The M.S. and Ph.D. specializations in family life education prepare students to develop and implement educational programs designed to strengthen family life. Course work and practica are tailored to the backgrounds and professional goals of each student, with emphasis on human development and family studies, and on program development and evaluation. The school participates in the universitys interdisciplinary graduate emphasis program in gerontology at both the M.S. and Ph.D. levels. This program prepares graduates to establish careers in academic work, research, program development, or professional services related to aged individuals and their families. The life span human development M.S. and Ph.D. specializations are concerned with the growth and development of the individual, the varying contexts of human development, and the processes underlying development throughout the life cycle.
Emphasis is placed on understanding the continuous and systematic changes in individual behavior.
The marriage and family therapy M.S. and Ph.D. specializations prepare professionals to conduct and evaluate therapy with marital and family groups. Students pursue programs of study that include course work in human development, family studies, marital and family therapy, statistics, and research methods. Both the M.S. and Ph.D. specializations in marriage and family therapy are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education.