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Health and Human Services
Associate of Science

Graduate with an associate degree in health and human services in 2 years and start a new, rewarding career path full of unique job possibilities.

Program Length

16 Mo.

Credits

60

Format

Online

Tuition cost per credit

$450
calendar

NEXT START July 6th

Waived Enrollment Fee

Program highlights

AccreditationAccredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Format100% online classes
Degree pathwaysEarn a 2-year degree and transfer credit into a BS-HHS, or pursue related bachelor's degree majors in allied health, nursing, business, or others
QuickPathsTransfer credit, stackable credentials, and adaptive learning technology build a faster pathway to a higher education with Herzing University

Learn More Today!

Classes start: July 6th
Satisfaction rate

Over 90%

Satisfaction rate

Our overall student satisfaction rate, according to the 2024 Herzing Graduate Survey.

Associate of Science in Health and Human Services

The Associate of Science in Health and Human Services is a 60-credit undergraduate program which prepares you for a wide variety of potential career pathways in community health.

The online degree program provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in human resource management, behavioral health in communities, social problems and policy, human development across the lifespan, and much more.

Human Services Community Worker Discussing Local Issues
  • Career-focused curriculum

    Discover the crucial knowledge and skills required to succeed in your work and build a foundation for continued career growth.

  • Flexible schedule

    You can take classes during the day or in the evening.  We work hard to help you maintain school-life balance, striving to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students.

  • Virtual services

    Access to extensive virtual services, including academic advising, tutoring, support services, technical support and library services.

  • Lifelong support

    We support your ongoing career advancement by providing comprehensive, personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.

  • Rolling admissions

    No application deadlines to worry about. Apply when you’re ready and prepare to get started soon.

Curriculum

Program classes & curriculum details

All didactic (lecture-style) classes are delivered online, and there is no field work, practicum, or internship included as part of the program. You can personalize your education by utilizing 10 open elective credit hours.

ProgramMonths iCredits
Associate of Science in Health and Human Services1660

i. Average number of months for students to complete the program attending full-time

Required Courses

All courses, 27.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course introduces the topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the behavioral health sector.  Students will examine the topics of diversity and difference in the areas of gender, political views, physical abilities, race, class, culture, sexual orientation, religion, age, and mental health. This course will provide the tools to improve equity and inclusion within the behavioral health sector through engagement with others, identifying and addressing unconscious bias, understanding the concept of social stratification, examining microaggressions, fostering an inclusive climate, discussing oppression and suppression, and privilege. Students will demonstrate how to effectively engage with clients, recognize the dignity and worth of all people, and demonstrate self-awareness and cultural humility.

This course examines the ethical, legal, and professional issues facing behavioral health professionals.  It is designed to introduce critical ethical issues, problem-solving, ethical decision-making models, theory, the intersection of law, values, and ethics, HIPPA, client rights, mandated reporting laws, ethical conduct, and conflicting values. This course will also explore ethical principles such as informed consent, self-determination, conflict of interest, dual relationships, transference and countertransference, boundaries, professionalism, privacy, and confidentiality.

This course examines the way in which communities and individuals interact. The processes involved with social change, diversity, and citizen participation will be considered. Topics will also include how to plan, assess, and evaluate tools in working with the community, apply knowledge and theory of human systems, and explore community issues and solutions.

This course is designed for students aiming to ascend to new heights in their careers and master the art of business leadership. This course offers a blend of personal growth strategies and business acumen, tailored to equip students with the insights, skills, and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern business world.

This course introduces you to the field of health and human services. You will explore how the field of human services has evolved throughout history and how this has shaped current programs, services, populations served, and policy. Topics include the role and function of health and human service professionals, a foundation of assessment skills to examine present conditions in our society, and societal barriers that contribute to the need for health and human services. You will examine the roles and opportunities within the health and human services field.

This course examines human development theories and life stages. Students will acquire an understanding of basic human development theories including sociocultural, biopsychosocial, and social change. Students will apply these theories to developmental stages from infancy through aging. In addition, this course will explore developmental milestones, challenges, common interventions for each stage in life, and an understanding of the capacities, limitations, and resiliency of human systems.

This course provides a study of social problems and the policies that address them. Topics include identification of how current legislation impacts human services delivery, how public and private values impact legislation and interpretation of policy, how sociopolitical issues impact service delivery and the development of the profession, identification of resources to address and impact policy, and introduction to laws that govern the profession.

This course explores the key components of case management and crisis intervention. Topics include case management techniques, tools, and challenges, application of assessment, planning, and evaluation tools in working with individuals, how to identify resources and conduct referrals, assessment, and analysis of needs of clients through observation, interviewing, active listening, consultation, and research, and how to engage in conflict.  Students will obtain the skills to conduct crisis and suicide prevention, assessment, and interventions, discuss how to recognize the dignity and self-worth of others, demonstrate self-awareness, professional use of self and empathy, develop skills congruent with the code of ethics, clients right to self-determination and the least restrictive environment, an understanding of resilience, and advocate for equity and inclusion.

This course explores how to apply knowledge, theory, and skills in working with families and groups within Health and Human Services. Students will acquire skills and knowledge to work with families and groups: including the application of theory, assessment, planning, and evaluation.   Topics will also include:  how to identify resources and conduct referrals, discuss how to recognize the dignity and self-worth of others, demonstrate self-awareness, professional use of self and empathy, develop skills congruent with the code of ethics, group facilitation skills, family systems, and advocate for equity and inclusion.

Open Elective Courses

A minimum of 7.00 semester credit hours is required.

Required Courses in General Education

Students enrolled in this associate's degree must complete a minimum of 24.00 semester credit hours in general education distributed among the following disciplines. Refer to the General Education section of the catalog for specific information about courses within each discipline. 9.00 Semester Credit Hours in Communications 6.00 Semester Credit Hours in Humanities (must include 3 semester credit hours of cultural diversity) 3.00 Semester Credit Hours in Mathematics 3.00 Semester Credit Hours in Science 3.00 Semester Credit Hours in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Personal and Professional Development Courses

All courses, 2.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course is designed to introduce students to methodologies that will prepare them for academic and professional success.  Topics include but are not limited to Canvas support, student support services, e-books, university policies, resumes, self-reflection, time management, goal setting, and strategies for anxiety reduction.

This course provides an opportunity for students to critically examine their skills and develop a plan to further their career and own financial literacy. Topics include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.

Distribution of Contact Hours by Course

Distribution of Contact Hours by Course Course Lecture Hours Lab Hours Internship Hours Total Contact Hours Credits BH 200 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 BH 210 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 BH 250 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 BU 106 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 HH 110 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 HH 220 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 HH 240 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 HH 250 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 HH 260 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 PD 121 15.00 0.00 0.00 15.00 1.00 PD 202 15.00 0.00 0.00 15.00 1.00 Electives 105.00 0.00 0.00 105.00 7.00 Gen Ed - Communications 135.00 0.00 0.00 135.00 9.00 Gen Ed – Humanities 90.00 0.00 0.00 90.00 6.00 Gen Ed – Mathematics 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Gen Ed - Science 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Gen Ed – Social and Behavioral Sciences 45.00 0.00 0.00 45.00 3.00 Totals 900.00 0.00 0.00 900.00 60.00

Tuition & Cost 

Tuition & Cost

The cost of tuition for the Associate of Science in Health and Human Services program is $450 per credit.

You can potentially earn even greater savings by transferring credit from prior college coursework, applying for financial aid, or potential partnership opportunities through your employer.

Our goal is your career advancement. That's why we are always working to improve our curriculum and processes to make our program as affordable as possible while preparing you best for success in your work.

  • Scholarships & Financial Aid

    You may be eligible for multiple scholarships and grants, both through Herzing University and several national scholarship websites.

    Find scholarships and grants  

  • Military/Veteran Discounts

    Veterans, Active Duty U.S. Servicemembers, and spouses may qualify for a 10% tuition discount or tuition reduction to $250 per credit.

    VA/Military benefits  

Herzing University graduate smiling in cap and gown at commencement, standing in front of official university backdrop.
Requirements

Admissions Requirements

Prerequisites to enroll in the Herzing University Health and Human Services associate degree program include:

  • Prior education requirement. Completion of high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
  • Entrance testing. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to succeed in college-level courses via prior ACT/SAT scores, completion of prior college credit, or additional entrance testing.
  • Availability of time, personal commitment, and a professional attitude. We exist to help enthusiastic students fully committed to reaching their highest career goals. Our faculty and leadership are dedicated to helping you reach them.

You will need to meet and interview with a Herzing University admissions advisor and complete an enrollment application to be admitted into the program.

If you have any additional questions regarding admissions into the program, please contact our admissions team.

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Degree Pathways

Find your educational pathway with Herzing University

We are proud to offer many degree pathways across all undergraduate and graduate levels.

Earning an associate degree in Health and Human Services can build a foundation for you to pursue all sorts of different educational opportunities.

Undergraduate degrees

After earning an associate degree in HHS, you can potentially transfer credit into an HHS bachelor's degree program—or choose related bachelor’s degree programs in psychology, allied health, nursing, or business.

Graduate degrees

Pursue a bachelor’s degree in HHS in the future and you can potentially earn dual credit towards a Master of Social Work (MSW) or Master of Business Administration (MBA)—or explore healthcare administration or nursing.

Accreditation & Recognition

Our accredited & recognized online school

We strive to earn rank as one of the top private, nonprofit universities in the United States. Just as you work every day to become the best version of yourself, so do we as a university.

We are proud to have attained institutional accreditation in addition to industry recognition for our accomplishments helping students earn a college education and find career success.

Classes Start: July 6th

Waived Enrollment Fee

Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.

Careers

What can I do with an associate degree in health and human services?

Diverse group of students celebrating teamwork with a high-five in a classroom setting. Image
Image

An associate degree curriculum provides you with foundational skills and knowledge to pursue many different types of entry-level positions in health and human services.

You’ll also take a selection of general education and elective courses, which can better tailor your education to the type of job you’re looking for after graduating.

Potential job titles include, but are not limited to:

  • Case Work Aide
  • Family Service Assistant
  • Daycare Assistant
  • Behavioral Health Technician
  • Human Service Worker
  • Prevention Coordinator
  • Volunteer Coordinator
  • Rehabilitation Specialist
  • Social Services in Nursing Homes
  • Addictions Counselor

Salary potential & job outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Social and Human Service Assistants earn an average salary of $47,090 per year ($22.64 per hour).*

Employment of Social and Human Service Assistants is expected to rise 6% from 2024-2034, faster than the average across all U.S. occupations.

Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

Didn't find the answer to your question? Send us an inquiry and we will be happy to answer all your questions!

Yes. Herzing University’s HHS curriculum covers key psychology concepts including behavioral health theory, addictions and psychosocial assessment. Psychology is an essential component of effective human services delivery. 

However, human services programs emphasize applying these concepts at the community and organizational level — through case management, program coordination and client advocacy — rather than focusing on individual clinical assessment. Students who want to focus on psychological theory and individual behavior may want to consider Herzing’s standalone Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

Master of Science in Health and Human Services Leadership is the highest HHS degree offered at Herzing University. This 12-month online program prepares graduates for leadership and management roles in social service agencies, nonprofit organizations and community health programs. 

Students pursuing an undergraduate degree in HHS can also explore other graduate pathways, including the option to earn dual credit toward a Master of Social Work (MSW) or Master of Business Administration (MBA), or pursue a graduate program in healthcare administration.

The core difference is this: a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) is a professional degree that specifically prepares students for generalist social work practice with individuals and families, while a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Services is an interdisciplinary degree that focuses on case management, client advocacy, program coordination and organizational leadership across a variety of community settings.

At Herzing University, the health and human services curriculum includes nonprofit organization management, grant writing and fundraising, program planning and development, and volunteer and community development. The social work curriculum focuses on counseling and communication skills, case management and crisis intervention, and child welfare services. Both fields overlap in their commitment to improving social outcomes, and pursuing one now does not prevent you from advancing in the other later. Learn more about human services vs. social work here.

The range of jobs you can potentially apply for with an associate degree in health and human services can make this number difficult to identify.

However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides figures for the occupational grouping Social and Human Service Assistants, containing some of the most common types of professions in human services you can qualify for with an associate degree education.

According to the BLS, Social and Human Service Assistants earn an average annual salary of $47,090 per year ($22.64 per hour).* Pay can vary based on your education, experience level, and state of employment.

The time it takes to earn your HHS degree depends on your prior college education and the program you choose. Herzing University offers four entry points into health and human services:

All program length estimates are based on full-time enrollment. Some programs include transfer credit opportunities. If your transfer credit is approved, this can reduce the time it takes to earn your degree.

Yes. A health and human services (HHS) degree from Herzing University is worth it for students who want to build a career making a measurable difference in their communities. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that job openings for both social and human service assistants and social and community service managers will grow 6% from 2024-2034, faster than the national average across all U.S. occupations. Depending on your degree level and role, salaries in this field range from an average of $47,090 per year for social and human service assistants to $86,100 per year for social and community service managers.*

Earning a bachelor’s degree in HHS at Herzing also fulfills the educational requirement to become a Human Services–Board Certified Practitioner (HS–BCP) from the Center for Credentialing and Education. The HS–BCP is an industry credential recognized by employers. Beyond career preparation, Herzing provides lifelong career coaching and personalized student support services to help you succeed long after graduation.

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The Student Experience at Herzing

I never second-guessed my decision.
Dora Eirby
Behavioral Health | Online Campus
Disclosures

Accreditation & Disclosures

1. Certification in this program is not a state requirement.

* BLS pay estimates calculate the median annual wage for various occupations. Per the BLS the median wage for an occupation is: "The wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. Median wage data are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey." Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024. BLS median wage estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geographic market in which you want to work, and degree level and field, will affect career outcomes, including starting salary and earnings as an experienced employee. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the median salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, particular wage or salary, or other career growth.

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Classes Start: July 6th

Waived Enrollment Fee

Discover the educational pathway designed to maximize your career potential. Reach for greater heights with Herzing University.