mental health workers in big agencies and non- profits, as well as outpatient clinics. The first class began its coursework in September 2017. “We know from our conversations with large human service agencies that the need is there,” says Abelard. “These agencies are seeking our guidance to create a development strategy to attract and retain a more educated, diverse workforce. We have also identified a great number of students working in human service agencies who need a pathway to obtaining a bachelor’s degree.” William James started building the program two years ago. “It’s a program with unique flexibility, built on an innate understanding of the rigors of working full-time while trying to earn a college degree,” says Berman. “It’s a hybrid model in which students enter and progress through the three-year program in the same cohort. That allows them to work and study together and support one another.” Classes are held online, with on-campus classes held one or one-and-a-half Saturdays a month. Each year is composed of three semesters with two courses, a six-week break each summer and a field placement experience in the final year. One hundred hours of internship is required, accrued in increments of four to six hours a week. If students work in a field related to the program, they may be able to accrue field hours in their current position. Only a small number of schools offering psychology and counseling programs have put together a comprehensive offering that is this agile and relevant.” Yousef AlAjarma, PhD 16 RAPPORT | Feature Story