Bachelor of Science in
Human Services
Pursuing a Major in Human Services gives practical support for helping others. No one is more prepared to meet this need than the Christian who is able to apply the principles of the Word of God and the knowledge and skills gained in a Human Services program. You will engage in topics related to human services in public and private settings, contemporary Western society with emphasis on culture, socialization, group life, social institutions, social processes and social change.
On-Campus Start Dates
Fall 2025
Shaping Leaders for Meaningful Impact
At Grace, you’ll find a place where you’re not just a student, but a valued member of a close-knit family. Join us on a journey of discovery, where your God-given aspirations are nurtured, your potential is unleashed, and your future is filled with purpose.
Experience an Education with a biblical foundation
Develop Godly Friendships that will last a lifetime
Feel Confident and Prepared for your ministry career
Learn from instructors who really care
What to Expect
Excellence in Human Services , Grounded in Faith
At Grace, our curriculum goes beyond conventional education, weaving biblical principles into every facet of learning. We aim to develop passionate servants of Jesus that emphasize the integration of character transformation, ministry experience, and biblical truth.
2024–25 Tuition Cost
An Affordable Human Services Degree
Explore the pathway to an affordable yet exceptional Human Services degree. With a range of financial aid options and competitive tuition rates, we’re dedicated to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to excel in the pursuit of their calling without the burden of overwhelming student debt.
$11,250
Tuition Cost per semester
$750
Tuition Cost per Credit Hour
15
Hours per semester
Career Paths
Human Services Career Paths
Human Services students will be equipped with a versatile skill set that opens doors to a variety of career opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to, social work, case work, counseling, or beyond. The possibilities are vast.
Here are just a few examples of the diverse paths our alumni have pursued after completing their studies:
- Case Worker
- Grant Writer
- School Counselor
- Social Worker
- Occupational Therapist
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Human Resources Specialist
- Non-Profit Program Manager
- Counselor
- Child Welfare Specialist
- Family Support Worker
Faculty
Our dedicated faculty members are the heart of our Human Services program, embodying qualities of care, mentorship, and a steadfast commitment to Christ-centered education. Each member brings a wealth of professional expertise, ensuring that our students receive top-notch instruction grounded in real-world experience.
Emilee Prins, MA
Assistant Professor
Janice Schregardus, PhD
Professor of Psychology
Scott Shaw, PhD, EdD, D.Min.
Dean and Professor, School of Business Innovation & Public Service
Course Descriptions
Human Services Courses
The Human Services major at Grace Christian University is for those who have a passion for serving others, then we have a degree program for you that will deepen your understanding and empower you to serve at a higher level. The Human Services major prepares students for serving others well in a wide range of contexts. You will be encouraged to apply what you are learning in the real world in service to others as you exemplify the love of Christ through service in non-profit agencies, for-profit organizations, government settings, or in professional ministry.
The Bachelor of Science in Human Services (120 credit hours) is comprised of:
- Arts and Sciences Core (30 credits)
- Bible and Theology Core (30 credits)*
- Major (42 credits)
- Undesignated electives/Minor (18 credits total)
- Total required for degree (120 credits)
*18 credits for Degree Completion Transfer Students
Human Services Major
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Human Services program will gain skills in ethics, interpersonal communication, understanding group dynamics, and psychology that are needed to be an effective worker in the field of human services. This program is ideal for Christian students who want to apply biblical wisdom and ethics to real-world problems. In a world that needs compassion and clarity, learn how to be a helping hand to the needy.
Introduction to Criminal Justice
CJS 251Introduction to Criminal Justice focuses on the various processing stages, practices, and personnel in the criminal justice system. This course examines the problem of crime in American society. Both historical and contemporary components of the system, including the police, the courts, and correctional agencies are explored. This course is designed to provide the student with a foundational, broad-based understanding of both the effects of crime upon communities, as well the criminal justice system response to crime in our contemporary society through the lens of a Christian Worldview. |
3Credit Hours |
Choose One:
Introduction to Psychology
PSY 201A general survey of the discipline of psychology including the principles, methods, vocabulary, and major theories in the study of human behavior. Consideration will be given to selected application of psychology for life and ministry. |
3Credit Hours |
Or:
Principles of Sociology
SOC 251A study of contemporary Western society with emphasis on culture, socialization, group life, social institutions, social processes and social change. |
3Credit Hours |
Research Statistics
PSY 282An introduction to research methodology and statistics as a liberal arts discipline, this course will not primarily be a number crunching course, though many statistical concepts will be presented in context. The emphasis of the course will be on developing an understanding of the principles and concepts underlying the use of statistics in social sciences research and applications. Topics to be explored include the formulation of questions and hypotheses, appropriate experimental design, sampling methodology, data analysis, and the presentation of results using graphical summaries and proper statistical notation. Offered alternate years. |
3Credit Hours |
Abnormal Psychology
PSY 310An introduction to the classification, description, and interpretation of behavior identified as abnormal. Emphasis is given to neuropsychological aspects, social variables and environmental conditions related to the acquisition and persistence of such behavior(s). |
3Credit Hours |
Introduction to Cultural Diversity
SOC 243An exploration of cultural diversity and multiculturalism from a Christian faith perspective. This course provides a process to understand and practice cultural diversity competence. It is designed to initiate and provide ongoing preparation for effective interaction with everyone in our culturally diverse world. Growth in these skills equips individuals with the social graces needed to form bonds of mutual trust that will bridge the differences that ordinarily divides people. |
3Credit Hours |
Introduction to Human Services
SOC 255An introduction to human services in public and private settings. Course discussions will include the history and development of professional human services and a survey of potential local resources, which will include casework, group work, community organizations and self-study. Consideration of professional approaches will be used in working with people in the human services professions (especially psychology and social work). This course will also require site observations with special emphasis on environmental variables and diversity, including socioeconomic status (SES) and differences in power. Instruction will include lecture, discussion, field internship experiences, experiential exercises and small group experiences. Students will also begin to explore their commitment to a human service career. |
3Credit Hours |
Choose From:
Human Services Internship I
SOC 320A faculty-supervised internship that involves placement in a local human service agency. The student will begin integrating classroom concepts and theory with practical interventions that have been the foundation from the theoretical and conceptual basis of prior learning. Internships require a minimum of 40 hours of contact time per credit earned. The typical Human Services Internship is three credits, a minimum of 120 hours under agency supervision. Students also complete additional coursework in collaboration with their supervising faculty for practical integration and growth of the developing human services professional. |
1-6Credit Hours |
Human Services Internship II
SOC 420Continuation of SOC 320. |
1-6Credit Hours |
Or:
Human Service Internship
SOC 426A faculty-supervised internship that involves placement in an approved agency or setting. The student will integrate classroom concepts and theory with practical interventions that have been the foundation from the theoretical and conceptual basis of prior learning. The intensive 6 credit internship requires a minimum of 240 hours under agency supervision. Students also complete coursework in collaboration with their supervising faculty for practical integration and growth of the developing professional. Prerequisite: Senior standing |
6Credit Hours |
Electives
ELECTIVESElectives chosen in consultation with Faculty Advisor from CJS, PSY, SOC, BUS |
3Credit Hours |
Electives
ELECTIVESElectives chosen in consultation with Faculty Advisor from CJS, PSY, SOC, BUS |
3Credit Hours |
Arts & Sciences Core
Our Arts and Sciences Core curriculum is designed to cultivate holistic learning outcomes of human understanding, self understanding, and relational understanding. Through a diverse array of courses and interdisciplinary exploration, students delve into a variety of subjects, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around them while honing essential skills for personal and professional growth.
Life Communication
COM 140Life Communication prompts students to identify their passion and excitement to use the gift of speech for good. By working through the process of topic selection, research, and speech organization, students will build confidence in serving others with their communication. In Life Communication, students will be encouraged to know their story, challenged to live their story, and empowered to tell their story. |
3Credit Hours |
Professional Communication
COM 290Explores the fundamental concepts, principles, and skills needed for effective communication in a global world. Emphasis will be given to communication concepts, skillful writing, professional interviewing, organized informational presentations, and cultural intelligence in the workplace. Prerequisite: ENG 101, COM 140 |
3Credit Hours |
History Elective
HST —Choose any History Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details. |
3Credit Hours |
Philosophy Elective
PHL —Choose any Philosophy Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details. |
3Credit Hours |
Math or Science Elective
MTH or SCI —Choose any Math or Science Elective. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.
|
3Credit Hours |
Arts and Science Electives
—Choose any two Arts and Science Electives. See the On-Campus Undergraduate Academic Catalog for details.
|
6Credit Hours |
Select one (1) of the following:
English Composition
ENG 101The purpose of this course is to engage students in the writing process which includes prewriting, drafting, composing, editing, and revising to equip them for college-level written assignments. Students will learn to evaluate, synthesize, document and integrate scholarly sources into academic writing while adhering to the conventions of English grammar and mechanics. A final research paper is required. Must be completed with a grade of C- or higher. |
3Credit Hours |
English Composition with Lab
ENG 101LThe purpose of this course is to engage students in the writing process which includes prewriting, drafting, composing, editing, and revising to equip them for college-level written assignments. Students will learn to evaluate, synthesize, document and integrate scholarly sources into academic writing while adhering to the conventions of English grammar and mechanics. Attendance in the writing lab is required. Must be completed with a grade of C- or higher. |
4Credit Hours |
Argumentation and Research
ENG 201Building on a foundation of English composition, students will experience intensive practice in academic writing and research. Students will learn how to understand and think critically about the ideas and language of others and how to develop and persuasively articulate their thoughts. Prerequisite: ENG 101 or Advanced English Placement. |
3Credit Hours |
Select one (1) of the following:
Introduction to Literature
ENG 223With a focus on genres of literature, students will be introduced to the discipline and will develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills through careful analysis of short stories, poems, and dramas. |
3Credit Hours |
Studies in Literature
ENG 225As an introduction to the discipline and study of literature, students will thoroughly read and analyze novel-length texts to develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills through the lens of a Christian worldview. Course focus and readings subject to change with each course offering. |
3Credit Hours |
Select one (1) of the following:
Introduction to Psychology
PSY 201A general survey of the discipline of psychology including the principles, methods, vocabulary, and major theories in the study of human behavior. Consideration will be given to selected application of psychology for life and ministry. |
3Credit Hours |
Introduction to Cultural Diversity
SOC 243An exploration of cultural diversity and multiculturalism from a Christian faith perspective. This course provides a process to understand and practice cultural diversity competence. It is designed to initiate and provide ongoing preparation for effective interaction with everyone in our culturally diverse world. Growth in these skills equips individuals with the social graces needed to form bonds of mutual trust that will bridge the differences that ordinarily divides people. |
3Credit Hours |
Principles of Sociology
SOC 251A study of contemporary Western society with emphasis on culture, socialization, group life, social institutions, social processes and social change. |
3Credit Hours |