School of Counseling, Human Development and Family Science

Amber Letcher, Interim Director
School of Counseling, Human Development and Family Science
Thompson Center 105
605-688-4321

Faculty

Professors

Andrea Bjornestad, Hande Briddick, Amber Letcher

Associate Professors

Alison Boughn, William Briddick, Christin Carotta, Erin Lavender-Stott, Katelyn Romsa

Assistant Professors

Gene Dockery, Raynimol Thomas, Naomi Timm-Davis, Abigail Van Patten-Freeman, Dakota Witzel

Lecturers

Valerie Albert

Emeritus

Alan Davis, Ruth Harper, Marla Muxen, Cindi Penor-Ceglian, Howard Smith

Overview

The mission of the School of Counseling, Human Development and Family Science is to enhance the success of human service professionals who support the well-being of individuals, families, and communities across the lifespan through integration of transdisciplinary research, teaching, service, and outreach and engagement.

In the School of Counseling, Human Development and Family Science, students are introduced to a broad human services foundation that blends counseling, developmental science, and family systems perspectives, giving them a well-rounded understanding of how people grow, adapt, and thrive in a changing world. Hands-on learning is central to the student experience. Through internships, practicums, service-learning, and community engagement opportunities, students gain practical skills while working directly with individuals and families. These experiences are paired with an emphasis on research-informed practice, teaching students how to use evidence-based strategies to address challenges and promote resilience. At its core, the program is grounded in the belief that individuals, families, and communities are interconnected, and that supporting one level strengthens the others.

Courses emphasize real-world application, helping students connect theory to practice in areas like mental health, family relationships, education, and community support systems. This integrated approach ensures graduates are not only knowledgeable, but also able to work across settings such as schools, clinics, nonprofit organizations, and community agencies.

The School of Counseling, Human Development and Family Science is one of the few public university units in South Dakota that delivers programs at the main campus in Brookings, BHSU - Rapid City, and online. Whether pursuing careers in counseling, family support, student affairs, community-based services, or continuing into advanced graduate study, students are equipped to support others in meaningful, ethical, and effective ways.

Programs

Majors

• Human Development and Family Science (B.S.)  
• Human Development and Family Services (A.S.)  

Minors

• Gerontology Minor  
• Human Development and Family Science Minor  
• Rehabilitation Services Minor  

Graduate Programs*

• Academic Advising Certificate
• Athletic Academic Advising Certificate
• Counseling and Human Resource Development (M.Ed.) - Administration of Student Affairs Specialization
• Counseling and Human Resource Development (M.S.) - Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialization
• Counseling and Human Resource Development (M.S.) - College Counseling Specialization
• Counseling and Human Resource Development (M.S.) - Marriage and Family Counseling Specialization
• Counseling and Human Resource Development (M.S.) - Rehabilitation Counseling Specialization
• Counseling and Human Resource Development (M.S.) - School Counseling Specialization
• Human Sciences (M.S.) - Human Development and Family Science Specialization

* Graduate degrees are offered in collaboration with the Graduate School. For details, see the Graduate Catalog.

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

The school encourages student participation in organizations and honor societies.

• Chi Sigma Alpha (CSA) is an international student affairs academic and professional honor society of graduate students, alumni, faculty members, and student affairs professionals committed to excellence in academics, research, and service to the profession.
• Chi Sigma Iota (CSI) is an international honor society for counseling students, professionals, and educators, specifically for those in CACREP-accredited counseling programs.
• Human Development and Family Studies Club provides opportunities for professional development and service for students interested in the human services fields.
• American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) and Family, Career, and Community Leaders of American (FCCLA) Alumni student organization provides opportunities for professional development and service and is open to all majors.

The school also provides information and assistance as students seek out scholarship, internship, and career opportunities.