Top Value CSHSE-Accredited Associates in Human Services By Region for 2026
The Council for Standards in Human Service Education (CSHSE) accredits a limited number of associate’s degree programs in human services nationally. This guide identifies the top value options in each U.S. region, focusing on programs that combine CSHSE accreditation with competitive tuition and a strong student experience.
An associate’s degree is often the first step into a human services career, and the decision can have a significant impact on where you end up. The program you choose shapes the skills you graduate with, whether your credits can transfer toward a bachelor’s later, and how seriously employers take your credentials on day one.
Not everyone needs a four-year degree to get started. Human services have entry-level roles in case management, community outreach, and social services that are accessible with an associate’s degree in hand. And for many people, an associate’s degree is a practical investment at this stage, even if a bachelor’s degree is part of the longer plan.
When it comes to reputable associate’s degrees in human services, the options narrow quickly once you filter for quality. Only a limited number of programs nationally hold accreditation from the Council for Standards in Human Service Education (CSHSE). This limited number reflects the rigor of the accreditation process: programs that earn it have demonstrated they meet the field’s professional standards.
This guide focuses on CSHSE-accredited programs because accreditation matters when you’re deciding where to invest your time and tuition dollars. Within that pool, we identified the best-value programs in each U.S. region, so geography doesn’t automatically limit your options.
What Makes CSHSE Accreditation Worth Seeking?
The Council for Standards in Human Service Education was founded in 1979 and is the primary national accrediting body for human services degree programs. Its standards go beyond general academic quality. They address the specific competencies and curriculum elements the field expects from a trained practitioner.
Evaluation Based on Field-Specific Standards
CSHSE evaluates programs against criteria tailored to human services work. Among the areas reviewed: the program’s philosophical alignment with human services values, faculty credentials, cultural competency across the curriculum, feedback and assessment mechanisms, and whether the program has enough resources to meet its stated goals. These aren’t general academic benchmarks. They’re standards built around what actually matters for human services practice.
Ongoing Accreditation Review
Accreditation isn’t a one-time stamp. An initial on-site visit is required, and CSHSE returns every ten years to revalidate. A self-study is also required at the five-year mark as an interim check. That cycle keeps accredited programs accountable rather than coasting on a credential earned years ago.
Transfer Eligibility and the HS-BCP Credential
CSHSE accreditation carries practical downstream benefits. Credits from accredited programs may be more likely to transfer if you pursue a bachelor’s degree later. Graduates of CSHSE-accredited programs may also be eligible to apply for the Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) credential through the National Organization for Human Services (NOHS), depending on current NOHS requirements.
What Can You Do With a CSHSE-Accredited Associate’s?
Completing a CSHSE-accredited associate’s degree prepares you for entry-level work across the human services field. Human services assistants, case management aides, and social services workers are among the most common titles for associate-level graduates. These roles typically involve helping clients navigate systems, connecting them with resources, and supporting licensed professionals managing caseloads. Many graduates in these positions continue toward a bachelor’s or master’s while working, using the associate’s as a foundation rather than a ceiling.
How We Identified the Best-Value Programs
Regional Price Comparisons
Because only a limited number of programs nationally hold CSHSE accreditation at the associate’s level, you may not have many options close to home. We organized this guide by the four U.S. Census Bureau regions (West, Midwest, South, and Northeast) so you can find programs within a reasonable geographic range.
We compared tuition against the regional average rather than a national average. Tuition costs vary significantly by geography, and measuring programs on the coasts against a national baseline would systematically disadvantage them. Comparing programs within their region gives a more accurate picture of what competitive pricing looks like where you are. For a deeper breakdown, see our guide to human services degree costs.
More Than Tuition
Cost and accreditation are necessary filters, but they don’t tell the whole story. We also looked at the attributes that make for a strong student experience: concentration and elective options, fieldwork components, and resources like dedicated advising or student organizations that go beyond the baseline curriculum. The programs featured here aren’t just affordable. They’re worth attending.
AS or AAS: Does the Type of Degree Matter?
Most of the programs in this guide are Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees. One is an Associate of Science (AS). The difference is worth understanding before you choose.
| Feature | AS (Associate of Science) | AAS (Associate of Applied Science) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Transfer toward a bachelor’s degree | Direct workforce entry |
| Transfer-friendliness | Generally accepted as transfer-eligible at four-year schools | May not transfer as readily to all bachelor’s programs |
| Curriculum focus | General education plus foundational human services coursework | Technical, applied human services skills for the workforce |
| Best for | Students planning to continue to a bachelor’s degree | Students are now focused on entering the field |
An AAS can still lead to a bachelor’s in many cases, but you’ll want to verify transfer agreements with your target four-year institution before enrolling. For a broader look at options, see our guide to affordable bachelor’s degree programs in human services.
Top Value Fully Accredited Associate’s Degrees in Human Services By Region
The programs below were selected by our editorial staff. We believe the many factors that make for an exceptional student experience can’t be reduced to numbers alone, so no formula was used to score or rank them. Each program was selected based on a thoughtful review of the things we know matter most to students. These programs are equally recommended, and our selections are made independently and without compensation.
Midwest Region
Metropolitan Community College
Community and Human Services
Omaha, Nebraska
AAS Human Services (on-campus)
- General
- Chemical Dependency Counseling
Related Certificate programs:
- Certificate of Achievement, Human Services – General
- Certificate of Achievement, Human Services – Chemical Dependency Counseling
Estimated Program Cost: $6,208 (in-state), $3,104 (age 62 and older and CollegeNOW! high school
students), $4,656 (out-of-state age 62 and older), $9,312 (out-of-state)
$2,147 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- Metropolitan College offers the Success Program, a collaborative learning community of students,
faculty, and staff that includes a variety of resources and services, such as academic coaching, success
workshops, the language and literacy center, and more - Program faculty has experience in mental health, substance abuse counseling, rehabilitation counseling,
and social work - Chemical Dependency Counseling focus prepares students for the Provisionally Licensed Alcohol and Drug
Counselor certification in Nebraska
Metropolitan Community College’s AAS in Human Services is a comprehensive course of study designed to
prepare you for positions in public and private community agencies. And with a total program cost that’s
more than $2,000 less than the regional average among CSHSE-accredited associate degree programs, the price
can’t be beat! Whether you choose a general human services degree or one focused on working with chemically
dependent individuals and their families, this degree, offered at the Fort Omaha campus, features in-depth
classroom and practicum experiences, a qualified faculty with experience in mental health, substance abuse
counseling, rehabilitation counseling, and social work, and an emphasis on ethical and professional
behavior, advocacy for persons and communities, a multi-cultural centered curriculum, and more. Choose the
AAS in Human Services in Chemical Dependency Counseling and you’ll qualify for certification as a
Provisionally Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Nebraska.
Southeast Community College
Human Services Program
Lincoln, Nebraska
AAS Human Services (on-campus, online, hybrid)
Related Certificate programs:
- Human Services – Alcohol and Drug Certification
Estimated Program Cost: $4,623 (in-state), $5,589 (out-of-state)
$3,764 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- Program offered on-campus, online, or a combination of the two
- Add the Alcohol and Drug Certification certificate program to qualify for certification as a
Provisionally Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Nebraska - Outstanding student services and resources include Academic Advising and Career Services
- Program boasts a 93% employment/transfer rate among graduates
Whether in Lincoln, online, or a combination of the two, Southeast Community College’s AAS in Human
Services provides students like you with a degree that’s wholly focused on improving the quality of life for
all people. And thanks to a total program cost that’s nearly $4,000 less than the regional average for
CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs, you’ll earn your degree without breaking your
budget! This program, which addresses service delivery systems, including their quality, accessibility,
accountability, and coordination, can be completed in just 24 months. Add the Alcohol and Drug Certification
certificate program to your degree and you’ll qualify for certification as a Provisionally Licensed Alcohol
and Drug Counselor in Nebraska. As a student of Southeast Community College, you’ll also enjoy outstanding
student resources and services, including Career Services, where you’ll work with Career Services
Specialists to help achieve your career goals, and Academic Advising and Support, where you’ll work with
career advisors who will help you develop an academic plan, explore and identify career goals, and recommend
strategies for your success.
St. Charles Community College
Department of Human Services
Cottleville, Missouri
AAS Human Services (on-campus)
Estimated Program Cost: $6,283 (in-state), $7,198 (online), $9,394 (out-of-district), $10,309
(out-of-district online), $13,176 (out-of-state), $14,091 (out-of-state online)
$2,099 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- Option to choose a general human services program or a program focused on victimology, gerontology,
youth services, and substance abuse - College offers comprehensive career services, including one-on-one guidance with career counselors
At more than $2,000 less than the average among CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
in the region, St. Charles Community College’s AAS in Human Services is a model of affordability. But this
program offers much more than just an attractive price tag, as it helps students like you understand human
behavior and policy/program development through a robust curriculum and internship opportunities for real
world experience. In addition to a general associate degree, you’ll have an opportunity to choose an area of
emphasis in victimology, gerontology, youth services, or substance abuse. Choose St. Charles Community
College for your human services degree and you’ll enjoy access to comprehensive career services, which
includes career counselors who are there to help you explore potential career paths.
Northeast Region
Brookdale Community College
Psychology & Human Services
Lincroft, New Jersey
AS Human Services (on-campus)
- Pre-Social Work Option
- Addiction Studies Option
- Generalist Option
Estimated Program Cost: $8,280 (in-state), $14,700 (out-of-county), $16,200 (out-of-state)
$2,158 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- College has several articulation agreements with area colleges and universities for seamless transfer to
bachelor’s degree programs - Three program options for continued study and/or entry-level positions
- Addictions Studies Option satisfies the educational requirements to become a Certified Alcohol and Drug
Counselor credential in New Jersey - Excellent student resources and services include academic advising, academic tutoring, personal
counseling, and more
With three different emphases for a human services degree, Brookdale Community College’s AS in Human
Services offers students like you with a variety of options for exciting careers in human and social
systems. And with a total program cost that’s more than $2,000 less than the regional average for
CSHSE-accredited human services associate degrees, you’ll save money while achieving the education you need
to get your career off the ground. Through a combination of classroom work and fieldwork, this degree
prepares you for entry-level positions in hospitals, mental health centers, social services agencies, and
more. Choose the Pre-Social Work Option and you’ll be prepared to transfer to a BSW program. Choose the
Addictions Studies Option and you’ll be prepared to transfer to a BSW program, Bachelor of Human Services
program, or another closely related program while you also earn valuable addiction certification credits
toward the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor credential in New Jersey. Choose Brookdale and you’ll also
enjoy access to comprehensive resources and services related to academic advising, academic tutoring,
personal counseling, and more.
Montgomery County Community College
Public and Social Services
Blue Bell, Pennsylvania
AAS Human Services (on-campus, online, hybrid)
- Addictions
- Gerontology
- Children, Youth, and Family Services
Related Certificate programs:
- Human Services Certificate (online, on-campus, hybrid)
Estimated Program Cost: $9,216 (in-state), $18,432 (out-of-county), $27,648 (out-of-state)
$1,222 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- Program available online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format to accommodate your schedule and lifestyle
- College has transfer agreements with nearly 34 Pennsylvania four-year colleges and universities for easy transfer to a bachelor’s or master’s programs in social work or related fields
- Outstanding services available through the Student Success Center
Whether on-campus, online, or a combination of the two, Montgomery County Community College’s AAS in Human
Services is designed to prepare you to help others in the areas of consumer advocacy, residential
counseling, intake work, crisis intervention, and more — all at a truly affordable price tag! Choose a
concentration in Addictions, Gerontology, or Children, Youth and Family Services, and choose the online,
on-campus or hybrid courses that best fit your lifestyle and schedule. The AAS in Human Services is designed
for easy transfer to other colleges and universities, so continuing your education at the bachelor’s and
even master’s level is truly seamless. In fact, Montgomery County Community College has transfer agreements
with nearly 34 Pennsylvania four-year colleges and universities! As a student here, you’ll also have access
to a wide array of services through the Student Success Center, including academic advising, career
services, and tutoring.
South Region
Montgomery Community College
Troy, North Carolina
AAS Human Services Technology (on-campus)
- General
- Developmental Disabilities
Related Certificate programs:
- Substance Abuse Certificate
- Developmental Disabilities Certificate
Related Diploma programs:
- Diploma in Human Services Technology
- Diploma in Human Services Technology: Developmental Disabilities
Estimated Program Cost: $4,940 (in-state), $17,420 (out-of-state)
$3,157 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- Human Services Developmental Disabilities program is designed for students with an interest in
specializing in the areas of developmental and intellectual disabilities - Exciting opportunities to promote the profession and participate in fundraisers and outreach activities
through the school’s Human Services Club
Whether you’re looking for a human services program that’ll prepare you for future academic work or for
entry into the human services field, Montgomery Community College’s AAS in Human Services Technology has you
covered – all at a truly affordable price that comes in at more than $3,000 less than the regional average
for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs! Choose this program and you’ll complete
in-depth classroom study that’s complemented with 320 hours of clinical work at the clinical site of your
choice. Interested in specializing your course of study in the areas of developmental and intellectual
disabilities? Then the Human Services Developmental Disabilities program is right for you. As a student
here, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in the school’s Human Services Club, a voluntary campus
organization that works to promote the profession and participate in fundraisers and outreach activities.
Vance Granville Community College
Division of Health Sciences
Henderson, North Carolina
AAS Human Services Technology (on-campus)
- Generalist
- Gerontology
- Substance Abuse Counseling
Estimated Program Cost: $4,940 (in-state), $17,420 (out-of-state)
$3,157 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- Choose from one of three human services specialization areas
- Substance Abuse Counselor track prepares you to take the Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC)
and/or the Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional (CCJP) exams through the North Carolina
Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board - Outstanding student services and resources available through the Student Learning & Success Center
At more than $3,000 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree
programs, Vance Granville Community College’s AAS in Human Services Technology is a lesson in value. But
it’s also where you’ll enjoy a variety of options for specializing your human services degree. Along with
core courses and 320 hours of hands-on learning experiences, you’ll take courses that will prepare you for
specialization in a specific human services area. Choose this program and you’ll be able to complete a
generalist program (aimed at social services) or one that’s focused on gerontology or substance abuse
counseling. Choose the Substance Abuse Counselor track and you’ll be prepared to take the Certified
Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) and/or the Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional (CCJP) exams
through the North Carolina Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board. As a student of Vance Granville
Community College, you’ll enjoy access to outstanding student resources and services, including the Student
Learning & Success Center, which offers career services, personal counseling, advising, and disabilities
services.
Wharton County Junior College
Division of Allied Health
Richmond, Texas
AAS Human Services (on-campus)
Related Certificate programs:
- Human Service Technician Level One Certificate
Estimated Program Cost: $2,112 (in-state), $5,544 (out-of-state)
$5,985 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- Outstanding student services including online and face-to-face tutoring and comprehensive academic
advising - Program boasts record of student success, which includes a 96% retention rate and a 100% graduate
success rate (either employed or pursuing additional higher education)
A true model in affordability, at nearly $6,000 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human
services associate degree programs, Wharton County Junior College’s AAS in Human Services is where you’ll
prepare for jobs related to child welfare, psychology, human services, social work, substance abuse, and
more — without breaking the bank. This program, which includes a multicultural emphasis and a focus on
effective communication, ethics, and interpersonal and time management skills, is also designed to easily
transfer to a four-year university or college for higher degrees in social work, sociology, human services,
and psychology. Choose the AAS in Human Services at Wharton County Junior College and you’ll be part of a
proven program that boasts a 96% retention rate and a 100% graduate success rate (either employed or
pursuing additional higher education).
West Region
Great Basin College
Human and Social Services
Elko, Nevada
AAS Human Services (on-campus, online)
Related Certificate programs:
- Certificate of Achievement in Substance Abuse Counselor Training
- Certificate of Achievement in Human Services
Estimated Program Cost: $5,940 (in-state), $12,180 (out-of-state)
$5,017 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree programs
- Accreditation: CSHSE
- Optional Certificate of Achievement in Substance Abuse Counselor Training can be added to the degree
- Many courses can be completed online learning through video conferencing technology or independent study
- Access to live tutoring, student success workshops, and career services through the Academic Success
Center
Great Basin College’s AAS in Human Services can’t be beat, both in terms of affordability (it’s priced
more than $5,000 less than the regional average for CSHSE-accredited human services associate degree
programs) and academic preparation (its courses, job shadowing, and community field experiences offer
opportunities for real life learning). Choose this program and you’ll be able to add a Certificate of
Achievement in Substance Abuse Counselor Training through which you’ll develop additional knowledge and
skills related to addictions counseling. This flexible program features many online courses that can be
completed through video conferencing technology or independent study. As a student here, you’ll also have
access to the school’s Academic Success Center, which features services like live tutoring, student success
workshops, and career services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CSHSE accreditation, and why does it matter for an associate’s degree?
CSHSE (Council for Standards in Human Service Education) is the only national accrediting body focused specifically on human services degree programs. Earning a degree from a CSHSE-accredited program means the curriculum has been reviewed against field-specific standards covering faculty credentials, cultural competency, and practical training requirements. It’s a meaningful signal to employers and to four-year institutions if you plan to transfer.
How many CSHSE-accredited associate programs are there?
Only a limited number of associate’s degree programs nationally hold CSHSE accreditation. The small number reflects how rigorous the accreditation process is, not a lack of programs in the broader associate’s market. If you want the assurance that comes with CSHSE accreditation, your choices are limited, which is why this guide does the filtering work and identifies the best-value options by region.
What jobs can I get with a CSHSE-accredited associate’s degree in human services?
Common entry-level roles include human services assistant, case management aide, social services worker, and community outreach worker. These positions involve helping clients navigate services, connecting them with resources, and supporting licensed professionals. Salary and specific responsibilities vary by employer and state.
What’s the difference between an AS and an AAS in human services?
An AS (Associate of Science) is designed with transfer in mind, covering the first two years of a bachelor’s program at a lower cost. An AAS (Associate of Applied Science) is built for workforce entry, with a more applied and technical curriculum. Most CSHSE-accredited associate’s programs are AAS degrees. If continuing to a bachelor’s is your plan, confirm transfer agreements with your target school before enrolling.
Can I earn a professional credential with a CSHSE-accredited associate’s degree?
Yes. Graduates of CSHSE-accredited programs are eligible to pursue the Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) credential through the National Organization for Human Services (NOHS). The HS-BCP is a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates professional competency and can strengthen your standing with employers in the human services field.
Key Takeaways
- CSHSE accreditation is field-specific: The Council for Standards in Human Service Education is the only national accreditor focused exclusively on human services programs, making its credential more meaningful than general regional accreditation alone.
- Relatively few programs hold this accreditation: Only a limited number of associate’s programs nationally are CSHSE-accredited, so this guide identifies the strongest-value options in each U.S. region to help you narrow the field.
- Entry-level careers are within reach: Graduates commonly move into roles like human services assistant, case management aide, and social services worker, with a clear path to continue toward a bachelor’s or HS-BCP certification.
- Degree type matters: AS degrees are designed for transfer, and AAS degrees are designed for workforce entry. Most programs here are AAS, but many have transfer pathways if you verify them before enrolling.
- Value means more than low cost: Our picks were evaluated on accreditation, regional pricing, curriculum quality, and student experience, not tuition alone.
Ready to explore your options? Browse CSHSE-accredited programs in your state and learn more about human services education pathways.
