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Home » Psychology Degrees » Associate's Degrees

About the Associate Degree in Human Services
Degree Type:
Associate, AA, AS
Location:
Online, classroom, and hybrid
Duration:
Usually 2 years
Total Credits:
Typically 60–90
Aid Eligible:
Yes, for accredited programs
Those who work in thefield of human servicesput their passions to use by improving the lives of those who need their skills the most. There are many roles within the human services field, and whilemost entry-level positions require a bachelor’s degree, but it’s possible to get your start with a 2-year associate.
If you’re looking to join this rewarding field quickly, earning an associate in human services might be a great option. Where do you start, what’s required, and what kind of jobs can you pursue with this degree? Read on to get answers to all these questions and more.
What Is an Associate Degree in Human Services?

An associate in human services is typically a 2-year degree that prepares you for the most entry-level roles within the field. Though individual programs will vary, you’ll likely focus on the introductory aspects of subjects such as psychology, sociology, social work, and diversity.
It’s important to note that while social work falls under the broader umbrella of human services, these 2 degrees are not the same. An education in human services prepares you to coordinate within a larger community or organization, while a social work degree allows you to work directly with clients.If you’re looking to pursue social work as more than an assistant, you’ll need to earn at least a bachelor’s.
AA in Human Services
Programs vary based on the institution you choose, but an Associate of Arts (AA) in Human Services will likely focus on humanities and social science, on top of your human services-related courses.
AS in Human Services
An Associate of Science (AS) in Human Services will likely be very similar to an AA, though may focus more on classes that involve scientific analysis. The title of these degrees most frequently comes down to the division of the school in which the program best fits and the general education classes you’ll take.
Most employers do not have a preference for which degree type you hold, so long as it’s from an accredited program.You can verify these credentials through theDatabase of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
Typical Degree & Career Paths in Human Services
Though you can get your start in human services with an associate’s degree,most professionals in the field eventually pursue advanced education.
Abachelor’s degreecan prepare you for roles such as a community service manager, probation officer, mental health counselor, and more. Those with master’s degree can focus on advanced specialties such as family counseling and emergency management.
At the highest level of this education are thePhD in human services and Doctor of Human Services degrees. Both of these focus on foundational theory and allow you to hold high-level roles in healthcare, social work, or community organizations.
Can I apply associate degree credits toward a bachelor’s degree?
Usually, yes.If you hold an associate degree in human services, many programs will allow you to transfer those credits over to earning this bachelor’s.You could also possibly earn credits for applicable work experience. This could mean completing your bachelor’s degree in as little as 1 1/2–2 years.
Academic Requirements Before Starting an AA or AS in Human Services
You’ll need a high school diploma or GED before you can pursue an associate’s degree in human services.
Do you need to take the SAT or ACT?
Many community colleges that offer these programs are open enrollment, meaning anyone with a high school diploma or GED is eligible to attend.However, some have a more selective admission process and will require certain scores on the SAT or ACT.
Even if your program doesn’t require these exams, it’s likely that you’ll still need to take a placement test to determine if remedial or developmental coursework is necessary. If you’ve taken the SAT or ACT, those scores might be able to take the place of the other exam.
Are there GPA requirements?
Most community colleges don’t require a certain GPA for admission, though they might if they consider their human services program selective.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree?
Associate degrees typically take 2 years to complete.
The Associate in Human Services Curriculum
An associate degree program for human services will generally focus on major subject requirements in the areas of psychology, sociology, social work, biology, and diversity, with anemphasis on crisis counseling, intervention, case management, and more.
What core classes are involved?
The core classes you take will vary depending on your program. These might include versions of the following:
- Introduction to Human Services
- Introduction to Social work
- Introduction to Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Principles of Sociology
- Social Issues in Diversity
- Client Assessment and Planning
- Perspectives on Human Behavior
- Principles of Ethical and Legal Practices
Number of course credits
Schools generally require around 60 course credits to earn your associate’s degree in human services.Some students, especially those who won’t be attending on a full-time basis, may evaluate schools on a cost-per-credit basis.
Is a practicum or fieldwork required?
An associate degree doesn’t typically require a practicum or fieldwork. In the roles available to those with this degree, you’re likely to get the kind of experience you need with on-the-job training.
Can you specialize in an area of interest?
You won’t specialize in a particular concentration with an associate degree program.If you’d like to specialize and advance your career, you can pursue a higher degree, take additional classes, or attend seminars dedicated to your chosen topic.
Can I Get an OnlineAssociate in Human Services?
Yes, there are many options for earning your associate in human services degree online.
Online
You can easily find programs that allow you to earn your associate’s degree 100% online.
These cover the same curriculum as on-site courses, offer flexibility to those who are working or taking care of children, and typically lead to the same kind of job opportunities after graduation.
Classroom
Students who want a more traditional college experience can find plenty of programs that allow them to take all of their courses on campus. There’s still flexibility here, however, as many schools offer in-class courses at night and on the weekends.
Hybrid
An increasingly popular option for degrees of all levels is the hybrid program.This blends a mix of online and on-campus courses.You may take most of your classes online and go to campus just 1 or 2 times a week.
Accelerated
You may be able to find an accelerated program that allows you to earn your associate degree in less than 2 years. However, these are typically available to those who previously earned credits through a state-approved program that allows high school students to attend college courses and earn credit to apply to their college education later.
How to Pick a Degree Program
When researching programs,consider what aspects are the most important to you, including requirements, cost, curriculum, and flexibility.Ask yourself questions such as:
- Does this program offer the types of classes I’m interested in?
- Does the school offer part-time programs?
- Can I take classes online, at night, or on the weekends?
- What financial aid is available?
- Does the school offer job placement services?
In addition,it’s important to remember that the school you choose should be accredited. This makes certain that the program meets quality standards and can properly prepare you to enter the workforce. You can check accreditation through theU.S. Department of Educationor organizations like theCouncil for Standards in Human Service Education (CSHSE).
Human Services Careers You Can Have with an Associate
An associate in human services can’t get you in the door to all roles within the field, but you can choose to pursue entry-level positions.These roles typically work as a type of assistant to higher level positions.
Social work assistant
While an associate degree doesn’t let you serve individually as a social worker, it’s possible to find work as an assistant. In this role, you might help organize cases and coordinate service plans. You may also interview clients, file reports, or help others understand the resources that are available to them.
Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau Labor Statistics (BLS),social and community service assistantsearn a median salary of $38,520 per year. This varies depending on where in the country you live and the exact industry in which you work.
Highest-paying locations include California, D.C., Connecticut, North Dakota, and Alaska. Top-paying industries include legal services, federal executive branches, scientific and technical consulting, and scientific research and development.
Other requirements
These roles usually require some type of on-the-job training.
Case management aide
Case management aides work with low-income, disabled, or elderly clients in settings such as hospitals, rehab centers, and mental health facilities.Providing administrative support to a case manager, this role typically takes on duties such as screening clients, managing files, and entering data into the system.
Salary
The BLS doesn’t provide specific salary information for case management assistants. That said, according data for community health workers,themedian salary is $46,190 per year.
Other requirements
Like a social work assistant, a case management aide will likely undergo on-the-job training.
Community outreach worker
As an outreach worker,you’ll serve your local community through coordinating education, training, health services, and eventsfor organizations that are typically nonprofit or healthcare-based. The role also serves as a liaison between the people in the community and the various organizations.
Salary
The BLS doesn’t have salary information for community outreach workers specifically. However,community and social service specialistsearn a median annual salary of $47,290.
Other requirements
On-the-job training is likely required for this role as well.
Financial Aid for Human Services Students
There are several different types of financial aid available for students seeking an associate’s degree in human services.The first step is to fill out theFree Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines how much assistance the U.S. government thinks you’re eligible to receive. This can come in the form of loans, grants, and work-study.
Of course, there are private loans available from banks and other institutions. You might also be able to qualify for scholarships or grants based on academic merit or other criteria. These may be available to all types of students, or they might be designed for particular people based on things such as ethnicity, background, medical condition, military service, and more.
Do Human Services Jobs Qualify for Student Loan Forgiveness?
It’s possible to find loan forgiveness through the government’sPublic Service Loan Forgiveness Program, though you must meet certain criteria. These include having direct loans and securing full-time employment at a government or nonprofit agency. You may also qualify for state-sponsored forgiveness programs that have their own criteria for employment and more.
What Professional Organizations Are There for Human Services Careers?
Becoming a member of a professional organization can provide great opportunities to network, gain new education, and obtain certification. Some prominent groups include:
- National Organization for Human Services (NOHS):The NOHS works to strengthen the community of human service professionals by expanding developmental opportunities and advocating and implementing policy change. They also offer grants and scholarships, as well as the Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner certification. This credential is available to anyone with at least an associate’s in human services who can pass the national exam.
- American Public Health Services Association (APHSA):Members of the APHSA include human service workers in the local, state, and social sectors, as well as individuals with an interest in health or human services. The nonprofit is made up of multiple programs that assist people in improving their lives and push for policy change.
- National Council on Family Relations (NCFR):The NCRF aims to understand and strengthen families through research, theory, and practice. They hold annual conferences, publish academic journals, and allow for up-and-coming professionals to collaborate with industry vets.
FAQs
About Associate’s Degrees in Human Services | All Psychology Schools? ›
An associate in human services is typically a 2-year degree that prepares you for the most entry-level roles within the field. Though individual programs will vary, you'll likely focus on the introductory aspects of subjects such as psychology, sociology, social work, and diversity.
Is an associates degree in psychology worth it? ›If you're asking yourself, is an associate's in psychology worth it? The answer is yes. Not only can you transfer to bachelor's programs and beyond, but you can also earn a living in jobs that are perfect for people with the degree. Here are some of the highest-paying jobs with an associate degree in psychology.
What do you learn from an associate's degree in psychology? ›Overview of an associate's in psychology
These programs teach students the fundamentals of psychology encompassing topics such as theories on psychological development, social interaction, and the principles of human behavior.
In general, the Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree is intended to focus your study toward liberal arts while the Associate in Science (A.S.) degree is intended to focus your study toward math and science.
How do you abbreviate associates degree in psychology? ›Associate level psychology programs may grant an Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Arts (AA), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.. Programs are highly variable.
What is the easiest psychology degree to get? ›Two-year degrees in psychology offered by community colleges and junior colleges are the easiest psychology programs you will find. Available on campus and online, associate's degrees in psychology typically require around 60 credits of college coursework.
Is earning a psychology degree hard? ›Overall, psychology can be a challenging major, as it requires students to learn about complex topics such as the anatomy of the brain and the principles of human behavior. However, with hard work and dedication, students can succeed in this field and go on to pursue a variety of rewarding careers.
What are 3 benefits of getting an associate's degree? ›- Flexible. An associate degree program offers flexibility in multiple ways. ...
- Cost-Effective. Because it takes less time to complete an associate degree than a bachelor's degree, it typically costs less. ...
- Less Time-Consuming. ...
- Job Opportunities. ...
- More Education Options. ...
- Higher Earning Potential.
- Clinical reasoning. ...
- Psychology and cognitive science fundamentals. ...
- Quantitative and qualitative research. ...
- Experiment design. ...
- Experiential learning. ...
- Communication. ...
- Critical thinking. ...
- Listening.
Although the specifics of coursework can vary by institution, the primary difference between a BA and a BS in Psychology is that a BA degree typically includes more liberal arts courses, while a BS degree tends to have greater math and science requirements.
Which is higher AA or as? ›
In essence, A.A. degrees are of a more general nature and can help students further their education or enter various occupational fields. A.S. degrees are more narrowly focused and may require students to take on additional courses when they wish to expand their studies.
Which is stronger between AA and as? ›Genotype AS ( defective haemoglobin) red blood cells conform and adhere to the parasitized red cells more easily than red blood cells of genotype AA ( normal haemoglobin).
Why is an associates degree called an aa? ›Most associate degrees earned in academic programs are Associate of Arts (AA) or Science (AS) degrees. Associate degrees earned in professional, technical or terminal programs are frequently called Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees, but will sometimes carry the name of the program of study in the title.
Should I put my associates degree on my resume? ›Yes. You should list your associate's degree in your resume, especially if it'll enhance your candidacy or job chance.
Who is an Associate psychologist? ›A Clinical Associate Psychologist is a specialist mental health professional whose duties include assessing, formulating, and treating clients within specified ranges of conditions and age, either in primary care/adult mental health settings or in a range of areas involving children, young people, and their families.
How do you put an Associate's degree on a resume? ›Include an associate degree in the education section of your resume. You can simply title it, "EDUCATION". If you have multiple degrees, list them separately, with your most recent or advanced degree at the top. List the school you attended, location, and the full name of your degree (including any majors).
What is the lowest psychology degree? ›Associate Degree in Psychology
Most programs take just two years. This also makes it the most affordable psychology degree. You need a high school diploma or a GED to apply. Most community colleges that offer an associate degree are open admission.
- Behavioral and cognitive psychology.
- Clinical psychology.
- Forensic psychology.
- Industrial-organizational psychology.
- Neuropsychology.
- Rehabilitation psychology.
- School psychology.
1. Parapsychology. By its very nature, parapsychology is even more vague than “traditional” mental health practices. It's the study of nonquantifiable phenomena, such as telepathy, telekinesis, extrasensory perception, and mind reading.
Does psychology require math? ›Most psychology undergraduate programs have a math requirement — but don't let this deter you from pursuing an online psychology degree.
What do I need to know before studying psychology? ›
- Psychology offers a wide variety of career options. ...
- Independent and creative thinking is important. ...
- Studying psychology involves lots of research. ...
- Becoming a professional psychologist takes time. ...
- Employers value hands-on experience. ...
- Specialisation can set you apart.
If you're attending school full-time, you can earn a bachelor's degree in psychology within four or five years. If you decide to go for your master's degree, expect another two to three years. A doctorate degree in psychology can take anywhere from four to seven years.
What is the easiest associate's degree to get? ›What Is the Easiest Associate Degree to Get? The easiest associate degree to get is an online Associate Degree in General Studies, Liberal Studies, or Education. Although these online associate degree programs have flexible curricula, how easy you find your coursework will depend on your learning abilities and style.
Can you be successful with an associate's degree? ›While it's true that many jobs require a bachelor's or master's degree, the reality is that associate degrees can open many job opportunities, too.
What's a 2 year degree called? ›Different types of associate degrees, such as an Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Arts (AA), are 60 credits and can be completed in 2 years or less, and are a great first step toward earning an entry-level job or promotion.
What are the five main goals of psychology? ›Psychology, as science has basically the following main aims or goals: understand, predict, describe, influence, and control behavior, and improve the quality of life.
How can I be successful in psychology? ›- Start With the Basics. Before you begin studying any topic in great depth, it is important to make sure that you have a strong grasp of the basics. ...
- Focus on Developing Effective Study Habits. ...
- Sharpen Your Writing Skills. ...
- Participate in Psychology Research. ...
- Delve Deeper Into the Subject.
- Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. ...
- Step 2: Gain Some Professional Experience. ...
- Step 3: Pursue A Specialised Course. ...
- Step 4: Pursue a Doctorate Degree. ...
- Step 5: Do Internships. ...
- Step 6 Get Certified.
That said, the rigor of curriculum is largely the same between B.A. and B.S. programs. Since the B.A. allows students to take more electives, it is often the preferred option for students who wish to explore a wider array of career options after graduating.
Is it better to get a BS or BA? ›Neither degree ranks as better than the other, but one might better suit specific career goals. For example, students interested in technical careers may need a BS for graduate school applications. In some majors, undergrads choose between a BA and a BS. Many psychology programs, for instance, offer both options.
Is it good to major in psychology? ›
It's a great foundation for graduate school
Psychology majors often go on to graduate school to get a master's or even a doctoral degree. A bachelor's degree in psychology is also a good foundation for graduate level studies in law, medicine, other social sciences and even business.
An Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) and other applied associate degrees, since they often teach career-specific skills, are slightly different. Many associate programs can be transferred to a four-year bachelor's program if a student decides to do so, but it's best to verify with your school to be sure.
What is BS stand for in college? ›The BS (Bachelor of Science) degree is offered in Computer Science, Mathematics, Psychology, Statistics, and each of the natural sciences. In contrast to the BA, one earns, for example, a BS in Astrophysics.
Is an associates degree better than nothing? ›According to the BLS, people with associate degrees have better prospects for employment and earnings than those who have taken some college courses but haven't received a degree. If you didn't do quite as well in high school as you now realize you could have, an associate degree program is a great starting point.
Is it possible for as and as to get married? ›Compatible genotypes for marriage are:
AA marries an AS. You'll end up with kids with AA and AS which is good. But sometimes if you're not lucky all the kids will be AS which limits their choice of partner. AS and AS should not marry, there is every chance of having a child with SS.
AC is rare, whereas AS and AC are abnormal. The compatible genotypes for marriage are; AA marries an AA — which is the best compatible, and that way, the couple save their future children the worry about genotype compatibility.
Is it possible for AA and AA to give birth to as? ›Yes, it is possible for two individuals with AA genotype to have a child with AS genotype.
What is the difference between an AA and AAS degree? ›Associate of Arts (A.A.) is typically set up for completing foundational coursework necessary for a four-year (bachelor's degree) or transferring to another college or university. A.A.S. Associate of Applied Science degree(A.A.S.) is a two-year degree that meets requirements for specific skill sets in the workplace.
What does an associates degree refer to? ›noun. : a degree that is given to a student who has completed two years of study at a junior college, college, or university in the U.S.
What is an Associate level? ›Associate-level usually designates a position that requires two or three years of experience. This level of work often follows an entry-level role in a typical career progression.
How do you say you have an Associate's degree? ›
Correct: I have an associate degree. Incorrect: I have an associates degree. I have an associate's degree.
What do you put on a resume if you didn't finish college? ›How to Put College on a Resume If You Didn't Graduate. You don't really want to include your college degree program and then write “incomplete” at the end. That doesn't exactly look wonderful. Simply note down the school you attended (name, dates you attended, and amount of credit hours you finished).
Can you have multiple associate degrees? ›Yes. You can have two associate's degrees. It's called a double-major. Often, when some students enter college, they're unsure what major they would like to pursue, so they pursue double majors.
What is the role of associate psychology? ›The Associate Psychologist assists in providing psychological services within multi-disciplinary settings, and administers and scores psychological assessments. He/She assists in conducting basic therapeutic procedures for clients with psychological conditions.
What is the difference between an AA in psychology and an AS in psychology? ›Are AA and AS degrees in psychology different? In most cases, an AS and AA degree in psychology will have little to no difference between them. Their titles most frequently come down to the division of the school in which the program best fits and the general education classes you'll take.
Can you call yourself a college graduate with an Associate's degree? ›Yes. You're considered a college graduate with an associate's degree because, after all, you went to college, and you graduated. However, if you're asked whether you're a college graduate at an interview, you should clarify that you graduated from a community college with an associate's degree.
Do you put your Associate's degree after your name? ›If you have a degree, start by listing the highest degree you've earned immediately after your name, such as a master's degree, bachelor's degree or associate degree. If you have multiple degrees, you may choose to list only the highest degree you have earned since this often eclipses previous degrees.
How do you list two degrees from the same school on a resume? ›Tips for listing a dual degree on a resume
List your degrees in reverse chronological order. In your education section, start with your most recent degree first. That means that if you got a dual bachelor's degree in 2017 and a master's degree in 2020, you would add the master's degree first.
- You may be competing with people with bachelor's degrees for the same jobs. ...
- Your earnings may be lower than that for people with a bachelor's degree.
- Getting into managerial or supervisory positions may be difficult without a higher degree.
If you're deciding between no higher education degree at all and an associate degree, the answer is, quite simply, “Yes; getting an associates degree is worth it!” If you are hoping to break into a professional field and want to raise your job prospects, getting an associate degree is going to serve you much better ...
Is a bachelor's degree enough for psychology? ›
Some careers in psychology require academic degrees at the master's or doctorate levels, but a bachelor's degree by itself can also be valuable. Many career paths are compatible with a psychology background, and 57% of psychology bachelor's degree graduates enter the workforce without pursuing a master's or doctorate.
What is an associate psychologist? ›A Clinical Associate Psychologist is a specialist mental health professional whose duties include assessing, formulating, and treating clients within specified ranges of conditions and age, either in primary care/adult mental health settings or in a range of areas involving children, young people, and their families.
Can you still be successful with an associate's degree? ›While it's true that many jobs require a bachelor's or master's degree, the reality is that associate degrees can open many job opportunities, too.
Is graduating with an associates a big deal? ›According to the BLS, people with associate degrees have better prospects for employment and earnings than those who have taken some college courses but haven't received a degree. If you didn't do quite as well in high school as you now realize you could have, an associate degree program is a great starting point.
Does an associate's degree count as a college degree? ›Yes. You're considered a college graduate with an associate's degree because, after all, you went to college, and you graduated. However, if you're asked whether you're a college graduate at an interview, you should clarify that you graduated from a community college with an associate's degree.
What is the easiest Associate's degree to get? ›What Is the Easiest Associate Degree to Get? The easiest associate degree to get is an online Associate Degree in General Studies, Liberal Studies, or Education. Although these online associate degree programs have flexible curricula, how easy you find your coursework will depend on your learning abilities and style.
Can you skip Associate's degree and go straight to bachelors? ›An associate degree is not a prerequisite to earn a bachelor's degree, you can skip an associate degree and go straight to a bachelor's degree. However, one option you may want to consider is earning your associate degree at a community college prior to transferring to a four-year university.
Should I start with associates or bachelors? ›If you're not yet set on a specific degree or want to rewrite your educational performance, an associate is your best bet. Comparatively, if you find a program that will put you on the career path you wish for and plan to continue with a master's degree, a bachelor's degree will benefit you most.
What do assistant psychologists do? ›carrying out neuropsychological assessments. contributing to multidisciplinary discussions about a client's diagnosis, treatment, risk assessment and care plan issues. undertaking specified behavioural observations and assessments. seeking and acquiring specific information by reading notes, investigating histories etc.
How do I become a trainee psychologist? ›How to become a Trainee Clinical Psychologist. To become a trainee clinical psychologist you will need to have an undergraduate degree or masters level degree in psychology, relevant clinical and research experience or acceptance to a university training course.
How do I become a clinical associate in applied psychology? ›
You are likely to need at least a 2:1 Honours degree from a BPS-accredited psychological degree programme to meet the entry requirements for clinical psychology training. If you already have an undergraduate degree in a different subject, you can undertake a conversion course in psychology to gain the GBC.