Research schools and programs. As with traditional brick-and-motor institutions, schools offering online associate's degrees in Human Social Services are not created equal. Programs vary in terms of their requirements, content and quality. Cost is another major factor for some people, as is a school's status as nonprofit or for-profit.
One option is SUNY Empire State College, which is part of the State University of New York. According to the school's website, students develop a customized degree in Community and Human Services using guidelines set forth by the college, which reflect their interests and goals. Further, in designing their individualized program, students also have the ability to follow a concentration field of study, such as Children and Family Services or Disability Studies.
Another possibility is Niagara County Community College, also part of the SUNY system. Here, an Associate in Arts in Human Services degree is offered online. Elective concentrations are available in a variety of areas, such as early childhood education and substance abuse.
Apply. Once you have chosen the school that you want to attend, gather all the information you'll need to complete the application process. The requirements for transfer students vary, but it is especially important to submit copies of your official transcripts from all previous schools, in order to maximize the number of transfer credits that you will be able to put toward your degree.
Explore financial options. After you have been accepted, explore the financial options available to help you pay for the remainder of your education. Check to see what types of aid are available to you, based on your standing and major in Human Social Services.
Enroll. Once you have found a school, been granted admission and have all the necessary financial details in place, enroll in classes. Online associate's degree programs in Human Social Service usually require courses such as general psychology, introductory sociology and crisis intervention. Speak with an adviser about the classes you will need to take and the sequence you should take them in, as well as the number of transfer credits that can be applied toward your degree.
Complete your courses. Work through each class successfully in order to gain the remaining credits that you need for your degree. Depending upon your school and how many transfer credits you have, this can take just a couple or several semesters to accomplish. Additionally, most schools have graduation procedures for your final term of enrollment, which you will need to follow in order to receive your diploma.