Human Development and Family Sciences

Our Human Development and Family Sciences (HDFS) programs prepare you to serve families and individuals in various careers ranging from teaching in early childhood development programs, coordinating social services for children and families and working in a variety of human service systems such as mental health, juvenile justice, child welfare and programs assisting the poor.

At the undergraduate level, you can choose between emphases in family relations, prevention and wellness, family social services and child development. In your coursework, you'll learn about human development and family systems and the influences they have on each other during all life stages. Graduates from HDFS may also receive the Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) credential, early childhood-related credentials through Illinois Gateways and the Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) through the Association of Child Life Professionals.

At the graduate level, we offer a M.S. in Applied Human Development and Family Sciences which includes two specialization options: Marriage and Family Therapy and Leadership in Aging Studies.

FACS programs in human development and family sciences also offer accelerated dual degree programs with the NIU College of Law at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

NIU Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Program

Want to advance your career teaching infants and young children? Complete the interest form and you'll be the first to receive additional information about NIU's Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Program. Learn how you might qualify for free tuition and fees as you complete your bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences – Child Development emphasis.

Contact Magaly Mleczko at mrojas2@niu.edu with questions or for more information.

Contact Us

Family and Consumer Sciences
118 Wirtz Hall
DeKalb, IL 60115
815-753-1543
facs@niu.edu

Kristine Radtke
Program Coordinator
kradtke@niu.edu

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