School of Human Development and Family Science
School of Human Development and Family Science
Where Heart Meets Science - Make a Difference!
Human Development and Family Science students want to make a difference in the lives of children, families, and communities, and our programs equip them to do just that! Students are prepared to work with children and families within educational settings, mental health agencies, county extension offices, non-profit organizations, and community service settings. We offer service-learning courses, hands-on laboratory experiences, and experiential classroom activities to maximize and personalize student success. On-campus training facilities include a nationally accredited center for child development and a mental health clinic, which allow students invaluable opportunities to develop professional skills needed to enter the workforce.
Mission Statement
The School of Human Development and Family Science equips students with the knowledge and skills to ethically promote child and family well-being and quality of life in an evolving, multicultural world. Utilizing a systemic lens, our students are prepared to advance the profession as they teach, serve, and advocate for individuals, children, families, and communities in multiple contexts. The Human Development and Family Science program provides transformative learning experiences that prepare our graduates to practice in educational, mental health, and social service settings.
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Our Programs
The School of Human Development and Family Science offers face-to-face, hybrid, and fully online programs. Students are trained in systemic thinking and gain practical, professional skills through active learning, practicum experiences, and student leadership opportunities.
The MS program in Marriage and Family Therapy is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE).
The BS degree plans in Early Childhood and Family Science are accredited by the American Association for Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS).
Our faculty represent several diverse fields
Faculty in Human Development and Family Science include experts in child development, certified family life educators, family scientists, licensed marriage and family therapists, and licensed professional counselors. This expertise, combined with their vast professional experiences and commitment to student success, lends authenticity to their courses and creates a supportive, yet challenging environment for students. Faculty routinely engage students in collaborative research projects, special problem investigations, experiential learning, and student leadership opportunities.
Faculty in Human Development and Family Science regularly collaborate with undergraduate students on research. Several of our students have received funding to help with the cost associated with conducting their own independent research, presenting at professional conferences, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Previous undergraduate research topics include: influences of social media, development of empathy in pre-k/ kindergarten, perceptions of breastfeeding in public, how family structure affects adolescent social/emotional development, juvenile diversion versus incarceration, father’s influence on adolescent behavior, and sexual health.