Program Overview
The program emphasizes research, theory, and practice, preparing students for careers in human services, education, research, and policy. Students can tailor their studies to their interests and career goals, with opportunities for research, internships, and study abroad programs. Graduates are well-prepared for employment in various settings and for graduate study.
Program Outline
The program emphasizes the importance of research, theory, and practice in understanding and supporting individuals and families.
Objectives:
- To prepare students for careers in human services, education, research, and policy.
- To develop students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Description:
The HDFS program offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to tailor their studies to meet their individual interests and career goals. Students can choose from a variety of courses on topics such as child development, adolescent development, adult development and aging, family relationships, and social policy. The program also offers opportunities for students to participate in research, internships, and study abroad programs.
Outline:
Program Content:
The HDFS program curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Theories of human development
- Child development
- Adolescent development
- Adult development and aging
- Family relationships
- Social policy
- Research methods
- Professional communication
Program Structure:
The HDFS program consists of 43 credits at the 2000 level or above, including:
- 31 credits in Human Development and Family Sciences
- 12 credits in courses related to but outside the major department
Course Schedule:
The HDFS program offers a variety of courses that are offered in both the fall and spring semesters. Students can also choose to take courses during the summer session.
Individual Modules:
The HDFS program offers a variety of individual modules that focus on specific topics. Some examples of individual modules include:
- Early Childhood Development and Education
- Child and Adolescent Development
- Adulthood, Aging, and Gerontology
- Couples, Parents, and Families
- Health, Wellbeing, and Prevention
- Diversity and Culture
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The HDFS program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Exams
- Papers
- Presentations
- Projects
- Portfolios
Assessment Criteria:
The HDFS program uses the following criteria to assess student learning:
- Knowledge of human development and family sciences
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Communication skills
- Professionalism
- Cultural competence
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The HDFS program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Discussions
- Group projects
- Simulations
- Field experiences
Faculty:
The HDFS program has a faculty of experienced and dedicated professors who are experts in their fields. The faculty are committed to providing students with a high-quality education.
Unique Approaches:
The HDFS program offers a variety of unique approaches to teaching, including:
- A focus on research and evidence-based practice
- A commitment to diversity and inclusion
- A strong emphasis on applied learning
- Opportunities for students to participate in internships and other hands-on experiences
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The HDFS program prepares students for a variety of careers in human services, education, research, and policy. Some examples of potential career paths include:
- Child care provider
- Early childhood educator
- Family therapist
- Social worker
- Policy analyst
- Researcher
- Professor
Career Opportunities:
The HDFS program graduates are employed in a variety of settings, including:
- Schools
- Social service agencies
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Research institutions
Career Outcomes:
The HDFS program graduates have a high rate of employment in their field. They are also well-prepared for graduate study.
Other:
Minors:
The HDFS program offers minors in Culture, Health, and Human Development, Gerontology, and Human Development and Family Sciences.
Honors Program:
The HDFS program offers an Honors Program for high-achieving students.
Concentration in Early Childhood Development and Education:
The HDFS program offers a concentration in Early Childhood Development and Education for students who are interested in working with young children.
University General Education Requirements:
Students must also meet the University's General Education requirements.
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Degree Requirements:
Students must also meet the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences degree requirements.
