If affordability is your concern as you get started on the college journey toward becoming a social worker in New York, there is no better place to start than with a two-year associate degree.
Not only is a two-year commitment a very manageable place to start in higher education, but the community colleges that normally serve them up are typically less expensive, on a credit for credit basis, than their big brother bachelor’s and master’s programs.
Although both BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) and MSW (Master of Social Work) degrees may well be in your future, an associate degree is a quick and inexpensive way to start working toward your goals. And if you pick the most affordable associate degree you can, you’re getting real value while also getting a jump on your education.
Low-Cost Associate Degrees in Human Services are an Affordable Foundation for New York Social Work Careers
First, it’s important to note that there are no actual degrees in New York called an Associate Degree in Social Work. The programs here that lead toward social work careers are all variations of human services degrees… an Associate of Applied Science in Human Services, Associate of Arts in Human Services, and Associate of Science in Human Services.
Don’t get hung up on the names! Each of those programs start you with all the groundwork required to eventually transfer credits into a Bachelor of Social Work program… or even land entry-level positions in social work around the state.
That makes them a great investment—particularly when you find the right fit at the most affordable end of the scale.
How We Identified New York’s Most Affordable Associate Degrees for Social Workers
We’ve looked at every human services associate program in the state, public and private, and determined the total cost for each one based on per-credit tuition costs.
We include both public and private schools in the list, but our method of evaluating them differs slightly because of different cost structures. In both cases, we only compare like to like when it comes to costs.
For New York’s private colleges, we added up all the tuition costs and came up with an overall average total of $52,752 for human services associate degree programs. Every school that comes in at or below that line fits our criteria for affordability, and makes the list.
For New York’s public colleges, the overall average for human services associate degrees came to $11,295. Only a few schools came in above that mark, and not by a significant amount. For that reason, we decided it makes most sense to include every single public school program in the state of New York since they all come very close to fitting our definition for affordable. So you’ll find them all here, listed in ascending order with a note if they happen to fall below the average.
Taking Your First Steps Toward a Social Work Career Will Involve More Considerations Than Just Price
There are many factors that go into college choice beyond just the bottom-line cost of tuition and fees, of course. So the list needs to take into account things like degree specializations, unique practicum opportunities, incredible instructors, and all the other little things that will factor into your decision.
So we put together listings for each of these affordable schools that fill you in on all the key points you need to know. Not only do we list total costs for each program and show you how they compare, but we also include information about:
- Interesting or unique practicum placement and internship opportunities
- Specializations available in social work or related human services fields
- Other programs offered at the same school
- What formats the program is offered in, whether online, on campus, or a hybrid of both
And, of course, we give you a direct link back to the program page at the school in question so you can dive in for even more details.
Put it all together and you can find the perfect program to fit both your social work career goals, while lining it all up with your educational budget.
New York’s Affordable Public College Associate Degrees in Human Services
Bronx Community College, CUNY
Department of Social Sciences
Bronx, NY
AAS in Human Services (on-campus)
Also Offers:
- AA in Liberal Arts and Sciences with a Human Services option
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,600
Total tuition comes in at $1,695 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a CUNY community college with an AA/AS/AAS and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the CUNY system (may not be the program or college of your first choice)
- Articulation agreements with SUNY Empire State College and Boricua College
- Designated an Hispanic serving institution
- Program includes two internships for outstanding experiential learning
Bronx Community College’s AAS in Human Services offers an affordable path to a meaningful career in the social services field. From family advocate to residential care provider to community outreach worker, this program is designed to prepare you to immediately enter the field and begin making a difference in any number of helping professions. It also provides the ideal precursor to a bachelor’s level program in an area like addiction counseling, education, psychology, or social work. Choose the AAS in Human Services at Bronx College and you’ll complete two internships that will provide you with unmatched opportunities to begin putting theory into practice. You’ll also really appreciate the outstanding student services offered here that include academic advising, career planning, and tutoring.
Guttman Community College, CUNY
New York, NY
AA in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,600
Total tuition comes in at $1,695 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a CUNY community college with an AA/AS/AAS and a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the CUNY system (may not be the program or college of your first choice)
- Articulation agreements with Lehman College CUNY, City Tech CUNY, York College CUNY, and College of State Island CUNY (BS in Social Work)
- Exciting opportunities to engage in service learning and experiential education through year-long fieldwork placements
- Special topics course and electives provide opportunities to focus your program on a specific area of interest
- Outstanding career services offered through the Center for Career Preparation and Partnership
The AA in Human Services through Guttman Community College offers an affordable program of study that’s supported by the outstanding services and resources of the CUNY system. Offering an optimal blend of classroom learning and clinical experiences, students of this program explore a career that addresses human needs and improves lives through prevention and remediation. Whether your career or future educational goals are focused on social work, healthcare, community advocacy, rehabilitation, or education, Guttman’s AA in Human Services is designed with you in mind. You’re even able to tailor your learning through the program’s special topics course and electives that allow you to focus your degree on your specific area of interest, such as child welfare, immigration, substance abuse, or disabilities.
Schenectady County Community College, SUNY
Division of Liberal Arts
Schenectady, NY
AAS/AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $9,821
Total tuition comes in at $1,474 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with SUNY Albany, Maria College, and SUNY Oneonta
- Outstanding career and educational resources and services
- AS is designed to transfer to bachelor degree programs/AAS is designed for immediate employment in the field
Schenectady County Community College SUNY offers an AAS/AS in Human Services that’s both affordable and comprehensive, providing students with the core skills and values that go into the social work profession, and the social welfare system. Whether you have future plans to study at the bachelor’s level, or you’re ready to begin making a difference in the field immediately upon graduation, this program is ideally designed to prepare you for a fulfilling profession in day care, mental health, rehabilitation, community service, and healthcare facilities. You’re also sure to love the Schenectady College and Career Outreach Center (SCCOC), which provides a host of services aimed at employment, education, and career and technical training.
Hudson Valley Community College, SUNY
Department of Human Services
Troy, NY
AAS/AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,140
Total tuition comes in at $1,155 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with SUNY Cortland, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, University at Albany, Excelsior College, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, and the College of Saint Rose
- 90% of all graduates become employed by their assigned field experience agency
- Outstanding career and educational resources and services available through the Center for Careers and Transfer
- Low student-to-faculty ratio of just 19:1
Hudson Valley Community College’s AAS/AS in Human Services offers the quality and affordability you’ve been looking for. Whether your future plans include becoming a counselor, advocate, program manager, or administrator, this program is ideally designed to provide you with a solid overview of the human services field and the topics within it, such as developmental disabilities, mental health, gerontology, adolescence and youth services, social welfare, and community services. In addition to classroom theory, students here learn by doing through field experiences in social services agencies, group homes, youth care institutions, among other diverse settings. This program comes complete with convenient, evening courses to suit your busy schedule!
SUNY Westchester Community College
School of Business and Professional Careers
Valhalla, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Also Offers:
- Community Health and Case Management Certificate
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,292
Total tuition comes in at $1,003 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with Hunter College, Mercy College, and Lehman College
- Exciting opportunities to engage with your peers and the community through the Social Work Club
- Courses available at university centers located in Mount Vernon, Ossining, Peekskill, and Yonkers
SUNY Westchester Community College’s AS in Human Services is priced right and designed to easily transfer to a four-year college! This exciting course of study prepares students in the field of social services through both classroom theory and hands-on practice. In fact, all students of this program complete two field internships at places like the Pleasantville Lab School serving the needs of students with intellectual disabilities, the Arms Acres substance use disorder treatment program, and WESTHAB, a community development organization committed to tackling the housing affordability crisis in Westchester County. And through participation in the Social Work Club, there are plenty more opportunities to engage with your fellow classmates and the community while building lasting connections and gaining valuable experience.
Dutchess Community College, SUNY
Behavioral Sciences Department
Poughkeepsie, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus)
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Social Work
- Child Care
- Mental Health Assistant
- Chemical Dependency Counseling (certificate)
- Child Care/Direct Care (certificate)
Also Offers:
- AAS-Mental Health Assistant
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,354
Total tuition comes in at $941 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Exciting opportunities to get involved through the Human Services Club
- Personalized program offers your choice of seven specializations
- Student-centered learning environment features small class sizes and many opportunities to engage with faculty
Dutchess Community College’s AS in Human Services offers an affordable and personalized pathway to a rewarding career in the social services. Classroom theory here is complemented with a variety of hands-on practicum experiences. The popular Human Services Club here allows students to listen to speakers on a variety of topics and engage in sponsored community service projects throughout the year. The club also represents Dutchess Community College at the annual conference of the Mid-Atlantic Consortium for Human Services.
Erie Community College, SUNY
Education and Human Services
Buffalo, NY
AA in Human Services (on-campus, online)
Also Offers:
- Human Services Certificate
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,380
Total tuition comes in at $915 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Three convenient campuses: North Campus in Williamsville, City Campus in Buffalo, and South Campus in Orchard Park
- Ideally designed for SUNY transfer paths in social work, psychology, and sociology
The AA in Human Services through Erie Community College prepares students to serve at-risk and underserved individuals and populations affected by issues like addiction, homelessness, abuse & neglect, and social injustice. Offering an affordable course of education and the convenience and flexibility of either online or on-campus study, this program is designed to align with the needs of today’s students. It also prepares students for SUNY transfer paths in social work, psychology, or sociology. You’ll also love the college’s outstanding student resources that include dedicated offices for career services, tutoring, counseling, and more.
Onondaga Community College, SUNY
School of Health, Wellness and Human Services
Syracuse, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,560
Total tuition comes in at $735 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with SUNY Polytechnic Institute, SUNY Oswego, Lincoln University, Johnson C. Smith University, Syracuse University, Dillard University, Medgar Evers College, and Keuka College (BSW)
- Engage in exciting service-learning projects
Onondaga Community College’s AS in Human Services offers a value-focused program leading to meaningful careers in areas like social work, counseling, and case management. Classroom theory here is blended with service-learning project experiences throughout the community, thereby allowing students to immediately begin putting their new skills into practice. Whether you’re looking for a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree or you have plans to join the workforce upon graduation, this degree has you in mind!
Cayuga County Community College, SUNY
School of Social Sciences and Education
Auburn, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus, hybrid)
- Corrections/parole
- Drug and alcohol rehabilitation
- Educational support
- Social work
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,602
Total tuition comes in at $693 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with the University of Albany, SUNY Cortland, SUNY Empire State College, Keuka College, and Nazareth College
- Outstanding opportunities to customize your program through your choice of four specializations
Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career immediately upon graduation, or you’re looking for a program that will prepare you for future study at the bachelor’s level, the affordable AS in Human Services through Cayuga County Community College should be at the top of your list. Classroom learning, combined with internships at local social service agencies, allows students to help develop the skills needed to become case management aides, rehabilitation workers, social work assistants, and community outreach workers. Choose the AS in Human Services here and you’ll enjoy custom tailoring your program through your choice of four specializations.
Genesee Community College, SUNY
Human Services
Batavia, NY
AAS in Human Services (on-campus, hybrid)
- Child Care
- Community Services
- Developmental Disabilities
- Substance Abuse
- Gerontology
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,664
Total tuition comes in at $631 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Study at the main campus in Batavia, or at any of the college’s five, conveniently located campus centers: Arcade, Dansville, Lima, Medina, and Warsaw
- Outstanding record of student success: 92% of all recent grads are employed or continuing their education
- Option to complete a one-year certificate in Child Care, Gerontology, or Developmental Disabilities alongside your program
Genesee Community College offers an AAS and AS in Human Services, both of which boast the affordability and flexibility that today’s students demand. The AAS is designed for students seeking employment after graduation, while the AS is better designed for students looking to use their degree as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree. With this in mind, the AAS comes with no less than five specializations that allow students to custom tailor their program with courses that best align with their career goals. Students of the AAS may also complete a one-year certificate in Child Care, Gerontology, or Developmental Disabilities alongside the program. Whichever program you choose, you’ll enjoy outstanding attention from a dedicated faculty and dynamic courses in areas like communication, psychology, and human relations. Courses here are complemented with weekly seminars that combine theory and skill development, and students participate in internships with human services agencies across Western New York.
Jefferson Community College, SUNY
Behavioral Sciences
Watertown, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,797
Total tuition comes in at $498 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Outstanding convenience: 50% or more of the program can be completed online
- Articulation agreements with Keuka College (BSW), Syracuse University, SUNY Albany, SUNY Brockport, SUNY Cortland, SUNY Empire State College, and SUNY Plattsburgh
Jefferson Community College’s AS in Human Services offers superb affordability, the convenience and flexibility of a hybrid format, and study in contemporary areas like advocacy, assessment, counseling, case management, program development, and evaluation. Students here enjoy a small, personalized learning environment and are well-prepared to pursue a bachelor’s degree in an area like therapy, education, counseling, and social work. We also love this program’s focus on experiential learning, with students here participating in different types of internships and hands-on projects that bridge theory and practice.
Columbia-Greene Community College, SUNY
Hudson, NY
AAS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,850
Total tuition comes in at $445 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with Marist College, The College of Saint Rose, University at Albany-SUNY, SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Plattsburgh, Adelphi University, and the Sage Colleges
- Outstanding student resources and services available through the Student Success Center
- Highest-ranked SUNY community college
Columbia-Greene Community College offers the value-focused AS in Human Services, your opportunity to explore the field of social services and the skills needed to help at-risk and vulnerable people and populations overcome adversity, discrimination, and inequality. This program provides an outstanding bridge between theory and practice through a required internship where you’ll lend your newly acquired skills to a local human service agency. The program is also ideally designed to accommodate transfer students who want to continue their education at the bachelor’s level. Choose Columbia-Green and become part of the highest ranked community college in the SUNY system!
Herkimer County Community College, SUNY
Healthcare and Service
Herkimer, NY
AAS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,944
Total tuition comes in at $351 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with Bellevue University, SUNY Buffalo, and SUNY Canton
- Offers the MHANYS CarePath™ program, which prepares students to become certified CarePath™ coaches through the Mental Health Association in NYS
- Choose from online or on-campus study for outstanding convenience and flexibility
Herkimer County Community College offers both affordability and the flexibility of your choice of on-campus or online study. You’ll love this program’s contemporary curriculum that includes cutting-edge courses like chemical dependency, trauma-informed care, and group counseling. In addition to participation in exciting field experiences, many students here also enjoy engaging with their peers and the community through the Human Services Club. This program also offers a unique opportunity to complete the MHANYS CarePath™ program, which prepares graduates to become certified CarePath™ coaches through the Mental Health Association in NYS. Herkimer is the first two-year college to partner with MHANYS for this outstanding course and certification!
Niagara County Community College, SUNY
Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Division
Sanborn, NY
AA in Human Services (on-campus, online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $10,944
Total tuition comes in at $351 below the state average for similar programs at public colleges.
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Academic coaching services and resources include online tutoring, academic coaches, and student tutors
- Outstanding flexibility – choose from online or on-campus study
The Niagara County Community College AA in Human Services offers an outstanding tuition rate and the convenience that comes with your choice of on-campus or online study. This program is expertly designed for students who want to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree or seek immediate employment in settings like healthcare agencies, residential care facilities, community centers, social services agencies, and alcohol and drug rehabs. It also offers a wide array of electives that allow students to pursue areas of interest.
SUNY Corning Community College
Division of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies
Corning, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,040
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreement with SUNY Empire State (BS in Addiction Studies)
- Choose among a variety of electives to specialize in developmentally/physically challenged children, youth, or elderly; domestic violence; child abuse; or crisis intervention
SUNY Corning Community College’s AS in Human Services offers an exciting pathway to a bachelor’s degree in the helping professions. This program provides students with a solid overview of the human services field and also offers a number of electives that allow students to customize their program according to their specific interests. Possible specialization options include developmentally/physically challenged children, youth, or elderly; domestic violence; child abuse; or crisis intervention.
Finger Lakes Community College, SUNY
Canandaigua, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,088
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Outstanding flexibility – more than 50% of all courses are offered online
- Exciting opportunities to engage with your peers and the community through the Human Services Club
- Student-centered learning environment features a low, 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio
The Finger Lakes Community College AS in Human Services offers a solid foundation for a career in community healthcare, youth and family services, nonprofit work, and more. This program boasts an exploration of case management, psychology, and sociology and offers a student-centered learning environment where small class sizes and cooperative learning exercises are standard. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose among a host of electives to personalize your course of study. Every semester, the program partners with at least 25 different internship sites for rewarding field-based experiences that allow students to gain invaluable, real-world skills.
Fulton-Montgomery Community College SUNY
Human and Public Service
Johnstown, NY
AAS/AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,224
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Exciting opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in the Behavior Health Lab, a place to test your skills in diagnostic assessment, evaluation, and intervention with the latest technology
- Outstanding, hands-on learning opportunities through internships and service learning projects
The Fulton-Montgomery Community College AAS/AS in Human Services is your pathway to an outstanding and fulfilling career in the helping professions. Offered as an optimal blend of coursework and hands-on training through a 180-hour internship and various semester-long service learning projects with local community agencies, this program is highly flexible, offering students the opportunity to choose electives and field experiences that align with their interests and career goals. Students of this program also enjoy working in the Behavior Health Lab, a place where they test their skills in diagnostic assessment, evaluation, and intervention with the latest technology.
Mohawk Valley Community College, SUNY
Utica, NY
AAS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,264
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreement with SUNY Polytechnic Institute (BA in Psychology BA, BS in Behavioral Health)
- Highly personalized course of study
Mohawk Valley Community College SUNY offers an AAS in Human Services, which prepares you for immediate employment in a variety of helping professions. Students of this program work closely with advisors to design a course of study that best reflects their specific interests and career goals. In addition to robust, classroom theory, students of Mohawk’s AAS in Human Services complete two semesters of supervised internship experiences as they prepare for either immediate employment in the workforce or further study at the bachelor’s level.
Jamestown Community College SUNY
Human Services Department
Jamestown, NY
AAS in Human Services (on-campus)
- Mental Health
- Child and Adolescent
- Gerontology
- Criminal and forensic practice
AS in Human Services (on-campus)
- Mental Health
- Child and Adolescent
- Gerontology
- Criminal and Forensic Practice
- Community and Policy Practice
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,340
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Study at the Jamestown or Cattaraugus campus
- Customize your program through your choice of four specializations
Jamestown Community College’s Associate Degree in Human Services offers an AS option for outstanding preparation for future bachelor’s study, as well as an AAS option designed for immediate employment in roles like childcare worker, social and human service assistant, activities director, and community service worker. You’ll study the foundation of human services as you choose specific electives that best align with your career goals. Specialized track options include mental health, child and adolescent, gerontology, and criminal and forensic practice. You’ll also complete a semester-long field placement that will allow you to begin bridging classroom theory and practice.
North County Community College SUNY
Saranac Lake, NY
AAS in Human Services (on-campus, online)
Also offers:
- AS in Child and Family Services
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,340
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with SUNY Canton (BS in Applied Psychology) and SUNY Empire (BS in Addiction Studies)
- Outstanding convenience through your choice of on-campus or online study
North County Community College’s AAS in Human Services prepares students to become valuable members of the helping professions who positively impact the lives of children, adults, families, and those battling addiction. Featuring a blend of classroom instruction and practical training, including internships, this program explores human behavior and social problems and how support systems can address the issues that arise in society. Whether you’re interested in immediate employment as a case manager, social work assistant, childcare worker, eldercare provider, or community outreach worker, or you’re preparing for future study at the bachelor’s level, this program is designed with you in mind.
Tompkins Cortland Community College SUNY
Dryden, NY
AAS/AS in Human Services (on-campus, hybrid)
Also offers:
- Human Services Certificate
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,346
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Outstanding selection of articulation agreements with both private and public institutions throughout NYS
- Student services and resources aimed at career and transfer program exploration
The Tompkins Cortland Community College AAS/AS in Human Services offers an outstanding program designed to prepare you for a fulfilling career in the helping professions. Whether your career goals lie in child care, education, social services, mental health, home health, or recreation, this flexible course of study, which features both on-campus and hybrid formats for maximum convenience, is designed for students just like you. Classroom theory here is complemented with an internship with a human service agency – your opportunity to begin putting your new skills and knowledge to work in a real-life setting. Just some of the employers of recent grads of this program include Catholic Charities, Cortland County Community Action Program, Family and Children’s Services of Ithaca, Mental Health Association, and Tompkins County Youth Advocate Program.
Ulster County Community College | SUNY Ulster
Department of Criminal Justice and Human Services
Stone Ridge, NY
AS/AAS in Human Services (on-campus)
(option for a Chemical Dependency Counseling pathway)
Also offers:
- Certificate in Direct Support Practice
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,529
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- AAS includes your choice of electives to personalize your program
- AAS offers a Chemical Dependency Counseling Pathway that features courses leading to the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services’ CASAC-T credential
SUNY Ulster’s AAS and AS in Human Services provides students with solid pathways to either direct employment or future bachelor’s degree study. The AS provides a strong academic foundation for future study in areas like human services, psychology, and social work, while the AAS prepares students for entry-level positions in a variety of public and private human services agencies. You’ll love this program’s choice of electives that allow you to custom tailor your associate degree according to your specific career goals. Students can select courses and field experiences in family and children’s services, developmental disabilities, mental health treatment, crisis intervention, or gerontology. SUNY Ulster also offers a Chemical Dependency Counseling Pathway that features courses leading to the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services’ CASAC-T credential.
SUNY Broome Community College
Liberal Arts Division, Department of Psychology and Human Services
Binghamton, NY
AS in Human Services (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,648
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Bachelor’s Partnerships with Bellevue University, Excelsior College, and SUNY Empire State University
- Outstanding, hands-on learning through community-based and service-learning experiences
The SUNY Broome Community College AS in Human Services is delivered in a convenient and flexible online format that today’s busy college students really appreciate. This program is expertly designed with a solid foundation that prepares students to either transfer to a bachelor’s degree in human services, counseling, or social work, or move straight into employment with an educational and human services agency immediately after graduating. Community-based and service-learning experiences are part of the educational experience here, preparing students with real-world training for a successful transition into the workforce. We love the school’s Career, Transfer, and Bachelor Partnership Department, which works with campus, industry, and community partners to provide unmatched career and transfer planning services for students.
Clinton Community College, SUNY
Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Plattsburgh, NY
AAS in Human Services (online)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,776
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Fully online program offers outstanding convenience and flexibility
- Features an internship in early childhood, family assistance, chemical dependency, or gerontology
Clinton Community College offers the AAS in Human Services, which is delivered in a fully online format for unparalleled convenience and flexibility. This career-track degree is perfectly designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in a variety of human services settings and positions. Offering an ideal blend of academic and experiential study, the AAS in Human Services through Clinton CC culminates in an internship in early childhood, family assistance, chemical dependency, or gerontology. Whether your career goals include becoming a mental health aide, childcare worker, rehabilitation aide, elder care provider, residential counselor, or beyond, this program has what you need to succeed and make a difference!
Suffolk County Community College, SUNY
Ammerman Campus
Long Island, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,844
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Articulation agreements with the social work bachelor’s degrees at Adelphi University, Molloy College, LIU Post, and Stony Brook University School of Social Welfare and with the human services bachelor’s degrees of St. Joseph’s College and SUNY Empire State
- Home to outstanding student support services that include tutoring, learning labs and a student success center
Whether your goals include future study at the bachelor’s level or direct employment in the human services field upon graduation, Suffolk County Community College’s AS in Human Services has everything you need to succeed in the human services field. This program features classroom theory in the social and behavioral sciences, along with an exploration of the human service profession. It also comes complete with a two-semester practicum that allows students to begin flexing their newly acquired skills in a local human service agency.
Orange County Community College, SUNY
Education and Human Services
Middletown, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus, hybrid)
Total Estimated Program Cost: $11,907
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Flexible format includes day and evening classes at both the Newburgh and Middletown campuses and some online courses
- Designed for both transfer- and career-focused students
Orange County Community College’s AS in Human Services provides the perfect preparation for future study at the bachelor’s level. Offering a broad liberal arts foundation, alongside study in psychology and sociology, this program is ideally designed to position students for success in a variety of human services bachelor’s degrees. It also features exciting field experiences with at least two human services agencies. And for students with an eye on immediate employment, this program offers the ideal preparation for employment as a direct care worker in a variety of private and nonprofit human services agencies. We also love the program’s flexible format that includes full- and part-time study, on-campus and online courses, and day and evening classes at both the Middletown and Newburgh campuses.
Nassau Community College, SUNY
Economics and Finance
Garden City, NY
AA in Human Services - Community Service and Social Welfare (on-campus)
Also offers:
- Certificate in Case Management
Total Estimated Program Cost: $12,352
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Exciting opportunities to engage with your peers and the community through the social work club, InterACT
- Largest single-campus community college in the state of New York
Nassau Community College boasts a blend of sociology, anthropology, and community services courses to prepare students to become valuable members of the health services field. The program’s rich curriculum allows students to explore a variety of career options in social work and human services and prepare for future study at the bachelor’s level. Coursework within this exciting course of study explores the social sciences, humanities, literature, science, math, and communications, as well as alcoholism, addictions, and social work. A field internship offers the ideal addition to classroom theory and allows students to begin applying what they’ve learned in the classroom in real-world settings.
New York City College of Technology | City Tech CUNY
School of Professional Studies
Brooklyn, NY
AAS in Human Services (on-campus)
Also offers:
- BS in Human Services
Total Estimated Program Cost: $13,860
- Students who graduate from a CUNY community college with an AA/AS/AAS and cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the CUNY system (may not be the program or college of your first choice)
- Seamless transfer opportunity to City Tech’s BS in Human Services
- Superb career guidance offered through assigned faculty advisors/mentors
- Flexible format features day, evening, and weekend classes
City Tech CUNY’s AAS in Human Services offers a dynamic pathway to any number of fulfilling careers in the human services field. Boasting a curriculum that’s grounded in the liberal arts and complemented with a nice selection of human services courses, the AAS in Human Services is comprehensive and complete and perfectly designed to prepare you for careers like childcare worker, residential counselor, mental health aide, family advocate, and social work assistant. We also love this program’s flexible format that features day, evening, and weekend courses. Classroom theory is complemented with two semesters of field experiences in community-based agencies.
Alfred State College of Technology SUNY
Social and Behavioral Sciences Department
Alfred, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Also offers:
- BS in Human Services Management
Total Estimated Program Cost: $14,632
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Customize your program through your choice of electives
- Seamless transfer to Alfred State’s BS in Human Services Management
Alfred State College of Technology offers an AS in Human Services that features liberal arts and social sciences coursework alongside professional work in human services that prepares students for either direct employment or study at the bachelor’s level. This program, which can be specialized through your choice of electives in areas like education, substance abuse, criminal justice, and gerontology, also features an internship experience at one local or regional human services agency. Just some of the agency partners include the Allegany County Office of Aging, Catholic Charities, Hornell Area Concern for Youth, Allegany County ARC, and YMCA of Hornell.
SUNY Morrisville
Health and Human Development
Morrisville, NY (available only at the Norwich campus)
AAS in Human Services (on-campus, hybrid)
Also offers:
- Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) in Human Services Leadership
- Human Services Certificate
Total Estimated Program Cost: $15,104
- Students who graduate from a SUNY community college with an AA/AS are guaranteed admission to a four-year institution in the SUNY system
- Exciting opportunities to participate in SUNY Morrisville’s Human Services Institute – home to valuable applied learning experiences and professional development experiences with faculty, human service providers, and community members
- Outstanding practical experiences include four internships – the first of which begins in the program’s first semester
SUNY Morrisville’s AAS in Human Services is expertly designed to position you for success in the human services field or for future study at the bachelor’s level. Boasting a liberal arts core alongside an exploration of the human services field, this program effortlessly blends classroom theory with practical experience that includes three required internships at local nonprofit agencies. Practical learning here begins immediately, with students kicking off their first semester with an internship. As a result, graduates of the AAS in Human Services are well-equipped for entry-level employment in a variety of nonprofit and private regional human services agencies. Counselor, advocate, case manager, care coordinator – outstanding opportunities to make a difference await graduates of this program.
Affordable Associate Programs in Human Services at New York’s Private Colleges
Monroe College
School of Criminal and Social Justice
Bronx/New Rochelle, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus, online, hybrid)
Also offers:
- BS in Human Services
Total Estimated Program Cost: $33,790
Total tuition comes in at $18,962 below the state average for similar programs at private colleges.
- Outstanding flexibility – your choice of on-campus, online, or hybrid study
- Exciting opportunities to complete field experiences at local service organizations
- Home to a supportive faculty and excellent student services like tutoring and mentoring
Monroe College’s AS in Human Services offers outstanding affordability in private education, along with the flexibility of online, on-campus, or hybrid study. In addition to a comprehensive program of study that explores working with children and adults undergoing chronic situations or crises, the AS in Human Services includes outstanding field experiences designed to allow students to begin putting their newly acquired skills into practice. Just some of the recent placements here include the Boys and Girls Club of New Rochelle, the NYC Department of Probation, the Children’s Village, and Compassionate Care Hospice. Students here also often participate in Monroe’s Human Services Club, which aims to build awareness of issues related to domestic violence, poverty, and homelessness in local communities.
Touro University
Machon L’Parnasa, Machon Men’s and Women’s Division
Brooklyn, NY
AS in Human Services (on-campus)
Also offers:
- BS, MSW in Human Services
Total Estimated Program Cost: $36,420
Total tuition comes in at $16,332 below the state average for similar programs at private colleges.
- Student-centered learning environment featuring small class sizes and one-on-one attention
- Flexible curriculum features day, evening, and Sunday courses
- Transfer opportunities to Lander College of Arts and Sciences (Flatbush), Lander College for Men (Queens), and Lander College for Women—The Anna Ruth and Mark Hasten School (Manhattan)
The Touro University AS in Human Services comes in strong with a superb tuition rate for an esteemed New York private university. This program boasts a solid foundation that prepares students to either assume positions like assistant residential counselor, mental health aide, or community outreach worker, and serves as a perfect foundation for a bachelor’s in human services or social work. You’ll develop your expertise through a contemporary curriculum with highly relevant courses in Adolescent Development, Social Psychology of the Family, and Counseling Addictive Behaviors. And to top it all off, the student-centered learning environment here features small class sizes and convenient course times in the afternoons, evenings, and on Sundays.