M.S. Option in Human Development and Family Studies (MS-HDFS)

The Master of Science option in Human Development and Family Studies (MS-HDFS) is a flexible master's degree program that can be customized easily to prepare a student for a variety of careers in applied family services in industry, education, or government.

This program is focused on the acquisition of basic knowledge of the dynamics of human development and family interaction, rather than clinical intervention. This knowledge is gained through in-depth examinations of theory and the basic and applied research of the field. The thesis experience allows even greater opportunity to develop unique specializations in conjunction with select faculty. Students may choose to specialize in one of two broad content domains, or they may choose to integrate both of them. One sphere emphasizes the development of the child in the context of the family. A second specialty focuses on relationship patterns and dynamics among adult family members in their wider social context.







M.S. Procedural Guide

Required Courses for Master's Degree: MS-HDFS

HDFS 7010 Advanced Child Development (3) or HDFS 7000 Adolescent Development (3)




HDFS 7020 Marital and Family Dynamics (3) Pr., departmental approval




HDFS 7030 Advanced Family and Social Policy(3)




HDFS 7040 Conceptual Frameworks of Human Development and Family Studies (3) Pr., departmental approval




HDFS 7050 Research Methods for Human Development and Family Studies I (3) Pr., HDFS 7040




HDFS 7060 Research Methods for Human Development and Family Studies II (3) Pr., HDFS 7050




HDFS 7960 Seminar (1)




HDFS 7990 Research & Thesis (CREDIT TO BE ARRANGED) (Note: Consistent with Graduate School policy, the HDFS M.S. degree requires a minimum of 4 credits of HDFS 7990; a maximum of 6 credits count toward degree requirements.)