The Human Services HDFS option will prepare you for diverse entry-level careers in fields such as family social services, youth or aging programs, volunteer management and crisis services. You also will be prepared for graduate studies in human development and family sciences, counseling, marriage and family therapy and social work.
The Human Services profession is dedicated to improving the human condition by intervening during crises, preventing future crises, helping people access resources and advocating for change in the systems that affect the lives of those in need. The primary purpose of Human Services is to empower individuals, families and communities to survive, function and thrive, even in the face of adversity. A strength-based philosophy, recognizing the importance of physical, mental and psychological wellness and prevention underpins the multidisciplinary approach of the Human Services option.
Coursework includes family relationships, human development across the lifespan, proposal writing, ethics and human services foundations skills.
You may tailor elective courses to focus on particular issues or populations and will gain real-life experience through at least two supervised internships in human services agencies.
Visit Undergraduate Academic Advising to pursue this program.
Use the general catalog to view courses offered in the program.
Use an option sheet (pdf) to track your progress in completing course requirements.
Sample plans are a guide to give students an idea of which classes they may take and when. These samples are intended for information purposes only. Students should consult with their OSU academic advisor to create a personalized degree plan.
Human Services Option Sample Plan (pdf)
Schedule an academic advising appointment.
The Graduate School Pathways slides feature graduate programs in the state of Oregon most closely affiliated with the Human Services field.
The Career Pathways slides highlight the most common career choices in Human Services.
*May require post-baccalaureate/graduate/professional education to qualify or certify for employment.