Marian University’s health and human services (HHS) program is perfect for those who aspire to make a difference within their community, want to affect societal change, or enjoy caring for others. The degree is available completely online, which means you can customize your schedule around work and family commitments. The mission of health and human services is to improve the health and well-being of citizens and their communities. Our online program offers a combination of real-world career preparation and general education classes that teach you to prevent and address problems for better overall quality of life.
Although there are similarities, careers in HHS are different than those in public health or social work. Public health jobs typically focus on regulatory, legislative, or environmental issues, while HHS specialists use this knowledge to educate and serve others. Careers in health and human services also go beyond direct individual care. HHS professionals are leaders who often coordinate the delivery of healthcare and focus on broader scale work within the community.
The need for well-trained individuals in the diverse field of health and human services is rising across the United States. Graduates may pursue employment as:
The Senior Living Leadership track prepares students to lead and manage senior living communities with compassion and care. This innovative program combines coursework in healthcare, management, ethics, and communication, providing the skills and experience needed to excel in this field. Graduates will be prepared to meet the increasing demand for knowledgeable and compassionate leaders who can enhance the quality of life for older adults.
Courses offered:
The Senior Living Leadership track at Marian University Online goes beyond traditional coursework, offering a unique End of Life Doula course that prepares students for certification. This specialized training provides essential skills in emotional support, grief care, and meaningful communication—key qualities for professionals in senior living leadership and caregiving roles.
As the aging population grows rapidly, the demand for skilled senior care professionals is increasing. By 2050, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to rise by 47%, reaching 82 million (Vision Centre, 2024). This program equips students with the expertise needed to make a lasting impact on families, caregivers, and communities by enhancing the quality of life for older adults.
With a focus on compassionate leadership and holistic senior care, Marian University Online is committed to preparing the next generation of professionals to meet the evolving needs of senior living communities.
At Marian University, our curriculum equips students with the skills needed for successful careers. Courses such as microbiology, human growth and development, and general human physiology provide students with the fundamental knowledge needed for their future positions, while classes in leadership, public health and society, and global health issues and intervention help students become influential leaders in their field.
For more examples of courses we offer in this program, visit our degree requirements page.
Marian University’s health and human services degree can be completed entirely online and classes are offered year-round, making it easy for busy adults to enroll. Interested in learning more about the program? Request more information today or call (317) 955-6271 to speak with an advisor.