Program Overview

Human Services Program

The Human Services program is an interdisciplinary field that integrates sociology, psychology, public policy, and social justice to prepare students for careers in advocacy, community engagement, and public service.

Program Overview

Through Western Washington University's distance-learning program, students develop skills in social justice, ethical practice, and advocacy while learning from scholar-practitioners dedicated to their growth and career success. The program provides online access to higher education for individuals throughout Washington State, offering a bachelor's degree with a strong social justice focus.

Curriculum

The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis and reflection on social issues at individual, group, organizational, community, and global levels. The program is completed over five or six consecutive quarters (excluding summer) through online coursework. The curriculum takes an interdisciplinary, systems-oriented approach, balancing academic content with 260 hours of field experience, allowing students to gain hands-on experience through internships at organizations such as Kitsap Mental Health, DSHS, DCYF, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and many more.

Degree Details

Human Services, BA

The Human Services program at Western Washington University is a 2+2 distance learning degree consisting of 75 upper-division credits, designed for students who have completed an associate's degree Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA). This program teaches students to understand and address human needs through an interdisciplinary approach and includes 260 hours of field experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world human services settings.

Career Opportunities

Thousands of human services graduates from WWU are making a meaningful impact in nonprofit, government, and community-based services. They work as:

• Case managers
• Advocates
• Grant writers
• Youth workers
• Volunteer coordinators
• Fundraisers
• Trainers
• Para-educators
• Advocacy specialists in settings such as community organizations, schools, universities, and government agencies. Many graduates also pursue advanced degrees in rehabilitation counseling, social work, human services, or related fields, further expanding their career opportunities.

Admission Requirements

Requirements for admission to the Human Services Program include:

• Admission to Western Washington University
• Cumulative college-level GPA of 2.75
• Within 5 credits of a Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) degree from a Washington State community college or within 10 credits of meeting GUR(s)
• Completion of a program application, including essays
• Successful completion of a Washington State criminal history background check
• Indication of ability and willingness to meet essential functions while enrolled in the major
• High-speed internet access is required

Program Structure

The program is designed to be completed over five or six consecutive quarters, with a focus on interdisciplinary learning and field experience. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human services and prepare them for careers in the field.