Graduate

The Master of Arts in Human Development and Family Studies provides students with advanced knowledge in the fields of family sciences and human development and the opportunity to develop multidisciplinary research and community outreach skills. Coursework enables students to apply to become Certified Family Life Educators. Graduates are prepared for leadership and teaching positions in the social services, junior and community colleges, cooperative extension, and/or for pursuing doctoral-level study.

Masters in Human Development and Family Studies Course Requirements

Courses focus on current research and practice in human development and family studies with an emphasis on family theories and processes, family life education, the reciprocal influences of family, school, work, and community contexts, development across the lifespan, and the strengths and needs of diverse populations.

The program emphasizes both basic and applied research. Student participation in interdisciplinary research and community outreach projects is encouraged. All students are required to complete either a Master’s Thesis or a Master’s Project and a minimum of 32 graduate semester-hour credits.

The Masters program in Human Development and Family Studies enables students to:

• Identify dimensions of human development and family relationships across the lifespan.
• Identify ways to promote optimal human development and family relationships across the lifespan.
• Engage in research and scholarly writing.
• Understand and address the strengths and needs of diverse populations.
• Establish a professional identity in Human Development and Family Studies.
• Identify professional opportunities within Human Development and Family Studies.

Graduate Assistantship Application: Competitive Graduate Assistantships are available in HDFS, which provide a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend.