PSU’s Human Services bachelor’s degree is fully online and asynchronous, built for people who are already working, already caring for people, and ready to move forward in their careers without stepping away from their lives. You will gain the knowledge and practice skills to support individuals, families, and communities in behavioral health agencies, schools, clinics, treatment programs, disability services, aging services and beyond.
The only Human Services degree in Oregon that is fully online and asynchronous, awards credit for prior learning, and builds practice skills through simulation rather than a field placement. Every course is online and asynchronous, no set class time, no commute, no relocating, and you can start any term and move at the pace your life allows. Designed with adult learners and working professionals in mind, Credit for Prior Learning is a signature feature in Human Services. The work you’ve already done can count towards your degree. If you hold professional credentials or have years of experience in the field, you may be eligible to earn academic credit through Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) opportunities reducing both your time and costs to complete a degree. No other undergraduate Human Services program in Oregon offers this combination of benefits.
PSU’s Human Services program is housed within the School of Social Work, a nationally respected leader in social justice-focused social work education. The School of Social Work has a long track record of delivering high-quality, online degree programs, in particular Oregon’s first online Master of Social Work (MSW) program. As a student, you’ll benefit from the school’s expertise in distance learning, its national network of human services professionals and its deep commitment to equity and social change.
What You’ll Learn
Every year, 65,000 human services jobs are posted in Oregon but only 200 graduates a year are qualified for them. Portland State University’s Human Services program is a direct response to this workforce need.
We designed our flexible Human Services degree with Oregon’s top employers in human services and healthcare. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re returning to school to move ahead in your field, this program gives you the knowledge, tools and confidence to serve others.
Our program prepares you to enter the workforce directly. You’ll be ready for a wide range of entry-level roles in social and community services, such as:
- Case workers
- Client liaisons
- Community outreach specialists
- Crisis intervention specialists
- Life skills instructors
- Peer support advocates
- Social services assistants
- Substance use counselors
- Victim or survivor advocates
Our graduates are positioned to pursue credentials like QMHA, CADC, HS-BCP and other industry credentials or pursue graduate studies in programs like counseling, education, public policy, social work, youth studies and more.
Ready to Start? Take the Next Step: Join the Online Human Services Program at PSU
Whether you’re beginning your degree or finishing one you started years ago, this program was built to fit around the life you already have. Apply to Portland State today or request more information and we will walk you through what your path could look like.