Human Development and Family Studies is a multidisciplinary program that examines the development of individuals and families across the life span. Students learn about individual, family, community, and social factors influencing development, as well as evidence-based practices that promote the cognitive, social, physical, and emotional well-being of children, adults, families, organizations, and communities.
There are two options for the program that are offered at Penn State Harrisburg:
- Human Development and Family Science (HDFS)
- Developmental Science for Health Professions (DSHP)
Both options focus on the acquisition and application of scientific knowledge about development and family functioning across the life span for the purposes of enhancing personal and family development and health and wellness. Through course work and undergraduate internships or research projects, students develop skills relevant to career objectives, such as counseling, health care, education, support services, and program planning.
Prepare for careers serving youth, adults, and older adults
- Child, youth, & family services
- Early childhood development (e.g., childcare, applied behavioral analysis, early intervention)
- Public health, health care administration, health professions
- Drug and alcohol counseling
- Case management
- Foster care and adoption
- Services for older adults
- Services for individuals with disabilities
- Non-profit leadership
- Program administration & advocacy
HDFS Internship Experiences
This degree option also requires an approved internship in a setting that serves children, youth, adults, or the aged. Listen to several of our students and recent graduates describe their internship experiences in the video below.