Overview of Undergraduate Degree Programs
Human Development and Family Studies undergraduates have one of the highest placement rates after graduation in the College of Social Science (second year in a row)! Read more!
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Human Development and Family Studies offers two degree programs: Child Development (BA) and Human Development and Family Studies (BS or BA). Students choose the option of a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in consultation with their Academic Advisor.
The new Child Development Degree program (BA) allows students to choose a concentration in:
- Elementary Education Teacher Certification (Application required to the MSU College of Education Teacher Preparation Program) or
- Preschool Teaching in an Early Childhood Setting
This degree program has been approved by Michigan State University and the State of Michigan Department of Education for students beginning Fall Semester 2010. Graduates are recognized as having expertise working with young children.
The Child Development Degree Program is recognized by the State of Michigan as meeting the standards for Early Childhood Education. Students will gain practical experience working with children culminating with a semester of student teaching in the MSU Child Development Laboratories (CDL's) which are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
The Child Development Degree Program prepares graduates to:
- teach in the pre-Kindergarten years
- direct and/or own a child care center
- direct or teach in Head Start centers
- teach in Kindergarten through eighth grades in public and private schools
- Earn an Elementary Education Teacher Certification, a teachable major AND an Early Childhood Education Endorsement (ZS)
Returning Elementary Education or Special Education Teachers
Certified Teachers may also take courses to earn their Early Childhood Education Endorsement or ZS in this program. Please go to the Early Childhood General and Special Education Endorsement section of this website for a list of courses and scheduling options.
Human Development and Family Studies Degree Program
Human Development and Family Studies prepares graduates to work in human service agencies serving children, youth and adults responding to the needs of an increasingly diverse society. The degree program encourages service in the areas of social need with a positive, holistic and family focus. Graduates of this program have the option of becoming certified as a Family Life Educator (CFLE).
The HDFS Degree Program prepares graduates to serve as:
- counselors for at-risk youth
- governmental policy makers for children, teens and adults
- providers of support services for youth with mental or physical disabilities
- provide services for children, youth and families of military personnel
- directors of recreational programs
- youth group leaders
- parent trainers and advisors
- human services agency directors
- child life specialists working with children, youth and families in children’s hospitals or pediatric wards
HDFS believes that all families and individuals can benefit from enrichment programs and education, not just families in crisis. If HDFS fits your career goals, come in and speak with an advisor. Please visit the 'advising' section of this website to schedule an appointment, or see our walk-in hours.