This paper proposes a new kind of educational institution, the Human Services Institute (HSI), which would offer an action oriented work-study program of flexible duration to prepare young people for professions in the human services such as health, education, welfare, law, guidance, social work, therapy, urban planning, and public service. Such institutions would provide a solution to many of the problems facing higher education today--problems of accessibility, effectiveness, homogeneity, rigidity, credentials, and social isolation--and become catalysts for social change. The HSI is based on the belief that traditional professional training fails to foster an interest in human service, to relate courses to practical work, or to involve students in academic decision making regarding their own careers. The work-study program of the HSI would offer an intensive field experience complementary to academic studies, make a BA available in 2 years, and provide a broad curriculum. The paper discusses the HSI's program, objectives, prospective students and faculty, evaluation and certification procedures, and relationship with traditional graduate schools. (JS)