This program offers an interdisciplinary lifespan approach to the study of children, youth and families. It encompasses specialty areas in preschool teaching, childcare, administration, youth studies, family services, child life, consumer economics, human sciences teacher education and extension. Students develop an awareness of trends, issues and public policy affecting families and analyze factors that influence cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development in the contexts of culture and family.

Graduates enter diverse public and private sectors which focus on enabling children and families to function effectively in today's complex society. The Human Development and Family Science undergraduate program has been approved by the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR) as meeting the Standards and Criteria for the Provisional Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE).