[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-2″]An online master’s in human services prepares graduates for careers in mental health counseling, public health education, or public policy.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These professionals manage case workers in government agencies and campaign for public health and welfare concerns in nonprofit organizations. They may also counsel individuals struggling with substance abuse.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These growing fields offer ample employment opportunities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects an 18% growth in [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm”]social and community service manager jobs[/hen-ui-link] from 2016 to 2026, thanks to an aging population that needs more social services. A recent shift in correctional policy to provide rehabilitation and treatment opportunities to drug offenders may also contribute to the projected increase in human services jobs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The focus on integrated and collaborative care will also drive growth in employment for [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm”]marriage and family therapists[/hen-ui-link], which the BLS projects will increase by 23% between 2016 and 2026; [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/rehabilitation-counselors.htm”]rehabilitation counselors[/hen-ui-link], who should experience a 13% occupational growth in that time; and [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm”]medical and health services managers[/hen-ui-link], a career where jobs are projected to grow by 20% during that period.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a human services master’s degree online combines a rigorous, relevant curriculum with flexible scheduling and the ability to study anywhere with an internet connection. The range of specialty options allows students to tailor their degrees to their professional aspirations. This guide can help you choose the [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/online-colleges/”]best online degree[/hen-ui-link] for your goals and needs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online Human Services Master’s Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”about”]What is a Master’s in Human Services Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online human services master’s degree programs provide the same training as traditional programs. Students can tailor their academic path and choose a specialization to fit their interests within human services studies. This is where various coursework, concentrations, and internship offerings come into play.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most schools build their human services curricula around core topics, including social services, counseling, the healthcare system, organization management, legal and ethical standards, and community relations. Some programs also require a thesis. Course and thesis requirements help students develop the skills necessary for corresponding careers, but concentrations — such as child and family services, substance abuse, and gerontology — help meet each student’s individual needs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many programs also require clinical or teaching experiences, meaning you should find a program that can help you secure internships close to home.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”online-programs”]Online Master’s in Human Services Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online classes feature the same rigorous curricula as on-campus programs, and instructors often utilize new technology to record lectures, promote class discussions, and share instructional materials. Course schedules depend on each school’s format. Some schools offer accelerated classes in eight- to 10-week sessions, instead of traditional 15-week semesters.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many classes follow asynchronous schedules, which allow students to log into the learning management system at their convenience to complete assignments. Students in these classes must still follow course syllabi and complete all tasks by their due dates. Online courses provide students with flexibility in completing their assignments but still require a significant investment of time and attention. Many schools suggest students set aside 3–5 hours per credit per week to complete reading assignments, watch lectures, and write papers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some classes require students to log in at specific times to watch webcast lectures and participate in discussions. Other courses may require on-campus visits for lab work, exams, or special team-building activities. Review each syllabus to check for specific schedules and assignment due dates. Online learning requires students to motivate themselves and stay on track with course requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”advantages”]The Advantages of a Master’s Degree in Human Services[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some careers welcome entry-level applicants with bachelor’s degrees, but online master’s in human services degrees prepare graduates for highly specialized careers in counseling or leadership positions within organizations. Most programs offer concentration options that allow students to gain expertise working with particular populations, such as senior citizens, or in specific fields, such as government agencies or nonprofit administration. These positions also offer above-average salaries for entry-level jobs. Some jobs, such as counseling, require candidates to hold master’s degrees to qualify for state licensing or professional credentials.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning a master’s in human services also allows students who studied different disciplines to gain relevant education and experience to switch careers. The broad range of topics within the human services field welcomes graduate applicants from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds. The master’s degree also allows students who are looking to change careers to qualify for more senior positions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Average Salary by Degree Level[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Degree Level[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Average Salary[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]Bachelor’s in Human Services[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Average Salary”]$39,000[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]Master’s in Human Services[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Average Salary”]$57,000[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”choosing”]Choosing an Online Human Services Graduate Degree Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students should carefully evaluate each online master’s in human services to determine whether it aligns with their educational and professional goals. Graduate programs offer diverse curriculum options and specializations. Many students begin their search with colleges [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/online-colleges/#by-state”]close to where they live[/hen-ui-link], as nearby institutions often offer access to on-campus services and support in finding internships and fellowships.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online learning, however, allows students to go beyond geographical boundaries to find programs that meet their unique needs. Many schools provide flexible enrollment options and dedicated faculty to assist distance students. Read on to learn more about how to choose the right school for your future.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-article-card title=”How to Choose Your Major” href=”/resources/how-to-choose-your-major/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”What to Look for in an Online College” href=”/resources/what-to-look-for-online-college/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”accreditation”]Accreditation for Online Human Services Master’s Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students should make sure their selected school holds institutional accreditation from a recognized organization. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://cshse.org/”]Council for Higher Education Accreditation[/hen-ui-link] (CHEA) and the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ed.gov/accreditation”]U.S. Department of Education[/hen-ui-link] maintain lists of recognized accrediting agencies. Schools must undergo rigorous evaluations of their curricula, facilities, student services, and student outcomes to earn accreditation from one of the seven regional accrediting agencies, such as the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.neasc.org/”]New England Association of Schools and Colleges[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your school’s accreditation status impacts your ability to transfer credits to other colleges, gain access to federal financial aid, and earn professional licensure or credentials after graduation. While institutional accreditation evaluates the entire college, programmatic accreditation focuses on the human services programs. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://cshse.org/”]Council for Standards in Human Service Education[/hen-ui-link] (CSHSE), approved as a national accreditor by CHEA in 2014, evaluates human service programs for compliance with the national standards established in cooperation with schools, practitioners, and professional organizations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Schools achieving this designation demonstrate consistent, high-quality instruction and curricula relevant to industry needs. About 50 schools currently hold accreditation status, with almost 100 member schools. In addition to accreditation, CSHSE offers a professional credential for human services program graduates.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”how-long”]How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Master in Human Services Degree Program?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online master’s in human services degrees usually require 30 or more credits, which full-time students typically complete in two years. Students who continue to work while taking classes benefit from part-time class schedules, which may require three or more years to graduate. Program lengths vary depending on students’ course loads and whether the school organizes students into learning cohorts, where they move through their curriculum as a group.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Class format and scheduling may also impact how long it takes to graduate with a human services master’s degree online. Many schools use the traditional 15-week semester format, in which students enrolled in nine credits are considered full-time. Some schools utilize accelerated courses, which meet for either eight or 10 weeks. This format allows students to focus on fewer classes at a time while earning more credits each year. Many part-time programs allow students the flexibility to take one or two additional courses each term or reduce their enrollment to only one or two classes, depending on their work and family commitments.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ id=”courses”]Courses in an Online Master’s in Human Services Program[/hen-ui-heading]

• Human Behavior: Students examine changes in human development and behavior from birth through old age. The curriculum covers sociological, cultural, biological, and spiritual processes and theories and how those processes impact behavior in individual, family, or group settings. This information helps human services workers develop intervention and treatment strategies.

• Professional Ethics: Students learn the roles of human services professionals and their professional and legal responsibilities to clients. Case studies and class discussions help students develop critical analysis skills and evaluate ethical questions while adhering to personal and professional codes of conduct. The course often integrates the professional standards of the National Organization of Human Services and other professional organizations.

• Policy Issues in Human Services: Students explore the history of social welfare policy and services and the underlying values and philosophy for various approaches. The course asks students to critically evaluate policies and services related to healthcare, mental health, child welfare, corrections, income maintenance, and elderly services. Assignments often include discussions, class presentations, research papers, and exams.

• Counseling Adolescents and Their Families: This course helps students evaluate mental health interventions and treatments for adolescents by examining the age group’s common behavioral and emotional issues. Students discuss external and internal conflicts with a cross-cultural, comparative perspective. Students evaluate research-backed methods of adolescent and family treatments.

• Society and Cultural Diversity: Students discuss issues relating to client diversity and identify cultural biases that may impact service delivery or effectiveness. The course integrates professional standards regarding theories of identity development, social justice, and multicultural counseling, and develops students’ cultural self-awareness. Assignments include class discussions, participation in multicultural events, and research papers and essays.

[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”careers”]What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Human Services?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online master’s in human services qualifies graduates to pursue job opportunities in areas like management and private practice. This rewarding field of highly educated candidates makes an advanced degree critical for even midlevel positions. A master’s degree can guarantee higher earning potential and a greater scope for progression. When pursuing an advanced degree, consider which career possibilities interest you most.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”secondary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Social and Community Service Managers” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $52,750[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm#tab-1/”]Social and community service managers[/hen-ui-link] collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement service programs and oversee administrative functions. They evaluate programs to determine areas for improvement, report on effectiveness, and organize outreach and promotion efforts. Candidates draw upon their education and work experience to qualify for managerial positions.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Health Service Managers” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $63,250[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm#tab-4/”]Health service managers[/hen-ui-link] develop goals and objectives for their department and organization to better serve their clients and patients. Health services managers recruit and train new staff members, monitor facility improvements, and prepare budgets. They may work in nursing home administration, oversee clinical departments, or manage patient records. They should understand clinical needs and foundational business concepts.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Rehabilitation Counselor” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $46,500[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/rehabilitation-counselors.htm/”]Rehab counselors[/hen-ui-link] help clients overcome disabilities or traumatic injuries to lead independent lives. They consult with medical and mental health specialists to develop comprehensive treatment plans and locate resources to help clients live independently. Many rehabilitation counselors help clients identify possible career options and obtain necessary training. A master’s degree allows counselors to provide more services and obtain specific licensure or certification.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Marriage and Family Therapist” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $60,500[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/marriage-and-family-therapists.htm/”]Marriage therapists[/hen-ui-link] specialize in working with families and couples, discussing feelings and experiences to overcome relationship challenges. They help clients adjust to difficult changes and make decisions for their futures. They may refer clients to other service providers, depending on their needs. All states require therapists to hold licensure, which mandates completion of an appropriate master’s program, supervised experience, and passing an exam.[/hen-ui-text] the [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Health Educator” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b3″ class=”font-semibold”]Median Salary: $47,250[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm/”]Health educators[/hen-ui-link] promote wellness to individuals and communities. They work to combat specific community health concerns, such as diabetes or cancer, through education, promotion, and public policy. They may take leadership roles in staff supervision and training for other health professionals. They also collect data to measure the effectiveness of public health campaigns and determine community health needs. [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”associations”]Human Services Professional Associations[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aphsa.org/” target=”_blank”]American Public Human Services Association:[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] The APHSA connects members with national policymakers and stakeholders to strengthen communities and support the well-being of children and families. It operates collaborative centers on child and family well-being, employment, and economic health, in addition to the National Collaborative for Integration of Health and Human Services. Nine affinity groups focus on specific professions and programs. Members include individuals, local agencies, state agencies, and organizations connected to the field.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.nationalhumanservices.org/” target=”_blank”]National Organization for Human Services:[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] The organization welcomes practitioners from all areas of human services, offering opportunities to collaborate on and advocate for effective policies and legislation. Members receive a quarterly newsletter and annual peer-reviewed journal, discounts on conference fees, access to online discussion forums and job postings, and the opportunity to apply for scholarships and grants. Students, educators, and practitioners may join.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ncfr.org/” target=”_blank”]National Council on Family Relations:[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] Members include therapists, educators, social workers, public health workers, clergy, and researchers. The organization publishes scholarly journals and hosts an annual conference to support family professionals and keep them up to date on the latest trends and theories in family science. Professionals may seek the certified family life educator credential, developed by the council.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.counseling.org/” target=”_blank”]American Counseling Association:[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] This organization formed in 1952 to serve professional counselors with continuing education credits, ethics consultations, and legislative advocacy. The group consists of 19 chartered divisions, which serve various counseling specialties. Members may access a digital job board that offers job postings and career resources and take part in networking events. Membership also includes insurance, travel, and educational discounts.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aspanet.org/” target=”_blank”]American Society for Public Administration:[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-heading] This organization promotes the public service profession by advocating for professionalism, ethics, accountability, and social equity. Members enjoy networking and professional development opportunities, including an annual conference and ongoing distance learning. The society’s journal, Public Administration Review, serves professionals, academics, and students interested in public sector management. In addition to local chapters, the organization includes 30 special-interest sections focusing on topics such as health and human services administration, labor relations, and public management practice.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-sm text-right”]Header Image Credit: SDI Productions | Getty Images[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]