Human Services at WWU Peninsulas

Western Washington University’s Human Services Distance Learning Program provides online access to higher education for individuals throughout Washington State, offering a bachelor’s degree with a strong social justice focus. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis and reflection on social issues at individual, group, organizational, community, and global levels. 

Admission is for fall quarter, and 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 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. Many graduates receive job offers from their internship sites, helping them transition seamlessly into meaningful careers in human services.

Undergraduate

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.

Offered in

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Human Services, BA

What can I do with a degree in Human Services

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, and 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.

Careers

  • Children, Youth, and Family Services
  • Veterans Services
  • Mental Health Services
  • International Development
  • Rehabilitation Counseling & Disability Services
  • Corrections & Law Enforcement

Admission Requirements

 Basic admissions requirements and links to any agreements with OC and PC.

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 (embedded in WWU application).
  • 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

Advising and Additional Information: Contact Lilla Bodo, WWU at Olympic College in Bremerton, Lilla.Bodo@wwu.edu or HS.Distance@wwu.edu, or call 360-650-2568 Option 4 for additional information.

Learn what community college courses are equivalent to WWU courses.

Take the Plunge

Planning for your degree program and career can bring questions - and we want to help answer them! 

Reach out for more information and connect with one of our WWU on the Peninsulas admissions counselors.

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