The Human Development and Family Sciences Master's degree prepares students for careers in extension, junior college teaching, human services, medical settings, and leadership roles in public and private institutions. The master's degree also offers preparation for entry into Ph.D. programs.

Applicants who have had prior experience with research as undergraduates and know that they want to pursue a Ph.D. may apply to be accepted as post-bac Ph.D. students. Post-bac Ph.D. students who remain in good academic standing with the Graduate School and complete a Master's thesis move immediately into Ph.D. status upon successful defense of the thesis.