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Human Services Study

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Study of Human Service Professionals
Ferris State University
IRB Approved Protocol #24-25-121

Purpose of the Study
This study examines compensation, career pathways, professional satisfaction, and workforce conditions across mental health and human service professions. The survey asks about your education, professional background, employment setting, and compensation to better understand workforce patterns across roles and settings. 

Your perspective helps build a clearer picture of the workforce and contributes to data that can support advocacy, policy discussions, and improved workforce conditions. Results will be shared in aggregate through research publications, presentations, and a public-facing dashboard hosted by Ferris State University and NASW-Michigan. 

What You Will Be Asked to Do
If you choose to participate, you will complete an anonymous online survey lasting approximately 10–15 minutes. At the end of the survey, you may volunteer for an optional follow-up interview. Those who volunteer may be contacted for a 30-minute virtual interview via Microsoft Teams or Zoom.

Voluntary Participation
Your participation is completely voluntary. You may skip any question or exit the survey at any time without penalty. You may also decline the interview portion, even if you complete the survey.

Risks and Benefits
There are no anticipated risks beyond those encountered in daily life. While there are no direct benefits to you personally, your responses may help improve understanding of workforce needs and support future workforce policy, organizational decision-making, and professional advocacy.

Confidentiality
Your survey responses are anonymous. If you choose to volunteer for a follow‑up interview, your name and contact information will be collected on a separate form and will not be linked to your survey responses. Interview data will be de‑identified during transcription. All study data will be stored securely on password‑protected Ferris State University servers accessible only to the research team.

Consent
By beginning this survey, you confirm that:
• you are at least 18 years old
• you currently work in a human service or behavioral health role in Michigan
• you have read and understand this consent information
• you voluntarily agree to participate in this study

Please complete the survey by May 31, 2026.

For questions about this study, please contact humanservicesstudy@ferris.edu
Which of the following degrees have you completed? (Select all that apply)
Which degree is most applicable to your primary employment?
Which degree is most applicable to your primary employment?
What was the primary reason you chose this degree?
What was the primary reason you chose this degree?
What professional licenses or certifications do you currently hold? (Select all that apply)
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