language issues may be a barrier.
  • Communicate and understand what a client is saying, either on your own or through the use of an interpreter.
5. Visual Skills
  • Requires the use of appropriate accommodations where driving may be needed
  • Requires use of accommodations in scenarios when reading may be needed
  • Make observations either based on your own ability or with help provided through accommodations.
6. Communication Skills
  • Requires the ability to communicate orally with others
  • Requires the ability to communicate effectively in writing
  • Requires comprehension and understanding of spoken and written language
  • Engage in positive productive conversation with coworkers and supervisors alike.
  • Keep written notes in a way that others can understand.
  • Communicate with clients in a way that holds appropriate boundaries and also lets them feel heard and seen.
7. Interpersonal Skills
  • Requires the ability to work with others in a variety of settings and situations
  • Requires maintaining hygiene and dress requirements for assignments
  • Requires the ability to listen to others and determine their wants and needs
  • Requires the ability to adapt to changing environments and work related challenges
  • Flexibility in the place you may see clients and coworkers
  • Dressing in a way that is conducive to the professional environment.
  • Flexibility to shift gears in challenges.
  • Actively listen to what people are saying
8. Behavioral Skills
  • Requires the ability to self-regulate emotions and choose behaviors that are professional
  • Using a self-care coping plan even during high stress situations.

In the case of a qualified individual with a documented disability, appropriate and reasonable accommodations will be made unless to do so would fundamentally alter the essential training elements, cause undue hardship, or produce a direct threat to the safety of the patient or student.

Accessibility Services Statement

The College has a legal obligation to provide appropriate accommodations for students with documented disabilities. If you have a disability and are seeking accommodations, you should contact the Student Accessibility Services (SAS) office (Sink Building; (828) 694-1813; access@blueridge.edu). Students can contact SAS at any time, however they are encouraged to initiate this process as soon as possible (prior to the start of classes and/or field experience).

2026-27 Identity/Statement of Educational Purpose (V4)

Beginning the 2026-27 academic year, all “Identity/Statement of Educational Purpose” forms must be completed in the Offices of Financial Aid. 

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