Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Human Development and Family Studies] From Colorado State University

Students in the major at complete foundational coursework in human development (i.e., infancy and childhood, adolescence, emerging and young adulthood, middle and later adulthood/aging) and in the area of family studies. Students study theory and innovative research in the field and learn to identify diverse factors influencing cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development across the lifespan. A hallmark of the HDFS degree program is participating in a semester-long internship at which students apply knowledge and skills acquired in foundational course work and gain valuable experience in their professional field. The HDFS major offers five concentrations that enable students to specialize within their degree and prepare for a variety of career paths. In addition to selecting one of five concentrations, students have the opportunity to work toward the Gerontology Interdisciplinary Minor or Director Qualifications in early childhood settings, or apply to the Early Childhood Education Major.

Potential Occupations

Graduates with a major in HDFS are prepared to work in a range of human service sector settings including youth services organizations; early childhood, elementary, adolescent, and parent education programs; health care settings; juvenile and adult corrections and criminal justice; family and community services; and programs serving older adults, including long-term care facilities. Students interested in teaching human development and family studies content at the secondary level should explore the interdepartmental major in Family and Consumer Sciences, Education Concentration. HDFS graduates are also well prepared to pursue graduate degrees in mental health, behavioral and social sciences, education, health and medicine, or other professional programs.

Some examples of career opportunities with a bachelor's degree in HDFS include, but are not limited to: early childhood administrator and teacher, adult recreation programmer, administrator in adult and aging facilities, career development specialist, family services specialist, human development specialist, adult education teacher, human resources coordinator, youth agency administrator, community outreach worker, women’s program administrator, youth intervention and prevention program administrator, youth employment, training, and development specialist, parent educator, children-family educator, child protection worker, family assistance worker, program administrator, public relations specialist, youth services worker, case manager, nonprofit agency administrator, and residential center manager.