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Online Associate in Human Services: Compare 2yr Programs

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Author: Shelley Zansler
Editor: Edumed Editing Staff

Learn about flexible associate degree options for future human services professionals.

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Knowing you want a career helping people may be easy enough, but choosing the right degree program to get you there might be a different story. Online associate degrees in human services provide a flexible way for students to gain the foundational human services knowledge needed for a variety of entry-level careers. In order to find a fitting program, it’s important for prospective students to do their research before enrolling in an online associate degree program. To help in that search, we’ve pinpointed schools with the best online associates in human services degrees based on quality and affordability.

Inside Online Associate Degree Programs in Human Services

Online associate degrees in human services can take many forms, so be sure to choose a program that pertains to your career goals, suits your schedule, and works within your budget. Individual programs vary, but the following information can give prospective students some guidelines to keep in mind when comparing human services associate degrees online.

Online-Associate-Degree-Programs
Online-Associate-Degree-Programs

What Classes Do You Take in an Online Human Services Associate Degree?

Human services students may see a range of course options when comparing online associate programs, but there are a handful of common courses and subjects that provide the foundation for human services study.

Psychology

Human services programs may offer multiple psychology courses. Introductory psychology classes generally provide a survey of the field and psychological methods and can include study in biology, emotions, perception, therapy, and social factors. Programs often offer additional psychology courses that are particularly useful in human services, like developmental and social psychology.

Course titles to look for: Introduction to Psychology; Developmental Psychology; Abnormal Psychology; Social Psychology

Sociology

Since human services careers tend to involve helping people in a wide range of social systems, basic sociology is often found as part of the course load. Many associate human services programs provide an overview of sociological concepts, such as culture, social stratification, multiculturalism, and deviance.

Course titles to look for: Introductory Sociology; Principles of Sociology

Counseling

Like psychology, counseling may be addressed multiple times throughout a human services associate degree program. Introductory courses tend to provide students with foundational counseling tools and theories. Relationship skills, ethics, boundaries, and counseling techniques may also be taught. Students can deepen their counseling skills through courses in group counseling as well as marriage and family counseling.

Course titles to look for: Introduction to Counseling; Group Counseling Methods; Group Counseling; Counseling Theory and Tactics

Communication

Effective communication with many populations is at the core of human services. Communication classes can help students hone their skills in a variety of contexts, including social, relational, and cultural. Students can develop their listening, speaking, nonverbal, and writing skills through research, presentations, and group activities.

Course titles to look for: Written Communication; Interpersonal Communication

Throughout an online associate in human services program, students have opportunities to develop key skills that can help them in their careers. Common skills addressed in these programs can include the following:

  • Professionalism, professional responsibility, and best practices in human services.
  • Effective communication with diverse populations.
  • Identification and assessment of the social, cultural, and relational factors within social systems that impact individuals.
  • Discovery and effective use of community resources to aid clients.
  • Accurate documentation of case records.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate in Human Services Online?

Online associate degrees in human services typically require around 60 credit hours, but how long it takes to complete those hours generally depends on how many courses a student takes per term. Full-time students can usually finish their programs in four terms, or two years. Part-time study takes around eight or nine terms to complete, depending on the student and the program set-up. Students who enter a human services associates degree program with transfer credits from another institution can often complete their degree in a shorter period of time. Some schools offer programs that combine human services associate degrees with other related diplomas, certificates, and credentials. These programs may take longer to complete, but they come with the benefit of additional education and credentials.

How Much Will an Online Associate in Human Services Cost?

The cost of earning a human services associate degree online can vary depending on a number of factors. The school, the number of credits taken per term, financial aid options, transferability of previously earned credits, and in-state versus out-of-state tuition can all affect how much students pay for their degrees. Prospective students can use the schools in the rankings at the top of the page and those listed below to find cost information for individual online human services associate degree programs.

Western-New-Mexico-University

Western New Mexico University

Associate of Arts in Human Services

Total Credits: 60

$207-$323/credit depending on residency, term, and course load

Monroe-College

Monroe College

Associate of Science in Human Services

Total Credits: 62

$275/credit

New-England-College

New England College

Associate of Science in Human Services

Total Credits: 60

$415/credit

Accreditation and Online Associate Degrees in Human Services

Before applying to an online human services program, make sure it’s accredited. Accreditation indicates that a school or program has met certain quality standards set by a board of experts. Look for these two main types of accreditation: institutional and programmatic.

Institutional accreditation can be awarded at the regional or national level. National accreditation is generally reserved for trade or vocational schools. Regional accreditation is generally considered more valuable, but both represent seals of approval for schools, so you can be confident with either. Students must attend an institutionally accredited school in order to qualify for federal financial aid.

Programmatic accreditation assesses individual schools or programs within an institution. For human services degrees, programmatic accreditation may be provided by the Council for Standards in Human Services Education (CSHSE). This organization works to create consistent, high standards for human services education programs. Their qualifications for accreditation are evidence-based and peer-reviewed by experts in the field to help ensure programs around the country are relevant and high-quality. CSHSE accredits human services programs at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels.

Paying for Your Human Services Associate Degree Online

It’s important to have sufficient funding to complete your online associate degree in human services before enrolling in a program. Figuring out how to pay for school can be challenging, but there are many financial aid resources available to students. Here are some options to explore:

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What’s After Your Online Associate Degree in Human Services?

Before beginning a degree program, students should familiarize themselves with potential career and education paths, what they entail, and the income and job growth they can bring. Researching this information ahead of time can help students make sure an online associates degree in human services is a good choice for them.

What Can You Do with an Associate Degree in Human Services?

Those who earn an associates in human services online can pursue a wide range of professions depending on personal career goals and areas of interest within the human services field. Human services graduates may find themselves in careers in the justice system, social work, healthcare, nonprofits, or community services. All of these areas provide opportunities for people who want careers focused on helping others, whether that’s providing mental health support to clients, conducting community outreach, or supporting young people in the juvenile justice system. Associate degrees in human services can also prepare students to move into various bachelor’s programs. Many schools even design their human services associate degrees to transfer seamlessly into related bachelor’s degrees. This can lead to even more career opportunities, often with greater earning potential.

Online-Associate-Degree-in-Human-Services
Online-Associate-Degree-in-Human-Services

How Much Can You Make with an Associate Degree in Human Services?

Many careers exist under the human services umbrella, so earnings can vary widely. Associate degrees in human services can prepare students for a range of entry-level careers, but earnings will generally increase with more experience and education. The table below illustrates the income progress of popular human services careers.

Career # Employed Entry-Level Early Career Mid-Career Experienced Late Career
Social and Human Service Assistants 384,080 $21,480 $26,130 $33,120 $41,910 $53,380
Childcare Workers 562,420 $17,490 $19,180 $22,290 $26,610 $32,780
Health Educators 58,780 $32,030 $39,800 $54,220 $74,660 $98,530
Community Health Workers 56,130 $26,070 $32,280 $39,540 $51,650 $65,890

Certifications Available to Human Services Professionals

Some careers require special certifications in order to practice, but in many cases, certifications are optional. These extra credentials can indicate a level of competency, expertise, or commitment to the field. Most entry-level human services careers do not require certification, but students may want to pursue optional credentials to increase employment opportunities. Check out some of these optional certifications human services students can pursue upon earning their online associate degree.

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Furthering Your Education in Human Services

Earning an associate degree in human services can be a nice way to enter the field, but if you’re interested in building on the knowledge and skills gained in an associate program, continuing your education may be the next step. In many cases, the coursework completed in an online associates in human services can transfer directly into a bachelor’s degree. Students can continue advancing their educations to hone their knowledge and enhance their job skills, or they may want to pivot into a related degree program that still puts their human services knowledge and credits to use. Students interested in human services associate degrees may be interested in these programs as well.

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Continuing Education

Online Bachelor’s in Human Services

Students interested in expanding their human services education can pursue an online bachelor’s degree. With an associate completed, students can often earn their bachelor’s in about two years. This is a good option for those who want to begin specializing their knowledge and pursue advanced careers.

Online Master’s in Human Services

Those who want to go even more in-depth in a particular area of human services may look into online master’s degree programs. These can help prepare students for leadership roles in their chosen specialty or help them transition into research and education careers.

education

Related Degrees

Online Associate Nursing (ADN) Programs

Online ADN programs help prepare students to become Registered Nurses (RN). Graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required for RN licensure. This degree is a great option for students who are interested in helping people in a clinical setting.

Online Home Health Aide Certification Programs

Those who want a career helping others with daily activities but don’t want to enroll in a full degree program may be interested in online home health aide certification programs. Home health aides typically work with elderly, sick, or disabled clients, and while training is necessary, a degree typically is not.

Ranking the Best Online Human Services Degrees

If you’re looking to earn an associate degree in human services online, you have plenty of options. But when reviewing these programs, how do you know which are right for you? Which ones have the best combinations of affordability, quality, and flexibility for today’s digitally-savvy students? Using data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and from the schools themselves, EduMed.org has researched, analyzed, and ranked the schools with the best programs. Review the colleges and universities that truly stand out.

2-year Schools
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Alexandria Technical & Community College

Alexandria, Minnesota

The Behavioral Health & Human Services program at Alexandria Technical & Community College offers students the opportunity to advocate for and support individuals in diverse settings such as clinics, schools, and community agencies. The program includes a 31-credit diploma and a 64-credit AAS degree, covering human development, behavior, and environmental stressors. It’s designed for flexibility and transferability to four-year institutions for further studies in human services, psychology, or social work. Collaborative efforts with other colleges enhance the learning experience, and out-of-state students can also enroll online.

Why We Selected Alexandria Technical & Community College:

  • The program offers flexible and customizable studies to support diverse career goals.
  • The curriculum includes hands-on experience in various health and human services settings.
  • Graduates can pursue supervisory roles across multiple community support agencies.

Program Details

  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,293
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,006
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course49%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award63%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
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Napa Valley College

Napa, California

The Human Services program at Napa Valley College trains students for entry-level roles in human services, focusing on helping individuals meet basic needs and cope with various challenges. The program offers a Social Work and Human Services AA-T degree, an AS degree, and a Certificate of Achievement, with practical training through 130-hour internships. Job opportunities for graduates include case managers, counselors, and social workers, with high demand due to population growth and healthcare needs. The program also facilitates transfer to four-year institutions for further studies.

Why We Selected Napa Valley College:

  • The Human Services program at Napa Valley College offers specialized career tracks in addiction studies and child development.
  • The program provides field experience in human service agencies, enhancing practical skills and networking opportunities.
  • Students benefit from faculty expertise in diverse populations and case management techniques.

Program Details

  • AccreditationACCJC
  • Average In-State Tuition$1,104
  • Average Institutional Aid$567
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course83%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award52%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
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Madisonville Community College

Madisonville, Kentucky

The Human Services program at Madisonville Community College prepares students for careers in social, community, educational, and mental health services. Offering an Associate in Applied Science degree and multiple certificates, the program covers areas such as aging services, direct support work, and recovery coaching. Students benefit from a flexible curriculum, practical training, and transfer options to several universities. The job outlook in the Pennyrile and Green River regions shows significant growth, with an expected increase in human services positions. Financial aid and job placement assistance are available to support students.

Why We Selected Madisonville Community College:

  • The program offers transferable degrees to several universities, enhancing career advancement opportunities.
  • Low tuition rates and financial aid options make the program highly affordable for students.
  • The program provides specialized career tracks in areas like mental health and substance abuse services.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,296
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,759
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course55%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award48%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
4

Horry-Georgetown Technical College

Conway, South Carolina

The Human Services program at Horry Georgetown Technical College prepares students for roles in various human services settings. It emphasizes intervention skills, counseling, crisis intervention, and behavior modification. The program includes courses such as Introduction to Human Services, Personal and Professional Development, Life Transitions, and Case Management. Students gain practical experience through supervised field placements. The program typically requires completion of specific credits, though exact details on length and cost are not specified. Financial aid options are available. Career outcomes include roles in social services, healthcare, and community organizations. The program also offers pathways for further education through articulation agreements with institutions like Walden University. Admissions requirements typically involve standard college application processes.

Why We Selected Horry-Georgetown Technical College:

  • The program offers a comprehensive curriculum with specialized courses like crisis intervention and behavior change techniques.
  • The program includes supervised field placements, providing hands-on experience in human services settings.
  • Students benefit from zero tuition for over 75 academic programs, including workforce development courses.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,088
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,396
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course72%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award35%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
5

Bluegrass Community and Technical College

Lexington, Kentucky

The Human Services Associate in Applied Science (AAS) program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in social, community, educational, and mental health services. The program requires 60 credit hours and includes core human services courses, general education, and technical courses. Students must achieve a grade of “C” or better in core classes and selected technical courses. The program typically takes two years to complete. Career outcomes include roles in childcare facilities, mental health settings, hospitals, and social service agencies. Admissions may require a criminal background check and proof of vaccinations. Financial aid options are available, but specific costs are not detailed in the program description. The program offers a practical clinical experience, enhancing students’ skills for immediate employment or further education.

Why We Selected Bluegrass Community and Technical College:

  • The program offers clinical experiences for practical skill development.
  • The curriculum includes specialized courses like Cultural Diversity in Human Services.
  • It provides preparation for diverse employment settings, including mental health and social services.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,296
  • Average Institutional Aid$2,542
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course72%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award24%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
6

SUNY Broome Community College

Binghamton, New York

The Human Services Associate in Science degree at SUNY Broome is designed for students interested in transferring to four-year institutions for baccalaureate degrees in human services, counseling, or social work. It also prepares students for careers as paraprofessionals in educational and human services agencies. The program requires 64 credits and includes an internship component, providing real-world experience in health, human service, and school settings. Graduates develop skills in critical thinking, communication, and ethical standards necessary for the human services profession. Career pathways include entry-level positions in human services or further education in related fields. Transfer agreements, such as with SUNY Empire State College, offer seamless transitions to baccalaureate programs. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students. Admissions requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent.

Why We Selected SUNY Broome Community College:

  • The Human Services program offers internships in diverse health and human service settings.
  • The program emphasizes community-based and service-learning experiences for practical skill development.
  • Faculty expertise and mentorship support students in achieving professional competencies and ethical standards.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,088
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,406
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course63%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award37%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
7

Midlands Technical College

West Columbia, South Carolina

The Human Services program at Midlands Technical College offers an Associate’s degree focused on helping individuals meet their needs and improve their lives. The program prepares students for careers in youth services, disabilities and special needs, substance abuse, geriatric services, child development, child and family services, and mental health. Students can complete the program in two years or less, with a focus on developing skills in educational, social, therapeutic, and vocational settings. Career opportunities include roles such as social and human service assistants and social and community service managers. Admissions requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent. Financial aid options are available to support students. The program is part of MTC’s School of Education and Public Service, which offers transferable degrees and career training.

Why We Selected Midlands Technical College:

  • The program offers a Human Services Board-Certified Practitioner credential upon graduation.
  • Students gain practical experience through required practicums and supervised field placements in local organizations.
  • The program allows for transfer to colleges or universities, providing flexibility in further education.

Program Details

  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,640
  • Average Institutional Aid$768
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course76%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award19%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
8

Hudson Valley Community College

Troy, New York

The Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Human Services at Hudson Valley Community College is a 60-credit-hour program designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in human services fields. The program typically takes about two years to complete. It includes both general education and program-specific courses, equipping students with the skills needed for careers in areas like case management, crisis intervention, and community non-profits. Career outcomes often involve working in social services, healthcare, or community organizations. While specific details on cost and financial aid are not provided, prospective students should explore available scholarships and aid options. Admissions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent. The program focuses on developing practical skills and knowledge to help students succeed in their chosen career paths.

Why We Selected Hudson Valley Community College:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in human services and addictions counseling.
  • Transfer agreements are in place with several four-year colleges for further education.
  • Students receive academic advisement by appointment, enhancing personalized educational support.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$4,800
  • Average Institutional Aid$658
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award32%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
9

Central Maine Community College

Auburn, Maine

The Human Services program at Central Maine Community College offers an Associate in Applied Science degree, requiring 60-61 credits. It prepares students for careers in mental health, substance use disorders, and community services. Key courses include counseling, case management, and psychosocial rehabilitation. Graduates can pursue roles such as addiction counselors, crisis intervention specialists, and community support specialists. The program also qualifies students for the Mental Health Rehabilitation/Community (MHRT/C) credential. Students can choose between a focus on Human Services or Addiction Specialization. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to enter the workforce directly or transfer to a four-year degree. Admissions require high school prerequisites and specific course requirements. Financial aid and transfer options are available, making it accessible for those seeking a career in human services.

Why We Selected Central Maine Community College:

  • The program offers the lowest tuition rates in New England, making it a great value for students.
  • The online format provides flexibility and access to comprehensive support services, including academic advising and financial aid assistance.
  • Students can choose specialized career tracks, such as Human Services or Addiction Specialization advising pathways.

Program Details

  • AccreditationNECHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$2,880
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,264
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course56%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award31%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
10

Camden County College

Blackwood, New Jersey

The Human Services program at Camden County College is designed to prepare students for careers in social services, community organizations, and related fields. The program typically leads to an associate’s degree, which can be a stepping stone to further education or direct entry into the workforce. To apply, students typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Career outcomes include roles in human services agencies, non-profit organizations, and government sectors. The program emphasizes practical skills and knowledge in areas such as social welfare, counseling, and community engagement. Financial aid options are available to help manage costs. Students can also transfer credits to pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as the B.A. in Human Services offered by institutions like Rowan University.

Why We Selected Camden County College:

  • The program offers specialized career tracks in human services, enhancing job prospects.
  • Employer partnerships provide students with valuable networking opportunities and job placements.
  • Faculty expertise in human services ensures students receive high-quality, relevant education.

Program Details

  • AccreditationMSCHE
  • Average In-State Tuition$2,856
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,153
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course64%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award25%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio21/1
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Inside Online Health Science Associate Degrees

Kenya McCullum

by: Kenya McCullum

Kenya McCullum has been a professional writer and researcher for over twenty years and has written hundreds of feature-length articles, guidebooks, and other in-depth content. She has tackled various healthcare topics, such as women's health, fitness, mental health, addiction, and nutrition, as well as issues providers face when delivering care. Also, McCullum has extensive experience writing about higher education, online learning, continuing education, and professional development. Throughout her career, she has interviewed numerous leaders in the healthcare and education sectors. She has a master’s degree in communication and a bachelor’s degree in English.