Online Ph.D. In Human Services
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An interdisciplinary field, human services provides resources designed to enhance wellness and happiness to individuals, groups, and communities. Various disciplines, industries, and types of social assistance programs fall under the human services umbrella, including healthcare, counseling services, disaster relief, and social research.
Earning potential and job outlook vary widely among specific human services jobs. A Ph.D. in human services prepares students to conduct research and design interventions to advance the understanding of social problems and their solutions. Ph.D. in human services graduates qualify to become college professors, or researchers at think tanks, nonprofits, governments, or corporations.
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Considering a Ph.D in Human Services?
A human services degree suits individuals with a passion for helping others. A Ph.D. specifically allows students to delve deeper into program evaluation, theories of community development and advocacy, and organizational psychology and leadership. Graduates pursue careers in academia or in leadership positions at nonprofits, government agencies, healthcare facilities, or corporations.
Ph.D. in human services programs typically provide funding for their students with research or teaching assistantships. These positions allow enrollees to work for a tuition waiver and regular stipend while earning their degree. Some schools and programs also offer fellowships and grants to help offset the cost of tuition.
How Much Does a Human Services Degree Cost?
Tuition costs range from $300-$800 per credit. These costs vary by institution type and the student’s residency status. Public institutions generally charge less than private ones, and in-state students usually receive lower tuition rates than out-of-state learners. Online degrees allow students to save on living expenses and additional fees associated with access to on-campus facilities.
Earning an online human services degree provides students with the flexibility to work around other commitments, including full-time employment. The ability to continue working and earning a stable salary can help offset tuition costs and lessen debt. Students should also conduct research on specific human services degrees and any assistantships, fellowships, or grants they offer. Many Ph.D. in human services degree-seekers receive tuition waivers and stipends by working as a teaching assistant or research fellow.
Calculating the Cost of a College Degree
ACO provides an affordability calculator to help students estimate how much they can afford to pay in tuition. This estimate considers salary, cost of living, expected financial aid, loans, and anticipated supply costs.
To become an LPC, candidates need a master’s or doctorate in counseling, psychology, or a related field. They must also complete around 3,000 supervised clinical hours and pass the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination.
The requirements and name of substance abuse counselor credentials vary by state. Generally, substance abuse counselors need a bachelor’s or master’s in substance abuse counseling, addiction studies, psychology, community health, or a related field. They must also complete at least two years of relevant clinical experience. Some states require a board exam.
Scholarships for Human Services
Online human services degree-seekers benefit from many scholarship opportunities, even at the doctoral level. Several of these scholarships support research and study in specific sub-disciplines or work with particular populations. Others consider academic merit or financial need. Below, see two scholarships that human services doctoral students may qualify for.
Ph.D. in Human Services 2021
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