Human Development and Family Science Programs

Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) studies how people grow, develop, and interact within families and communities across the lifespan. At Ohio University, students examine the relationships, environments, and life transitions that shape well-being from childhood through older adulthood. 

Offered through the Department of Social and Public Health, the program prepares graduates to support children, adults, older adults, and families in healthcare, community programs, and human service settings.

Who Are These Programs For?

Students who choose a Human Development and Family Science undergraduate or graduate program often enjoy understanding how people grow, connect, and navigate life's challenges. The undergraduate and graduate program may be a strong fit for students who:

• Are interested in supporting children, families, or older adults
• Want to make a meaningful difference in people's lives and communities
• Are curious about how relationships, environments, and life experiences shape well-being
• Enjoy working with people and solving real-world problems
• Are interested in careers in healthcare, community programs, or human services

Unlike programs that focus primarily on individual behavior, HDFS explores how families, communities, and social environments influence development throughout life.

What Makes HDFS Unique?

The Human Development and Family Science programs take a broad, developmental view of human experience. Students learn to:

• Support children and families facing medical or social challenges
• Advocate for adolescents navigating instability or foster care
• Help midlife adults balance work, parenting, and/or caregiving
• Partner with older adults to strengthen independence, connection, and quality of life

Unlike social work, HDFS provides a flexible developmental foundation without being tied to a specific licensure pathway, allowing students to pursue divers careers.

Unlike psychology, which often centers on individual behavior and mental health, HDFS emphasizes family systems and community context.