2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2018-2019 Undergraduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]


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Human Development and Family Studies (B.S.)



Program Coordinator/Contact

Carla Anderson, Academic Advisor
Department of Counseling and Human Development
Wagner Hall 421
605-688-6145

Program Information

The goal of the B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies is to provide an interdisciplinary approach to study and work with individuals and families. This program draws from theory and research that examines the process of human development across the lifespan and the dynamic interaction of family members. Students pursuing the BS in Human Development and Family Studies gain knowledge and experience in the science of human growth and development, human interaction, and family relationships. Graduates work in careers that promote healthy development and positive family functioning across the lifespan, such as: a Social Services Case Worker, Provider at Residential Treatment Center, Youth Organization Worker, Program Director for Youth, Family or Senior Citizen Center.

Student Learning Outcomes

HDFS majors will share a common base of knowledge, skills, and experiences:

  • Knowledge and understanding of
    • Developmental stages and processes across the lifespan
    • Family dynamic processes
    • The multi-directional influences of social contexts and the development of individuals, couples, and families
    • The interpersonal skills required for an effective helping relationship
  • Skill and ability to
    • Interpret and evaluate current information regarding human and family development
    • Use human development and family theories to understand and explain individual growth and family interaction
    • Plan and evaluate intervention strategies designed to enhance the development of individuals, couples, and families
  • Experiences in
    • The ranges of settings that human development and family studies professionals inhabit
    • Supervised work in a professional setting

Academic Requirements

A pre-graduation check is required by end of junior year. A Graduation Application must be completed at beginning of graduation semester. To effectively meet the wide range of professional interests of HDFS majors, students are required to develop a plan of study under the supervision of an advisor. This plan should include the specification of courses within and outside of the department that are targeted to assist in the professional preparation of the student. Emphases might include a focus on areas such as: children’s services, religious services, family organizations, youth development organizations, gerontology services, families with special needs, etc. A grade of “D” on courses in the major cannot be counted and course must be repeated. Any required course with a department/program prefix is considered a course in the major.

Course Delivery Format

Courses are delivered face-to-face with Internet supplement, online, and through clinical experience. Some courses are also offered at the University Center in Sioux Falls and the Capital University Center in Pierre.

Requirements for Human Development and Family Studies Major: 120 Credits


Bachelor of Science in Education and Human Sciences 

System General Education Requirements


College of Education and Human Sciences Requirements


Electives


Taken as needed to complete any additional degree requirements.

Total Required Credits: 120


Summary of Program Requirements


Bachelor of Science in Education and Human Sciences

System General Education Requirements 30 Credit Hours
College of Education and Human Sciences Requirements 4 Credit Hours
Major Requirements 45 Credit Hours
Supporting Coursework 18 Credit Hours
Electives** 23 Credit Hours

**Taken as needed to complete any additional degree requirements.

Academic Advising Guide Sheet


The goal of the academic advising guide sheets and sample plans of study is to promote undergraduate student success by guiding all students to timely completion of an undergraduate degree. Students are not limited to the course sequence provided for their academic program. Instead, the sample plan of study is one possible path to completing your degree and is meant to be used as a guide for planning purposes in consultation with an academic advisor. The plans also help students prepare for meetings with their academic advisor and track their progress in their selected academic program.