Best Online Associate in Human Services Programs of 2023
Human services workers are needed across the U.S. to help families and individuals navigate crises and provide advocacy services to those who need them. Become an important part of this industry with an online associate degree in human services.
Why This Matters
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18% OF WORKERS HAVE AN ASSOCIATE DEGREE
Throughout the U.S., 18% of social and human services workers have obtained an associate degree, while 16% have no degree and 39% have a bachelor’s degree.
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17% MORE HUMAN SERVICES WORKERS NEEDED BY 2029
This profession is growing much faster than average, with a 17% increase in the need for social and human service assistants anticipated by 2029.
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EARN AS MUCH AS $56,080 ANNUALLY
The median pay for social and human service assistants throughout the country is $35,960, with the top 10% of earners making over $56,080.
Our Research
This list includes associate degree programs in human services from a variety of institutions. Programs may be available online or via blended learning, which combines online learning with a traditional classroom.
The Council for Standards in Human Services Education accredits many programs in this field of study. Additionally, some programs listed here are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, as well as regional organizations that oversee post-secondary education. Degrees from regionally and nationally accredited schools are important, as credits from these programs can more easily be transferred to other institutions across the country.
- 80 hours to write this article
- 150 universities and colleges we assessed
- 168 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Online Associate in Human Services Programs
What You Should Know About This Degree
Human services degrees are focused on teaching students how to provide advocacy and intervention help to families and individuals. While this degree has a relatively broad focus when it comes to crises, there are similar degrees that prepare students to provide more specialized services. This includes degrees in addiction studies or substance abuse counseling, as well as degrees in child development and psychology.
When selecting your degree program, it’s important to consider your career goals, as well as your learning style. Use the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to ensure that your chosen program is properly accredited and that credits are transferable to other institutions should you move or decide to upgrade your education.
After graduation, you may have several rewarding job opportunities to choose from. Those who complete this degree may work as probation and parole agents, social workers, benefits managers, adult daycare workers, or youth workers.
If you choose a career that involves working with private information or vulnerable individuals, it’s worth noting that background checks are usually required by employers. Additionally, some professions in this field, including social worker, may require you to obtain licensing from your state.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online associate in human services programs:
- What licensing and certifications are required? If you choose to work with at-risk youth or individuals, you may need to become a licensed social worker. This involves passing an examination with your state board and keeping your licensing up to date as per state regulations. Additionally, many careers in human services require workers to pass regular background checks.
- Am I eligible for this program? Online associate degree programs all differ, as do their prerequisites. While some colleges offer open enrollment for human services programs, meaning there are no prerequisites, others may require students to have minimum scores on SAT or ACT tests.
While researching available programs, be sure to keep track of important details about each program that appeals to you. That includes taking note of deadlines and application requirements, as well as costs. If you require financial aid or decide to apply for scholarships or grants, be sure to submit applications on time.