Doctor in Human Services Program

School of Public Service and Education

Lead positive change to meet community needs

Gain an in-depth understanding of how to address evolving trends in human services and apply existing research to facilitate positive change in your organization or community. Our online Doctor of Human Services degree curriculum helps you solve complex social problems, create innovative solutions, and manage organizational effectiveness through strategic planning and evidence-based practices and behaviors. 

Program specializations

Learn more about admissions requirements, costs, and courses for your specialization.

What's it like to be a doctoral student?

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience, explore each step of the journey, and read stories from students who have successfully earned their doctorate.

Ways to save

At Capella, we believe your education is an investment in your future. It’s also an investment within your grasp. Your goals are achievable—there are more ways to save than you might think. 

Employer & association discounts

If your employer or organization is a partner with Capella, you may be eligible for a tuition discount. Ask your employer what offers are available.

10% military discount

If you're an active-duty military service member, spouse, or veteran, discounts may be available.

Transfer credits

We can accept many transfer credits from regionally accredited schools.

Accredited & recognized

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all of our accreditations and recognitions

Why choose Capella?

Doctoral support

You’re never going it alone at Capella. Our dedicated faculty and support teams are waiting to guide and advise you through every step of your educational journey. From writing assistance to career planning and tech help, you’ll get support from coaches, mentors, and tutors to help you work through your keystone and capstone courses.

Multidisciplinary approach

By collaborating with professionals in other fields, you’ll develop a holistic approach to planning and implementing strategic and effective practices within your community or organization.

Relevant applicable learning

Learn from our scholar-practitioner faculty, who are actively involved in their professions and can provide real-world insights on turning theory into practice. You’ll also engage in simulated on-the-job situations in RiverBend City, which lets you practice what you learn in a realistic, controlled environment. 

Relevant blog posts

Whether you’re considering a return to school, exploring new career paths, or seeking ways to improve your job performance, the Capella Blog has relevant articles to support your goals.

Why Collaboration is Key to Human Services

Collaboration is the new norm for human services. These three examples from the field demonstrate why.

Find the Right Human Services Career for You

Jobs in human services range from working with clients to managing organizations to building infrastructures.

Difference Between a Doctor of Human Services and PhD in Human Services

Find out which type of doctoral degree in human services is the best match for your career goals.

Other programs to explore

Is this program close to what you need, but maybe not a perfect fit? The programs below might be interesting. Check them out to find one that suits your academic and professional goals.

DSW

Doctor of Social Work

Prepare to be a leader, researcher, or advanced practitioner with a curriculum focused on critical thinking, leadership, research, and use of technology.  

Ready for the next step?

Learning online doesn't mean going it alone. Help is here. From faculty, coaches, advisors and more. Plus a supportive community of students who are as passionate about their careers as you are about yours.