Human services is an important degree, as it teaches students to become professionals who are able to advocate for the needs of those in their community and identify resources for them. If you are someone who strives to help others, a human services degree may be for you. With this degree, there are many career options available to you, including some with a high salary potential. While you may already be involved in human services to some capacity, a master’s degree in human services prepares you to lead organizations that provide services to a community, especially to those who need help the most.
This article reviews a total of 20 human services degrees across the United States, including those that are offered online and/or on campus. These include:
- Kansas State University
- Bryan College
- University of Nebraska, Lincoln
- The University of Arizona
- California State University, Northridge
- Liberty University
- East Tennessee State University
- Lenoir-Rhyne University
- University of Oklahoma
- Purdue University Global
- Cocordia University, St. Paul
- Chestnut Hill College
- Wilmington University
- Lehigh University
- St. Joseph’s College New York
- McDaniel College
- Webster University
- Texas Southern University
- University of Baltimore/Coppin State University Collaborative
- Albertus Magnus College
Table of Contents
Human Services vs Social Work Degree
A human services degree is different from a degree in social work in that it provides specialized training in administration or other roles having to do with running an organization in the human services industry. A social work degree typically leads to a career as a social worker. Both degrees teach students in-depth information in subjects having to do with human behavior, such as sociology, counseling, and more. However, a social worker often becomes licensed and typically performs different duties within the scope of their career than someone with a degree in human services might. For example, if you wish to provide mental health therapy to people, it may be ideal for you to get a master’s degree in social work (MSW) and become licensed. However, if you would rather be on the administrative side of running a social services organization, a human services degree may be for you. The two degrees overlap in some ways, and someone with a degree in one of the two areas may go into the career of the other, but each generally has a specific career ahead of them.
Human Services Degree Overview
A human services master’s degree typically requires the completion of about 30-39 units/credits on average, which takes about two years (four semesters) to complete. Some schools may have part-time options, which might take longer. A human services degree covers a lot of different subjects to prepare you for leadership, administrative, or managerial roles within social service or other organizations. As such, there is a lot of information that needs to be covered within the two years of the program. Many programs offer different concentrations that a student can take to add to their education and gain knowledge on a specific topic, such as:
- Community and Social Services
- Crisis Intervention
- Addiction
- Counseling
- Marriage and Family
- Public Health
- Administration
- And many more
While working towards your degree, choosing a specialization that is aligned with your interests can help you customize your education and ensure that you are an expert in a particular area of human services.
Many human services degree programs at the master’s level also require the completion of an internship, which is usually around 200 hours. This allows a student to apply what they learned in the classroom to a real-world experience in a professional setting. That way, the student receives a well-rounded experience where what they are taught is reinforced through direct experience.
Why Complete a Human Services Degree?
Completing a human services degree opens up the opportunity for a variety of careers that involve helping people. Every part of the world, including the US, often has some level of social problems that can affect the people who live there. The solutions to these problems can be complex and difficult to navigate for the people who live there. However, there are many different types of organizations that work to fix these problems by helping those in need either directly or indirectly. These organizations might be nonprofits, governmental, health clinics, and more, and employ a number of different professionals who can help make the organization function to better the community.
A master’s degree in human services may allow you to make changes at a higher, administrative level. You might have the opportunity to have more say in the functions of the organization. With a bachelor’s degree in human services, you can still help others in roles such as a case manager or community health worker.
Earning a degree in human services can be very rewarding for many people. Although it is not without its challenges, you can make a real difference in the lives of others.
What Can You Do With a Human Services Degree?
With a master’s degree in human services, there are many options to tailor the career to your preferences. If your program offers it, you can choose a specialization that matches your interests. Upon graduation, you may have the option to work for different organizations, including:
- Social services agencies
- Government agencies
- Medical clinics
- Rehab clinics
- Adoption agencies
- Public health agencies
- Nonprofits
- Educational institutions
- And more.
Each of these kinds of organizations employ a number of professionals to help them meet their goals. Below is an overview of several careers you might be able to have with this degree, and the median salary to expect, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
- Medical and Health Services Managers
- Median Salary: $104,830
- Job Outlook: 28%
- Emergency Management Director
- Median Salary: $79,180
- Job Outlook: 3%
- Social and Community Service Managers
- Median Salary: $73,240
- Job Outlook: 9%
- Community Health Worker
- Median Salary: $46,190
- Job Outlook: 14%
- Behavioral or Substance Abuse Counselor
- Median Salary: $49,710
- Job Outlook: 18%
10 Online Human Services Degrees
Receiving an online education can be beneficial for many people. For example, those who are pursuing a master’s degree are often already employed full-time. Online classes can allow one to expand their career and income opportunities by earning an advanced degree, all without needing to quit their job. Others thrive in school when they are able to take classes online due to having more flexible options for their environment. Others lead busy lives with families and other obligations, so having the flexibility of online classes can provide some relief to their schedules. Each of the ten universities below offer an online option for a masters in human services program.
Kansas State University – Manhattan, Kansas
- Manhattan, KS
- 2 – 3 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Family and Community Services
Tuition: $200 per credit hour
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Number of Units: 36
Length: Two to three years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The masters in Family and Community Services at KSU offers a flexible online option through the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance. This program teaches students how to apply their knowledge to real-life scenarios, so they will be prepared to take on a professional role after graduation. Kansas State University has been educating students since they opened in 1863.
Bryan College – Dayton, Tennessee
- Dayton, TN
- 1.5 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Human Services and Lifespan Development
Tuition: $595 per credit hour plus fees
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Number of Units: 30
Length: 18 months
Format: 100% online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Bryan College is a Christian college that is regionally accredited and offers degrees ranging from an associates to a PhD. Their MA in Human Services and Lifespan Development helps students gain skills to analyze individuals in their community for the state of their social, psychological, and spiritual health. Upon graduation, students will be able to help those they serve find services they need and provide them with support.
University of Nebraska Lincoln – Lincoln, Nebraska
- Lincoln, NE
- Four semesters
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Human and Family Services Administration
Tuition: $600 per credit
Accreditation: National Association for the Education of Young Children
Number of Units: 30
Length: Four semesters
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
University of Nebraska Lincoln has been educating students since 1869. The MS in Human and Family Services Administration at UNL provides students the knowledge and skills needed to become managers or administrators of human service organizations. To do so, they integrate four areas, including: family functioning, administration skills and knowledge, professional issues, and program design and evaluation. Each of these areas teach multiple aspects that a student might need to know in their future career.
The University of Arizona – Tucson, Arizona
- Tucson, AZ
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Human Services
Tuition: $15,000
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Number of Units: 30
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
At University of Arizona, students can earn an MA in Human Services that provides knowledge on how to become a leader of a service organization. The program includes features such as accelerated six week courses, with students taking one course at a time. There is zero application fee for the program, and students are permitted to transfer up to nine credits, as long as it is approved.
California State University Northridge – Northridge, CA
- Northridge, CA
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services
Tuition: $865
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Number of Units: 30
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
CSU Northridge’s MS in Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services is offered 100% online Students complete a total of ten courses while enrolled. CSUN features distinguished faculty to provide the knowledge students need to graduate prepared for their future career. This master’s degree is the first of its kind in Southern California, and focuses on training students on how to work with people who rely on assistive techology for their disability.
Liberty University – Lynchburg, Virginia
- Lynchburg, VA
- Four semesters
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling (non-licensure)
Tuition: $275 per credit hour
Accreditation: The Southern Association of Collegese and Schools Comission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Number of Units: 30
Length: Four semesters
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The Human Services Counseling master’s progrma at Liberty teaches students about human behavior as well as the specifics of “helping skills”, and the ethics and legality that go along with a profession in human services. Liberty provides a Christian education and integrates Biblical principles into their curriculum. While this program is in human services counseling, it does not prepare a student to become a licensed counselor. Students may transfer up to 15 semester hours into this program.
East Tennesee State University – Johnson City, Tennessee
- Johnson City, TN
- 1.5 – 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Individual, Family, and Community Sciences (formerly MS in Human Services)
Tuition: $613 per credit hour
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Number of Units: 36
Length: 1.5 – 2 years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
ETSU offers a MS in Individual, Family, and Community Sciences, which was previously known as their Human Services degree program. The program teaches students how to help people through administrative, managerial, or other leadership roles.
Lenoir-Rhyne University – Hickory, North Carolina
- Hickory, NC
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Human Services
Tuition: $18,150 total, 690 per credit hour
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Number of Units: 33
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The goal of the Lenoir-Rhyne University’s MA in Human Services is to give students the knowledge to create change in the world by helping others. Students will study human systems, information management, theory, and more. Both part-time and full-time programs are available. The program requires the completion of an internship, which can be completed in the area where a student lives.
University of Oklahoma – Norman, Oklahoma
- Norman, OK
- 2 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Arts in Human and Health Services Administration
Tuition: $3,710 per semester
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Number of Units: 33
Length: Two years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Purdue University Global – West Lafayette, Indiana
- West Lafayette, IN
- 1.5 years
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Human Services
Tuition: $420 per credit
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Number of Units: 45
Length: 1.5 years
Format: Online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The goal of Purdue University is to expand the knowledge of professionals who want to improve the quality of life for professionals. The education provided by Purdue in their MS in Human Services program is up-to-date for the 21st century and teaches students intervention techniques, effective service delivery, administration, program coordination, and more. Students have the option to choose among two concentrations: family and community services, or organizational and social services.
10 Campus-Based Human Services Degrees
Masters in human services programs that take place on campus might be the right format for many students. There are benefits to this format, just as there are benefits to attending online. Students who attend on-campus may feel more engaged when in a classroom with the professor and other students. Being on campus can also lead to building and expanding networks, which may be helpful for a future career. Below is a review of universities offering a masters degree in human services that takes place on campus, with some also including an online option as well.
Concordia University, St. Paul – St. Paul, Minnesota
- St. Paul, MN
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Human Services
Tuition: $475 per credit hour
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Number of Units: 36
Length: Two years
Format: On campus or online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Concordia University, St. Paul offers two specializations for their MA in Human Services. These include Trauma, Resilience, and Self-Care Strategies, or Forensic Behavioral Health. This gives students the opportunity for a variety of careers, such as detective work or supervising a human services organization. The MA program is a member of the CSHSE and follows their standards. Students will take courses in ethics, human services, human development, and multiculturalism.
Chestnut Hill College – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia, PA
- 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Human Services Management
Tuition: $665 per credit
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Number of Units: 36
Length: Two years
Format: On campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The MS in Human Services Management at Chestnut Hill College prepares students to become leaders who appreciate diversity and desire to make a difference in the world of social justice. Graduates of the program will go on to work in places such as non-profits, the criminal justice system, health and human service agences, and more. Chestnut Hill College is a member of the Council for Standards in Human Service Education, an organization that creates standards for those who are receiving an education in human services.
Wilmington University – New Castle or Brandywine, Delaware
- New Castle, DE
- 1 year minimum
- Online
Program:
Master of Science in Human Services
Tuition: $1,572 per course
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Number of Units: 33
Length: One year minimum
Format: In person or online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Wilmington University’s MS in Human Services opens the door for students to become leaders in the human services field. There are two concentrations offered: Administration of Human Services, or Human Services Practice. According to the university website, the Human Services program has been listed as the #1 most affordable degree program of its kind. While in the program, students will also complete a practicum to fully prepare for their career.
Lehigh University – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
- Bethlehem, PA
- 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Masters of Education (M.Ed) in Counseling and Human Services
Tuition: $1,545 per credit
Accreditation: Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC)
Number of Units: 60
Length: 24 months
Format: On campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Lehigh University’s M.Ed. Counseling and Human Services prepares students to become licensed as a licensed professional counselor upon graduation. In the program, students will complete 20 courses that help them gain skills to help individuals and families in their community, including intervention strategies.
St. Joseph’s College New York – Brooklyn and Long Island New York
- Brooklyn, NY
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Human Services Leadership
Tuition: $1,270 per credit
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Number of Units: 30
Length: Two years
Format: On campus or online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
St. Joseph’s College of New York provides students with an innovative, ground-breaking education that promotes leadership and teaches students how to lead with holistic care. AWhile completing the degree, students will complete Competency Application Project to assess their own skills and strength. Students will hone their skills in leadership, communication, and organizational development while in the program. Ideally, to apply, students will have earned a 3.0 minimum GPA in their undergraduate program and have relevant employment experience, along with the other admission requirements.
McDaniel College – Westminster, Maryland
- Westminster, MD
- 1 – 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Human Services Management
Tuition: $548 per credit
Accreditation: Middle State Commission on Higher Education
Number of Units: 30
Length: One to two years
Format: On campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The goal of the McDaniel College MS in Human Services Management is to give students the skills needed to manage community based organizations to benefit the people who need it most. Students who wish can participate in a five year bachelors-to-masters degree program. The program also offers the opportunity for a stipend and 100% scholarship. Students will apply what they learned to real-world settings.
Webster University – Webster Groves, Missouri
- St. Louis, MO
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Program:
Master of Arts in Human Services
Tuition: $730 per credit hour
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Number of Units: 33
Length: Two years
Format: On campus or online
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Webster University’s MA in Human Services prepares students to work in nonprofits, government agencies, educational settings, healthcare facilities, and more. Students will gain the skills to thrive as advocates and educators to peers and their community. As a part of the education, students will complete a 200 hour field experience to apply what they have learned and to create a network. Webster University employs faculty that are well-versed in the field and can educate to the highest standard.
Texas Southern University – Houston, Texas
- Houston, TX
- 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Master of Science in Human Services and Consumer Sciences
Tuition: $6,000 per term
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Number of Units: 30-36
Length: Two years
Format: On campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
The MS in Human Services and Consumer Sciences at Texas Southern University offers three concentrations to choose from: Child Development, Food and Nutrition, or Human Services and Consumer Sciences Comprehensive. Depending on the specific degree plan, students may complete a thesis or research project. There is also a non-thesis option for students with other goals. The thesis option is ideal for students who wqant to continue their education beyond the graduate level and expand their research.
University of Baltimore/Coppin State University – Baltimore, Maryland
- Baltimore, MD
- 2 years
- Campus
Program:
Masters in Human Services Administration
Tuition: $7,236 per semester
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Number of Units: 36
Length: Two years
Format: On campus
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
In the Masters of Human Services Administration, students will gain knowledge in administration in a variety of areas including mental health, rehabilitation, addiction, and health care. To apply knowledge learned in the classroom, students will complete two internships in the program.
Albertus Magnus College – New Haven, Connecticut
- New Haven, CT
- 1.5 years
- Campus + Hybrid
Program:
Master of Science in Human Services
Tuition: $782 per credit
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Number of Units: 39
Length: 1.5 years
Format: On campus or hybrid
GRE Required: No
Program Overview:
Albertus Magnus College’s MS in Human Services teaches students skills to help their community through classes such as case management, addiction counseling, and more. Students will take classes in an 8-week format, and go to class two evenings per week. The university also allows students in this program to earn additional certificates in relevant subjects, including addiction counseling.
Conclusion
If you want to create real change on a higher level for the people in your community, a master’s degree in human services might be right for you. This degree will help you gain knowledge in a variety of areas such as human development, mental health, rehabilitation, and more, while learning how an administrative role plays a part in these fields. This degree opens up the opportunity for working in environments such as nonprofits, government agencies, healthcare clinics, and more. This means that you are likely to have a lot of options as to where to work once you have graduated. Many of the degree programs in this article also offer flexible class options, such as an online or on-campus format, so you can choose what works best for you. Earning a master’s degree in human services is one way to become involved at a higher level with making change for people who need help the most.
