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Sub-Industries

  • Community & Social Services

  • Personal Care Services

Cool Jobs

  • Trauma-informed care coordinator

  • Aging-in-place home advisor

  • Wellness retreat practitioner

  • Mobile mental health outreach worker

Where People Work

  • Nonprofit organizations

  • Salons, spas, and wellness centers

  • Community outreach agencies

  • Housing support or food justice programs

  • Faith-based or cultural organizations

  • Independent businesses and cooperatives

Human Services

Caring for People, Strengthening Communities

Human Services is all about supporting people's well-being, especially in their daily lives. From social work to cosmetology, massage therapy to nonprofit leadership, this cluster includes careers that help people feel better physically, emotionally, and socially. Whether you're helping someone through a crisis, creating a safe home, or boosting confidence through personal care, these jobs focus on dignity and empowerment.

Why We Love Human Services

An image representing the Human Services industry.

This cluster is perfect for people who are empathetic, hands-on, and driven to make life better for others. Many roles offer direct impact and personal connection.

You might be working in a nonprofit that supports families, offering beauty or wellness services, or helping someone navigate a difficult time. These careers often allow flexible entry points - some require certifications, others benefit from life experience and strong people skills.

It's a great fit for people who: 1) Are nurturing, compassionate, and non-judgmental; 2) Like one-on-one work with people; 3) Enjoy creative work like hairstyling or skincare; 4) Want to uplift individuals and communities.

Example Career: Licensed Massage Therapist

52,000

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Helping someone feel better in their body isn't just physical - it changes how they show up in life. This work is healing, for them and for me.
Massage therapist giving client a head massage

Daniel L.

Licensed Massage Therapist

Top Tips

Do I need a college degree to get started?
Not necessarily! Many roles in personal care or community services start with a license or certification, not a degree. For example, cosmetologists and estheticians complete state-approved programs (often under a year), massage therapists usually need 500-1000 hours of training and a license, and peer support specialists, home health aides, and some case management assistants can begin work after certification or on-the-job training.
Can I grow in this field without a 4-year degree?
Yes. Some organizations, especially in the nonprofit or wellness sectors, promote from within and offer tuition reimbursement, apprenticeships, or continuing education credits. If you start in a hands-on role, you can build your credentials while gaining experience, often with employer support for further training.
What kinds of people succeed in this field?
Human Services careers are great for people who are empathetic and enjoy supporting others, creative with their hands or visual skills (like in personal care services), and/or mission-driven, wanting to help families, seniors, or vulnerable populations.
Can I run my own business in this field?
Absolutely. Many personal care professionals, like massage therapists or estheticians, become self-employed or open small businesses. Training and licensing vary by state, so check your local requirements and look for entrepreneurship support programs that serve beauty and wellness professionals.

Hear from Someone in Human Services



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