An online master’s degree in human services may equip individuals with the skills and training required to provide assistance and guidance to those in need. In this one to two-year program, students may learn how to manage budgets for non-profit organizations, design and implement treatment plans, and refer clients to assistance programs. Possible areas of concentration may include social work, community health, and counseling.

Upon graduation, students may either seek employment or enroll in a human services doctoral program. Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in community wellness, social work, non-profit management, education, and healthcare.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 37% (2010-2020)*

Program Concentrations

The curriculum for master’s-level human services degree programs may include a set of core classes and electives specific to the student’s chosen area of concentration. Students may take courses such as human service management and development, policy issues in human services, and social change and community building. Possible areas of concentration for a master’s degree in human services may include the following:

• Organization Communication
• Social Work
• Counseling
• Leadership
• Gerontology
• Community Health
• Non-Profit Management

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in healthcare, counseling, non-profit management, law enforcement, and elder care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mental health counseling employment is projected to increase by 37% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Mental Health Counselor
• Volunteer Services Director
• Clinical Social Worker
• Non-Profit Manager
• Case Manager

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete a master’s-level human services degree program may wish to continue their education by enrolling in a doctoral degree program. A doctoral degree in human services may provide students with advanced training that may lead to counseling licensure or a career in academia.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook