Online Human Services Degree

Online General Human Services Degree

General Human Service degrees can be studied at all levels, but mostly it is studied at the Graduate level.


Professionals already involved in a wide range of human services usually obtain a degree in General Human Services to advance their knowledge and their careers. Some also study General Human Services because they wish to contribute to the field via research.

If you are new to the Human Services sector, a degree in General Human Services can prepare you to work in public and private human services agencies and organizations.

Degree Choices

Certificate (graduate), BA, MA, Doctorate. Regardless of degree program, the student will no doubt meet core courses which will provide an overview of the human services field. This content will include: diversity, strategic planning, adult development and also touch on today's changing health care industry and its impact on human services.

With a degree in General Human Services you will also have to be well-versed in psychology, social services law and administration, public safety, ethics, and other courses as mandated by the individual university degree program.

Doctorate candidates generally choose this specialization when pursuing higher education faculty or human service leadership positions in education, government, health care, public safety, social service or military organizations.

Career and Salary Outlook

General Human Services is expected to see a 34% growth spurt over the next seven years. That is more than double the national average! There are a number of factors that contribute to this rapid growth. Chief among them is the aging baby boomers who will need more human services than before. Additionally, due to the rising population, there will be a need for more social services for homeless, mentally disabled, and developmentally challenged people as well as for substance abusers.

Salaries can vary as widely as the Human Services which are available. Generally you can expect an average of $42,000 for most occupations; however, salaries can become much higher should you be in administrative or leadership positions.