Do I want to be a Social Worker or Counselor? Do I want to work with children? Do I want to work with teenagers? The elderly? Drug and alcohol or mental health? Probation? Criminal justice? How can I help those who need help in life?

Then Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) is for you. Applied learning working with people of all ages in diverse contexts. Our program emphasizes hands on learning to prepare students to work with individuals from birth to old age. HDFS graduates become leaders in human services; develop models to prevent and treat social problems; and become advocates for new social policies and programs.

What is HDFS?

• Versatile degree program preparing graduates for a variety of options
• Focus on development across the human lifespan from birth to old age
• Instruction in interventions to promote healthy development and family function across the lifespan
• Hands-on learning and internships prepare graduates to work in the community
• Research opportunities with outstanding and supportive faculty
• Specialized Minor Degree programs in Child Maltreatment and Gerontology

What does an HDFS degree prepare graduates for?

• Knowledge and experience to go right to work with children, adults, and families
• Strong foundation for graduate degrees in numerous fields such as human development & family studies, counseling, marriage and family therapy, social work, sociology, and behavioral health