Changes in the structure and function of households and in the dynamics of neighborhoods, schools and the workforce are just a few of the issues facing families today. In order to influence policies in this area, professionals must understand the fundamentals of human development, the dramatic social, political and economic changes affecting family and community life, and new directions in system and program design. This requires knowledge of relevant theory and practice in the areas of social services, welfare, health, and education.

The Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) concentration of the social policy Ph.D. addresses the broad spectrum of American policies that affect human development and adaptation. The goal of the concentration is to prepare students for careers in university teaching and research, government agencies, and other research and service settings where they will frame new questions and bring their knowledge and skills to bear on social programs and policies related to human development and family functioning. The CYF concentration helps students achieve their goals through mentoring and advising, formal courses, colloquia, research responsibilities, and interaction with faculty.