MS in Human Services

Be a force for good and shape real social change with our master’s in human services program.

You aspire to make a positive difference for individuals, families, and communities in need. Find your opportunity with Walden’s MS in Human Services program. In this online program, you can:

  • Gain in-demand, job-ready skills—such as grant writing—that make you more marketable in today’s human services field.
  • Choose from multiple specializations to tailor your program to your passion and unique career goals.
  • Build practical skills and hone your instincts through realistic simulations and other interactive learning experiences.

Fast Facts

Next Start Date: TBD

Transfer Credits: Up to 24 credits

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Examine what defines a functional community and study the human and social services needed for prevention, intervention, and promotion of community well-being.
Explore both traditional and contemporary intervention and rehabilitation approaches for offenders as well as their victims.
Explore theories and strategies to meet the needs of individuals, families, and communities in the aftermath of a crisis.
Gain insight into the special needs of underrepresented or marginalized groups such as low-income, single-parent, gay and lesbian families, bisexual, and transgender.
Explore the full spectrum of human services competencies and learn best practices for delivery systems, program planning, and evaluation methods.
Explore the impact of societal expectations on the elderly and demographic trends, including global cross-cultural issues in aging.
Courses explore a variety of topics related to the organization and operation of nonprofits to give you a broad understanding of the nature of leadership.
Develop the skills to help individuals navigate community mental health services.
Deepen your understanding of military culture and explore topics such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and vicarious trauma.

Coursework in this MS in Human Services program aligns with rigorous professional standards set forth by the Council for Standards in Human Service Education (CSHSE).

Learning Outcomes

In this program, you will be prepared to:

  • Articulate the role that human services leaders play in promoting social change and advocacy for individuals, families, and communities in need.
  • Interpret and apply human services research to inform the practice of human services delivery systems.
  • Synthesize findings from research to develop culturally and contextually relevant interventions and direct services.
  • Use knowledge of formal and informal networks in the development and evaluation of human services delivery systems.
  • Apply legal and ethical standards in the administration and delivery of human services systems.
  • Discuss how personal values and attitudes affect leadership, planning, and advocacy activities.

More about our MS in Human Services program

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of social and community service managers is expected to grow by 13% by 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.1

An MS in Human Services from Walden can prepare you for a number of direct nontherapeutic service or leadership positions in government agencies, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and foundations.

Career options include:*

  • Human services administrator (coordinator, director, program lead)
  • Agency coordinator
  • Foster care case coordinator
  • Family services specialist
  • Program director

*Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.

A bachelor's degree or higher is required for entrance into this program. You will also be required to submit a completed online application, employment history, and official transcripts.

Your enrollment specialist will help you gather all of the required materials, starting with your application and continuing all the way through your first day of classes.

Tuition costs will vary depending on your previous education. Get in touch with a Walden Enrollment Specialist today at 855-203-5779, to learn more about tuition costs for this program and financial aid options.

Walden’s Enrollment Specialists are committed to helping identify and leverage opportunities for you to save money on your education.
Our Enrollment Specialists are ready to answer any questions you may have regarding this program. Fill out the form on this page to be contacted or call 855-203-5779.
Note on Licensure: The MS in Human Services program, including its specializations, is not designed to lead to professional licensure including licensure as a professional therapist, counselor, social worker, or psychologist.

Why earn your MS in Human Services at Walden?

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Actionable Learning

Through interactive learning scenarios, gain real-world skills you can apply immediately in the field to increase your impact.

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Tau Upsilon Alpha (TUA)

The National Organization for Human Services Honor Society recognizes Walden students who demonstrate integrity, academic excellence, and dedication to empowering people through education and service.

exceptional-student-services

Exceptional Student Support

Benefit from our 24/7 tech support, Writing Center, Career Services Center, and more.

learn-with-leaders-small

Actionable Learning

Through interactive learning scenarios, gain real-world skills you can apply immediately in the field to increase your impact.

relevant-small

Tau Upsilon Alpha (TUA)

The National Organization for Human Services Honor Society recognizes Walden students who demonstrate integrity, academic excellence, and dedication to empowering people through education and service.

exceptional-student-services

Exceptional Student Support

Benefit from our 24/7 tech support, Writing Center, Career Services Center, and more.

Pamela Quinn headshot

“Thanks to my education, I am now the executive director of the AHEC, a nonprofit working to increase the healthcare workforce and ensure that those living in rural and underserved areas have access to quality healthcare.”

Robin Worthington | MS in Human Services Graduate

1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Social and Community Service Managers. National long-term job growth projections and salaries may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, do not guarantee actual job growth or salaries, and are subject to change.

Enrollment Restrictions by State

Walden currently cannot enroll residents of the following states/districts into the MS in Human Services program: Wisconsin.

ONGOING MILITARY OFFER:

A 15% tuition reduction for servicemembers, veterans of the U.S. armed forces, employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and their spouses.*

*A 15% tuition reduction is available to new students who are servicemembers, veterans of the U.S. armed forces, or employees of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This tuition reduction is also available if you are a spouse of a servicemember, veteran, or employee of the VA. This tuition reduction cannot be retroactively applied. Tuition reductions are applicable to tuition only and do not apply toward books, materials, and other supplies or fees needed for a course.

Walden may change the tuition reduction offered hereunder at any time, but such change will not affect the tuition reduction for students who are currently enrolled at Walden and using the existing tuition reduction. All tuition reductions, grants, or scholarships are subject to specific eligibility requirements. Contact a Walden University Enrollment Specialist for details.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, https://www.hlcommission.org/.