Chigi Palace, theCHS@AU Study Abroad site in Ariccia, Italy where HDFS can spend a semester studying children and families from a cross-cultural perspective.

The Department of Human Development and Family Studies curricula are designed to develop a multidisciplinary perspective on the study of individuals and families across the life span. We emphasize the practical implications of scholarly knowledge. Consequently, the Department offers a course of study to prepare students for a variety of careers with children, parents, single adults, couples, and families.

In order to provide both structure and flexibility for students with varied professional interests, the Department offers three professional tracks in:

* Infancy and Preschool
* School Age and Adolescence
* Adulthood and Aging

With the assistance of faculty advisors students select a basic track that includes required courses and electives that best suit their career goals. Faculty advisors also provide guidance on career options that are available with a B.S. degree and others that require advanced graduate study.

Career Options in Infancy and Preschool

* Daycare licenser
* Pediatrician?s assistant
* Child care information and referral specialist
* University laboratory school director or teacher
* Preschool, K-3, daycare teacher/administrator
* Early childhood intervention specialist
* Family daycare consultant
* And many others...

Career Options in School-Age and Adolescence

* Child life hospital specialist
* Cooperative Extension/4-H agent
* After-school daycare program director
* Parks and recreation activities director
* Scouting/YMCA/YWCA director or staff worker
* Substance abuse rehabilitation counselor
* Juvenile program director or counselor
* Leisure services director
* And many others....

Career Options In Adulthood And Aging

* Employee assistance specialist in industry
* Cooperative Extension agent
* Crisis center director or counselor
* Senior citizen center director or counselor
* Legislative public policy specialist
* Health maintenance organization specialist
* And many others....

HDFS Undergraduate Curriculum

The Auburn University Department of Human Development and Family Studies offers the Certified Family Life Educator credential for undergraduate students.

Click here for a copy of the Certified Family Life Educator curriculum.