2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Human Services
An affordable online master’s in human services can help professionals advance into leadership roles in social work, nonprofit management, and community advocacy. Our rankings are grounded in an extensive, data-driven evaluation of accredited institutions offering fully online master's degrees in human services.
We also spoke with two professionals who offer real-world insight into how this graduate degree can support long-term goals in human services.
Key Takeaways:
- Best for Budget: The University of Florida ranks #1 with a tuition of just $5,867 for its online master’s in family, youth, and community science.
- Best for Alumni Earnings: Concordia University, St. Paul ranks #10 overall but leads in earnings, with graduates reporting a median salary of $53,685.
- Best for Student Satisfaction: Waldorf University ranks #4 and earns the highest average review score of 4.47 out of 5 based on student surveys we collect.
All tuition and enrollment data is manually collected and verified for accuracy by our team at OnlineU. For more on how we rank programs, see our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Human Services
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | Gainesville (FL) | $5,867 | |
| University of Illinois at Springfield | Springfield (IL) | $6,034 | |
| Columbia Southern University | Orange Beach (AL) | $6,282 | |
| Waldorf University | Forest City (IA) | $6,408 | |
| University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa (AL) | $6,600 | |
| Bryan College - Dayton | Dayton (TN) | $7,125 | |
| University of North Alabama | Florence (AL) | $7,672 | |
| University of North Georgia | Dahlonega (GA) | $7,870 | |
| The University of West Florida | Pensacola (FL) | $8,100 | |
| Concordia University, St. Paul | Saint Paul (MN) | $8,550 | |
| Southeastern University | Lakeland (FL) | $8,910 | |
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro (AR) | $9,000 | |
| University of Missouri | Columbia (MO) | $9,057 | |
| Lenoir-Rhyne University | Hickory (NC) | $9,075 | |
| Regent University Online | Virginia Beach (VA) | $9,225 |
A Data-Driven Guide to the Most Affordable Online Human Services Master’s Degrees
Human services is a broad umbrella stretching across nonprofit leadership, counseling, public health, early childhood services, financial planning, and even forensic behavioral health. That diversity is reflected in our list of the most affordable online human services master’s programs. At first glance, you’ll see cost rankings. But look closer, and you’ll find surprising range: programs focused on social work, faith-based service, financial counseling, safety management, and more.
While this list starts with tuition, it doesn’t end there. Here’s how the top schools stack up across key metrics that matter most to prospective students.
Most Affordable Tuition: Who’s Really Delivering on Price?
When price is your starting point, the University of Florida (UF) wins by a mile with tuition under $6,000 for its master’s in Family, Youth, and Community Science. It's both cheap and top-tier, boasting a 90% graduation rate and a 97% retention rate. That means students are sticking around and finishing strong.
Right behind UF, the University of Illinois at Springfield (UIS) and Columbia Southern University (CSU) keep tuition in the $6,000-$6,300 range. UIS’s tie to the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential adds real-world relevance, while CSU’s safety-focused program leads directly to the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) designation.
Here’s why affordability matters: High student debt undermines the mission of human services work. Most roles in this field prioritize impact over income. A low-cost master’s means you can serve your community without being financially handcuffed.
If you're a visual learner, the bar graph above makes it easy to compare total two-year tuition costs across the most affordable programs.
For master’s students in human services, comparing total 2-year tuition is crucial because careers in nonprofit leadership, family services, or community outreach often prioritize social impact over high income. Programs like UF and UIS, with the total tuition under $12K help protect your future finances.
Word of Mouth Matters
What’s one of the strongest signals of program quality? Whether graduates would actually recommend it. That's why we collect hundreds of student surveys to see whether or not they would recommend their school to others.
Three schools top this list with near-universal praise:
University of Missouri (Mizzou): 99%
University of Alabama (UA): 96%
University of Illinois at Springfield (UIS): 95%
Mizzou, which hosts an online MPH in Health Promotion and Policy, also boasts a 75% graduation rate. That's well above national norms. Plus, it offers rare dual-degree pathways with journalism and public affairs. For students wanting policy impact with communication savvy, this is a standout choice.
UIS isn’t just highly recommended, it’s praised specifically for its human services degree:
“The Human Service program is outstanding, I have learned tremendously and my instructors are on top of assistance, knowledgeable and fair... I also have an easier time getting employment based on U.I.S. recognition.”
— CharJay, Graduated 2016
That kind of direct endorsement speaks volumes about the program’s quality and real-world credibility with employers. When recommendation rates are backed by hands-on praise like this, it shows a clear return on investment, especially for students entering the service-focused, often lower-paying human services field.
Meanwhile, Waldorf University (94%) and Arkansas State (92%) prove that smaller, affordable schools can still command big loyalty. If you’re looking for programs backed by enthusiastic alumni, these are worth a second look.
Largest Online Enrollment: Built for Digital Learning
Many in this field are balancing work in social services, nonprofits, or education while earning their degrees. That’s why the strength of a school’s online infrastructure is especially critical.
These universities rank in the top 4% nationally for online enrollment, meaning they’ve built virtual learning systems designed to support large, diverse student bodies:
University of Florida (Top 3%)
Columbia Southern University (Top 4%)
Regent University (Top 4%)
Arkansas State (Top 4%)
This level of digital scale matters because it often correlates with more consistent course offerings, reliable tech support, and peer networks that actually function like learning communities, all essential for students who are applying what they learn in real time.
In a field that depends on flexibility and real-world application, these online schools offer sustainable, professionally aligned online ecosystems. That can make the difference between graduating on schedule and falling behind.
Advice About the Field: What to Know Before Earning a Master’s in Human Services
Senior Recruitment Consultant
What are the biggest benefits of earning a master's degree in human services today?
The biggest benefit of earning a master's degree in human services or a related field is the doors it opens — both professionally and personally. Graduates gain deeper expertise in supporting vulnerable populations while qualifying for leadership roles that simply aren't accessible with just a bachelor's.
In your experience, what traits or skills help students succeed in this field?
The students who thrive share certain traits: empathy balanced with healthy boundaries, adaptability (this field changes constantly!), and strong communication skills. Being able to translate complex situations into clear documentation is absolutely essential.
What should prospective students consider when choosing an online human services program?
When choosing an online program, prospective students should look beyond obvious factors like accreditation. They should examine field placement support. This can make or break their experience. Also, they should check whether programs offer synchronous components; those real-time discussions are invaluable for building professional networks.
Are there particular skills or experiences that make graduates more competitive in the human services job market?
To be competitive, graduates should develop data analysis skills. Every organization needs people who can demonstrate program effectiveness through outcomes data. Also, they should gain experience with diverse populations—urban and rural contexts present entirely different challenges.
How can students make the most of networking and mentorship opportunities while studying online?
For networking while studying online, students should be intentional. They can schedule virtual coffee chats with guest speakers, join professional associations as student members, and connect with alumni through LinkedIn. One meaningful connection can lead to their dream job.
What trends are you seeing in the human services field?
Technology integration alongside increasing needs for trauma-informed care. The future belongs to those who can balance technological efficiency with deeply human connection.
Executive Recruiter
What are some common career paths for those with an online master’s in human services?
A master's degree in human services can open the door to a variety of positions that are focused on advocacy or program management. Sectors where I have been most likely to place candidates who hold this degree include healthcare, education, and the nonprofit sector, where holding an advanced degree often paves the way to leadership positions like Program Director or Community Outreach Director.
What are employers looking for in the human services field?
The key experience that employers look for to complement a master's in human services are those related to on-the-ground engagement with the communities and clients the organization serves. This can include client advocacy, case management, crisis intervention, or experience supervising and coordinating teams engaged in this hands-on work. It is also very valuable to have an in-depth understanding of the policy and regulations related to your niche or sector, particularly for those who want to go into nonprofit roles.
How important is specialization at the master's level?
When it comes to specialization, I wouldn't say that it's mandatory. I've certainly placed candidates who were more general in their focus, and there are roles where this will serve you well. However, specializing can help to align you with high-demand roles focused on specific communities or types of programs. I would say it's most important if you're going into a position that relates to mental health, child welfare, or criminal justice, since the requirements and regulations tend to be most stringent in these kinds of areas.
Bottom Line: Affordable Human Services Master's Degrees for Purpose-Driven Careers
If you're pursuing an online master's in human services, you're likely doing it for impact, not income. That makes affordability a necessity. With tuition as low as $5,867, schools like UF, UIS, and CSU ensure you can advance your career without incurring burdensome debt.
These programs span a wide spectrum — from trauma counseling to nonprofit leadership to financial coaching — because human services isn't one-size-fits-all. Our rankings reflect that range, helping you find the best-fit program that aligns with your passion and budget.
In a field where burnout is real and flexibility is essential, programs with high recommendation rates and strong digital infrastructure stand out. They don’t just teach, they support. Whether you're aiming to lead a nonprofit, counsel vulnerable populations, or shape public policy, a cheap online master's in human services can move your mission forward without derailing your finances.
If you are starting at the beginning of your educational journey, you may want to check out our page featuring the most affordable online bachelor's degrees in human services.
Student Reviews of Online Human Services Programs
I have a Bachelors in Legal Studies from Purdue University Global, and I am currently in the Masters of Human Services program. The instructors in both programs are amazing. They are always available to their students, are very knowledgeable in their area of expertise, and will bend over backwards in order to help their students achieve their goals. I have read the negative reviews. When it comes to financial aid, Purdue can only do so much, all potential students have to be responsible for what... Read More
Review Date: 10/7/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Arizona State University is a good online school to go to. All of he departments that I had to have contact with made sure that I was taken care of and got the help that I needed. The services that they provided for the most part were accessible when I needed them. I learned a lot from the instructors at ASU and I feel that they were beneficial to my future career choices.
Review Date: 4/12/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Everyone has been so helpful so far in my experience. Teachers want you to be successful. Everyone is so responsive and willing to help. The cost of the school is expensive, but it is so much cheaper than other schools I was interested in getting my masters degree.
Review Date: 12/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
This is my first course at Capella University. My professor is awesome! I find it very satisfying to have an advisor who responds to my questions and concerns, a professor who is knowledge in the field, welcomes the opportunity for correction, a university that offers opportunities and resources that are valuable. Technology is a function that we use daily. I have my books loaded through the app from Vitalsource bookshelf. Everything is accessible, and I find that to be important for students.
Review Date: 11/4/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
The greatest pro of the graduate program at Walden University is having the flexibility to complete my education while also working full time. I am in my third year of enrollment with Walden University and have two additional classes to complete before I embark on the dissertation. The professors have been very interactive throughout the time that I have been enrolled at Walden University.
Review Date: 11/8/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Arizona State University is one of the topic universities in the United States that all students can attend if they put their heart and mind to it. The family and human development program at Arizona State University is one of the most rewarding and inspirational program because people and faculty have a passion to help children and their families with their needs to live a better life.
Review Date: 12/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
This program at Arizona State has been very beneficial to my personal and professional growth. Staff have been very supportive and helpful throughout the program this far. I would highly recommend this program to anyone interested in Family and Human Development.
Review Date: 1/2/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
After completing my general education requirements at a local community college I transferred to ASU. The application process was easy and thorough. I enrolled as a non-resident online student and began pursuing my B.S in Human and Family Development. The online classes were easy to access and navigate and the curriculum was very informative. I liked the interactive course maps which helped me track my progress and select my classes. The cost was not bad at all compared to other schools in my area... Read More
Review Date: 10/24/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I just finished my last class in the Master of Science in Administration of Human Services program at Wilmington University and I am surprised this school doesn’t get more credit. Yes, this school has an open admission policy, but do not expect for a second that would indicate getting your degree will be a breeze. It won’t. I enjoyed my classes, but they were challenging and I’ve had a lot of sleepless nights due to the amount of reading and complex coursework involved. If you are someone who is... Read More
Review Date: 12/27/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I enrolled, initially, in the echo counseling program which was GREAT! However after half way through I free interest in the human service program. This is my 2nd year, overall experience of great. My current and past professors for the most part have be extremely helpful, hands on, understanding and flexible. My schedule accommodated my family time and work schedule. I have been taking 2 course a semester , I even took a couple drmesyets off. The advisors are wonderful the truly help guide throughout... Read More
Review Date: 5/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
ASUs financial department is terrible. It shouldn't be so hard to pay my tuition, but ASU makes it hard!! If you have a scholarship good luck. I was repeatedly hit with late fees because the scholarship department could not post my payment to the finances department on time. It showed on my account that I had a scholarship and the money was there but because scholarships department didnt release it in time they nailed me with late fees and there was nothing I could do about it! Good luck calling,... Read More
Review Date: 8/22/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
While some people may have reasons not to attend this university, I beg to differ. In order to succeed and accomplish anything, you have to put in the work! Although the work can be challenging this educational institution presents an opportunity for students to expand their scope of knowledge and challenge as well as raise questions regarding any concerns. Walden University offers it students a wealth of resources and staff is very supportive. Even if life gets in the way, there is always a resource... Read More
Review Date: 1/22/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Overall, If I'm being completely honest, Argosy was a decent experience for me. I only had a issue with two instructors, which is to be expected, you will not like everyone. I never had an issue with financial aid or anyone getting back with me. When I was completing my last class, I did feel abandoned by my advisors, and I felt as if they pretended to care, and stopped once they got my money. I think it's crazy to assume that anyone cares about your degree more than you, but they did give me the... Read More
Review Date: 2/26/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
I enjoy the online schooling community and Lubbock provides all that I need in schooling. As an online student I do not experience campus life. Going to school online works great for me as a working adult learner. Being in an environment that nurtures my faith and my education is very important to me; therefore, I researched online schools that would provide a Master's program to help me further my career in a nonprofit organization that provides services for adults with developmental disabilities.... Read More
Review Date: 3/4/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
I choose to pursue my Master's degree in Family and Human Development through Arizona State University. Since obtaining my Bachelor's degree in 2013 I gave birth and became a stay at home mother. I always wanted to go back to school but I knew I wouldn't have the time to attend an actual campus while taking care of our child. That is where ASU's online program came in. Throughout the whole application process I had an advisor that I could call, text, or email if I needed help or had any questions... Read More
Review Date: 7/10/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Arizona State University is a great school to apply to. They have made it so easy for me to get back into school to obtain my Masters degree. The faculty and staff are very helpful in the application process. I'm so happy to have made the decision to apply to Arizona State University.
Review Date: 7/13/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
State colleges are frequently overlooked resource for economical education. They setup classes from skilled professionals and offer access to expensive equipment that you otherwise would never be able to use. I love Arizona State University for several of reasons: Education Above all, ASU acts as a safety net for those who need an education that leads to a paying future. Instructors ASU classes are normally taught by real professionals from the field. When I learned about theoretical issues of development,... Read More
Review Date: 8/12/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
My professors at this university have been very helping and accommodating. They respond quickly to e-mails and work hard that their students have the best academic experience. All my classes have been distant education courses taken online, but my academic advisor has worked very hard to develop a relationship with me and has helped me greatly throughout my studies.
Review Date: 10/17/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
ASU on-line is a fantastic option for students wishing to pursue a degree while working and raising a family. The professors are readily available and very responsive to questions. The course work is designed to fit your schedule and needs. I highly recommend Arizona State and I can't wait to walk across the stage to receive my Master's in a year!
Review Date: 10/28/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
The online program is great because it fits in with my family's schedule easily. I don't have to be online at any certain times to meet for class, which is helpful. There are also many people who check in with me from advisors to coaches to make sure I'm on the right track and doing well.
Review Date: 11/4/2016
Would Recommend: Yes