Offered 100% online, our graduate-level human services certificate programs focus on two specific areas:
• Human Services Foundations
• Human Services Leadership
Through these programs, you will develop advanced skills grounded in theory, research, and best practices in human services. With this new skill set, you will be able to successfully navigate complex organizations that are constantly changing in response to external and internal pressures.
Both of these certificates emphasize current and emerging administration and leadership roles in the human services field. You will be provided with academic and practice foundations that will support you as you advanced in your current employment, focus on a new career pathway, or continue your studies.
The certificate courses and program are designed to prepare individuals working in nonprofit organizations, for-profit social service agencies, health care organizations, and state and local governments where interpersonal work with individuals is the main focus.
NOTE: This certificate program is also offered to students with a high school diploma who do not have a college degree or are in the process of earning an associate's or bachelor's degree. Please see our Adult & Continuing Studies academic offerings for details about the human services certificate programs for continuing studies students.
The 9-credit human services foundations certificate focuses on the development of the human services profession, models of effective organization and administration, and the basic principles of change and administration in communities and organizations. Loading...
The 9-credit human services leadership certificate focuses on multicultural and multidisciplinary approaches, ethical issues and standards, strategic planning, and how current and emerging issues impact policy making and leadership. Loading..
The transition is simple; students enrolled in the certificate will only have to complete a short application and will have all their discounted certificate course credits applied to the degree program.
You can even complete a master's degree by combining (or "stacking") certificates and taking a capstone course. Completing a master's degree program this way will afford you significant savings, as certificate courses cost 50 percent less than master's courses.
See the Graduate Tuition & Fees page for the per credit tuition cost for certificates offered through the Center for Graduate & Continuing Studies.
WAYS TO SAVE
Though the human services certificates programs do not qualify for federal financial aid if taken alone, they are offered at a discounted tuition rate. We can advise you on program and payment plan options that will meet your needs.
We also recommend that you:
Explore tuition remission benefits through your employer.
Check out our employer partnerships for discounted tuition rates for local organizations and corporations. If you don't see your organization listed, reach out to your HR department to advocate for a partnership.
Transition your discounted certificate credits to one of our master's programs to save money on completion of your degree.
For working adults that don't have much time in their schedule, this stackable certificate is the perfect solution for continuing your education. At Widener, you have the option of easing back into classes without making a full commitment while simultaneously earning discounted credits that can be rolled in to select master's degree programs. In turn, you will be able to advance in your career while saving money along the way.
A Faculty of Expertise
Your classes are comprised of a diverse adjunct faculty with advanced degrees who are experts in the human development and leadership areas. Despite the virtual environment, you'll never feel far from your professors. Our faculty are always there to lend a helping hand and go the extra mile to guide you in your educational journey.
Learn on Your Time and Terms
These fully online certificate programs offer you the convenience and flexibility of completing coursework when you want, where you want. You are no longer tied to a chair in a classroom and are free to study at any time, whether in the early hours of the morning or late at night. Widener offers the chance to learn on your time and your terms.
Your Inside Track to Success
Your Inside Track to Success
Our goal is to place students on the inside track to personal and professional success.
Outlook & Outcomes
Potential Careers
Family Support Worker
Social Service Liaison
Case Management Aide
Assistant Case Manager
Child Advocate
Gerontology Aide
Industry Growth
It's projected that social and community service managers is projected to grow 12% from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average growth projected for all occupations.
Have a question about Widener? Drop us a line and an admissions counselor will be in touch. We're always happy to help!
Apply
Applying online is easy—and it's free! Have questions about your individual requirements? Request an in-person or virtual meeting with an admissions advisor for guidance prior to submitting your application.