The HDFS major is a multidisciplinary program that examines the development of individuals and families across the life span. It enables students to prepare for professional, managerial, or scientific roles in health and human service professions, in public and nonprofit agencies, and in business and industry, as well as for advanced professional or graduate study.
Students obtain a broad background in individual and family development across the life span.
Through course work and undergraduate internships, students develop skills relevant to career objectives, such as counseling, human assessment, program planning and evaluation, and research. This program combines the theoretical underpinnings of human development across the life span with applied study in a community setting. Students develop written and oral communication skills throughout the program, acquire contemporary computer skills, and participate in active learning, team-building, and group exercises. The program allows students throughout the Commonwealth to become familiar with unique human services needs and organizations in Pennsylvania communities, a design that sets the program apart from other human services degrees offered throughout the Commonwealth. The program prepares students for positions with community human services agencies serving children, adolescents, families, and the aged.