Master of Science Degree in Child Development and Family Studies – HDFS Specialization

Responding to the growing need for qualified professionals in the social and human services professions, the Department of Behavioral Sciences now offers a Master of Science degree in Child Development and Family Studies with a specialization in Human Development and Family Studies (the HDFS Master’s Program). This graduate specialization is aimed at those already working in human and social service settings as well as students who have recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree and wish to further their education at the graduate level.

According to a 2006-2007 U.S. Department of Labor report, human service work is one of the most rapidly growing occupations and this program will prepare students for leadership roles in social services, disabilities services, early childhood education, family services, elder care and mental health care organizations.

The program is unique in that it contains two tracks. One track is designed for those already employed in a social or human service setting or in preschools. This track approaches research and theory in an applied manner and provides the knowledge necessary to help one qualify for middle and senior-level administrative positions. Students may select electives from among the areas of: family studies/services, gerontology studies/services, human/social services management, and preschool education/management.

The second program track, designed for recent college graduates who are not yet established in a professional area, will provide master’s level work in research methodology, statistical analysis, and theories of human development. This track is especially designed for those who might wish to enter a doctoral program in human development at some future time.

Because the majority of students interested in obtaining a Master’s in HDFS are likely to be employed, many of the courses are offered in the evening or via distance learning.