Northern Illinois University
Family and Consumer Sciences
College of Health and Human Sciences

Human Development and Family Sciences encompasses many fields that provide services to families and individuals. Professionals with this degree work in nonprofit organizations, private practices, government agencies, education and business.

Those with bachelor’s degrees in Human Development and Family Sciences discover career opportunities in child development, child life, foster care and adoptions, family social services, mental health, juvenile justice, child welfare, social policy, advocacy and programs for the aging. This degree is also excellent preparation for graduate programs in several areas such as social work, marriage and family therapy, mental health counseling and substance abuse counseling.

Mission

The mission of Human Development and Family Sciences (HDFS) is to prepare students for a career that promotes the well-being and healthy development of families, individuals and relationships. HDFS programs provide students with a theoretical foundation and practical application on the relations between human development, family dynamics and the broader social context across the life span through teaching, research and community services.