Attending one of the best online human services degree programs can benefit students in many ways. A degree in human services online offers many benefits versus traditional degrees. Human services majors online degrees offer the opportunity to work in a variety of fields. Choosing to pursue human services degrees online as an alternate degree path provides more flexibility. Additionally, human services degrees online can eliminate many costs associated with traditional studies. Those considering a human services online degree will also have the ability to earn a viable income.
Those in the field of human services, more often than not, play vital roles in the lives of people from everywhere and from every walk of life. The young, the elderly, the wealthy, the poor, and so many others rely on the people behind the scenes in the world of human services. A career in human services is also one that is rewarding, both personally and professionally. Students who seek a career in health and human services majors will discover a career that is personally and professionally rewarding. And those who find roles as human services workers with an online bachelor’s degree also commonly find these positions to be financially rewarding too.
How We Ranked The Best Online Human Services Degree Programs
The editors at Social Work Degree Center know prospective students need a degree that will pay off for their career. That’s why we feature only reputable, accredited colleges and universities ranked according to practical factors: tuition cost, student satisfaction, and potential salary. Data comes from IPEDS and Niche.
1. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona offers a BAS in Human Services. The UA program is one of the best online bachelor’s in human services options for those who want to take their people skills to new levels. This program focuses on social justice and advocacy so that students can improve their lives. It takes an interdisciplinary approach for a range of career possibilities. Students learn how to improve society in areas like diversity and also education.
The University of Arizona has highly-ranked online courses. In addition, online students get the same degree quality as their on-campus peers. All of the school’s online programs are designed for busy adults. At the University of Arizona, students are empowered to face big changes. They learn how to both find their own purpose and also to make the most of that purpose. The University of Arizona has achieved high rankings and also accolades across several academic areas.
Highlight: US News and World Report rank Arizona’s online learning platform as one of the top ten online bachelor’s degree providers in the nation.
Degree: Human Services, BAS
2. CSU Global
The Human Services BS from CSU Global is one of the best online human and social services degree options in the area. It prepares learners for all kinds of social services fields. Students learn how to work with all different populations, including children, the elderly, and also disabled communities. The program covers the practical aspects of human services programs as well as ethics and legalities. In addition, students sharpen their decision-making skills in this program.
Colorado State University Global is part of the CSU system, so it has lots of resources and support for its learners. Many CSU Global programs have won awards and recognitions. The school offers multiple start dates and also other ways to maximize flexibility. CSU Global students get a great CSU education. Students increase both their job skills and also employability as they learn.
Highlight: CSU Global is a top ten online learning program.
Degree: Human Services, BS
3. Indiana Wesleyan University
With a BS in Human Services from Indiana Wesleyan University, students learn how to advocate for different communities. The program is one of the best online degree options for those who want to attend a Christian school. Courses are taught from a Christian perspective, emphasizing service to oppressed and also disadvantaged communities. The program empowers students to make positive social changes among groups and organizations, both on a small and large scale. Students also learn practical organization skills for their careers.
Indiana Wesleyan University is a Christian school with a strong campus and online presence. All classes are taught from a Christian point of view, so students can deepen their faith as they advance their academic and career skills. This school is dedicated to excellence in education, so students are constantly challenged to do their best. Learners at this school come from all over the world.
Highlight: Indiana Wesleyan University is a designated Military Friendly school.
Degree: Human Services, BS
4. St Joseph’s College of New York
St. Joseph’s College of New York offers a Human Services BS. It’s one of the best online degree options for those who want to make a positive outcome on both society and different communities. The program covers topics like mental healthcare, advocacy, and also assisted living management. Students can take specialized courses to meet specific career goals. In addition, this program also prepares students who want to attend graduate school after earning an online bachelor’s in human services.
St. Joseph’s College of New York is a vibrant school with a thriving community of learners. The college has multiple campuses and also an online learning campus. Classes are small, and courses are tailored based on student experiences. St. Joseph’s provides a lot of flexibility. For example, students can earn credit for relevant work experience. St. Joseph’s values both ethics and well-rounded education.
Highlight: St. Joseph’s ranks among the top regional universities in the North.
Degree: Human Services, BS
5. Minot State University
The online Human Services BS from Minot State University is one of the best choices in the state. This major in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities trains students to become human services professionals. It’s an online program, but it comes with a lot of hands-on learning opportunities, including some paid opportunities. Students learn how to support and empower intellectually disabled people and also communities. They learn about different communication styles and also effective advocacy.
Minot State University is an affordable school that also provides quality education. The school is dedicated to excellent scholarship and academic challenges. Students at Minot State are engaged in the community, which is great for those who want to go into an advocacy field. Minot also accepts a diverse range of students. Its online programs are specifically designed for busy adults who need to fit their courses into their current schedules.
Highlight: Minot State has been ranked as the 3rd most affordable college in the US. All students pay the in-state tuition rate.
Degree: Human Services, BS
6. Ohio University
Ohio University has one of the best human services degrees in the Midwest. Its Human Services bachelor’s degree teaches students how to help clients in all sorts of organizations. Students learn skills like case management, group dynamics, ethics, and also advocacy. The program combines job practicalities with both theory and ethical considerations. Though the program is available online, it does require participation in an internship.
Ohio University is a top university with a lot of research activity. So, the school can offer lots of resources to support students in their academic pursuits. Part of the school’s vision is to be a “transformative learning community.” Thus, students learn principles and skills that they can use well beyond graduation. Though Ohio University is a large school, it has a small student-to-faculty ratio, so students get the best of two worlds.
Highlight: Fiske Guide to Colleges ranked Ohio University on its list of college best buys.
Degree: Human Services Bachelors
7. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh offers a BS in Human Services Leadership. It’s one of the best online human and social services degree options for students who want to use their leadership skills to bring about social change. Students learn how to both recognize and address inequalities in society. They also learn effective and ethical responses to those inequalities. This program helps students start a fulfilling and worthwhile career.
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh offers both high quality and also accessible degrees. UWO is affordable compared to many similar schools. Oshkosh students grow confident in their leadership skills. They also learn job-based skills and increase their research abilities. At the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, learners find out how to both recognize and also take advantage of opportunities.
Highlight: 75% of UW Oshkosh students who apply for financial aid receive it.
Degree: Human Services Leadership, BS
8. Old Dominion University
The BS in Human Services from Old Dominion University prepares students for entry-level positions. The curriculum covers the most common issues in the human services professionals field that affect people, families, groups, and also communities. For many students, this flexible program is the best online human service degree. Students in this program find their place to serve and also help others.
Old Dominion University is a public doctoral research university. It’s all about pushing limits and moving forward. Students realize what they can do and also learn how to reach their highest potential. Graduates know how to make the most of both their careers and their academic lives. In addition, Old Dominion’s abundant research makes a positive impact on both communities and the world.
Highlight: Military Times ranks Old Dominion as the #1 best college in Virginia for veterans.
Degree: Human Services, BS
9. Troy University
The BS in Human Services from Troy University helps students hone their passion for helping others. Troy’s online bachelors degree in human services is an excellent option for students who want a flexible and interdisciplinary degree. The program prepares students to serve in a number of professional settings and also helps them jump into a high-growth career field. Students learn how to assist people and organizations while also reducing inequities and disadvantages.
Troy University focuses on helping students realize their dreams and think outside the box. The school started as a college for teachers. Now, it’s a well-recognized and well-respected university in several areas. This large and thriving university has plenty to offer for its students, including excellent academics and also career training. Troy University has a longstanding partnership with the military and serves both military members and also veterans.
Highlight: Troy University has ranked highly for several of its online degree programs.
Degree: Human Services, BS
10. Dominican University
Dominican University has a Human Services BPS, which is one of the best human services degree programs. It’s a degree completion program for students who have already started their college educations. The program takes an interdisciplinary route. Students learn skills in research, analysis, and communication for the most effective help. They learn how to help people in different communities on various levels.
Dominican University values truth, compassion, and also humanity in learning. As a Dominican Catholic school, the university blends both faith and education. Students dig deeper and learn how to make connections. Dominican University provides a multifaceted education. It imparts the skills that students need in their careers and also lives beyond graduation. Students discover a passion for lifelong learning.
Highlight: Dominican University is ranked as the #1 best value school in the Chicago area.
Degree: Human Services, BPS
11. Catholic University of America
The Catholic University of America offers a BA in Human Services Administration. For those who want to explore the administrative side of service, this program is one of the best online bachelor’s degree options. The program includes subjects like addiction counseling, human services, and also law enforcement. Faculty members have experience in the field, so students get practical career preparation. In addition, the program prepares students to take the DC Certified Addictions Counselor Exam.
The Catholic University of America is a small research university. The Catholic institution focuses on making a difference from Washington DC. CUA is the national university for the Catholic Church in America, so it’s one of the top choices for American Catholic students. A lot of its majors focus on both justice and compassion. Students learn how to serve others and also pursue intellectual rigor.
Highlight: The Princeton Review has ranked the Catholic University of America in the top ten schools for community service engagement.
Degree: BA in Human Services Administration
12. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University has a BS in Human Services Administration. It’s one of the best online human service degree options for students who want to take charge and create measurable change. Students learn community dynamics and also the best way to serve within those communities. They learn about social issues, mental healthcare issues, and also disability. In addition, they study the practical skills they’ll need to improve lives in a tangible way.
Nova Southeastern University is a private research university that provides top-tier education. As a highly selective university, the average student has a 4.0 GPA. Students are taught by highly skilled and experienced faculty members. The school provides high-quality academics and also relevant job training. Students learn how to live up to challenges and also prepare for their career fields.
Highlight: US News and World Report has ranked NSU among the top schools for social mobility.
Degree: Human Services Administration BS
13. Elizabethtown College
Elizabethtown College has one of the best degree options for human services in the Northeast. The program imparts skills that students will need to both address social issues and also advocate for others effectively. Students can take the general Human Services route or pursue a concentration in Addictions Counseling. With both pathways, students study the contemporary issues that face communities. The program combines philosophical background information with practical strategies.
Elizabethtown College was founded by the Church of the Brethren, though today, the school has no religious affiliation and welcomes students of all faiths. Its courses are rooted in the liberal arts. The school is very small, so students get a lot of personal attention and get to know their teachers and classmates. Elizabethtown College has a strong focus on adult education. It offers a great online learning platform and other resources for adult learners. The school also has a strong focus on the public good. Its motto is “Educate for service.”
Highlight: 95% of recent Elizabethtown graduates are employed or seeking further education within a year of graduation.
Degree: Human Services Bachelors
14. Saint Leo University
The Human Services BA from Saint Leo University is one of the best online degree choices for undergraduate students. The program covers the causes and best responses to today’s most important social issues. It combines theory and background information with practical training. This way, students can bring a well-rounded set of knowledge into the field. Instructors in this program have relevant field experience.
Saint Leo University is the oldest Catholic university in Florida. It’s also one of the oldest Catholic universities in the United States. It has 16 locations and several strong online programs. Saint Leo has earned high rankings for its academic rigor. The school blends tradition and community with innovation and thinking ahead. It provides career training as well as a strong liberal arts foundation.
Highlight: 41% of Saint Leo students come from underrepresented populations.
Degree: Human Services, BA
15. Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University offers a Criminal Justice degree program with a concentration in Human Services. For those who want to study the intersection of crime and inequality, this program is one of the best online human service degree options available. It teaches crime prevention as a form of social good. Students learn about criminal justice, the court system, and the law. They also combine that knowledge with social justice studies. Students may also learn about addiction and dependency if they choose to do so. In this program, the online courses are flexible and designed to fit within the working adult’s schedule.
Colorado Technical University has been recognized for excellence in business and technology. It has a good transfer policy. For example, students can earn credits for taking exams. Colorado Tech provides practical courses for relevant career training. It helps students build successful careers. Colorado Tech has a strong online learning platform, too.
Highlight: CTU ranks among the best online bachelor’s degree programs for 2021.
Degree: Criminal Justice: Human Services, BS
16. East Tennessee State University
East Tennessee State University offers a BS in Human Services. It’s one of the best online degree options. In fact, this program has been recognized across the United States. It takes a behavioral sciences approach to counseling and community issues. It combines theory with practical skill-building. Students can study how humans grow, think and thrive. This way, they’ll be better equipped to serve different communities.
East Tennessee State University is a vibrant school that provides great career training. It puts students first and promotes high standards in everything it does. This school values diversity and academic excellence. It takes a liberal arts approach to education, so students get a rich and full academic experience.
Highlight: ETSU is ranked as one of the top performers for social mobility in the United States.
Degree: Human Services, BS
17. California Baptist University
The Human Services BA at California Baptist University is one of the best online human services degree choices for students who’d prefer a Christian education. This program teaches practical skills that can lead to job opportunities in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors. Students are prepared to either pursue entry-level jobs or move on to graduate school after earning their degrees. The program provides challenging coursework rooted in an ethical approach to human services.
California Baptist University is a Christian school with a great online learning platform. It has excellent academics and plenty of flexibility for adult learners. This school helps students meet their goals. All the while, they learn from a Baptist theological perspective. This school can make a great choice for students who want to deepen their faith and further their career opportunities.
Highlight: CBU Online has been ranked among the best online college programs for veterans.
Degree: Human Services, BA
18. Alfred State College
The Human Services BS from Alfred State College is one of the best online degree options in its region. It teaches social justice, communication, management, and organization. The program teaches students how to address the need for social change in an effective way. Students learn how to do the most good while helping others. The degree prepares students to thrive in a growing career field.
Alfred State College focuses on building careers, but it balances its career training with a strong liberal arts education. As a result, Alfred State offers preparation like few other schools do. It focuses on getting real results for its students. The school offers lots of resources, including recent technology and innovation. It’s a forward-thinking community, which is just one reason why it thrives in online learning.
Highlight: Alfred State has a 98% employment and continuing education rate for recent graduates.
Degree: Human Services, BS
19. Columbia College
At Columbia College, students can pursue either a BA or BS in Human Services. Both options are counted among the best human services degree choices in an online format. The Human Services program focuses on improving lives and helping people thrive. Students learn how to help people with transitions and cope with difficulties. Skills include counseling, victim services, and also case management. The program also teaches social policy and how to help people understand their strengths.
Columbia College is a nonsectarian school, though it is associated with the Disciples of Christ. This school provides a great education for nontraditional students in particular. Students learn from experienced and talented faculty members, and they get the training they need for their careers. Working adults find a lot of support at Columbia College. The school also has small class sizes.
Highlight: Military Times ranked Columbia College as one of the best colleges for vets in 2020. US News and World Report has also recognized Columbia College for its veteran education.
Degree: Human Services, BS/BA
20. Springfield College
The BS in Human Services from Springfield College is one of the best degree options available with an online delivery format. The program features small but active classes with a lot of discussions. Students can choose a concentration in Addiction Studies or Early Childhood Education, or they can take a more general path. Students may also earn some credits for relevant work and life experiences. The program imparts leadership, critical thinking, and social analysis skills.
Springfield College has been educating students since 1885. Though it’s rooted in tradition, this school has certainly evolved with the times. For example, it provides some great online learning opportunities. Springfield College provides the training students will need for their lives and careers. Students don’t just get career training; They also benefit from whole-person development.
Highlight: US News and World Report ranked Springfield as one of the best regional colleges in the North for 2021.
Degree: Human Services online bachelor’s degree program
21. Shorter University
Shorter University offers a Human Services BS. It blends sociology, psychology, social work, and counseling. This multifaceted approach makes the program one of the best online human services degree programs available today. Students learn the best practices for helping and serving communities. The program includes a 16-week internship, so students get a lot of hands-on experience as they learn.
Shorter University is a Christian university focused on excellence in education. Part of its mission is to transform lives and serve others, so it appeals to Christian students who want to go into a helping field. Students can take a deep dive into faith and academics. They’re challenged to find their purpose and live up to their potential.
Highlight: Shorter University is ranked among the top regional universities in the South.
Degree: Human Services, BS
22. Gardner-Webb University
Gardner-Webb University has one of the best online human services degree options in its area. This Human Services BS is a degree completion program, so applicants should already have some college experience. The program teaches students how to meet clients where they are. It also teaches the best practices for helping those clients. The program is rooted in compassion and designed with flexibility in mind.
Gardner-Webb University is a small school with a big impact. It’s a Christian school that focuses on learning with a higher purpose. Students find their calling and learn where they can fit within the greater good. This school believes that talents come from God, and it helps students discover and use those talents. Gardner-Webb University has small class sizes for a personalized approach to learning.
Highlight: Several Gardner-Webb faculty members have been recognized and awarded for their research efforts.
Degree: Human Services, BS
23. Grace College and Theological Seminary
Grace College and Theological Seminary have one of the best online bachelor’s in human services degree options. It teaches students how to step in when conflict calls for an outside source of help. Students learn how to help people get their lives back on track. They prepare for a career in social work. This program is a degree completion program, so it’s designed for students who have already taken some college courses or earned an associate’s degree.
Grace College and Theological Seminary teaches from a Christian worldview. It has strong academics that aren’t limited to the classroom. As a result, this school thrives when it comes to online learning. Students who learn online get an excellent education, just like their peers who learn on campus. Online students also get extra flexibility so that adult learners can get a Christian education with convenience.
Highlight: 100% of Grace College undergraduates receive financial aid.
Degree: Human Services Bachelor
24. Anderson University
Anderson University offers a BS in Human Services. The program covers theory and practice for the helping professions. Courses cover the skills that students would need for a variety of positions, which is why this program is one of the best bachelor’s in human services programs available online. The program works as a general degree or a degree completion option. It covers core courses, plus electives that focus on specific areas.
Anderson University is a challenging and selective Christian university. The school is growing every day, and so are its resources. Anderson University is a vibrant learning community, and online students are an important part of that community. The programs at Anderson University cover both the liberal arts and essential career skills.
Highlight: Anderson University is ranked in the top 50 regional colleges in the South, according to US News and World Report.
Degree: Human Services, BS
25. William Woods University
William Woods University offers an online degree in Deaf Human Services. It’s perhaps the best bachelor’s in human service for those who want to serve the Deaf community specifically. Students learn about the helping services in general, but they also get to focus on Deaf culture and American Sign Language. Students learn ASL from Deaf teachers. The program ends in a capstone project, which can either be a research project or an internship.
William Woods University is a private Iiberal arts university. The school follows up with its students, offering goal advice and support. It provides an engaging and challenging education. This school values compassion for students and others, as well as making a difference in the world. Adult learners especially get a lot of support at this school.
Highlight: William Woods University ranks among the best regional universities in the Midwest.
Degree: Deaf Human Services, BS
Why Should I Get My Human Services Degree Online?
These are a few of the reasons to consider online degrees in human services. A human services online degree allows working students more options and the opportunity to maintain their current employment. An online bachelor’s in human services degree is also an excellent option for students with children, active lifestyles, or with other obligations. Furthermore, an online degree completion program may be the best route to becoming a human services professional for transfer students with an associate degree in human services management.
A degree in human services online also won’t require many of the expenses incurred while attending traditional classes. Human services degrees online, for example, won’t require the need for travel and fuel expenses or expenses such as childcare.
One of the most important factors for many considering human services online degrees is the opportunities these degrees open up. A degree in human resources equips graduates with the tools and skills necessary to provide assistance to others in so many aspects of life, resulting in a range of employment opportunities. Here is a look at another commonly asked question and a look at what those with a degree in human services can do.
What Can I Do With A Degree In Human Services?
Like any endeavor or serious investment, like pursuing a college degree, it is important to understand the various aspects of those ventures, even questions like what is a degree in human services? A general human services degree trains students to be human services professionals. Graduates in the human services field can work in areas like mental health, family services, substance abuse, and also as correctional treatment specialists.
What Job Can I Get With A Human Services Degree?
Human services graduates have many skills, including grant writing, research methods, and program development. A human services major also teaches students about social welfare programs and how to find community resources. These skills qualify grads for roles in nonprofit organizations like community service managers.
There are also many jobs in human services organizations. Understanding human development and intervention methods pave the way to a successful career as human service professional. Many graduates find work in child and family services, child welfare, and also as substance abuse counselors. Some with an online bachelor’s degree also choose to become social workers or mental health counselors. So, here are a few of the opportunities and some answers to the question, what jobs can I get with a human services degree?
- Crisis support worker
- Social worker
- Court support workers
- Community outreach worker
- Substance abuse counselors
- Correctional treatment specialists
The answer to what is a degree in human services can be answered in a few ways. It can be answered by the question of what can I do with a degree in human services? While the coursework, the studies, and the subject matter is a big part of the what is a degree in human services answer, the answer to what can I do with a human services degree may be an even bigger part.
Do I Need A Degree To Get A Job In The Department Of Health And Human Services?
Careers in health and human services can take many shapes, sizes, and forms. However, many students pursuing human service careers choose a degree as the preferred option for entering this field. That is partly because careers with a human services degree often position candidates for advancement and better career opportunities.
Yes, careers as human services workers can begin without necessarily needing a degree, but a bachelor’s degree offers considerably more options. In addition to availing more job opportunities, these degrees can also provide inroads to more lucrative careers. Health and human services careers can start in a few different ways, but none are as certain, as beneficial, and as useful for those seeking careers as an online degree program.
An online human services bachelor’s degree programs also allow many graduates to gain valuable work experience while earning their degrees. For example, students train in abnormal psychology, human behavior, and ethnic relations. This means that many graduates of these programs enter the job market with not only the credentials but also the experience to qualify for a range of different roles.
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