The baccalaureate degree program in Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) prepares graduates, both personally and professionally, to provide support services to families and educate individuals for the responsibilities of family living.
A major objective of the program is to strengthen students understanding of human and family development across the lifespan.
In addition, the HDFS curriculum prepares graduates for professional careers related to working with children, youth, adults and families in social and human service settings.
There are several special features of the HDFS program that strengthen educational and professional opportunities for undergraduate students. The curriculum was developed using the standards set by the National Council on Family Relations to enable graduates to apply to become Certified Family Life Educators (CFLE). The CFLE designation provides documentation of the quality of the academic and professional preparation HDFS graduates receive. Kent State University is one of only three CFLE-approved programs in Ohio. In order to receive this approval, the HDFS curriculum met academic standards in ten family life subject areas:
- Families in society
- Internal dynamics of families
- Human growth and development
- Human sexuality
- Interpersonal relationships
- Family resources management
- Parent education and guidance
- Family law and public policy
- Ethics
- Family life education methodology
The HDFS faculty maintains a strong relationship with professionals in community agencies, providing excellent practical experiences for students and opportunities for employment.
Option I: Youth Development
Prepares graduates to work with 10- to 18-year olds in school, community and residential programs. Graduates will be able to design and deliver developmentally appropriate programs preparing adolescents for productive adulthood by emphasizing skill and competency development.
Option II: Family Life Education
Prepares graduates to develop and implement family life programs in a variety of education and human service settings. Graduates of this option will be eligible to apply to be Certified Family Life Educators (CFLE), a new credential granted by the National Council on Family Relations.
Option III: Case Management for Individuals and Families
Provides training in individual and family needs assessment and the utilization of available public and private resources. Graduates of this option will be eligible for securing positions in a variety of human and social service settings.
