GROW. SUPPORT. THRIVE TOGETHER.

The Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) program is a social science degree for students pursuing a career working with families and individuals to improve their well-being.

The HDFS program provides students with the knowledge, skills and real-world experiences needed to help improve the lives of children, adolescents and adults. You will learn how interpersonal dynamics and relationships shape human development and the human experience.

During your journey in the HDFS program, you will learn about topics such as parent-child relationships, dating and marital relations, human sexuality, lifespan human development, family conflict and violence, adolescent development, aging, family preventions and interventions, and managing family resources. Additionally, you will work with your advisor to select a minor in accordance with your specific interests and professional goals.

Careers

The Human Development and Family Science degree will prepare you for meaningful careers across industry, government, non- profit, and academia, such as:

  • Child life specialist
  • Couple and family therapist
  • Extension agent
  • Family lawyer
  • Family life educator
  • Guidance counselor
  • Human resources specialist
  • Non-profit manager
  • Social services manager
  • Youth services director

Accelerate Your Career Into Graduate School

For highly motivated students, the opportunity exists to integrate up to 12 credit hours of undergraduate and graduate coursework through the Accelerated Master’s Pathways or AMP program. Students will save time and money by receiving dual credit for select courses taken during their senior year of undergraduate studies. Those interested in pursuing this path to a graduate degree should consult with their academic advisor.

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FIND YOUR PATHWAY

Our priority is student success. Comprised of students, faculty, and staff, the HDFS community strives to help students reach their full potential. We work closely with you to help you find the pathway that best fits your career and life goals. Our faculty and staff play an active role in mentoring students. Whether through teaching in the classroom, serving as career and professional development mentors, or guiding research projects or internships, we connect with students one on one.

Human Development and Family Science student speaking with a class
Students

GET INVOLVED

Opportunities abound for students in the HDFS program. Whether you are interested in undergraduate research in our Adolescent Development Lab, gaining hands-on experience through an internship, or exploring the science of families and cultures through study abroad, the HDFS program is sure to have an opportunity to meet your interests.

Experiential Learning

Hands-on learning is at the heart of what we do in HDFS. Our program provides students with opportunities to practice what they learn in the classroom in real-world settings. Motivated students can also earn a certificate in Child Life.

HDF 251 Personal and Family Finance

Students learn about personal and family financial resources throughout the lifespan, including planning, credit, savings, investment, insurance, taxes, major expenses and retirement.

HDF 254 Life Course Human Development

Students are introduced to the basic principles of human development from conception to death, including common life transitions and social changes.

HDF 360 Introduction to Family Intervention

Students learn about the various skills, strategies, and professional ethical standards used by family scientists in helping familial relationships.

HDF 499 Internship in Family Sciences

Students complete a semester-long internship in a professional setting with an approved employer in their chosen field.

Living Learning Program

The Living Learning Program (LLP) supports student success by placing students with similar interests into smaller communities in particular residence halls.

Academic Enrichment

Our college believes in learning by doing. Our students are required to complete at least one type of experiential or hands-on learning opportunity, such as undergraduate research, an internship or an education abroad experience.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous alumni, donors and community partners, we have one of the largest scholarship programs at UK. Only one application is required for our college’s scholarships, but there are hundreds of potential awards.

Student Services

We’re here to help you grow personally, academically and professionally.

Ready to turn your passion into a career?

Explore endless opportunities at the University of Kentucky and take the first step toward your future.

Academic Advisor II
Hollie Hinkle

Director of Undergraduate Studies
Patricia Dyk, PhD

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