If you want to empower others and make a difference in your community, consider pursuing one of the best affordable online Bachelor’s in Human Services degrees listed below. At their core, these programs teach students how to evaluate a client’s needs. Students also learn how to develop and implement a plan for services. Human service professionals work with people from all walks of life, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors as well as immigrants, veterans, homeless people, and those with addictions and disabilities. Keep reading to learn more about this field and the top 50 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Human Services degrees that can get you started in this rewarding career.
Methodology
We know how confusing and time-consuming it is to search through hundreds of undergraduate human services degrees. So, we decided to help you through the process by ranking schools based on three things most undergraduates look for in a college: tuition rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and graduation rates. To start, we searched for online human services bachelor’s degree using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We then narrowed down the search results from 60 schools into the top 50 institutions based on the methodology. We also double-checked the data we got to make sure that we were awarding points based on accurate information.
Average Cost of Attendance
We get it. You want to save money, and college is not cheap. After all, this ranking is based on affordability, so it would make sense to include tuition rates and award the most points to schools with the lowest costs. However, try to avoid selecting a program simply because it is the cheapest. Instead, look for other important features such as opportunities for internships, extracurriculars, and any concentrations or specializations that would meet your professional goals. For this ranking, we ranked tuition based on the cost of one academic year of study for full-time, in-state students, according to NCES. We also provided rates for out-of-state students for reference purposes only.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Next, we looked at each school’s student-to-faculty ratios from NCES. Although not as commonly searched for as tuition rates, prospective undergraduates should understand these numbers because they give an idea of the class size at each institution. When thinking about student-to-faculty ratios, preferences and learning styles will vary. In other words, some might prefer larger class sizes with few interactions between students and faculty, while others thrive in smaller, more intimate environments that provide greater accountability. There are pros and cons to each, but we awarded the most points to schools with the lowest ratios based on the ranges below.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Finally, we used each school’s graduation rate as a measure of student satisfaction and, ultimately, success. Why? In most cases, students that are happy with their academic experiences are more likely to remain enrolled and graduate with their degrees. On the other hand, unhappy students might be more likely to leave and finish their degrees somewhere else. Student satisfaction can be attributed to several things like the level of academic support they are receiving, the affordability of tuition rates, and the helpfulness and/or experience of faculty members. In this ranking, we awarded the most points to colleges and universities with the highest graduation rates as reported by NCES.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 50 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Human Services Degrees
50. Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Points: 4
Program Website
Nova Southeastern University is a private university that was established as the Nova University of Advanced Technology in 1964. NSU offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Human Services Administration. Core courses cover fields like business communications, counseling, and management. Students also choose one of five concentrations: Substance Abuse Studies, Social Work, Health Administration, Advocacy/Case Management, or Nonprofit Management, Philanthropy, and Grantsmanship. Classes are offered entirely online and include multimedia presentations, chat rooms, and discussion boards. Graduates of this economical human services bachelor’s are prepared to work in social work, gerontology, business administration, public administration, and health administration.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Human Services Administration
In-State Tuition: $30,900
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,900
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
49. Indiana Institute of Technology
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Points: 4
Program Website
Established as Indiana Technical College in 1930, the Indiana Institute of Technology is one of the most affordable universities for an online human services degree for 2020. Offered through the College of Arts and Sciences, Indiana Tech’s cost-effective 120-credit-hour Bachelor of Science in Human Services prepares students for careers working with communities, families, and individuals. Students are organized into Tracked Educational Adult Modules (TEAM) groups of 12 to 18 members who proceed through the courses in a predetermined order. Areas of study include psychology, counseling, aging, case management, diversity, and crisis management. A field experience and internship are required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Human Services, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $26,900
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,900
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
48. Bluefield College
Bluefield, Virginia
Points: 4
Program Website
Students looking for an affordable online human services degree might consider attending Bluefield College. Established in 1922, Bluefield College is a Baptist liberal arts college that offers a high-value online Bachelor of Science in Human Services. The program teaches students how to address behavioral issues in the community, workplace, and home. Coursework covers human behavior as a product of mental processes, relationships, and environmental factors that affect well-being. The online bachelor’s in human services degree also emphasizes helping relationships, partnerships, and networks through evidence-based practice. Classes are offered in a 100% online, eight-week format.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $26,060
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,060
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 29 percent
47. Columbia College
Columbia, Missouri
Points: 4
Program Website
Columbia College is a private liberal arts and sciences institution and one of the most affordable colleges for an online human services degree. Established in 1851, Columbia College offers an economical Bachelor of Arts in Human Services that prepares students to work with client systems at the community, group, family, and individual levels. Core courses focus on counseling, research, case management, American social policy, psychology, and minority cultures and relations. Students of this cost-effective bachelor’s in human services must complete 120 semester hours of study, including a culminating evaluative experience in the form of a senior seminar.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $22,704
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,704
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
46. Ohio Christian University
Circleville, Ohio
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1947, Ohio Christian University is a private institution of higher education affiliated with the Churches of Christ in Christian Union. OCU offers a low-cost online human services degree in the form of a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services. This high-value program requires students to explore social advocacy from a Biblical perspective. Core human services courses cover topics like leadership and administration, advocacy and public policy, social casework, addiction, and ethics. Other required areas of study include psychology, criminal justice, substance abuse counseling, and human resources. The program culminates in a human services capstone course.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $20,806
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,806
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 25 percent
45. City University of Seattle
Seattle, Washington
Points: 4
Program Website
Founded in 1973, City University of Seattle is a private university that offers more than 60 on-campus and online degrees designed for busy working adults. Students seeking a cost-effective online human services degree may pursue CityU’s Bachelor of Arts in Human Services. Students must complete 180 credits of study, including core courses in advocacy, assessment and intervention, trauma recovery, and social justice. Other areas of study from this high-value human services bachelor’s include behavioral pharmacology, sociology, and organizational behavior. Those who do not participate in an internship and practicum in human services must complete a human services culminating project to fulfill the experiential learning requirement.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $16,973
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,973
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
44. Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, Indiana
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 2018, Purdue University Global is an adult-serving public institution of higher education that operates as part of the Purdue University System. PG offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Human Services in Youth/Family Services and Administration that fulfills the educational requirements to sit for the Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) exam. Students must complete 180 credits of study, and courses are offered in 10-week terms. This top-value curriculum draws from multiple disciplines like criminal justice, law, sociology, developmental psychology, and human services. Students gain real-world experience through an optional internship. An accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s program is also available.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Science in Human Services in Youth/Family Services and Administration
In-State Tuition: $14,343
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,343
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
43. Colorado State University Global
Aurora, Colorado
Points: 4
Program Website
Founded in 2007, CSU Global is the online campus of the public Colorado State University System that specializes in offering distance education to adult, nontraditional students. CSU Global provides a low-cost online bachelor’s degree in human services that educates students in various social services and community fields. These include elderly support, mental illness, childcare, and support for those with disabilities. Some topics the program covers include human services administration, case management, intervention methods, and human development. Students must complete 120 credits, including a practicum or seminar and a capstone course, to graduate from this top-value program.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $8,400
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,400
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
42. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Points: 5
Program Website
Recognized as one of the most affordable universities for an online human services degree in 2020, Southern New Hampshire University is a private institution of higher education and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country. SNHU offers an economical online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services that includes three concentrations: Child and Family Services, Substance Abuse, and Gerontology. Coursework covers developing a care plan, advocating for policy change, evaluating client outcomes, and assessing client needs. Students also learn how to find a career in human services. Students must complete a capstone experience and demonstrate how they can apply their new skills in a real-world setting.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $31,136
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,136
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
41. Lees-McRae College
Banner Elk, North Carolina
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1900, Lees-McRae College is a private college affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Recognized among the top schools for an affordable online human services degree for 2020, the school offers a top Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science in Human Services degree-completion program that builds upon each student’s associate-level coursework. Areas of study include culture and diversity, leadership and advocacy, statistics and research methods, and human services administration and nonprofit management. A human services internship is also required. Students can earn their degree within two years after transferring credits earned in their associate degrees.
Degree Options:
BAAS in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $25,878
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,878
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
40. Lindsey Wilson College
Columbia, Kentucky
Points: 5
Program Website
Recognized among the top colleges for an economical online human services degree, Lindsey Wilson College is a private institution of higher education affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Established in 1903, LWC offers a high-value online bachelor’s degree in human services and counseling. Core requirements include topics in counseling techniques and theory, case management, lifespan development, substance abuse, and research methods. A human services practicum is also required. The program features eight-week courses, and those with an associate degree can complete the program in as few as 18 months.
Degree Options:
Human Services & Counseling
In-State Tuition: $24,850
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,850
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
39. Grace College
Winona Lake, Indiana
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1948, Grace College is an evangelical Christian college and an affordable, accredited college for an online human services degree. Grace College offers a cost-effective online Bachelor of Science in Human Services that consists of 45 credit hours of study. Topics of focus include diversity, human growth and development, intervention strategies and techniques, case management, and applied research. Students also develop their business writing and public speaking skills. The degree-completion program can be completed in as few as 16 months, building on lifelong learning experiences and previous college credits.
Degree Options:
Human Services, BS
In-State Tuition: $24,850
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,850
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
38. Iowa Wesleyan University
Mount Pleasant, Iowa
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1842, Iowa Wesleyan University is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the United Methodist Church. IWU offers a high-value online human services degree in the form of a Bachelor of Science. The cost-effective program is a combination of the sociology, psychology, and criminal justice majors and is available entirely online. Courses are offered in eight-week terms and cover counseling, the family, social problems, law enforcement, public administration and policy, and race and ethnicity. Support classes focus on public speaking, report writing, and elementary statistics. Students must complete a human services capstone to earn their degrees.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $24,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,500
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 22 percent
37. University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, Kentucky
Points: 5
Program Website
The University of the Cumberlands, founded as Cumberland College in 1888, is a private institution of higher education. The school offers a best-value online human services degree for undergraduates looking to enter the field or pursue graduate studies. The low-cost curriculum emphasizes current social issues, behavioral theory, and professional helping skills. Classes are offered entirely online and cover topics like case management, human services administration, individual and family assessment, and basic counseling skills. A required internship provides the opportunity for majors to work with an organization to gain hands-on, real-world experience.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $23,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,000
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
36. Shorter University
Rome, Georgia
Points: 5
Program Website
Established as Cherokee Baptist Female College in 1873, Shorter University is a private, Baptist institution of higher education. Students looking for a top-value online human services degree can pursue Shorter’s Bachelor of Science in Human Services. The program takes an interdisciplinary approach to the field, offering courses in sociology, psychology, counseling, and social work. The cost-effective 120-hour program is divided into 19 hours of electives, 38 hours of Common Core requirements, and 63 hours in the major, including a required minor in General Business, Sport Management, or Criminal Justice.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $22,370
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,370
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
35. Southwestern Assemblies of God University
Waxahachie, Texas
Points: 5
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for an online human services degree for 2020, Southwestern Assemblies of God University is a private Christian university and seminary. Established in 1927, SAGU is endorsed by the Assemblies of God USA. SAGU offers an inexpensive online bachelor’s degree in human services comprised of general biblical studies and general education. A specialization in criminal justice, social work, psychology, or counseling is also included. The program is offered 100% online. Students benefit from small class sizes and individual attention, full academic support, and an environment that strengthens their minds and faith.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $19,582
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,582
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
34. University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, Massachusetts
Points: 5
Program Website
Established as Massachusetts Agricultural College in 1863, the University of Massachusetts-Amherst is the flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts System. UMass Amherst offers an affordable online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services that requires 120 credits of study. Students can design their own program and earn up to 105 credits for previous coursework, work and life experience, and prior learning. The low-cost program is offered entirely online without any on-campus visits required. Graduates are prepared for careers in counseling, social work, human services administration, substance abuse, and mental health.
Degree Options:
BA, Human Services Concentrations
In-State Tuition: $15,887
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,570
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 80 percent
33. Monroe College
Bronx, New York
Points: 5
Program Website
Established as the Monroe School of Business in 1933, Monroe College is a for-profit institution of higher education named after former President James Monroe. The school offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree that includes coursework taught by experienced faculty members as well as two supervised internship placements. Areas of study include administration, social welfare policy, interviewing and report writing, ethical issues, and human services. Graduates of this best-value bachelor’s in human services are prepared to work in mental health and substance abuse treatment facilities, social service agencies, and domestic abuse shelters, among other organizations.
Degree Options:
Bachelor’s in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $15,428
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,428
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
32. University of Maine at Augusta
Augusta, Maine
Points: 5
Program Website
The University of Maine at Augusta is a member of the University of Maine System and one of the most affordable universities for an online human services degree. UMA offers a cheap Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services that allows students to tailor their coursework to match their career goals. UMA offers four concentrations: Mental Health and Human Services Generalist, Child and Family Services, Addictions Counseling, and Adult Mental Health Rehabilitation. Majors are eligible to sit for the Licensed Social Worker-Conditional (LSX) credential. Those pursuing the concentration in adult mental health rehabilitation qualify for the Mental Health Rehabilitation/Community (MHRT/C) credential.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Mental Health and Human Services
In-State Tuition: $7,988
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,918
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 18 percent
31. Bethel University
St. Paul, Minnesota
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1871 as a Baptist seminary, Bethel University is a private, Christian liberal arts university. The school offers an affordable degree in human services in the form of a Bachelor of Arts. Students must have already earned 60 credits to enroll in the program. Courses cover counseling, social policy and inequality, individual and family psychopathology, and individual and family development over the life cycle. An integrative internship seminar or an internship in addictions counseling is also required. Undergraduates of this cost-effective human services bachelor’s then complete an additional 48 credits of study, graduating in as few as 21 to 24 months.
Degree Options:
Human Services (B.A.) Degree Program
In-State Tuition: $37,300
Out-of-State Tuition: $37,300
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 77 percent
30. California Baptist University
Riverside, California
Points: 6
Program Website
California Baptist University is affiliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention and an affordable university for an online human services degree. Established as California Baptist College in 1950, CBU offers an economical online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services that focuses on analytical and professional skills, research development, communications, and problem-solving. The high-value curriculum examines human social behavior, diversity and social justice, case management, and business and organizational management. The program culminates in a human services capstone project as well as a practice experience in human services. Students can complete the 42 required major units within 16 months.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $33,478
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,478
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
29. LeTourneau University
Longview, Texas
Points: 6
Program Website
LeTourneau University is a private, Christian university that was founded in 1946 as LeTourneau Technical Institute. LETU’s affordable online bachelor’s degree in human services includes courses in ethics, counseling, criminal justice, sociology, and psychology — each emphasizing the value of Christian faith in the field of human services. Courses cover addiction theory, abnormal psychology, the techniques and theories of counseling, and either criminal law or criminology. Each course lasts approximately five weeks. Graduates of this top-value human services bachelor’s are prepared for master’s-level study as well as career options in the social assistance and healthcare industries.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Human Services
In-State Tuition: $30,210
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,210
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 61 percent
28. Quincy University
Quincy, Illinois
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded by Franciscan friars in 1860, Quincy University is a private, Roman Catholic, liberal arts institution of higher education. It is also an accredited university for an online human services degree. QU offers a 131-hour Bachelor of Science in Human Services that covers elements like family and group dynamics, organizational leadership, case management, and care planning. The low-cost curriculum also looks at ethical behaviors in practice, the assessment of individual needs, and counseling techniques and theories. Outside of the classroom, students have opportunities to gain real-world knowledge through practicum and internship placements.
Degree Options:
B.S. – Human Services
In-State Tuition: $28,562
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,562
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
27. Drury University
Springfield, Missouri
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1873, Drury University is a private liberal arts post-secondary institution and one of the most affordable universities for an online human services degree. Drury offers a high-value Bachelor of Science in Human Services that includes coursework in helping various populations, relationships and group dynamics, human development, diversity, and counseling. Students are also exposed to social work, family therapy, social psychology, and psychology. The 42-credit-hour program culminates in a senior seminar. Graduates are prepared to work as public administrators, caseworkers, mental health counselors, and social workers.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $28,515
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,515
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
26. Anderson University
Anderson, South Carolina
Points: 6
Program Website
Anderson University, formerly Anderson College, is a private university affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Anderson provides an affordable online Bachelor of Human Services degree with optional specializations in three areas: healthcare and human services management, behavioral health, gerontology. The Flex pathway allows undergraduates to work at their speed and complete as many as four classes in one term. Graduates of this cost-effective bachelor’s can earn their degrees in as few as 18 months. Students are prepared to earn graduate degrees in education, counseling, and social work as well as for careers in thought leadership and administration.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Human Services Flex
In-State Tuition: $28,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,000
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
25. Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, Indiana
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1920 as Marion College, Indiana Wesleyan University is the largest private institution of higher learning in the state. IWU offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Human Services that requires 45 credits of study in the major, including 15 credits of electives and 30 hours of required courses. Areas of focus include counseling, psychology, leadership, advocacy, and administration. A capstone in human services is also required for graduation. Students are organized into cohorts, and instructors combine professional expertise with academic credentials. Students may complete the top-value program in 18 to 20 months.
Degree Options:
B.S. Human Services
In-State Tuition: $26,630
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,630
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 66 percent
24. Southern Wesleyan University
Central, South Carolina
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded as Wesleyan Methodist College in 1906, Southern Wesleyan University is a private Christian university. SWU offers an affordable online bachelor’s degree in human services based on a Christian worldview. The inexpensive 120-credit program is available entirely online and features self-paced coursework. Students can choose from five concentrations: Marriage and Family Services, Criminal Justice, Counseling, Administration, and a specialized concentration based on the number and type of transfer credits. Outside of the classroom, students develop their skills by engaging in hands-on, real-world projects. Graduates are prepared to become a Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP).
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor’s in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $25,476
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,476
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
23. Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
Pennsylvania State University is a land-, sea-, and space-grant university and the flagship campus of the Pennsylvania State University System. Founded in 1855 as the Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania, PSU offers a cheap online degree programs through PSU-World Campus. Students can earn a top-value Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies with an option in Life Span Human Services that requires 120 credits of study. Students investigate topics like family development, human development, family relationships, and the development and administration of human services programs. An internship is also required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies
In-State Tuition: $13,988
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,988
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 29 percent
22. Ottawa University
Ottawa, Kansas
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1865, Ottawa University is a private, Baptist liberal arts university. OU provides a low-cost online bachelor’s degree in human and social services that follows the guidelines of the National Organization for Human Service Education. The best-value curriculum focuses on issues such as relational crises, mental health, substance abuse, poverty, social equality, and diversity. Students also develop their skills in case management, consulting, counseling, data gathering, client interviewing, and program implementation. Two concentrations are offered: Management of Community-Based Organizations and Communication. Coursework is available entirely online, providing adult students the flexibility they need to earn a bachelor’s in human services degree.
Degree Options:
Human and Social Services
In-State Tuition: $11,976
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,976
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 3:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
21. National Louis University
Chicago, Illinois
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1886, National Louis University is a private university known for establishing the National Kindergarten Movement and the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA). NLU offers a cheap Bachelor of Arts in Human Services that prepares students for leadership positions in rehabilitation clinics, community health centers, and social service agencies. Available entirely online, the high-value four-year program focuses on helping students develop practical skills in community collaboration, advocacy, crisis and trauma response, and case management. Optional concentrations are offered in long-term care administration, leadership, human resource management, and entrepreneurship.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $10,710
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,710
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 22 percent
20. East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, Tennessee
Points: 6
Program Website
Students looking for a cheap online human services degree may consider attending East Tennessee State University. Established in 1911, ETSU is a member of the State University and Community College System of Tennessee. ETSU’s top-value online Bachelor of Science in Human Services provides a background in behavioral, social, and human science. Students take core classes in counseling theory and practice, administration, social and cultural foundations, and developmental psychology. A minor, a practicum experience, and an internship are all required for graduation. The program is accredited by the Council for Standards in Human Service Education (CSHSE).
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $8,935
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,199
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
19. Troy University
Troy, Alabama
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1887 as Troy State Normal School in the Alabama State University System, Troy University is a public university and now the flagship campus of the Troy University System. Troy offers an inexpensive online Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree that requires 36 hours of study in the major. The low-cost curriculum covers topics like human behavior, diversity, ethics, and human services. Students further focus their degree through electives in social work, rehabilitation, or human services. The program is offered 100 percent online with no on-campus visits required.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $8,908
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,708
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
18. Dominican University
River Forest, Illinois
Points: 7
Program Website
A top-ranked university for an accelerated online human services degree, Dominican University is a Catholic institution of higher education affiliated with the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters. DU’s high-value online Bachelor of Professional Studies in Human Services is a degree-completion program. It is designed for working adults who want to graduate within 20 months or two years of full-time coursework. The interdisciplinary curriculum allows students to choose one or two concentrations in areas like training and development, international studies, disability advocacy, sustainability studies, and labor relations. Students also develop fundamental skills in data analysis, ethics, research, writing, and communication.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Professional Studies in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $33,434
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,434
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 61 percent
17. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana
Points: 7
Program Website
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a private, Roman Catholic liberal arts college. Established in 1840, SMWC provides an economical online Bachelor of Science in Human Services that teaches students the skills necessary for working with communities, groups, families, and individuals. Students complete 55 hours in the major in areas like sociology, psychology, counseling, and research methods. The cost-effective curriculum also examines human services techniques, including casework methods and both group and community methods. Other required courses focus on state and local government, American public policy, and the American federal system. A human services practicum experience is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $29,960
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,960
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
16. Judson University
Elgin, Illinois
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1913 as Judson College, Judson University is a Christian liberal arts university and an affordable, accredited university for an online human services degree. In Judson’s top Bachelor of Arts in Human Servies degree program, students learn how to advocate for vulnerable populations. They also build skills in intervention, counseling, and assessment. Outside of the classroom, undergraduates have opportunities to conduct, evaluate, and present research projects as well as apply what they have learned to a real-world internship. The high-value program is tailored to adult distance learners who can expect to spend about 15 hours a week on coursework outside of the classroom.
Degree Options:
Human Services, B.A.
In-State Tuition: $29,860
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,860
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
15. St. Joseph’s College
Patchogue, New York
Points: 7
Program Website
Established as St. Joseph’s College for Women in 1916, St. Joseph’s College is a private liberal arts college based in New York. SJC offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Human Services that includes specialized courses in human services administration, family and child welfare, gerontology, case management, and addictions counseling. A capstone research project in human services is required for graduation. Students must complete 120 hours of study to earn their degrees. An accelerated dual degree that leads to a B.S. in Human Services and an M.S. in Human Services Leadership is also available.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $27,830
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,830
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Graduation Rate: 68 percent
14. University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Points: 7
Program Website
Known as South Carolina College from 1801 to 1906, the University of South Carolina is a public research university and the flagship institution of the University of South Carolina System. USC offers a cheap online Bachelor of Science in Human Services, an interdisciplinary program that draws from the fields of psychology and sociology. In addition to completing core coursework, students participate in three experience-based internship courses, each of which requires 120 hours of service in a supervised setting. Students must already have 45 to 60 hours of college-level coursework to apply for the best-value online B.S. program.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $12,618
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,298
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 77 percent
13. Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1930, Old Dominion University is a public research university and one of the most affordable schools for an online human services degree. ODU’s online Bachelor of Science in Human Services is an affordable degree-completion program designed to prepare graduates for entry-level employment in community service agencies. Upper-division coursework focuses on interpersonal relations, diversity, human services methods, crisis intervention, family guidance, and an internship in human services. The low-cost 120-credit-hour program meets the education requirements for the Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) and Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) certification examinations.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $10,560
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,460
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
12. University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is a public research university and a fully autonomous campus in the University of Alabama System. Students pursuing UAB’s inexpensive online Bachelor of Science in Community Health and Human Services will choose a concentration in either Human Services or Community Health. However, only the former is offered entirely online. The high-value human services program covers topics such as intervention, public policy, and case management. An internship is also required for graduation. Those who complete the program are prepared to sit for the Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) examination.
Degree Options:
Community Health and Human Services, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $8,568
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,704
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
11. Washburn University
Topeka, Kansas
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1865, Washburn University is a public institution of higher education. WU offers two top-value Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services degrees: one in Family Services and a second in Addiction Counseling. Both programs consist of 33 credit hours in required core courses in areas such as human development, family and human services, group counseling, and family issues. Students then take four specialization classes depending on the concentration chosen. Two internships are required for graduation. Courses are offered on-campus and online. Graduates of this low-cost human services bachelor’s are prepared for meaningful careers as trauma-informed, helping professionals.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services – Family Services
Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services – Addiction Counseling
In-State Tuition: $8,312
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,560
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
10. Western Washington University
Bellingham, Washington
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1893, Western Washington University is the northernmost university in the contiguous United States. WWU students can pursue an affordable online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services that combines academic study with professional internships. Required courses cover community, global, personal, and small group systems. Other classes focus on human development and human services, programming planning and evaluation, and applied research methods. Students must complete three-quarters of internships for a total of 380 hours in the community. This best-value program aligns with national standards set by the Council for Standards in Human Services Education (CSHSE).
Degree Options:
Human Services BA
In-State Tuition: $8,126
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,540
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 68 percent
9. Central Washington University
Ellensburg, Washington
Points: 7
Program Website
Central Washington University is a public institution of higher education and an emerging Hispanic-Serving Institution that was established in 1891. CWU’s cheap 66-credit Bachelor of Science in Sociology is comprised of core courses in sociology as well as classes in the social services major. Topics of study include social inequality, social welfare, and social service methods and casework. Students are also introduced to the concept and history of social service agencies. Outside of the classroom, the program offers students the opportunity to work within agencies in their local communities. Graduates of this cost-effective human services bachelor’s are prepared to work in government and nonprofit agencies and organizations helping populations in need.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Social Services Major
In-State Tuition: $8,072
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,053
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 55 percent
8. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1871, the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh is a member of the University of Wisconsin System and the third-largest institution of higher education in the state. UW Oshkosh offers a cheap online Bachelor of Science in Human Services Leadership that teaches students how to be agents of social change. The low-cost program emphasizes legal and ethical issues, grant writing, and intervention strategies. Students are also exposed to professional leadership and administration as well as program development, implementation, and evaluation. An advanced supervised internship consisting of 280 hours of field experience is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Services Leadership
In-State Tuition: $7,621
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,194
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
7. Touro University Worldwide
Los Alamitos, California
Points: 8
Program Website
Touro University Worldwide is a nonprofit, online-focused university founded on the Judaic belief and value system. TUW provides an inexpensive online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Human Services that integrates the disciplines of social work, counseling, and psychology. The curriculum allows students to develop and implement the skills necessary for helping communities, families, and individuals face challenges that arise in society. The top-value program is available entirely online and designed for working adults and busy professionals. Those who transfer 60 credits into the program can earn their degree within two years of full-time study.
Degree Options:
BA in Psychology – Concentration in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $14,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,600
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
6. University of Arizona
Tucson, ARIZONA
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded in 1885, the University of Arizona is a public research university and the first institution of higher education in the state. UA’s affordable online Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services prepares graduates to serve clients in many types of private and public outreach agencies. The curriculum focuses on social issues, human development, program planning, and human services agencies. Other areas of study include cultural humility, transitional resiliency, and health in human services. Graduates of this high-value human services bachelor’s are prepared for entry-level employment or for master’s degree programs in counseling or social work.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $12,467
Out-of-State Tuition: $36,366
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
5. SUNY Empire State College
Saratoga Springs, New York
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1971, Empire State College is a public postsecondary institution and a member of the State University of New York (SUNY) System. ESC offers three types of top-value online undergraduate degrees in community and human services: a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Professional Studies. Within these programs, students can further focus their degree through concentrations in popular areas like children and family services, substance abuse services, health and human services, disability services, and criminal justice services. Students can choose one area or create an interdisciplinary program that combines or connects perspectives.
Degree Options:
Community and Human Services
In-State Tuition: $7,405
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,185
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 26 percent
4. Minot State University
Minot, North Dakota
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded as a normal school in 1913, Minot State University is the third-largest university in the state. MSU’s College of Education and Health Sciences offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a major in intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The economical 105-hour program focuses on human development, healthcare, instructional interventions, and communicative interactions as they relate to IDD. A field experience, senior seminar, and externship are required for graduation. The low-cost curriculum is aligned to the skills areas noted by the National Association of Direct Support Professionals (NADSP). Graduates are prepared for the responsibilities of a Qualified Intellectual Developmental Disabilities Professional (QIDDP).
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Human Services With a Major in Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (Non-Teaching)
In-State Tuition: $7,064
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,064
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
3. East Central University
Ada, Oklahoma
Points: 8
Program Website
Rounding out the top three most affordable universities for an online human services degree is East Central University, Established in 1909 as East Central State Normal School, ECU offers a top online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services Counseling for 2020. Students can transfer up to 94 credits into the 124-credit-hour program, graduating in two to four years of full-time study. Three areas of concentration for this high-value bachelor’s are available: Aging, Counseling, and Rehabilitation. Some potential topics of study include social environments, sociology, and psychology as well as intervention techniques, case management, and human behavior.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Human Services Counseling
In-State Tuition: $6,810
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,020
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
2. Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1966 as Florida Junior College, Florida State College at Jacksonville is a member of the Florida College System. With the lowest tuition on our list, it is the cheapest college for an online human services degree. At FSCJ, undergraduates can earn a top Bachelor of Science in Human Services that covers topics such as crisis intervention, case management, administration, diagnosis and treatment planning, and human development. Students also complete an internship to gain real-world experience. The accelerated, 120-credit online program can be completed within 20 months of full-time study.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Human Services
In-State Tuition: $2,878
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,992
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 32 percent
1. California State University-Fullerton
Fullerton, California
Points: 9
Program Website
Topping our list of the most affordable universities for an online human services degree is California State University-Fullerton. Established in 1959, CSUF boasts the largest student body of the 23-school California State University System. CSUF offers the best online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology to students who have already completed their general education requirements at another institution. The general, broad-based curriculum delivers a strong background in understanding interpersonal relationships. The degree-completion program is available entirely online and prepares graduates for careers and specializations in human services, including administration, programming, and mental health services. Other areas of focus for this cheap bachelor’s degree program include advocacy, case management, and counseling.
Degree Options:
Online BA in Sociology
In-State Tuition: $6,886
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,766
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 25:1
Graduation Rate: 68 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Online Bachelor’s in Human Services Degree?
An online bachelor’s degree in human services teaches undergraduates how to help others through community and social care centers. Human services professionals can work in the private or public sector in places like mental health facilities, rehabilitation centers, state and federal justice systems, and nonprofit organizations. Other agencies that hire graduates with a Bachelor’s in Human Services include youth development organizations, women’s shelters, substance abuse treatment centers, public safety and disaster relief organizations, and residential care facilities. Graduates who hold this degree are prepared for many careers such as:
- Social and Community Service Manager
- Home Health Aide
- Social Worker
- Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselor
- Social and Human Service Assistant
As we can see, those with an online degree in human services have many career options. Sitting at the intersection of social services and healthcare, human services professionals can work with many groups of people depending on their interests. This can range from elderly clients who need extra care and support to adolescent substance abusers and their families. Regardless of the career path chosen, the happiest and most successful professionals in this field are those with a genuine passion for helping others to live better lives.
What is the Salary Potential for an Online Bachelor’s in Human Services Degree?
Many factors will determine your salary after earning an online bachelor’s degree in human services: the position you are applying for, your level of professional experience, the organization itself, where you live, and whether you have earned an advanced degree after completing your bachelor’s. Since the human services field is broad and includes many different occupations, we turned to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to learn more about salary earnings for some of the most common careers.
According to the BLS, social and community service managers earned $65,320 per year, or $31.41 per hour, as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $111,150, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,720. The median annual wages for this occupation in the industries in which they worked were:
- Local government, excluding hospitals and education: $83,660
- Professional, civic, grantmaking, religious, and similar organizations: $70,080
- Nursing and residential care facilities: $61,940
- Community and vocational rehabilitation services: $59,940
- Family and Individual Services: $59,400
To dig deeper, we gathered data from four other popular careers sought after by undergraduates with an online bachelor’s in human services degree. We list them below, along with their annual median pay as of May 2018:
- Social Workers: $49,470 per year
- Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors: $44,630 per year
- Social and Human Service Assistants: $33,750 per year
- Home Health Aides and Personal Care Aides: $24,060 per year
Although the salary earnings are not astronomical, they do increase when an undergraduate continues through graduate school and earns a master’s degree. Also, those who work in the medical sector and the government tend to make more money than those employed in family and individual service agencies. However, most professionals who get into the field of human services are likely not doing it for the money; they are in it to follow a rewarding career path.
What Will You Learn in an Online Bachelor’s in Human Services Degree Program
When researching the available online bachelor’s degrees in human services, keep in mind that course requirements will vary depending on the school you choose. While some colleges and universities offer a straightforward major in human services, others offer a human services program as a specialization within a broader major such as psychology or sociology. Also, undergraduates who earn a bachelor’s degree in human services may be able to customize their degree through a concentration in an area like gerontology, child and family services, or substance abuse. Courses will also vary, but most programs cover topics in:
- Family and Community Systems
- Child Growth and Cognitive Development
- Public Policy and Advocacy
- Basic Principles of Human Services
Other examples of courses an undergraduate might encounter in an online human services bachelor’s degree include Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Cultural Diversity, Adult Development, Prevention and Crisis Intervention, and Communications for Human Service Professionals. These classes provide a strong foundation of knowledge in areas like family issues, substance abuse, minority issues, human services administration, advocacy, and case management. Depending on the school, most programs blend traditional coursework with practicum experiences and/or internships to give students a balance of practical and theoretical skills and knowledge.
Online programs are similar to on-campus degrees in terms of courses offered and student outcomes. However, online bachelor’s degrees in human services are usually designed to be completed at the student’s individual pace rather than together as a class as is typically the case in traditional on-campus programs. If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career in human services but do not have the time to commit to a traditional on-campus program, the above-mentioned, top-ranked 50 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Human Services degrees can allow you to reach your professional goals with the added flexibility of distance education.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 50 best affordable online bachelor’s in human services degrees.
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