HDFS Major Coursework

As a human development and family science student, you will choose one of the following focus areas:

Health and Wellbeing

Courses relevant to careers in:

  • Medicine
  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Nursing

Prevention and Intervention

Courses relevant to careers in:

  • Therapy
  • Counseling
  • Social work
  • Nonprofit
  • Policy/law

You will then choose how you fulfill the Experiential Learning requirement by choosing an option:

  • Option 1: Community Internship

    Do you want to gain direct experience in a community setting?

    You will complete a 240 clock hour Applied Internship (HDFS 5910, 6 credits) in the community.

    Learn more about internship opportunities

  • Option 2: Research Internship

    Do you intend to pursue a graduate degree or career in research?

    You will complete Research Methods (HDFS 5950, 3 credits) to prepare for a Research Internship (HDFS 5950, 3 credits).

    Students should consider the HDFS BSFCS / HDFS MS Thesis Double Dawg Program.

  • Option 3: HDFS Service-Learning

    You will complete an HDFS Service-Learning elective (HDFS S course, 3 credits) and an HDFS Elective (3 credits).

    Service-learning is the application of academic skills and knowledge to address a community need, issue, or problem and to enhance student learning. Choose from the following:

    HDFS 4830S/6830S: Grief, Loss, and Bereavement Across the Lifespan

    HDFS 4880S/6880S: Family Life Education Methodology

    HDFS 4890S/6890S: More than a Four-Legged Friend

    HDFS 4900S/6900S: Seminar

    HDFS 5130S/7130S: Therapeutic Benefits of Play

Student Learning Outcomes

As you pursue Option 1, 2, or 3, you will:

Apply knowledge to professional practice

1. The students graduating with a major in HDFS will be able to integrate and apply theory, research, & ethical practices to the understanding of HDFS.

Advance the field of human development and family science

2. The students graduating with a major in HDFS will be able to demonstrate & disseminate knowledge about social, cognitive, psychological, physiological, & emotional development as it relates to optimal individual & family functioning throughout the lifespan.

Develop knowledge and skills to advocate for individuals and families

3. The students graduating with a major in HDFS will be able to critically & scientifically identify and evaluate the interconnected systems that impact the changing social environment in which individuals & families are embedded.

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