Minor in Human Development and Family Studies

Relevant to a diverse array of careers, a multidisciplinary minor in Human Development and Family Studies highlights the key aspects of individual and family development and change over time.

In fact, a wide range of health professionals — including speech pathologists, occupational therapists, nurses, or physicians — educators, and business professionals may all refine their practices based on understanding normal patterns of individual and family development. In addition, an HDFS minor complements many related social sciences majors. For example, it can help psychology students appreciate the ecological contexts of development and sociology students better understand interpersonal processes.

Requirements

You are required to take 18 credits of HDFS courses — and achieve a grade of C or better in each — in order to complete an HDFS minor. Beginning with the introductory course HDFS 129, you may then select 9 credits of HDFS courses from any level, and 6 credits of HDFS courses from the 400 level. More information about coursework for this minor can be found on the courses page.

Getting Started

Students with 5th semester standing may apply for the HDFS minor, which can be completed at any campus location that offers courses specified in the minor (for details, see the Undergraduate Degree Programs Bulletin). At University Park, interested students may contact adviser Devon Thomas to explore how the HDFS minor works.