The Human Development and Family Studies program at Penn State was among the first of its kind in the nation, and continues to be one of the most respected. Our multidisciplinary program helps students explore the development of individuals and families across the life span, in order to prepare for professional, managerial, or scientific roles in health and human services professions, in public and nonprofit agencies, and in business and industry, as well as for advanced professional or graduate study. Courses emphasize biological, psychological, social/cultural, and economic aspects of development, as well as applied skills in intervention and evaluation, prevention, and the formulation of social policy. An internship in a setting that serves children, youth, adults, or the aged is required for this degree program. Through course work, undergraduate internships or research projects, students develop skills relevant to career objectives, such as counseling, assessment, program planning and evaluation, and research.