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online human services degree
“Have a great relationship with your advisor," said Lacey May '20, who earned an <anchor>online human services degree</anchor> at SNHU. "I can call and know mine will help me any and every way he can. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors. If you’re (struggling), don’t struggle alone. Speak up and say something to get help.”
Online Human Services Degree | SNHU
Online Human Services Degree \| SNHU

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1. [Online](/online-degrees)
2. [Bachelor's Degrees](/online-degrees/bachelors)

# Human Services Degree OnlineBachelor's Program

![Mo Gray, holding her 2022 online human services degree diploma, while sitting next to her son on a staircase.](/-/media/images/masthead-image/program-page-mastheads/ba-human-services-masthead.ashx?h=803&iar=0&w=1920&hash=9DB07E9A4E1C08307988B25BBE3401A2)

Cost per credit$330

Total courses40

Term length8 weeks

[Apply Now](/admission/apply-now/application)

[Request Information](/admission/request-information)

- [Overview](#Overview)
- [Courses & Curriculum](#CoursesAndCurriculum)
- [Online Experience](#OnlineExperience)
- [How To Apply](#HowToApply)
- [Cost & Savings](#CostAndSavings)
- [Career Outlook](#CareerOutlook)

## Program Overview    Why get a human services degree online?

A **Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Services** from Southern New Hampshire University is the perfect way to put your compassion to work. The program will teach you how to combine policy knowledge with the art of advocacy, so you can help improve the lives of individuals, families or entire populations.

**Skills you'll learn:**

- Social, political and historical trend analysis
- Research and communication strategies
- Cultural competence

- Legal and ethical standards
- Human services policies
- Advocacy tactics for the underserved

![Mo Gray, a 2022 BA in human services degree alumna, taking notes while on a phone call while sitting at her desk.](/-/media/images/body-copy/program-page-featured-images/ba-human-services-featured.ashx)

## Courses & Curriculum     Human services degree online classes that make a difference

Each class is built to give you the confidence and knowledge needed to become a human services professional. At the program's end, you'll be required to complete a capstone experience that demonstrates how your new skills can be applied in a real-world setting.

Concentrations

Degree Courses

General Education

Hardware & Software Requirements

Licensure & Disclosures


Concentrations


### Online BA in Human Services concentrations

Focus on a general track or add a specialization to your bachelor’s degree with one of three concentrations.

Child and Family Services


Learn to advocate for change on behalf of children and families in the online **Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Services program with a concentration in Child and Family Services**. You'll explore how social issues affect the well-being of families and their communities. You'll also analyze how federal and state policies impact services.

Your online bachelor's in human services can prepare you to provide case management services, such as assessment, relationship building, collaborative development and evaluation of treatment plans, and the referral of clients to necessary community service providers.

This concentration is designed for those with a particular interest in child welfare, schools, juvenile corrections, family court, family support agencies and domestic violence agencies. Ideal candidates will work well with at-risk clients, collaborate comfortably with a multi-disciplinary team, maintain good written and oral communication skills, and respect a rigid code of ethics.

Child development is a key focus, as is the impact of stress and trauma, public policy and the court system. Proficiency in these areas will help you develop intervention strategies. Ultimately, your ability to ethically and effectively link families with much-needed community resources will improve the well-being of families and entire communities.

**Career outlook:**

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for social and community service managers is projected to increase by 9% through 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.1 Whether you're interested in working in prevention, intervention or advocacy, there are plenty of roles in the field of child and family services, including:

- Case manager
- Child-focused advocate
- Child protective service worker
- Community health worker
- Family reunification worker
- Family services specialist
- Group home coordinator
- Home visitor
- Juvenile court liaison
- Visitation supervisor

The bachelor's in human services requires the completion of a capstone experience. The capstone will challenge you to demonstrate how your new skills can be applied in a real-world setting.

**Courses may include:**

- Child Growth and Cognitive Development
- Family and Community Systems
- Role and Impact of Trauma on Children and Families
- Ethics and Laws in Child Welfare

Gerontology


If you’re ready for a career with both purpose and promise, you might consider specializing in gerontology. By earning your **Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Services with a concentration in Gerontology**, you'll gain the knowledge needed to embrace a career in human services and meet an increased need for professionals serving the baby boomer generation and beyond.

As the population grows, so does the number of people who need aging services. Baby boomers will continue to place added demands on these programs, increasing the need for workers seeking gerontology careers. And with medical advancements, we’ll see this trend continue. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that by 2034, the number of people age 65 and older will be greater than the number of children under 18.2

Our gerontology concentration has been designed to meet the challenge of caring for the nation’s aging population over the coming decades. Your instructors will teach you how to develop strategies that enhance programs for the elderly and improve care.

With a specialized gerontology degree, you'll develop new perspectives that allow you to improve the quality of life for an increasingly important segment of our population. You'll take courses that offer a firsthand look into:

- Wellness and disease
- Issues and policies affecting the elderly
- Long-term care
- Biological, psychosocial and cognitive aspects of aging

**Career outlook:**

If you're looking to position yourself for a career with great job security, specializing your degree with the gerontology concentration is a smart choice. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the need for social and community service managers will increase by 9% through 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.1

Upon graduating, you might look for employment in places like:

- Assisted living facilities and nursing homes
- Community-based organizations
- Healthcare and public health programs
- Home healthcare systems
- Senior centers

**Courses may include:**

- Perspectives in Aging
- Aging and Wellness
- The Epidemiology of Aging
- Aging, Politics and Policy

Substance Abuse


Act as support for those overcoming addiction with a **Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Services with a Substance Abuse Concentration.** Substance use disorder is top-of-mind in the United States, making treatment services – and workers – in high demand. This specialized [online substance abuse counseling degree](/online-degrees/bachelors/ba-in-human-services/substance-abuse) concentration serves as an important first step toward becoming a drug and alcohol counselor.

Note: The licensure process and educational requirements for drug and alcohol counselors vary from state to state. This program does not directly lead to licensure.

**Career outlook:**

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors are projected to grow 18% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the national average for all occupations.1

**Courses may include:**

- Foundations of Addictions
- Substance Use: From Screening to Consultation
- Substance Use: From Prevention to Treatment
- Substance Use: Counseling Theory and Practice


Degree Courses


### Human services degree online courses

Client assessment, outcome evaluation, policy change advocacy, care plan development — you name it, these classes will cover it.

#### Courses may include:

Introduction to Human Services


Course ID:
HSE 101


This course provides an overview of the historical development of human services and an introduction to the many settings, roles, and functions of the human services professional. Students will gain an understanding of the knowledge and skills needed to help support others toward living a more fulfilling life with particular attention given to behavioral and social theories, common social problems, service delivery systems, ethical behavior, and personal values.

Communication Skills for Human Service Professionals


Course ID:
HSE 220


This course provides students with the knowledge and skills to effectively, efficiently, and compassionately communicate both orally and in writing. Emphasis will be given to the tools of communication as well as how to clearly articulate the issues, deal with conflict, and establish rapport. Human services professionals function in many settings requiring the ability to communicate the needs and issues of their clients, programs, and organizations to a broad variety of people.

Human Services Organizational Systems


Course ID:
HSE 320


This course prepares students to function effectively within organizations, as most human services work involves interactions with multiple private and public organizations. Students develop an understanding of organizational structure and functions through an overview of common organizational structures and management systems and the principles of organizational behavior that influence the work environment. An introduction to the strategic planning and budgeting cycle is provided including the process of grant funding. Basic concepts of personnel management and common techniques and procedures for outcome measurement and program evaluation will also be presented.

Public Policy and Advocacy


Course ID:
HSE 330


Students in this course will become acquainted with human services policies and the legislative and private sector processes of policy development. Students will further discover the role of advocacy in influencing social welfare programs for a variety of populations. Students learn the skills needed to act effectively in developing policies and for planning an advocacy campaign.

Law and Ethics in Human Services


Course ID:
HSE 340


Students in this course will learn about the laws and regulations that govern human services practice. Specific topics will include confidentiality, parity, involuntary commitment, mandated reporting, duty to warn, minor and parental rights, guardianship, and advanced directives. The course will also discuss the ethical principles that guide human services practice as well as the conflicts that arise between the ethical principles and the law.

Case Management


Course ID:
HSE 410


Students will learn fundamental theories, concepts, and practices related to the delivery of human services. Topics covered in this course will include client engagement, interviewing, models of service delivery, ethics and professional responsibility, group dynamics and facilitation, boundaries, and formal/informal client-centered support systems. Students will apply course work to real life situations by assessing the needs of clients and designing goal-based care plans. Additionally, students will plan and design interventions, utilize community resources, and assess client outcomes.

Human Services Capstone


Course ID:
HSE 480


This capstone course is the culminating experience for the B.A. in Human Services program. The aim of the capstone is to assess students' ability to synthesize and integrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout their coursework, rather than introducing new concepts. This course is structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements.

Lifespan Development


Course ID:
PSY 211


In this course, students will explore the biological, sociological, and psychological influences that shape development between conception and death. Students will analyze traditional and emerging theories of development that increase their knowledge of human development as it relates to the field of psychology.

Abnormal Psychology


Course ID:
PSY 215


In this course, students explore the major diagnoses from a biopsychosocial perspective. Students critically reflect on the basis of diagnoses, to appraise the benefits and costs of various assessment methods and understand the contributions of diverse treatment approaches. Ultimately, this course helps students understand the importance of reducing the stigma of disorders and diagnoses in a variety of contexts.

Sociology of Social Problems


Course ID:
SOC 213


Students in this course analyze contemporary social problems in America and other societies. Issues include economic limitations, class and poverty, race and ethnic relations, sexism, ageism, and environmental and population concerns.

Social Science Research Methods


Course ID:
SCS 224


This course offers a broad introduction to research methods in the social sciences, including surveys, case studies, experiments, and quasi-experiments. Students learn to spot design flaws in research intended to generate scientifically sound conclusions about social phenomena, and to evaluate critically the interpretations of social science research results by third-party observers, such as reporters. Students also learn how to draft a research proposal that would satisfy the requirements of peer review within the community of professional social scientists.

Visit the course catalog to view the [full BA in Human Services curriculum](https://www.snhu.edu/admission/academic-catalogs#/programs/EkujXVIKg).

General Education


### The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program

All undergraduate students are required to take [general education courses](/online-degrees/classes/general-education), which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.

#### Courses may include:

Cultural Awareness and Online Learning


Course ID:
IDS 105


This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.

Self, Society, and the Humanities


Course ID:
HUM 102


In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.

Foundations of Written Communication


Course ID:
ENG 130


This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.

Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving


Course ID:
MAT 126


In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.

Ethics in Global Society


Course ID:
PHL 218


In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.

STEM Principles and Problem-Solving


Course ID:
SCI 260


In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.

Social Issues and Decision-Making


Course ID:
SCS 260


In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.

Hardware & Software Requirements


### PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements

Component Type

PC (Windows OS)

Operating System

Currently supported operating system from Microsoft.

Memory (RAM)

8GB or higher

Hard Drive

100GB or higher

Antivirus Software

Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.

SNHU Purchase Programs
[Visit Dell](http://www.dell.com/snhu)
Internet/ Bandwidth

5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency


### Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements

Component Type

Apple (Mac OS)

Operating System

Currently supported operating system from Apple.

Memory (RAM)

8GB or higher

Hard Drive

100GB or higher

Antivirus Software

Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.

SNHU Purchase Programs
[Visit Apple](http://www.apple.com/us_edu_348988/shop)
Internet/ Bandwidth

5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency


**Additional Information:**

- **Laptop or desktop?**  Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.

- **Note:** Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.

- **Office 365 Pro Plus** is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for [Microsoft 365 plans](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/microsoft-365-and-office-resources#coreui-heading-5dcqxz4) for business, education and government.

- **Antivirus software:** Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.

Licensure & Disclosures


### Licensure and Certification Disclosures

SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our [licensure and certification disclosure page](/consumer-information/state-authorizations/licensure-and-certification-disclosures).

## Apply for free in minutes

Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!

Upcoming term starts: **January 06, 2025 \| March 03, 2025**

### Next term starts:  Oct. 28, 2024

[Apply Now](/admission/apply-now/application)

## Online Student Experience    What’s it like going to SNHU?

Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, **93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU** according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.

### What to expect:

#### 8-week terms

#### Learn around your schedule

#### 24/7 online support

Online Classroom

Student Support

Faculty Profile

General Info


Online Classroom


### What does an online course look like?

You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:

- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements

![How to Take an Online Class at SNHU](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/O03iCa9IYes/sddefault.jpg)

Student Support


### What support services are available?

- **Chat with your advisors**


Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors.
- **Drop in for tutoring**


Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary.
- **Learn from industry professionals**


Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away.
- **Use the online library**


Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7.
- **Reach out for accessibility help**


Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities.
- **Focus on your well-being**


Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.

Faculty Profile


### Learn From Instructors With Industry Experience

Our faculty carry with them decades of experience in human services. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in this vital field.

#### ![Rhonda N. Hughes, DSW, LCSW Adjunct Faculty and Academic Partner](/-/media/images/body-copy/program-pages-body/rhonda-hughes.ashx?h=300&w=400&hash=2D6B9AF4ECA5EA3AE819E2306C2CD42D)Rhonda N. Hughes, DSW, LCSW

Rhonda N. Hughes' career as a social worker began more than three decades ago. With advanced training spanning from psychological trauma to interpersonal neurobiology, she's served individuals, children and families in a variety of community-based inpatient and outpatient settings. Currently, Hughes works in private clinical practice as a mental health therapist and supports a county Head Start program with mental health consultation. **Position** Adjunct Faculty and Academic Partner **Joined SNHU** 2003 **Education**

- DSW from Simmons University
- MSW from the University of New England
- MHSA from St. Joseph’s College of Maine

Read more about Rhonda N. Hughes and other [online faculty at SNHU](/about-us/faculty-at-snhu/online).

General Info


### Why SNHU?

At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.

Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:

- **U.S. News & World Report**


Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North
- **The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)**


Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology
- **Google.org**


Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth

[Founded in 1932](/about-us/leadership-and-history/history), Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.

![5 ways SNHU makes the admission process "easy-peasy" #shorts](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Dc0KRqTDbaQ/sddefault.jpg)

## Admission    Applying to SNHU is fast and free

**No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay.** Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.

### All it takes is 3 simple steps

Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.


It's easy, fast and free.

[Apply Now](/admission/apply-now/application)

Step 2: Submit additional forms.


Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)

Step 3: Make your decision.


After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.

Talk to an admission counselor: [888.327.SNHU](tel:888.327.SNHU) \| [enroll@snhu.edu](mailto:enroll@snhu.edu)

## Accreditations

SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the [New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)](/about-us/accreditations), which means we meet certain standards of academic quality, and have the tools and resources necessary for students to be successful. The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.

![New England Commission of Higher Education Logo](/-/media/images/logos/accreditation/neche-card.ashx)

## Tuition Cost & Savings    College can be more affordable than you think

As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.

### Online undergraduate tuition

Student

Cost per credit

Cost per course

Cost for 120-credit degree\*

Full- and part-time students

Cost per credit


$330


Cost per course


$990


Cost for 120-credit degree\*


$39,600


Active-duty military and spouses \| Full- and part-time students\*\*

Cost per credit


$231


Cost per course


$693


Cost for 120-credit degree\*


$27,720


\*before previously earned credits are applied

Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.

\*\*Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.

### Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

$9,900

$14,850

$19,800

$24,750

$29,700

Transfer credits and lower your cost by:


30
credits

45
credits

60
credits

75
credits

90
credits

If **30** of your prior learning credits **($330/credit)** are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: **$29,700**

If **45** of your prior learning credits **($330/credit)** are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: **$24,750**

If **60** of your prior learning credits **($330/credit)** are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: **$19,800**

If **75** of your prior learning credits **($330/credit)** are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: **$14,850**

If **90** of your prior learning credits **($330/credit)** are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: **$9,900**

**How we estimate your tuition cost:**

We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.

### Ways to save on online tuition

Transfer your credits


Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.

[Finish faster](/admission/transferring-credits "Finish faster")

Apply for financial aid


Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)

[Lower your cost](/tuition-and-financial-aid/online "Lower your cost")

Military discounts and credit


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## Career Outlook     What can I do with a human services degree?

Human services professionals typically work in community, residential care and institutional settings, often providing direct services. These services may include group leadership, activity organization or advocation for those struggling with mental illness, substance abuse and more.

Earning this degree is also excellent preparation for a graduate degree in human services or a [master's in psychology](/online-degrees/masters/ms-in-psychology), counseling, social work, sociology, public health or public administration.

### Occupations

With an aging population and increased demand for substance abuse treatment and health-related services, graduates can expect lots of opportunity in their field.

This program could help position you for roles like:

Caseworker


Oversee the wellbeing of at-risk, disadvantaged individuals or families.

Community Outreach Worker


Act as a liaison between community members and organizations that focus on issues like health.

Group Home Worker


Offer assistance, companionship and care to those living in grouphome facilities.

Mental Health Aide


Help clients with mental illnesses or addictions and teach them about services, like support groups.

Probation Officer


Supervise people who have been placed on probation instead of sent to prison.

Residential Counselor


Support, guide and care for residents in shelters, rehab centers and more.

9%


![](/-/media/images/icons/svg/program-pages/flow-chart.ashx?h=20&w=20&hash=EC87C9973C1E011AF6898987C0113F63)

Increase in roles for social and community service managers through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1

$77,030


![](/-/media/images/icons/svg/program-pages/piggy-bank.ashx?h=20&w=20&hash=109417C77C6A5B1048917AF2FCD5A2D0)

Median annual pay for social and community service managers as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1

**Understanding the numbers** When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

## What SNHU students are saying

![Laura Gaughan '21](/-/media/images/body-copy/program-pages-body/laura-gaughan.ashx?h=300&w=400&hash=89DD7821EC700E43F05C8D4ACDF546AA)![Amanda Morris '21](/-/media/images/body-copy/program-pages-body/amanda-morris.ashx?h=300&w=400&hash=D934C404E39F7C9BC5B6F14EA8BD4A06)![Lacey May '20](/-/media/images/body-copy/program-pages-body/lacey-may.ashx?h=300&w=400&hash=6451A2D9675619BD9EADD745FBD2141C)

![Laura Gaughan '21](/-/media/images/body-copy/program-pages-body/laura-gaughan.ashx?h=300&w=400&hash=89DD7821EC700E43F05C8D4ACDF546AA)

I have learned so much in college that I can apply to my new job – not only the human services content, but on-the-job skills such as time management.

[Laura Gaughan](/about-us/newsroom/community/gaughan-graduation-celebration)'21

![Amanda Morris '21](/-/media/images/body-copy/program-pages-body/amanda-morris.ashx?h=300&w=400&hash=D934C404E39F7C9BC5B6F14EA8BD4A06)

This program has provided me the tools I needed to make changes within my own community for my children. I have been able to more successfully advocate for my children’s rights to a free and appropriate education, as well as advocate for our local brain injury organization through meeting with local legislatures.

[Amanda Morris](https://alumni.snhu.edu/spotlight/meet-our-students/meet-amanda) '21

![Lacey May '20](/-/media/images/body-copy/program-pages-body/lacey-may.ashx?h=300&w=400&hash=6451A2D9675619BD9EADD745FBD2141C)

I loved that the majority of my professors held doctoral degrees and had worked in the field — bringing not only textbook knowledge but also real-life information.

[Lacey May](/about-us/newsroom/education/time-management-strategies) '20

### Frequently Asked Questions

What degree do you need for human services?


According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most human services jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree with a focus on community services, social work, public administration, public health or similar fields.1 Some advanced human services jobs require a [master’s degree](/online-degrees/masters).

The human services bachelor’s degree program at SNHU provides a broad understanding of how human services organizations are structured and how they operate in their communities. In this program, you'll gain the critical thinking and decision-making skills you need to evaluate social trends and public policy to advocate for people in need and guide social change.

You'll also have the opportunity to specialize your knowledge with a concentration in child and family services, gerontology or substance abuse.

How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in human services?


It depends. A human services bachelor’s degree requires 120 credits, including general education and degree-specific courses. Most full-time students complete a bachelor’s degree in about 4 years.

That said, SNHU has a generous transfer policy, allowing up to 90 transfer credits to be applied to your degree program. If you’ve completed some college courses already, you may be able to apply these to your human services degree and complete the program faster.

![Lisa Marie Gibson, 2021 graduate of SNHU's human services program](/-/media/images/body-copy/bainhumanservices-lisa-marie-gibson.ashx?h=220&w=220&hash=73E5BE88E2177CCA1D6D36168262573D)

"The best \[program\] feature, to me, was that they accepted almost all of my transfer credits," said **Lisa Marie Gibson '21**. "Even the ones that I didn't think would be accepted."

If you’re working full time or balancing family obligations, you may need to earn your degree at a slower pace. Your academic advisor can help you map out a personalized plan for completing your degree. With 24/7 access to courses and 6 term starts per year, SNHU's online human services degree is designed to be as flexible as possible, so you can earn your degree at a pace that works for you.

"I have two kids, a dog and I work full time," said Gibson. "I spoke with my academic advisor about my struggles, and she was able to give me some tips and ideas about how to balance everything. Eventually, online studying became a piece of cake."

What jobs are in the human services field?


While the most common human services employers are government and nonprofit organizations, there are also opportunities with private for-profit companies. Human service jobs impact every member of a community, from children attending after-school programs to elderly residents in need of in-home health services.

As the population ages and demand increases for substance abuse, mental health and other health-related services, the need for social and community service managers is projected to increase as well. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for these roles will grow 9% through 2032.1

Here's a list of some common human services jobs:

- **Community health educator:** Develop and implement strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities, connecting community members with healthcare professionals and services.
- **Rehabilitation counselor:** Work with medical and mental health professionals to help people with physical, mental, developmental or emotional disabilities adjust to their disability, develop their strengths and live independently. (Note: This position generally requires a master's degree.)
- **Social and human services assistant:** Research services, such as food stamps and Medicaid, that are available to clients and work with social workers and other professionals to coordinate them.
- **Substance abuse counselor:** Assist people who suffer from alcoholism, drug addiction, eating disorders and other mental health issues, developing and reviewing treatment goals and progress with them and their families. (Note: Substance abuse counselors are generally licensed by states and requirements can vary.)

Can you be a social worker with a human services degree?


Earning a human services degree can lay a strong foundation for a career in social work, but most social work jobs require additional training and credentials.

Clinical social workers typically need a master’s degree in social work, 2 years of experience in a supervised clinical setting and a social work license from their state, according to BLS.1

If you’re interested in a social work career, it’s important to review the licensing and educational requirements to practice in your state and to identify master’s degree programs in your area or online that are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).

Can you be a counselor with a human services degree?


The education you need to become a counselor depends on the type of work you want to do. In any case, earning a bachelor's degree in human services is a great place to start.

If you want to become a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, SNHU's BA in Human Services with a concentration in Substance Abuse could be a key step in your education. The program provides a significant portion of the substance abuse coursework most often required for licensure.

If you're looking to start a career as a mental health counselor, a bachelor's in human services is also a good foundation, but you'll need to pursue a master's degree as well.

What kind of jobs can you get with a child and family services degree?


SNHU's human services degree with a concentration in child and family services can prepare you to impact the lives of young people and their families by building relationships, evaluating and developing treatment plans and connecting families to much-needed community resources.

A child and family services degree can help you find work as a:

- Group home worker
- Juvenile court advocate
- Home health aide
- Life skills instructor
- Residential counselor
- Social service liaison
- Domestic violence advocate
- Caseworker

What is a gerontology degree?


A gerontology degree explores the physical, mental and social implications of aging and prepares you to improve the quality of life of the older population. SNHU’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Services with a concentration in Gerontology includes courses on wellness and disease, long-term care, public policy and the physical and cognitive aspects of aging.

Because of longer life expectancies, the demand for workers with gerontology training is expected to grow in the coming decades. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030, people 65 years and older will make up about 21% of the U.S. population — and by 2024, they will outnumber individuals under the age of 18.2

A gerontology degree can help you start an in-demand career working with the growing elderly population as an adult daycare worker, social service manager or public health worker.

## Related Programs

- [Psychology (BA)](/online-degrees/bachelors/ba-in-psychology)
- [Sociology (BA)](/online-degrees/bachelors/ba-in-sociology)
- [Human Services (BA) - Substance Abuse](/online-degrees/bachelors/ba-in-human-services/substance-abuse)

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## Sources & Citations

1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:

- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm (viewed Feb. 22, 2024)

Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

2U.S. Census Bureau, The Graying of America, on the internet, at https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2018/03/graying-america.html (viewed Feb. 22, 2024)

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