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In January 2016, Marian’s Adult Programs rolled out our latest program, the bachelor’s degree in health and human services (HHS). Many of you know that Marian University has earned a great reputation for producing excellent nurses, so this seemed like a logical step in expanding our offerings in the broader health care arena.  

 

HHS professionals are leaders who educate and serve others while often coordinating the delivery of healthcare and focusing on more comprehensive work within the community. Social problems continue to increase, such as poverty, crime, domestic violence, child abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, and homelessness. Thus, there is a great need for people to lead and direct the care for those less fortunate. These growing health and human service issues need people (like you!) who want to better the community. 

 

In fact, with an ever-changing economy and health care system coupled with an aging Baby Boomer population, people are changing jobs more now than ever before, and there are plenty of health care related jobs to be had. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected an 11 percent job growth for social and human service assistants, 13 percent growth for health educators and community health workers, and a 9 percent jump for rehabilitation counselors, between 2014 and 2024. With the number of Millennials and Gen Xers predicted to surpass the Baby Boomers in the workforce by 2028 (Fry, Pew Research Center, 2016), this need will only continue to increase. 

 

Take a look at local job sites, there are also a vast array of positions, requiring different skill sets and abilities, within the healthcare industry. Health and human service workers are in high demand, and with this degree, many doors open to new career opportunities. The HHS degree can be used as a stepping stone to initially enter this market; however, it can also assist current health care workers who are looking to transition their career in a direction other than direct, individual patient care. 

 

Jobs within this field are wide-ranging and include case managers, counselors, education and prevention specialists, shelter directors, therapeutic assistants, and health educators. For an outgoing person who likes to be in charge, one can pursue being a case manager, educator or a director of a non-profit organization. For those who prefer to work behind the scenes, grant writing, research, and data analysis offer great career paths. With a health and human services degree, there is an opportunity for everyone to make an impact on the community while also earning a competitive salary.  

 

The Bachelor of Arts in Health and Human Services is worth investigating. Our advisors are happy to help you decide if a degree in HHS is right for you. Call us at 317.955.6271 or visit us at marian.edu/MAP.