Major in Human Development and Family Studies

Help individuals, families, and communities thrive

Penn State's Human Development and Family Studies Bachelor of Science degree is designed to help students learn how people and families develop and flourish, considering the complex and varied needs of individuals, families, and communities across diverse populations.

The program integrates psychology, sociology, public policy, and developmental science to prepare students for meaningful careers promoting health and wellness across the lifespan.

HDFS is made up of three essential components that combine to teach students the theory behind human development and the skills-based training that allows graduates to enter the field, find early career success, and have a positive impact on the lives of others.

Build a strong foundation of knowledge in research-informed developmental science

Students learn about individual, family, community, and social factors that influence development, as well as evidence-based practices that promote cognitive, social, physical, and emotional well-being across the lifespan.

HDFS core courses cover a range of topics, including development during various life stages, ethics and skills for working to support wellness, intervention and prevention science, research methods and quantitative skills.

Develop applied skills and pursue hands-on learning for career preparation

Core program requirements guide students to develop and practice essential, transferable workforce skills, including interpersonal communication, ethics, intervention and prevention, and research methods. And throughout the degree, opportunities for hands-on learning abound. Dedicated HDFS faculty support students as they design a hands-on, experiential learning portfolio that applies their knowledge, develops their skills, and builds their resume and professional connections.

To this end, all HDFS students complete a capstone learning experience customized to meet their developmental and career trajectory. This capstone experience may include supervised internships, guided research projects, specialized or advanced coursework, or some combination of the three.

Take advantage of program guidance and flexibility to specialize coursework

The two HDFS degree options allow students to select advanced coursework that builds specific knowledge and applied skills aligned with their professional and personal interests and goals. Students can explore careers through specific courses, department resources, career and alumni events, and classroom fieldtrips that are all part of the core curriculum.

Learn more about the HDFS major

• Review the HDFS courses and curriculum.
• Explore the two HDFS degree options: Human Development and Family Science and Developmental Science for Health Professions.
• Take an HDFS class. The major offers many popular General Education courses. 
• Explore student supports and opportunities, including information about HDFS internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.
• Reach out to the HDFS academic adviser with questions.