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What is Human Services?

Human services refers to the area of employment and study dealing with individuals considered on the fringe of society and need of assistance. Groups often the focus of such assistance include the homeless, mentally ill, individuals with drug seeking behavior, the abused and more.

Individuals working in this field will utilize a variety of methods to work with these groups and the individuals within them. This is accomplished through a variety of means, including direct assistance, policy change, long term planning, and more. Interaction and assistance is determined by the body or employer delivering such assistance, often through agencies at the local, state or federal level given a instruction to help ease the problems described above.

Individuals in this field are often required to travel to various neighborhoods or regions that may be considered dangerous as part of their daily, weekly or monthly duties in order to provide assistance or perform a given service.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$50,710

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

26.91%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

631,730

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Human Services Degree

This private university originally started as a men-exclusive institution in October 1898. It became a co-educational college in 1916 where its courses were expanded to accommodate more students. Its 73-acre urban campus is situated in Boston, Massachusetts along with the Fenway Cultural District. Apart from its main campus, the university has multiple satellite and regional locations including research institutes in Toronto and Vancouver, Canada. This institution operates with nine colleges and schools offered in more than 90 majors and concentration courses. It features a cooperative education learning program that prepares students for real and practical working experience outside school. Students mostly live inside the campus, this university serves about 27,000 students per enrollment basis in all of its campuses. 

The top ranked Human Services degree could be earned after finishing at least 64 semester hours of study with a concentration of four courses and at least one specialization course for study. An internship (HUSV 4994) is another requisite before finishing the program. This program will help students to develop an understanding of social inequality, and the impact on it at individual and organizational levels. This program emphasizes a blend of experiential, research, and lecture-based training. After graduation, career pathways for this program include roles in counseling, political management, and community development. 

Acceptance Rate

18.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

This private university was established by Virginia Baptists in 1830. Founded by Rev. Edward Baptist, the institution was officially built and named Richmond College in 1834. Its main campus located in Richmond, Virginia is about 350 acres featuring red-bricked and gothic architecture-styled infrastructures. This institution offers three undergraduate schools with more than 100 major programs. This liberal arts school admits about 4,000 students from different US states and countries in the world. Moreover, the school has more than 160 student organizations to enjoy including fraternities, sororities, and clubs. Notable alumni from this university are Grammy award-winning producer Steve Buckingham and Josh Abrahamson. 

Unfortunately, the university doesn’t offer a program in human services. Otherwise, as an alternative option, one could take an undergraduate degree in human services at this university. Students who study sociology employ knowledge of human actions and their consequences. The program also will provide modern insights on social disparities, aging, gender roles, and ethnicity.  A sociology major is required to take ten core concentration units and six elective units related to sociology. Students who finish this program pursue careers in social services, public health, urban planning, and education or health administration. 

Acceptance Rate

28.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

This private research university started as Columbian College in 1821. This non-denominational university was named after the first president of the USA, George Washington who endowed a portion of his wealth to establish this institution. Located in the center of Washington DC, this 43-acre campus is divided into 14 colleges and schools offering more than seventy-one discipline programs. Referred to as the ‘Most Politically Active’ school in the USA, its alumni are most often hired in government agencies including the diplomatic corps. Student enrollment every semester could reach at least 27,000 with extensive student life programs and more than 450 student organizations. 

Part of the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, the Human Services and Social Justice degree prepares students to become future leaders in any non-profit agency or institution, government, and private companies. Its instructions are empowered with a combination of topics in sociology, counseling, and psychology. The 42 credit undergraduate degree program consists of six credit elective courses, 30 credit required courses, and six prerequisites. Moreover, a combined degree in Masters in Public Administration is also being offered upon taking additional 12 credit hour units. A flexible minor is also offered on this program upon taking majors in any related programs such as public health, sustainability, and political science. 

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Also known as SU, this private university was established in 1813 by the Methodical Episcopal Church.  Its campus sits in the University Hill neighborhood of Syracuse, New York with two campuses referred to as North and South. The North campus, the main one is surrounded by eclectic designed academic buildings and halls. It's organized into 13 schools and colleges offering more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. Apart from that, it provides international programs offering joint education with other affiliated universities. Moreover, it has academic centers in Beijing, Istanbul, Hongkong, and London. Notable alumni in this university are the recipient of three Nobel Prize laureates, 33 Olympic medalists, and a president in the USA. 

The Social Work program prepares students for hands-on experience towards an extensive placement in local human service agencies. Nonetheless, the program offers bachelor's and master's degrees in social work. Its undergraduate degree offers a 120 credit course that promotes competent knowledge and skills in social welfare, practice, research, and field practicum. Accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, this program sponsors study abroad opportunities to deserving students with academic excellence. Moreover, the master of human services program is a 60 credit course consisting of two setups, the two years 60 credit program for non-social work majors and the Advanced Standing Program. 

Acceptance Rate

44.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

This private liberal arts college was established in 1881 as a Baptist Female Seminary. Started as an exclusive school for black women, it expanded and soon began to open for co-educational learning in the mid-1900s. It is located in urban Atlanta, Georgia with a campus sized at about 39 acres. It currently has over 30 academic majors with extending partnerships with different universities to fund students for scholarships and financial aid. This college leads in the US as the institution for which receives the Gates Millenium Scholarship. Incorporated with a student enrollment of about 2,000, it mostly represents African American women who come from different parts of the USA. 

The Human Services major is an integrated course of which could be learned through several disciplines including economics, political science, and sociology. Its 40 credit hour curriculum consists of cognate, required courses, major electives, and an internship program. Moreover, special sequences could be offered as additional units for students seeking a career in the healthcare industry or taking it as a pre-law course. After graduation, a career in drug rehabilitation centers, preventive correction centers, and other non-NGO social service agencies could potentially take as a career path.

Acceptance Rate

43.44

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

This private Catholic university was founded in 1949 as an exclusive school for women. It had significantly expanded in the 1970s when the school became co-educational and funding from endowments flourished on it. The university is organized into eight schools and colleges with more than 89 undergraduate and graduate programs to study with. A campus size spanning 180 acres, it sits atop the edge of mesa with overlooking views of Mission Bay and other parts of San Diego, California. A popular destination for international students, this university has been constantly one of the most beautiful campuses in the USA. 

The School of Social Work at USD offers programs for both undergraduate and graduate students in social work studies. The 65 unit BS Social Work consists of a curriculum that encompasses coursework in human behavior, social policy, family studies, and cultural pluralism. Apart from that, a fieldwork practicum is required before graduation. Moreover, the master's program entails a flexible study setup with two distinct concentrations, direct practice and administration, and community development. For a short-lived course, a human services certificate could be taken as a potential career enhancement for its accreditation in several parts of the USA. 

Acceptance Rate

48.69

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Informally known as U-Dub, this public university is one of the oldest institutions on the West Coast being founded in 1861. Its pioneering donors included prominent leaders in Seattle such as Arthur Denny, Edward Lander, and Mary Terry which donated pieces of their land to establish this university. It currently spans 703 acres with four campuses denoted as north, south, east, and west. In total, it has more than 500 buildings and 26 extensive libraries offering bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees in over 140 departments. Having a student population of about 48,000 annually, it boasts over 800 active student organizations. The university spends a lot in research and development with collaborations on major tech industry companies such as Microsoft, Amazon, and Nintendo. 

The School of Social Work develops undergraduate and graduate degree programs to prepare individuals on extending their understanding of societal dilemmas and struggles about injustices, discrimination, family and community issues, gender inequality, and public health. The BA Social Work program consists of a 180 credit hour curriculum that entails lecture, research, and experiential learning approaches. Moreover, the Master of Social Work, ranked #3 in the USA, offering three distinct pathways to cater to every student’s availability upon taking the course. It consists of mainly research-based and management patterned instructions to prepare students for leadership in nonprofit and service-based institutions. 

Acceptance Rate

51.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

This liberal arts college was established in 1907 through the efforts of Louis and William Huggins. Its 1000 acre size is located in rural Point Lookout, Missouri overlooking Lake Taneycomo. This Christian college is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church with required courses in religious studies. It offers more than 30 academic programs with about 1,500 students enrolled. Most of the students enrolled in this college received financial aid or scholarships through several student work programs and donations. Also known as C of O, this college strictly prohibits the use of tobacco and alcohol adhering to its Christian faith values. Notable alumni from this college include several actors, writers, and top-ranked government officials. 

The College of the Ozarks offers an undergraduate degree in Family Studies and Social Services with a double emphasis in marriage and family and social work. Both majors could be taken upon taking 54 credit hours. Otherwise, it's required to take 33 credit hours to cater only a single emphasis on social work. The social services major explores practical skills and knowledge on behavioral theories, therapeutic models, and civic engagement on American ideals with human servicing. Moreover, a minor degree in social services could be studied for only 18 credit hours. 

Acceptance Rate

10.26

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

This public university is the fourth largest institution in Florida. It's founded in 1956 by the former US representative named Samuel Gibbons, often referred to as the ‘Father of USF’. Formerly known as an exclusive school for whites, the university historically admitted the first African American student in 1961. It is organized into 14 colleges with three campuses located in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota, Florida. Its Tampa campus spans 1562 acres and holds most of its 180 undergraduate majors, graduate, specialist, and doctoral-level degree programs. Admitting more than 50,000 students, it incorporates academic and extracurricular activities that students could participate in during their stay in the university.

The School of Social Work at the University of South Florida explores undergraduate and graduate degree programs in social work studies. The Bachelor of Social Work consists of 120-degree hour study finished for four years of study. Moreover, it offers a master's degree program in social work with flexible courses provided full or part-time. An online advanced standing program is also offered in all 50 states that could be completed for 3 full-time semesters. A pathway onwards undergraduate to masters program is also being offered in this university. 

Acceptance Rate

47.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

This public land grant university started as a college preparatory school in 1851. It became a university after receiving a land grant status through the Morrill Act of 1862. Spanning at 2,700 acres, this institution is mainly located in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota, both divided on the east and west banks of the Mississippi River. It has five campuses with the largest in Twin Cities accommodating more than 50,00 students every semester. It currently offers about 143 undergraduate programs and 200 graduate degree programs. Referred to as one of the Public Ivies universities, it’s a high research integrated institution known for its discoveries in supercomputers, infusion pumps, cosmic rays, bone marrow transplant, and many more. 

The Certificate in Human Services Leadership is a 12 credit hour course, six from required courses and six from elective choices. Prerequisite upon entry into the program is at least six years of professional experience in a related field and a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. The certificate will extend leadership skills in public and non-profit organizations with a deeper understanding of philanthropic funding, operations, and structures. It's a human-centered design curriculum with a blend of on and off-campus lectures and training. 

Acceptance Rate

56.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

This Christian liberal arts college was established in 1848 through a minister named John Black Johnston of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America. It is located in a suburban area of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania with a 110-acre campus. It consists of more than 30 undergraduate major programs and a few master's studies. It’s a highly accredited institution with different prestigious councils and organizations including the American Chemical Society and Council of Independent Colleges. All programs must be subject to Biblical studies or theology to emphasize reformed Christian views. It admits about 1400 undergraduate students with more than 90 full-time faculty and staff. 

The Human Services major prepares the students in a career pathway to a wide array of private and government service sectors including welfare, child, youth, and community centers. The major explores academic disciplines in sociology and psychology with minimal coursework in biology. It focused on promoting Christian views of service towards other people. Also, an internship is offered in the last year of study through a local service agency.  In addition, a master's program (Masters in Social Work) is provided to eligible graduates who want to extend their knowledge on social services. 

Acceptance Rate

53.23

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

This private college started in 1989 to serve students having learning disabilities including ADHD and dyslexia. It was initially founded by Martha Glines and Patricia Lathan who were advocates of the cause. After a few years, the school was accredited to cater to college courses awarding associate and bachelor degrees. Its historically located in downtown Leesburg, Florida of which is 50 miles northwest of Central Florida. It currently offers eight major programs with about 300 undergraduate students. This small institution is a highly accredited liberal arts school that specifically aims to deliver preparation for youths with ADHD and other learning differences. 

The degree in Human Services is offered as a bachelor's and associate arts degree in this college. The major is designed to prepare students for a potential career in mental health counseling, special education, and business administration. The curriculum entails students to analyze and extend their knowledge of psychological theories, social services, and management. Nonetheless, the program includes various seminars and an internship for complete immersion upon studying it. 

Acceptance Rate

50.7

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Started more than 64 years ago, this public university began as the Orange County State College upon a state legislature’s enactment on its creation. It comprises eight schools and colleges with more than 57 bachelor's degrees, 52 graduate degrees, and three doctorates offered. It has the largest student population amongst 23 campuses in the California State University System with more than 40,000 admitted students. Located in Fullerton, California, it sits on a 236-acre campus. It also has a satellite campus in Irvine and an ongoing expansion in the south of the Nutwood area. It’s a highly accredited institution with a large population of Hispanic and Asian heritage. 

Under the College of Health and Human Development, the Social Work program employs undergraduate and master's degrees that will prepare students for careers in social services, including non-profit, government, or private organizations. It has an existing two-year program in Social Work that offers foundation and advanced curricula designed for students to provide practical knowledge and skills with social work. Additionally, a master's program is catered for professionals on a related career to enhance their knowledge and skills on management with strategic techniques on improving services.  

Acceptance Rate

52.69

Student to Faculty Ratio

25:1

USF is a private Jesuit university started as ‘St. Ignatius Academy’ in 1855. Father Anthony Maraschi, the founder and first president help by chartering the school into a college to offer undergraduate degrees. In 1859, it was granted to open a co-educational curriculum of college degrees. Currently, the university offers more than 230 undergraduate, graduate, professional, and certificate programs. Apart from its 55-acre main hilltop campus in San Francisco, California, it has four additional campuses just located around the area. It has more than 40 institutional partners all over the world including those in Argentina, Belgium, Chile, China, and El Salvador. 

The BA in Sociology considers studies in social theories and policies with implications on justice and discrimination. Students will perform research works, analysis, and inquiry on understanding different social structures of the society. It has four major concentrations, mainly in criminology, education, globalization, and critical diversity. An option for a three-year degree curriculum is available completing a full course of 16 credits for three consecutive fall and spring semesters and as well as two summer terms. An internship will be given for each student in a variety of nonprofits and organizations around the Bay area to provide the necessary skills and knowledge for the chosen career in social services. 

Acceptance Rate

64.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Established in February 1946, this university began as a technical institute built on the abandoned site of Harmon General Hospital after World War II. It was named after the founder R.G. LeTourneau who funded and most advocated the construction of the school. Spanning about 162 acres, this private university is located in Longview, Texas. It's divided into eight schools and colleges with more than 140 major studies being offered. An inter-denominational Christian University requires all of its students to take a 12-hour course in theology to connect deeply into the Christian ministry. As of now, the school has about 3,000 students with more than half of its population taking undergraduate degree courses. 

The BS Human Services program is employed with Christ-centered courses influencing subjects of psychology, sociology, criminal justice, and ethics. This 120 credit hour BS degree program is 100% online featuring an accelerated format to finish each course at a minimum of five weeks of study. The traditional route for this program consists of capstone courses (36 credits), core concentration courses (27 credits), major electives (9 credits), and theology courses (12 credits). Graduates from LETU via this program are expected to pursue versatile career options in the healthcare and social assistance industries or continue graduate school studies in case management, social work, and rehabilitation. 

Acceptance Rate

44.51

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Loyola University Chicago is a private Jesuit institution founded in 1870 by a Jesuit priest named Fr. Arnold Damen. It started at St. Ignatius College before it was renamed in 1909 as Loyola University. It consists of more than 10 schools and colleges offering over 80 undergraduate and 140 graduate or professional programs. Situated in Chicago, Illinois, the university has six campuses scattered in the area with satellite campuses in Beijing and Hothat Chi Minh City. The Lakeshore campus spans 105 acres sitting along the shores of Lake Michigan and the Edgewater neighborhood. The university admits about 17,000 students with more than 150,000 alumni including dozens of local and national political leaders and Emmy, Grammy, and Pulitzer winners. 

The School of Social Work offers an excellent curriculum with strong liberal arts and economic background with various opportunities for fieldwork and practical experience. The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a minimum 60 credit hour program comprising core requirements, electives, and an internship. Apart from that, the university offers a master's and Ph.D. program that aims to extend more knowledge in social services by applying clinical research and diverse leadership practice in the field of services. The Ph.D. program could be accomplished for about two years of study. Moreover, it has a five-year BSW to MSW program of which a curriculum designed to increase career prospects and enhance knowledge on the study. 

Acceptance Rate

67.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

One of the oldest Christian evangelical universities, Taylor University is a private institution was founded in 1846 as a female college in Fort Wayne, Upland, Indiana. It's named after Bishop William Taylor who was one of the people who funded the university. Apart from the 952-acre campus, it also includes a 680-acre arboretum and an 80-acre undeveloped land. It also hosts two study abroad programs in Ecuador and the Republic of Ireland. It also offers more than 90 undergraduate programs with 61 majors and few graduate-level study degrees. Yearly, it admits about 2100 students with enrollments from 46 states and 43 countries throughout the world. 

The Social Work major integrates Christian values into the curriculum with professional courses learning theories and principles in sociology, psychology, and biology. This major includes lecture-based instruction and hands-on service experiences that could incorporate into a day-to-day social services career. Its curriculum is divided into five areas such as human behavior, practice, research, policy, and field instruction. Degree options in social work are bachelor of arts or science depending on one’s preference. This nationally accredited social work program requires a 480-hour practicum in hospitals or refugee settlements and 30-hour volunteer work in organizations like prison ministries and mental health facilities. 

Acceptance Rate

68.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

SUNY Brockport is a constituent college part of the State University of New York (SUNY) opened in 1841 as a private academy. It became a public and coeducational institution in the late 1800s with only a few courses being offered. This public liberal arts college is located in Brockport, New York with more than 50 majors, minors, and 50 graduate programs. Its 464-acre main campus sits in a suburban area with faculty and administration buildings, residence halls, and alumni houses. The student population comprises about 8,200 with 2,000 people taking post-graduate studies. Notable alumni from this university include lawyers, actors, artists, television anchors, and managers. 

The Social Work curriculum is designed for students to learn more about social and political policy, research, and activism. It accepts limited 75-full time students who must earn junior status with 54 credits. A total of 120 credit hours, this program consists of prerequisite courses, major departmental requirements, and elective courses. Also, an opportunity for a field practicum or internship in Vietnam is one thing to look forward to for a few students. Moreover, the Masters of Social Work (MSW) is a 60-credit hour program that could be completed full-time for two years and part-time in three years. Also, the Gerontology Certificate Program is specifically available to seek work on the elderly-related career path. 

Acceptance Rate

54.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

This private for-profit college was established in 1933 by Mildred King as a women’s business school. It shifted as a co-educational institution in 1972 offering more associate degrees. Named after the fifth president of the USA James Monroe, this college offers more than ten undergraduate, graduate, and associate degree programs.  It is mainly located in New York with three existing major campuses in different parts of New York and a satellite site in Manhattan. It’s a highly accredited institution with over 6,700 students enrolled in its programs. Having a student to faculty ratio of 14 is to 1, the college predominantly comprises students coming from a minority group. Notable alumni are mostly professional athletes including Orlando Sanchez, Tuzar Skipper, and Christopher Belcher. 

The School of Criminal and Social Justice offers a Bachelor of Science in Human Services. This eight-semester program consists of online and on-campus study with emphasis on leadership and management most specifically on adult daycare systems and residential care facilities. The 124 credit hour curriculum includes major-related and general education courses both equated at 60 credit units.  It also includes two field practicum opportunities that could be experienced during the last few years of study. Moreover, the AS Degree in Human Services is a four-semester program with one field service opportunity centering on extending the knowledge and skills with services on children and the elderly. 

Acceptance Rate

47.99

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Also termed as UD, this private-public research university was founded in 1743 by a Presbyterian minister named Francis Alison. Started as an “open school”, the institution formally operated in 1834 upon its transfer to Newark, Delaware. The 2012 acre suburban campus is organized into eight colleges and five schools offering 3 associate degrees, 148 bachelor's degrees, 121 master's programs, and 55 doctoral programs. It’s a Science and Technology and Advanced Research (STAR) campus with research facilities in biopharmaceuticals, vehicle to grid technology, and energy. It’s a large institution with a student population of 24,000.  Also, it’s the first American university to start a study abroad program of which other universities have been incorporating into their curriculum. 

The top rated major in Human Services prepares coursework in various subject matters including psychology, public policy, social work, and human resources. It’s a great program with an individualized study on the area of emphasis in counseling, adults with disabilities, and youth development. It's intended for professionals who can put up a career in non-profit organizations, schools, hospitals,  and advocacy institutions. An accredited institution by the Council for Standards in Human Services, graduate students could also pursue master's in social work, counseling, and public administration. 

Acceptance Rate

71.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

This private evangelical Christian university was founded in 1913 as part of the Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. Named after the first American Baptist missionary, Adoniram Judson, this university is located in Elgin, Illinois. It has two existing campuses with the main 90-acre campus situated nearby the banks of Fox River. The primary campus includes 17 different buildings with sustainable and energy-efficient architectural styles. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the university offers more than 60 undergraduate majors, minors, and pre-professional programs. Its curriculum centers on Christian values with most of its programs including theology courses. 

The MS Human Services Administration focuses on both human understanding and executive organizational function. Students enrolled aim to gain developmental theories on human services adhering to Christian morals and values. This 37 credit hour course could be attended for a few hours online or on-campus per week. Designed for working professionals, the courses could be finished at least for 19 months of study. After graduation, diverse career opportunities could be explored including family counseling, leading human services agencies, or an entry-level social worker. This program is available to two existing campuses of this university. 

Acceptance Rate

38.53

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Part of the City University of New York, this public institution was established in 1870 as a women’s college. It became co-educational in 1946 upon its expansion to multiple courses or programs. Hunter has a single campus and two satellite campuses located in Manhattan, New York. The main campus stands in the metropolitan area of New York in three complex towers interconnected by skywalks. The college is organized in five schools with more than 70 programs leading to BS or BA, 10 BA-MA joint degrees, and 75 graduate programs. It admits a total of about 22,000 students of which are taking undergraduate and graduate studies. 

The major in Sociology at CUNY Hunter College provides an opportunity for students to pursue a career in social work, business, law, and public administration. The program will help students understand societal norms and the relationship as individuals, groups, and communities. Moreover, the five-year BS to MS program path distinctly focuses on social research offering specialization areas and training in media and marketing research, and policy analysis on the public and private sector. Graduates of the program pursue a career in prestigious companies including ABC, Comedy Central, New York Times, and Warner Brothers. 

Acceptance Rate

35.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

This private Jesuit university was founded in 1888 by William O’Hara, the first bishop of Scranton. It is mainly located in Scranton, Pennsylvania sitting on a 58-acre urban land with three existing colleges. The university offers more than 65 bachelor's degree programs, 29 master's degrees, 43 minors, and 38 undergraduate concentrations. One of the best universities in the northern USA, it’s a liberal arts-centered institution with about 6000 students admitted to its undergraduate and graduate programs. Being a Catholic institution, students are required to take two theology courses, two philosophy courses, and an elective course on any of these programs. 

The BS Counselling and Human Services is a 124 credit hour program provided for students who want to pursue a career in the field of ‘helping professions’. The program includes a strong technical and educational background with diverse classroom lectures, hands-on training, and extracurricular activities. It incorporates 150 to 200-hour internship placements with real-life community-based learning through public and private partnered organizations. Graduates from this program often took a career in various human and social services agencies as a case, rehabilitation, or child worker and counselor. 

Acceptance Rate

76.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

SJC is a private liberal arts college founded as a female exclusive school by the Sisters of St. Joseph in Brentwood. It began with only 14 graduates before expanding in 1970 to cater to male students. It currently has two existing campuses both located in New York. The Suffolk campus in Brooklyn, New York offers degrees in more than 26 majors and pre-professional programs. The campus admits at least 1000 students which include extracurricular activities such as clubs and organizations for which students could join in. Apart from that, it’s a member of various athletic groups sponsoring sports teams including baseball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, tennis, and swimming. 

The Bachelor of Sciences degree with a degree in human services has been created for aspiring practitioners and leaders in the human servicing industry or sector. This 120 credit hour curriculum will provide knowledge and skills on effective counseling, legal management, and senior services. It includes a highly supervised internship on agency partners within the Greater New York area for two semesters. Apart from the baccalaureate degree, short certificate programs in alcoholism and addiction counseling, care management, and gerontology could be taken in this university. This program could be flexibly studied with its online option most intended for working adults. 

Acceptance Rate

72.99

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

This private Catholic university began after it was chartered by Fr. Mazzuchelli in the state of Wisconsin. Nonetheless, the college transferred to Riverforest, Illinois to where it's now located in 1901 and has changed leadership through the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters. Its 40-acre wooded campus in a suburban area is just 10 miles from downtown Chicago. It offers more than 40 undergraduate majors, pre-professional programs, and post-baccalaureate degrees to its students. It has a total of 2900 student admission accompanied by various clubs, associations, and organizations that students could enjoy with. It’s a highly accredited institution by various associations in business, nursing, and teaching education. 

The BPS Human Services is an interdisciplinary major designed to master research and data analysis skills in related human servicing fields. In less than 20 months, the program will prepare its students for effective counseling and crisis intervention of which could be essential for government and social service agencies. Moreover, a fast track of eight weeks could be accomplished through its online-based program. For those who want to pursue an additional study for this program, it's recommended to take the MA in Meditation and Conflict Resolution to improve leadership skills and credentials for the prospect of employment. 

Acceptance Rate

64.34

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Top Degrees in Human Services

There are a variety of degree programs in human services to explore from top colleges and universities around the country.  Instead of visiting each one, we have assembled an overview of the degree programs in one place to quickly allow you to gather information about degree options and school information in one place.

After gathering key data about each school’s human services program, you will be able to narrow down schools based on your personal priorities and objectives.  With a list of 3-8 schools in your proverbial quiver, you can then schedule a school tour or visit with their admissions team over the phone or via online communication tools.  The degrees in human services include the following:

Human Services Certificate Programs

Earning a certificate in human services online or in a classroom will come in two primary types: undergraduate and graduate.  The undergraduate certificate in human services is a series of courses created to provide students with the essentials in human services.  With foundational knowledge and a grasp on the key principles, students can continue their education to earn a degree or step into the work force in a variety of entry-level positions.

Graduate certificates in human services, on the other hand, are clusters of upper-level classes designed for experienced professionals or qualified students.  Working professionals utilize certificate programs to continue their education, upskill, compete for jobs, prepare for a job transition, or to remain relevant in their current positions.  Certificate programs can last a few weeks up to a year depending on the program’s design and curricular constructs.

Human Services Associate's Degrees

You can earn an associate’s degree in human services online or in class, depending on your preference and school’s offerings.  An associate degree can be conferred as an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) as a function of the curricular design of the program.

Both the AA and AS degree programs mix general education courses such as English composition, philosophy, communications, and math in conjunction with core degree programs.  Core classes in the associate degree track in human services can include topics including: psychology, sociology, counseling, leadership, and criminal justice.  Each school will provide a unique mix of core classes that color the overall program given the blend of classes taken towards degree completion.

Human Services Bachelor's Degrees

A bachelor’s degree in human services is available online or on-site at most schools.  The bachelor’s degree is conferred as a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) depending on the school’s design and program emphasis.  The bachelor’s degree in human services is a 4-year program for full-time students and will take part-time students a longer period of time to complete given the course load.

Students enrolled in an online bachelor’s degree program will have the opportunity to elect a self-directed degree program or one of the following tracks in human services: criminal justice, addictions, courts and the legal system, child and adolescent development, cultural studies, business, counseling, crisis response and trauma, health and wellness, life coaching, military resilience, psychology, leadership and administration, global social justice, and civic engagement.  Each undergraduate pathway can be supplemented with an adjacent minor or minor in another field of study to help round out your desired skill set.

Human Services Master's Degrees

The master’s degree in human services is a graduate degree program conferred as a Master of Science (MS) or Master of Arts (MA) as a correlation to the program’s emphasis and design.  The master’s degree program is a 1-2 year program for full-time students with areas of concentration in the following disciplines:

  • Business
  • Marriage and Family
  • Children, Families, and the Law
  • Addiction and Recovery
  • Crisis Response and Trauma
  • Christian Ministries
  • Family Advocacy and Public Policy
  • Life Coaching
  • Health and Wellness
  • Executive Leadership

Each area of concentration will have a unique set of curricula to prepare students to work with different people with various needs.  Upon program completion, graduate students will be equipped to step into roles such as program director, addiction counselor, development director, human services professional, agency coordinator, foster care counselor, family services specialist, emergency management coordinator, social service manager, health services manager, medical manager, or community services advocate.

PhD in Human Services

A doctorate degree in human services can be conferred as a PhD in Human Services, PhD in Social Work, PhD in Social Services, or Doctor of Social Work (DSW).  Doctorate degrees will take 4-6 years to complete depending on the course load, pace of the program, and time spent to complete the board-approved dissertation project.

Graduates with a PhD or DSW will be equipped to enter the workforce in administrative, professional, and managerial capacities in roles such as program analyst, consultant, coordinator, manager, director, administrator, research specialist, agency leader, policy analyst, or program director.

Human Services Requirements

A degree in human services prepares students with the skills and knowledge to work with individuals and groups with social, behavioral, or mental problems. Students will learn about the various groups that human services assists, the methods used for such assistance, and how to communicate and work with individuals within such groups.

Students in the studying human services may take additional courses to specialize their training. A bachelor's degree is typically required for entry level positions, with higher level degrees opening up jobs in supervisory positions and teaching posts.

Education in this field requires a cross section of study, utilizing skills used by psychologists, researchers, social workers, sociologists and criminologists in an attempt to better understand and thus better assist a given group. A curriculum in human services may include:

  • Children and Social Policy
  • Community Organization
  • Wealth and Poverty
  • Behavioral Science
  • Psychology

Benefits of Earning a Human Services Degree Online

As the quickest segment in postsecondary education, online learning is a bona fide option for many students for a variety of reasons. In fact, colleges across the nation are rapidly adding distance learning degree programs to keep pace with student demand and employer requests. You can quickly find online degree options by selecting from the schools below or by utilizing our proprietary online matching portal today. The top reasons to consider earning a human services degree online include:

  1. Reduced Costs The overall cost associated with a human services degree online tend to be less than classroom-based degree programs. The primary reasons for this difference include opportunity cost, room & board costs, and access to financial aid. More specifically, distance learning allows students to work and attend school concurrently thus saving on lost wages. In terms of rent savings, students enrolled in an online course are not required to live on campus saving on room and board costs. Lastly, by enrolling in an accredited distance learning program students have access to federal financial aid.
  2. Ease of Use A student enrolled in a college course via distance learning can hop online any time without restrictions of attending class at a prescribed time found with classroom-based programs. With fewer physical restrictions, a student can study at MIT while living in Los Angeles.
  3. Accreditation Colleges holding a regional and national accreditation is key to online degrees. In essence, accrediting agencies are independent entities charged with auditing a schools curriculum, procedures, and processes to determine quality outcomes. In most cases, students enrolled in an online human services degree will need to earn a degree from an accredited college. Lack of accreditation can potentially impact enrollment, financial aid, employment, and licensing.
  4. Curricular Design The sheer quality of human services online degrees have been found to be on par with traditional degree programs. You will find that distance learning degrees in human services parallel on-campus degrees with similar academic elements. Curriculum for certificate programs through graduate degrees can be found at most accredited universities and colleges.
  5. Flexible Scheduling Enrolling in an online degree program from a college or university will allow you to step in and out of class as it makes sense for you. This ability to have school fit your schedule is a major philosophical shift from the previous generations notion of college.
  6. Completion Time Online degrees in human services can be self-paced programs to allow you to decide when and how much time to invest in your degree. Additionally, many schools offer programs every 6-8 weeks which allows students to enroll throughout the year versus fitting into the traditional school year cycle.

Employment in Human Services

A career in human services may require licensing depending on the state. States requiring licensure will have their own requirements, and it is recommended that individuals identify such requirements for their respective states.

Positions at the entry level will have the human services worker utilizing methods outlined by a programs objective to assist individuals in need as defined by the program. Target groups may be defined broadly, but typically involve with illness, poverty, substance abuse problems, physical abuse, and so on.

Human services workers will have an understanding of the methods used for assistance as well as the managerial aspects of the program. Human services follow a similar line as social work, with the difference being on programs targeting groups in a given area rather than solely on individuals. Individuals in this field should be compassionate and sensitive, able to navigate through the various groups being assisted with ease.

Human Services Jobs & Salary Outlook

Human services jobs are expected to grow faster than average as the need for professionals to assist in resolving social issues increases. Some limitations may occur for positions based on government funding due budgetary constraints, but the overall demand for such services will allow for the creation of new jobs. Work opportunities will most likely be higher in densely populated areas. The average salary for individuals working in human services is approximately $42,000 per year, with experience and education commanding higher salaries.

Human Services Resources

Individuals interested in human services may also be interested in social worksubstance abuse and addiction counseling, counseling psychology, guidance counselor, or clinical psychology.  More information about the industry can be obtained through national associations such as the Human Services Association (HSA) or the National Organization for Human Services (NOHS).  You will find topic-specific information along with member benefits such as research publications, conferences, and professional networking opportunities for individuals in the human services domain.

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