The Benefits of Getting a Master’s Degree in Human Services

To take your career in human services to the next level, you might consider pursuing an MS in Human Services. Earning an advanced human services degree can help you gain the skills to effect positive social change and help those who are most in need. Most degree programs emphasize leadership training and practical skills such as grant writing, evaluation methods, and program planning. If you’re interested in furthering your career, here are a few ways getting a master’s in human services can benefit you:

Specialized Training

The field of human services is broad, encompassing various types of counseling, social policy planning, nonprofit administration, and child and family services. Many degree programs allow students to choose a specialization that fits their experience and career goals. For example, Walden University’s online MS in Human Services includes focus areas such as gerontology, criminal justice, community intervention and leadership, and mental health facilitation. Students follow a series of specialized courses designed to help them develop marketable skills in their chosen area. For example, if you choose to focus on gerontology, you’ll explore best practices of providing healthcare for aging populations. Your studies might also encompass practical skills like case management, research and evaluation, ethics, and grant writing.

Real-World Scenarios

Students pursuing a master’s in human services often encounter true-to-life simulations as part of their curriculum. Some programs include assignments such as mock interviews and live case studies, allowing students to gain empathy and fresh perspectives through role playing. A course on research might include discussions of current social theories, leading students to explore their feasibility in the real world and how applications might differ depending on factors like culture and location. And grant writing courses allow you to practice a skill that’s essential in the world of nonprofit management—gaining experience in assessing needs, preparing and justifying a budget, and writing a proposal.

Leadership Development

Human and social services professionals typically choose the field because they want to help people. Once they’re part of an organization, however, it can be easy to lose sight of the big picture. Many master’s programs in human services choose to emphasize leadership development. They train students to see their responsibility to make a positive difference, offer strong leadership, and become advocates for underserved populations in their communities. Leadership training might include research about how local and international issues impact human services. Or students might explore best practices for advocacy and policy writing. In addition, they will learn how to address human services administration challenges and collaborate with other agencies and organizations for the common good.

If you’re passionate about making a positive difference for individuals, families, and communities, consider earning your master’s in human services. In Walden’s online MS in Human Services program, you can gain the knowledge and tools you need to drive social change at a higher level. With Walden’s online curriculum, you can take classes at whatever time of day works best for you as you study for your MS in Human Services and position yourself to succeed in the field.

Walden University is an accredited institution offering an MS in Human Services degree program online. Expand your career options and earn your degree using a convenient, flexible learning platform that fits your busy life.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.