Is a Master's in Human Services Worth It?

Deciding whether to pursue a master’s in human services depends on your career goals and passion for helping others. If you want to advance into leadership roles, make a larger impact in community programs, or influence policy, this degree offers valuable skills and credentials. A master’s degree in human services opens doors to management, advocacy, and program development positions that may not be accessible with just a bachelor’s degree.

Many graduates find the degree worth it because it combines practical knowledge with the flexibility of online options, such as master’s in human services online, making it easier to balance work and study.

What Is a Master’s in Human Services?

A Master of Arts in Human Services is a graduate-level program designed to prepare individuals for advanced roles in helping professions. This interdisciplinary degree focuses on enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, and communities through direct services, advocacy, and program management This degree prepares you to lead organizations, design programs, and advocate for systemic change in fields like healthcare, nonprofits, education, and government agencies.

The curriculum covers topics such as:

• Research methods and data-driven decision making
• Ethics and professional standards in human services
• Social and cultural diversity, cultural competence
• Community outreach and engagement
• Sustainable funding strategies
• Nonprofit administration and program evaluation
• Leadership theories and practices

Whether you enroll in a traditional program or a flexible human services master’s degree online, you’ll develop expertise applicable across many service-focused careers.

Key Benefits of Getting a Master’s in Human Services

Earning a human services master’s degree offers several benefits:

• Career Advancement: Qualify for supervisory and executive roles that require a graduate degree
• Higher Earning Potential: Positions in human services management often offer increased salaries
• Versatility: Work across sectors like healthcare, education, nonprofits, and government
• Impact: Lead programs that create meaningful change for individuals and communities
• Flexibility: Many programs, like Bellevue’s master’s in human services online, accommodate working professionals

These advantages make a master’s in a health and human services degree a smart investment for those committed to service careers.

Balancing a career with graduate coursework was challenging, but Bellevue’s flexible and supportive learning environment allowed me to thrive. The university’s commitment to adult learners, online resources, and engaging faculty made it possible to manage both my professional and academic responsibilities successfully.

– Sydni Haugaard, graduate student

Skills Gained in a Master’s in Human Services

With a human services master's degree, you’ll gain critical skills such as:

• Leadership and organizational management
• Understanding of legal and ethical frameworks
• Ability to develop and evaluate social programs
• Cultural competency and diversity awareness
• Strategic planning and sustainable funding knowledge

These skills prepare you to manage teams, influence policy, and create programs that effectively meet community needs

Financial Considerations for a Human Services Master’s Degree

Pursuing a master’s in human services requires time, money, and dedication. When considering whether an advanced degree like the human services master’s degree is worth it, consider these factors.

Cost

Costs can vary greatly between schools and are usually measured by cost per credit. It’s important to do some research to guide your decision. Here are some of the facts:

• Cost per credit and other fees are found on the Bellevue University Tuition and Fees page.
• Graduate students are eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
• Military education funding and corporate tuition assistance are other popular ways to fund graduate courses.
• You may be able to transfer in up to 6 graduate credit hours from a previous accredited university. Contact us to learn more about how to have your credits evaluated.

Education Requirements

Beyond the financial costs, educational requirements take your time, effort, and personal commitment. Here’s what you can expect.

Time commitment

Most students complete a master’s degree in 2-3 years, depending on several factors, including how many credits you take per term and how many are required (part-time students will take longer). A human services master’s degree, including Bellevue’s cohort master’s program, requires 36 graduate credit hours.

Weigh these factors with the benefit of a Master’s in Human Services. The U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the current median annual salary of Social and Community Service Managers as $78,240 as of 2024.
However, earning potential with a human services degree varies depending on factors such as industry, location, experience, and specific job role and this data is not intended to be reflective or representative of any particular institution’s graduate earnings.

The Bottom Line: Is a Master’s in Human Services Right For You?

If you’re passionate about making a difference and eager to step into leadership roles, an M.A.in Human Services degree can be a powerful confidence booster. It prepares you for diverse roles in a growing field focused on helping individuals and communities thrive.

Ask yourself: Do I want to influence policy? Lead programs? Work directly with underserved populations? If so, this degree offers the knowledge and credentials you need.

Start Your Master’s in Human Services at Bellevue University Today

Bellevue University offers a flexible, fully online master’s in human services program designed for working professionals. With experienced faculty, a practical, applied curriculum, and support every step of the way, Bellevue equips you to advance your career and make a real impact.

Ready to take the next step? Explore how Bellevue’s master’s in human services online can help you turn your passion into leadership. Explore the Bellevue University Master’s in Human Services today!

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