Best Online Human Services Degrees for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Human services degrees made their headway in the 1950s and 1960s, along with the revolutionizing academic processes for social work and mental health services (Wilson, 2021). Since then, human services have been striving to fulfill the distinctively challenging missions of satisfying diverse human needs. Graduates of human services programs can expect fulfilling careers in a wide variety of work environments, including family and child service agencies, community-based organizations, and non-profit advocacy programs. Even the job outlook for such careers is good, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 12% job growth for social and human services assistants over the next decade (BLS, 2022).

If you feel that having an impact on other people’s lives is your calling, consider pursuing a human services degree. There are numerous on-campus and online degrees for human services in the world today, but we picked the top five online programs that can provide you with the best learning experiences and career trajectories. To help you find out which online human services degree suits your needs, our research team has assessed the most popular options in the field. We have evaluated them according to factors such as tuition, accreditation, and curriculum.

Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services Table of Contents

1. Can you get a degree completely online?
2. Will employers take my online degree seriously?
3. Are online degrees recognized all over the world?
4. Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services
5. How much does an online bachelor’s degree in human services cost?
6. What are the requirements for an online bachelor’s degree in human services degree?
7. Courses to Expect in Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services
8. Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services
9. 2025 Best Online Bachelor’s in Human Services Programs
10. What makes a quality online human services program stand out?
11. What can a master’s degree in human services offer for career growth?
12. How can I secure financial aid and scholarship opportunities for my online human services degree?
13. Can a PsyD program elevate your human services practice?
14. How can interdisciplinary specializations, such as forensic psychology, enhance your human services expertise?
15. How can combined graduate programs amplify your human services career?
16. Can further psychological specialization accelerate your human services career?
17. How can certifications and advanced degrees enhance your human services career?
18. What are emerging career opportunities for human services graduates in the digital age?
19. How can you make the most of your online human services degree?
20. Navigating Flexible Education Options for a Human Services Degree

Can you get a degree completely online?

A human services degree is the study of how people live and function within the world at large. Established based on ethics and an understanding of economic and cultural diversity, it analyzes how changes to current systems and structures might aid people, particularly the vulnerable ones. Students who are fond of working with people are a good fit for this program. And, yes, you can get a human services degree online.

Will employers take my online degree seriously?

The answer to this question solely depends on the particular employer and its recruitment processes. But, generally, employers look at online degrees in the same light as conventional degrees as long as they are earned from accredited schools.

If you are an online human services degree holder from a respected and accredited college or university, and you have the essential knowledge and skills and knowledge for the job, employers would take your degree seriously. In point of fact, online degrees have become widely popular in the past few years, and many employers now see the merits of online education.

Are online degrees recognized all over the world?

The many turnarounds happening in societies all over the world have resulted in the growing demand and recognition for human services professionals, no matter how they acquired their studies. We are talking about immigration, medical attention to substance abuse, mental health campaigns, and increased life expectancy.

The footprint of human services is monumental and can make a difference in the short and long term. This is a dominant facet of creating improved communities. What can you do with an online human services degree? It can help you play a part in this burgeoning field.

Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services

Both online and traditional bachelor’s degrees in human services can equip you with the fundamentals to be able to work in the field. Yet, there are some differences between them that you may want to ponder to know which would be the better option for you.

Flexibility and convenience

You can complete your online degree in human services coursework and assignments from anywhere. This setup will work for you if you are already working, have familial obligations, or live far from a brick-and-mortar campus. Online degrees also offer accelerated courses, enabling you to finish your degree more quickly.

Learning experiences

In-person bachelor’s degrees in human services usually deliver more systematized and immersive learning experiences. You can interact more with your classmates and instructors and gain more hands-on experiences, like internships and fieldwork, with this arrangement.

Is an online degree cheaper?

The human services degree cost differs by school and education level. In most cases, online human services degrees cost nearly the same as in-person degrees. While you can save a lot from boarding and commuting expenses, program formats and technology fees can still affect tuition and other fees.

Is an online degree as good as a regular degree?

Getting an online degree in human services is just like getting its on-campus counterpart. Upon graduation, you may seek a career as a community advocate, a probation officer or a caseworker within the justice system, or a nonprofit or government worker. You may also end up leading groups, organizing activities and projects, or guiding victims of  violence, substance abuse, and mental illness.

It will also qualify you for a master’s degree in education, counseling, and other related fields. Some students apply their human services mastery to business school or law school.

You can also assess existing services and programs and figure out what must be done to make the most of them. At the bottom, you will learn how to pin down problems, give action plans, and understand legalities within human services (Wallis, 2023).

How much does an online bachelor’s degree in human services cost?

For the 2022 to 2023 school year, human services state on-campus students pay an average tuition and fee of $7,630, while nonresidents pay $23,305 (College Tuition Compare, n.d.). As an online student, you may pay within this range too due to other factors like practicums and online teaching training fees for teachers.

Is an online human services degree worth it?

An online human services degree provides you with the fundamentals to better understand the creation of social structures and people’s responses to such systems. It is mainly rooted in theory and practice, preparing you to join internships and organizations within your community.

Students enrolled in this program tend to be empathetic, effective communicators, and culturally aware. These attributes get you set to enter professions in which you can change the physical, mental, and emotional health of others for the better.

The sector you will belong to depends on your personal and professional goals and preferences. Human services degree jobs are in nonprofits, the justice system, or the government. Or you can work with communities, lending them a hand with their health and wellness resources.

Bachelor’s degree holders and accomplished professionals in the field should also take home higher pay, leaning on one’s expertise and location.

If you are still contemplating if an online human services degree is worth it, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics may have a reasonable answer for you: earn a median income of $76,790 every year or $36.92 an hour.

What are the requirements for an online bachelor’s degree in human services?

Most online human services programs do not have any strict requirements for applicants. All you need to do is meet their basic admission criteria. Just be mindful of deadlines as some of the requirements listed below or hearing back from prospective letter writers may take several days.

Admission Requirements

1. Official transcripts. Have your official transcripts ready, especially if you plan to transfer AP credits.
2. Application. Fill out a Common App that will input your basic information to all of the required forms.
3. GPA. Many programs in human services require at least a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA.
4. ACT or SAT. Depending on the school, you may be required to submit test scores.
5. Additional requirements. Additional requirements may be an essay, recommendation letters, and passing a criminal background check.

General Requirements

1. Understanding the nature of human systems. You should be able to understand human development, group diversity, organizational frameworks, how communities are structured, how policies are imposed, and how societal factors lead to human problems.
2. Understanding the situations that limit or promote optimal human functions. You should be able to understand which models promote healthy and/or unhealthy functioning among humans. These models are socially, medically, psychologically-behavioral, and educationally oriented.
3. Identifying and choosing interventions that encourage growth and goal achievement. You should be able to perform a proficient problem analysis and choose such methodologies that can help people achieve their desired results. These interventions may be in the form of direct counseling, assistance, advocacy, or referral.
4. Planning, executing, and assessing interventions. You should be able to develop a course of action for a problem and coherently execute the plan. This requires skills in problem analysis, work plan designing, and decision analysis.
5. Process skills. You should be skilled in oral and verbal communication, interpersonal relationships, and other personal skills, like time management and self-discipline.

What are the technological requirements of students for online learning?

You should review the specific technological requirements of the program you are about to enroll in. Some general requirements that you must meet include a reliable internet connection, laptop or PC, headset or microphone, and webcam. It is also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of technical problems, such as an alternative internet connection or access to a public computer.

Courses to Expect in Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services

Human services is interdisciplinary in nature; therefore, your classes will also cover psychology, sociology, political science, and criminal justice. Upon graduation, like other students who complete social work degrees and courses, you can help others in their personal development journey, improve people’s quality of life, and even bring about positive social changes.

In connection with social changes, future research on social norms to study social norm change is called for to understand where, when, and how exactly social norms can solve or limit big-scale problems. These are Giulia Andrighetto and Eva Vriens’ findings in their 2022 study, “A research agenda for the study of social norm change," which was published in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. They argued that social norms usually strengthen or weaken as time passes because what may be reckoned appropriate today may be reckoned inappropriate tomorrow.

The authors state, “Think, for instance, of the widespread norm shift from normalizing to discouraging smoking in public places, of the change in dominance from norms against same-sex marriage to norms favoring same-sex marriage in many countries and of the sudden inappropriateness of the age-old social norm of handshaking following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sometimes norm change is triggered by changes in legislation or (sudden) environmental change, but often norm change occurs spontaneously. Even when top-down interventions trigger norm change, these interventions—acting as catalysts—are themselves the result of changing collective attitudes and awareness and growing social pressure."

The idea of helping others may sound simple, but there are tons of lessons to be studied and skills to be developed before entering this domain.

1. Social Welfare Policy and Services. This course discusses the history, progression, and implementation of social welfare policies and services.
2. Counseling Techniques. This course explores counseling theories and techniques used in human services jobs, which include communication skills and interviewing strategies.
3. Diversity and Cultural Competence. This course studies issues related to diversity and cultural competence in this discipline, which include social justice, bias, and discrimination.
4. Ethics in Professional Development. This course explores ethical consideration in human services, as well as self-care approaches and professional development for human services workers.

Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services

With a variety of degree tracks out there, nailing down your options for the best online human service program can be grueling. Nonetheless, it is a necessary phase and will eventually open many doors for you in the future. Use this checklist when you’re choosing among the best online bachelor degree programs.

1. Curriculum. Degrees indicate which angles of human services their curricula are headed to. Confirm their course descriptions or contact your school of choice to know if they are aligned with your interests, desired learning results, and professional aspirations.
2. Accreditation. For U.S. schools, get a degree that has been accredited by the Council for Standards in Human Service Education (CSHSE). You can also enroll in schools regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission of Higher Education (MSCHE), Higher Learning Commission (HLC), and Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). For international schools, one of the most trusted accrediting bodies is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
3. Support system. You should be able to easily interact with your peers, instructors, and advisors even after completing the program.
4. Fieldwork. Can it provide you with opportunities for firsthand learning through fellowships, internships, volunteer work, or clinic hours?

2025 Best Online Bachelor’s in Human Services

It’s not enough that you choose the cheapest online college for your degree. We tracked down universities of good repute and holding accreditations and categorized their online human services programs according to their tuition and other fees, as well as alumni income, for a holistic representation of excellency.

1. Purdue University Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services

Purdue University‘s Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services offering helps students obtain the knowledge, skills, experience, and attitude to assess the situations of the most vulnerable ones. This course is developed to fulfill the needs of clients within the settings of social service centers, mental health facilities, nursing homes, and more.

1. Program Length: Four years
2. Tracks/concentrations: Human Services Administration, Gerontology, Child and Family Welfare, Community Organization and Advocacy
3. Cost per Credit: $371
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 180
5. Accreditation: Council for Standards in Human Service Education

2. University of North Dakota Online Rehabilitation and Human Services Degree

The BS in rehabilitation and human services program of the University of North Dakota prepares remote students for the requirements of the human services landscape. Here, they can alter their coursework to fit their preferences and schedules. They can enjoy minor studies, elective classes, and other modifications.

1. Program Length: Varies
2. Tracks/concentrations: Professional Ethics in Counseling Psychology, Supervision, and Research and Testing; Individualized Case and Caseload Management, Development and Implementation of Rehabilitation of Return-to-Work Plans for Specific Client Needs, and Functional Implications of Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional Disabilities
3. Cost per Credit: $726
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 120
5. Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

3. Rasmussen University Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services

Students with an associate degree and a desire to help others can enroll in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services at Rasmussen University. This course is inclusive of online classes, campus support and resources, and field experience. It prepares for the roles of child and youth services worker, residential services worker, adult services worker, family support worker, and more.

1. Program Length: 18 months
2. Tracks/concentrations: Interpersonal Relations for Helping Professionals, Social Problems and Advocacy, and Administration and Management in Human Services
3. Cost per Credit: $149
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 91
5. Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

4. Western Washington University BA in Human Services

According to Western Washington University Professor John Korsmo, their online human services program has been engaging and collaborating with community partners for over 45 years. To date, recent Western graduates are working with Alzheimer’s Association, AmeriCorps VISTA, Seattle Humane Society, and Womencare Shelter.

1. Program Length: Varies
2. Tracks/concentrations: Conflict Resolution in Human Services; Children, Families, and Communities; Social Justice and Equity in the U.S.; Inequity in Global Policy and Institutions: Implications for Human Services Professionals; and Survey of Addictions
3. Cost per Credit: Varies
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 75
5. Accreditation: Council for Standards in Human Services Education

5. Walden University Bachelor of Science in Human Services

Walden University was founded in 1970 and serves as an online for-profit league of higher education. Students taking their BS in Human Services here pick up direct service skills. They also have rewarding careers ahead of them, from residential counselors, and case managers, to social services coordinators.

1. Program Length: 48 months
2. Tracks/concentrations: Psychology, Addictions, Leadership, Child/Adolescent Development, Global Social Justice, Criminal Justice, Cultural Justice
3. Tuition: $46,175
4. Required Credits to Graduate: 181
5. Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission

What makes a quality online human services program stand out?

A quality online human services program is distinguished by its robust curriculum design and stringent quality assurance measures that adapt to evolving industry standards. Leading programs not only secure proper accreditation but also incorporate specialized support services—such as dedicated academic advising, career counseling, and practical virtual learning environments—that ensure a seamless integration of theoretical knowledge with real-world application. For those pursuing advanced academic credentials, enrolling in an online masters in human services effectively validates the program’s commitment to excellence and enhances professional readiness in a competitive market.

What can a master’s degree in human services offer for career growth?

Earning a master’s degree in human services can unlock advanced leadership roles and specialized career paths not typically accessible with a bachelor’s background. This level of education equips professionals with in‐depth theoretical knowledge and practical skills tailored to addressing complex challenges in community and social services. Postgraduate study often results in greater decision-making authority, improved problem-solving capabilities, and expanded networking opportunities across sectors. Explore our article What can you do with a masters in human services? for a comprehensive look at strategic career trajectories and the tangible benefits of advanced credentials.

How can I secure financial aid and scholarship opportunities for my online human services degree?

Financial support options are critical for ensuring that your academic investment translates into long-term career success. Explore federal and institutional grant opportunities, competitive scholarships, and low-interest loan programs tailored to support online education. Investigate partnerships with community organizations and employers that offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorships specifically for human services students. Additionally, leveraging specialized resources, such as psychology masters online, can provide further insights into financing advanced degrees while maintaining educational quality.

Can a PsyD program elevate your human services practice?

For professionals aiming to expand their clinical expertise and leadership in human services, pursuing a PsyD offers a pathway to specialized, evidence-based practice. A doctoral-level education focuses on advanced therapeutic methodologies and research skills without replicating the core content of undergraduate or master’s studies. This pursuit bolsters credibility for clinical decision-making and opens up avenues for roles in mental health policy, community program design, or academic leadership. When considering this option, review programs offered by accredited PsyD programs to ensure that the curriculum and clinical training meet established standards and align with your professional objectives.

How can interdisciplinary specializations, such as forensic psychology, enhance your human services expertise?

Integrating interdisciplinary specializations into your human services education can offer unique perspectives by bridging gaps between social work, behavioral health, and the legal system. Adding focused training—notably in areas like forensic psychology—enhances your ability to assess risk, understand behavioral patterns, and collaborate effectively with legal professionals. Such specialized knowledge equips you to tackle complex challenges that arise in various community settings and can distinguish your profile when entering competitive sectors. For instance, exploring an affordable forensic psychologist degree online can complement your human services foundation with targeted expertise, making you a more versatile and sought-after professional.

How can combined graduate programs amplify your human services career?

Combined graduate programs integrate advanced clinical practice with academic leadership, offering a unique pathway to tackle complex human services challenges. These programs empower professionals to blend expertise from diverse disciplines, allowing them to develop both hands-on therapeutic skills and robust research capabilities. For instance, some institutions offer PsyD dual degree programs which combine clinical training with advanced theoretical insights, making graduates more versatile and competitive in emerging markets. This integrated approach not only accelerates professional growth but also enriches interventions with a deeper understanding of social dynamics and client needs.

Can further psychological specialization accelerate your human services career?

Integrating advanced psychological specialization into your human services background can offer a strategic edge in addressing complex client needs and contemporary societal challenges. Targeted educational pathways — such as accelerated masters psychology programs — empower professionals with critical analytical techniques, robust research practices, and enhanced clinical insights to support evidence-based interventions. This further specialization not only deepens your understanding of behavioral dynamics but also improves your ability to design innovative service solutions, ultimately positioning you for leadership roles in diverse community settings.

How can certifications and advanced degrees enhance your human services career?

In the competitive landscape of human services, earning certifications and pursuing advanced degrees can significantly elevate your career prospects. Certifications, such as those in mental health first aid, substance abuse counseling, or non-profit management, demonstrate specialized expertise and commitment to professional growth, which appeal to employers and organizations alike. Additionally, obtaining advanced degrees such as a Master of Social Work (MSW) opens doors to leadership roles, specialized practice areas, and higher earning potential.

For instance, human services professionals considering a shift toward clinical work or executive leadership often find that an online MSW program aligns perfectly with their career goals. Many affordable options are available to help you achieve this milestone. To learn more, explore our guide to the cheapest online master's of social work programs.

By coupling targeted certifications with advanced education, you not only increase your employability but also prepare yourself to address complex challenges in the human services sector. Whether you're looking to transition into roles such as clinical social worker, policy advocate, or program director, these strategic educational investments can act as a catalyst in achieving your ambitions.

What are emerging career opportunities for human services graduates in the digital age?

The digital age is transforming traditional roles in human services, creating innovative career paths that leverage technology to enhance service delivery and reach underserved populations. As human services adapt to the evolving landscape, graduates with technological acumen are uniquely positioned to take advantage of these emerging opportunities. Here's a look at some new career paths:

• Telehealth and Virtual Counseling
  • Deliver remote support to individuals and families through video conferencing platforms.
  • Assist clients with mental health, addiction recovery, and family counseling without geographical constraints.
• Data Analysis for Social Programs
  • Use data analytics to evaluate the effectiveness of social service programs.
  • Develop insights that inform policies, optimize resource allocation, and improve outcomes.
• Digital Advocacy and Outreach
  • Leverage social media and digital platforms to raise awareness about social issues.
  • Develop and implement online campaigns to advocate for policy changes or community support.
• Human Services Technology Coordinator
  • Integrate and manage technology solutions such as case management software and client tracking systems.
  • Train staff on digital tools that streamline workflows and enhance client services.
• Elder Care Technology Specialist
  • Assist senior citizens with adopting and using digital tools for healthcare, social interaction, and daily tasks.
  • Implement smart home solutions and wearable devices to improve their quality of life.
• Cybersecurity in Nonprofit Organizations
  • Protect sensitive client data and organizational systems from cyber threats.
  • Develop policies to ensure compliance with privacy laws and ethical standards.
• Virtual Community Manager
  • Build and maintain online communities that connect individuals with similar challenges or interests.
  • Facilitate support groups and resource sharing through digital platforms.

How can you make the most of your online human services degree?

While earning your online human services degree provides you with the foundational knowledge and skills for a rewarding career, there are steps you can take to enhance your experience and boost your job prospects. Here are a few strategies to help you make the most of your online education:

• Engage with Professors and Peers: In an online environment, staying engaged with your instructors and classmates is essential. Participate in discussions, ask questions, and take advantage of office hours. Building relationships can lead to valuable networking opportunities, mentorship, and professional references.
• Seek Relevant Internships or Volunteer Opportunities: Human services careers are hands-on, so gaining practical experience is crucial. Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs in fields like social work, counseling, or healthcare. Real-world experience can help solidify your knowledge and make you more attractive to future employers.
• Develop Specialized Skills: Consider taking additional online courses or certifications to further specialize your skills. For example, if you're interested in psychology, an accelerated psychology degree might greatly complement your human services education. This qualification could broaden your career options and advance your mental health and counseling knowledge.
• Leverage Career Services and Networking: Many online programs offer career counseling, job placement assistance, and access to alumni networks. Use these resources to connect with professionals in the human services field. Networking can often lead to job opportunities or provide insight into various career paths you may want to explore.
• Stay Current with Industry Trends: The human services field is constantly evolving. Subscribe to relevant publications, attend webinars, and engage with professional organizations to keep your knowledge current.

Navigating Flexible Education Options for a Human Services Degree

For aspiring professionals eager to enter the human services sector quickly and efficiently, pursuing an accelerated human services degree online can be a game-changer. These programs are designed with flexibility and time efficiency in mind, enabling students to complete their studies faster without compromising educational quality. Such an approach is ideal for individuals who are managing work or family obligations while advancing their careers.

Accelerated degree options often include condensed course schedules and credit transfers, allowing for a streamlined yet comprehensive learning experience. By choosing this path, you not only save time but also position yourself to address workforce demands sooner, ultimately securing career opportunities in nonprofit organizations, social work agencies, or community-based programs.

As the human services industry continues to grow, early entry into the field through innovative educational models can provide a significant advantage. To learn more, explore our guide to programs offering an accelerated human services degree online and find one that matches your timeline and professional aspirations.

Human Services Degree: Changing the World, One Step at a Time

Well-being is at the core of productivity, economic breakthroughs, and overall human happiness. And this is why human services are key to humanity and its survival. If you are interested in this career, you can start with human services degrees or similar programs, like accredited online counseling programs.

Students choose this university course because they are heavily invested in helping other people and their communities. They pick this path because they want to belong to the helping professions industry that makes lives easier, safer, and better for everyone. They are here because this is the only sensible and selfless route toward changing the world, one step at a time.

References:

1. Andrighetto, G., & Vriens, E. (2022). A research agenda for the study of social norm change. Retrieved March 6, 2023, from Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London.
2. College Tuition Compare. (n.d.). Human Services Program 2023 Tuition. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from College Tuition Compare.
3. Glassdoor. (2022, September 15). Non Profit Salaries. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from Glassdoor.
4. Indeed Editorial Team. (2023, January 17). 14 Jobs To Consider With a Degree in Human Services. Retrieved March 3, 2023, from Indeed.
5. National Organization for Human Services. (n.d.). What is Human Services? Retrieved March 3, 2023, from National Organization for Human Services.
6. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, March 31). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Retrieved March 3, 2023, from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
7. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Social and Community Service Managers. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
8. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, September 8). Social Workers. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
9. Wallis, A. (2023, February 27). What Can You Do With a Human Services Degree? Retrieved March 2, 2023, from Southern New Hampshire University.
10. Wilson, S. (2021, April). Degrees in Human Services. Retrieved March 2, 2023, from HumanServicesEdu.org.