The Department of Human Development and Family Sciences (HDFS) offers two graduate degrees: Master of Arts (M.A.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). Students completing an HDFS graduate degree are predominantly pursuing a research-based degree, thus a research-focused M.A. (described by the Graduate School as the Plan A option) is the expectation.
The M.A. degree prepares students to pursue a Ph.D. or work in non-profit organizations, foundations, state, local, or federal government, hospitals, and private corporations. The M.A. degree offer students the opportunity to focus on one of the following areas: Adulthood, Aging, and Gerontology; Child and Adolescent Development; Couples, Parents, and Family; Culture and Diversity; or Health, Wellbeing, and Prevention.
Location
Modality
Requirements
Total minimum of 34 credits of graduate coursework, including nine credits of GRAD 5950 Master's Thesis Research. Students are also required to complete courses as listed below.
Course List
| Course |
Title |
Credits |
| HDFS 5001 | Orientation to Human Development and Family Sciences | 1 |
| HDFS 5215 | Models and Concepts of Lifespan Human Development | 3 |
| HDFS 5310 | Patterns and Dynamics of Family Interaction | 3 |
| or HDFS 5311 | Theories of Family Development |
| HDFS 5312 | An Intersectional Approach to Individual and Family Diversity in the U.S. | 3 |
| HDFS 5340 | Prevention, Intervention, and Public Policy | 3 |
| 3 |
| Infant and Toddler Development (Select one human development course from the following:) | |
| Early and Middle Childhood Development | |
| Adolescent Development | |
| Aging: Personality and Social Interaction | |
| Adaptation and Development in Adulthood | |
In addition, all M.A. students must complete the following methodology courses: HDFS 5003 Research Methods in Human Development and Family Sciences I, HDFS 5005 Qualitative Research Methods in Human Development and Family Sciences, HDFS 5008 Quantitative Analysis for Human Development and Family Sciences, and additional HDFS courses in their areas of specialization. Courses for areas of specialization can be fulfilled with HDFS courses or any related discipline area approved by the advisory committee. All students complete the degree through The Graduate School’s Plan A option and must pass a final oral examination.
