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Human Services: Online

Undergraduate
A Simmons health sciences student in a practicum setting

An online bachelor's degree completion program

Are you looking to complete your bachelor's degree in a major that prepares you for the helping professions? 

Simmons University’s Online BA in Human Services gives you the tools to confront deep-rooted inequities in housing, healthcare, education, and employment. Our curriculum introduces you to areas of specialization, ensuring you develop the transferable skills necessary to lead across diverse sectors. 

Learn more about Simmons’ women-centered online degree completion program.

Why study Human Services at Simmons?

The Human Services major, offered within our School of Social Work, offers many benefits:

  • No Practicum Required: Complete your degree through a 100% online, flexible format designed for working professionals. 
  • Versatile Skill Set: Master the theory and applied skills needed to work in complex social systems. 
  • Immediate Impact: Graduate ready to assess client needs, mobilize community resources, and work as a powerful advocate for those who need it most. 
  • Expedited Pathway to an MSW degree: After you graduate, you can apply to Simmons’ nationally-recognized MSW program and have four of your human services courses count towards the MSW, giving you a faster and less expensive path.

What careers can you pursue as a Human Services professional?

A bachelor’s degree in Human Services prepares you for roles such as:

  • Case manager
  • Child protective worker
  • Community service managers
  • Counselor
  • Community outreach worker
  • Housing coordinator
  • Leadership and Administration
  • Life skills counselor
  • Hospital patient navigator
  • Social work assistant
  • MSW student

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.