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Human Services

Undergraduate
A Simmons health sciences student in a practicum setting

Systemic inequities — in housing, employment, education, and more — continue to affect individuals and communities across the country. That’s why we need professionals who can offer information, resources, and advocacy to help people overcome these challenges. Our online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services program prepares you to take on these responsibilities in the communities that matter most to you.

As a student in the program, you will learn theory and gain the foundational skills needed to practice in this field —without having to fulfill any clinical requirements. The curriculum covers several specialties within the human services field, allowing you to gain widely transferable skills that can be applied in various helping professions and settings. You will graduate prepared to assess client needs, identify community resources, and act as an advocate in your community. 

The online human services program curriculum includes core courses in areas such as social welfare policy, social work practice, and human behavior. In alignment with Simmons’ social justice values, you will learn to view each client holistically — so you can consider their individual experiences, domestic life, communities, and the inequitable systems affecting them.

The interdisciplinary curriculum combines social work, sociology, and human services pedagogies for a comprehensive learning experience.

Major Requirements (36 credits)

SW101CD Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare 4
SW253CD Human Behavior in the Social Environment 4
SW255CD Interviewing & Documentation in Human Services 4
SW200CD Social Welfare Policy 4
SW351CD Social Work Practice I: Introduction to Generalist Practice 4
SOCI249CD Inequalities 4
SW352CD Social Work Practice II: Work with Individuals & Families 4
SW354CD Social Work Practice IV: Macro Social Work 4
HS390CD Human Services Capstone 4

1. Foundational Knowledge

Graduates will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the foundational theories, historical development, and interdisciplinary perspectives that inform the human services field.

2. Ethical Practice & Professional Identity

Students will apply ethical principles, professional standards, and cultural humility to guide decision-making, advocate for clients, and uphold integrity in diverse human services settings.

3. Cultural Competence & Social Justice

Learners will critically analyze how systems of power, privilege, oppression, and inequality impact individuals and communities, and will demonstrate culturally responsive practices that promote inclusion and equity.

4. Communication & Interpersonal Skills

Students will communicate effectively and empathetically—both verbally and in writing—with clients, families, colleagues, and interdisciplinary teams in human services contexts.

5. Assessment & Intervention

Graduates will accurately assess client needs using evidence-based tools and collaborate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of person-centered service plans and interventions.

6. Research & Data Literacy

Students will interpret and apply research findings, evaluate program effectiveness, and use data responsibly to inform human services practice, policy, and continuous improvement.

7. Systems & Policy Understanding

Learners will analyze the structure and impact of social service systems, policies, and community resources, and advocate for systemic change that enhances access, well-being, and social justice.

8. Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving

Graduates will apply critical thinking skills to evaluate complex cases, anticipate challenges, adapt to evolving needs, and propose ethical, resource-appropriate solutions.

9. Leadership & Collaboration

Students will demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and conflict-resolution skills in community, organizational, and interdisciplinary settings to enhance outcomes for individuals and communities.

10. Self-Awareness & Professional Development

Learners will reflect on their values, biases, strengths, and areas for growth, and engage in ongoing professional development and self-care practices to sustain ethical and effective human services practice.