Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. (University College)

Program Code: HFSUC_BS

Entrance to Major

In order to be eligible for entrance to this major, a student must:

  1. attain at least a C (2.00) cumulative grade-point average for all courses taken at the University; and
  2. have third-semester classification.

READ SENATE POLICY 37-30: ENTRANCE TO AND CHANGES IN MAJOR PROGRAMS OF STUDY

Degree Requirements

For the Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies, a minimum of 120 credits is required:

Requirement Credits
General Education 45
Electives 3-5
Requirements for the Major 73-76

3-4 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes 3-4 credits of General Education GQ courses.

Per Senate Policy 83.80.5, the college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of coursework in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. HDFS requires students to complete 24 credits for the major through courses taken at University Park. Courses taken at other Penn State campuses may not be counted toward this 24 credit minimum. For more information, check the Recommended Academic Plan for this major.

General Education

Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.

The keystone symbol Keystone/General Education Course appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.

Foundations (grade of C or better is required.)

  • Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
  • Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits

Knowledge Domains

  • Arts (GA): 6 credits
  • Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
  • Humanities (GH): 6 credits
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 6 credits
  • Natural Sciences (GN): 9 credits

Integrative Studies (may also complete a Knowledge Domain requirement)

  • Inter-Domain or Approved Linked Courses: 6 credits

University Degree Requirements

First Year Engagement

All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.

Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.

First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.

Cultures Requirement    

6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements

  • United States Cultures: 3 credits
  • International Cultures: 3 credits

Writing Across the Curriculum

3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.

Total Minimum Credits

A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.

Quality of Work

Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.

Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition

The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.

Requirements for the Major

To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn a grade of C or better in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.

Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
HDFS 129Introduction to Human Development and Family Studies Keystone/General Education Course3
HDFS 301Values and Ethics in Health and Human Development Professions3
HDFS 311Human Development and Family Studies Interventions3
HDFS 312WEmpirical Inquiry in Human Development3
HDFS 315Family Development 13
HDFS 418Family Relationships3
Additional Courses
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
STAT 200Elementary Statistics Keystone/General Education Course3-4
or EDPSY 101 Analysis and Interpretation of Statistical Data in Education Keystone/General Education Course
Select 6 credits of the following:6
HDFS 229
Infant and Child Development Keystone/General Education Course
HDFS 239
Adolescent Development Keystone/General Education Course
HDFS 249N
Adult Development and Aging Keystone/General Education Course
Select 3 credits of United States Cultures 23
Requirements for the Option
Select an option43-45

Requirements for the Option

Life Span Human Services Option (43-45 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Altoona, Brandywine, DuBois, Fayette, Harrisburg, Mont Alto, Scranton, Shenango, University Park, World Campus, York

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
HDFS 411The Helping Relationship3
HDFS 414Resolving Human Development and Family Problems3
HDFS 455Development and Administration of Human Services Programs3
Additional Courses
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
Select 3 credits of the following:3
HDFS 428
Infant Development
HDFS 429
Advanced Child Development
HDFS 433
Developmental Transition to Adulthood
HDFS 445
Development Throughout Adulthood
Select 6 credits from 300- or 400-level HDFS courses6
Select 13-15 credits in one of the following:13-15
Approved field practice in a human service setting:
HDFS 490
Introduction to Internship Experience
HDFS 495A
Internship: Advanced Experience
HDFS 495B
Internship: Advanced Project
Approved group project or field practice in human service setting:
HDFS 401
Project Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation in the Human Services
HDFS 402
Human Services Seminar
HDFS 495C
Professional Practicum in Human Services
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Select 12 credits (minimum of 6 credits at the 400 level) in consultation with adviser from University-wide offerings that develop competency in the option (a grade of C or better is required in any HDFS course taken to satisfy this requirement)12
Life Span Developmental Science Option (45 credits)

Available at the following campuses: Altoona, Brandywine, DuBois, Fayette, Mont Alto, Scranton, Shenango, University Park, York

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
HDFS 494Research Project6
or HDFS 494H Senior Honors Thesis
Additional Courses
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
Select 6 credits of the following:6
HDFS 428
Infant Development
HDFS 429
Advanced Child Development
HDFS 433
Developmental Transition to Adulthood
HDFS 445
Development Throughout Adulthood
Select 15 credits (minimum of 9 credits at the 400-level) from HDFS courses15
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Select 18 credits (minimum of 9 credits at the 400 level) in consultation with adviser from University-wide offerings that develop competency in option (a grade of C or better is required in any HDFS course taken to satisfy this requirement)18

Program Learning Objectives

Brandywine, DuBois, and Mont Alto Campuses

  1. HDFS students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the complexity of individual and family development across the life span in diverse contexts and changing environments.
    1. Summarize, critique, and apply theories and concepts related to individual and family development from a multi-disciplinary, life-cycle perspective;
    2. Articulate how biology, psychology, and history influence diversity in individual and family structures and functions in a social/cultural context.
  2. HDFS students will be able to demonstrate the ability to evaluate and apply theory and research to practice and policy.
    1. Demonstrate an understanding of the contribution of original research in human development;
    2. Integrate and apply the findings of empirical research within a theoretical framework to human development;
    3. Explain the strengths and weaknesses of various research methods in assessing human behavior;
    4. Apply research skills in order to better understand in the use of research in agency practice;
    5. Explain the process of planning and conducting research, including the role of the IRB;
    6. Demonstrate skills to analyze and interpret data;
    7. Apply theories to identify and resolve problems.
  3. HDFS students will demonstrate the ability to analyze processes, policies, and contextual factors that affect the delivery of human services to individuals and families.
    1. Demonstrate knowledge of history and policies for ethical conduct in the delivery of human services;
    2. Examine environmental factors shaping individual and family interventions (such as political, social, economic, cultural, and technological);
    3. Demonstrate an understanding of community-based programs and services;
    4. Understand and articulate individual and family needs and roles of human service organizations in fulfilling those needs;
    5. Demonstrate knowledge of HIPAA regulations;
    6. Develop a working knowledge of and ability to evaluate community-based programs and services
  4. HDFS students will demonstrate professional ethical and culturally sensitive standards of conduct.
    1. Articulate understanding of theories, skills, and competencies of an effective helper;
    2. Demonstrate knowledge of the main ethical, legal, clinical, professional  and personal issues and challenges involved in the helping professions;
    3. Demonstrate knowledge of informed consent for working with diverse groups of clients;
    4. Understand and apply ethical decision making models;
    5. Understanding how personal values and experiences influence one’s ability to make professional decisions;
    6. Recognize stereotypical and prejudicial language and attitudes and their impact on the helping relationship.
  5. HDFS students will demonstrate knowledge and competence in helping, leadership, and administrative human service skills.
    1. Demonstrate knowledge of management in human services and how to apply appropriate practices;
    2. Demonstrate professional written, oral and technology assisted communication skills;
    3. Demonstrate clinical, interactional, and practical skills used in human service professions;
    4. Identify the different organizational needs of public, private-for-profits, and private-not-for-profit agencies.

Scranton Campus

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the complexity of individual and family development across the life span in diverse contexts and changing environments.
  2. Demonstrate an ability to evaluate and apply research and theory to practice and policy.
  3. Analyze processes, policies, and contextual factors that affect the delivery of human services to individuals and families.
  4. Demonstrate professional, ethical, and culturally sensitive standards of conduct.
  5. Demonstrate knowledge and competence in helping, leadership, and administrative skills for human services.

Shenango Campus

  1. Graduates can apply theories and principles of human services to clinical and /or practice and research. Students will:
    1. Explain and cite appropriate theories that can be applied to a given scenario.
    2. Compare and contrast, and can explain the pros and cons of major theories in human services.
    3. Construct appropriate treatment plans and/or make appropriate referrals.
    4. Develop a coherent research question and construct an appropriate research design and methodology to investigate the question.
    5.  Interpret and critique research findings.
    6. Apply research/research findings to inform practice.
  2. Graduates will demonstrate professional and ethical accountability in dealing with clients and coworkers. Students will:
    1. Interact respectfully with people of diverse populations at all times.
    2. Define diversity and the benefits of diversity as it relates to the human services fields.
    3. Conduct themselves successfully in interview settings whether as the interviewer or interviewee.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge of laws concerning confidentiality, professional boundaries, and sexual harassment within the human services field, especially laws related to HIPAA, licensure regulations, and FERPA.
    5. Demonstrate a strong work ethic in their courses and in the field.
  3. Communicate, verbally and in writing, in a professional manner at all times.
    1. Take responsibility for and accept the consequences for their actions.
    2. Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively in teams or groups.
    3. Graduates can identify, access and utilize resources to better serve individuals, families, and communities at the micro and macro level. Students will:
    4. Locate potential opportunities and develop high quality proposals to obtain funding from external sources.
    5. Identify, locate, and access regional, national, and global resources for information, referrals, and assistance in performing their professional duties.
    6. Locate policies, rules, regulations, and laws that impact their professional duties.
    7. Explain the differences among profit, non-profit, and faith-based agencies and evaluate the relative credibility of those agencies.
  4. Graduates can use technologies necessary to perform professional duties efficiently and effectively.
    1. Students will demonstrate a level of proficiency in e-mail, web searches, presentation software, databases, publication software, library databases, statistical software, and word processing.
    2. Students will recognize and effectively use appropriate software programs to more efficiently complete projects and assignments.
  5. Graduates will demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills.
    1. Students will demonstrate active listening skills and can construct effective questions to further explore issues and concerns.
    2. Students will be proficient in APA style writing.
    3. Students will be able to use proper grammar, sentence structure, accurate spelling, formal language, correct punctuation, coherent paragraphs, … to write well organized and effective documents and professional communications.
    4. Students will make effective presentations.
    5. Students will construct effective arguments from multiple perspectives.
  6. Graduates will demonstrate personal and professional growth that leads to the ability to build and enhance skill sets.
    1. Students will participate in professional development activities.
    2. Students will demonstrate effective time management by completing all assignments and coursework by the assigned deadlines and attending class regularly.
    3. Students will learn to recognize and deal with their personal issues and persist in their education and professional growth.
    4. Students will identify their scope of practice based on their clinical limitations.

Academic Advising

The objectives of the university’s academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.

Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee’s unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.

READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY

Brandywine

Jennifer Zosh
Associate Professor Human Development and Family Studies
25 Yearsley Mill Road
Media, PA 19063
610-892-1438
jmz15@psu.edu

DuBois

Jessica Clontz
Lecturer
1 College Place
DuBois, PA 15801
814-375-4833
jlb5810@psu.edu

Fayette

Elaine Barry
Associate Professor
2201 University Drive
Lemont Furnace, PA 15456
724-430-4284
esb12@psu.edu

Mont Alto

Robin Yaure
Associate HDFS Professor and Program Coordinator of HDFS & Psychology
112 Weistling Hall
Mont Alto, PA 17237
717-749-6210
r2y@psu.edu

Scranton

Janet Melnick
Associate Teaching Professor
111B Dawson Building
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2674
jam81@psu.edu

Shenango

Roxanne Atterholt
Instructor
147 Shenango Avenue
102 McDowell Hall
Sharon, PA 16146
724-983-2953
rxa32@psu.edu

York

JeanMarie St.Clair-Christma, Ph.D.
Assistant Teaching Professor in HDFS / Field Coordinator
15 Romano Adminstration Building
York, PA 17403
717-771-4161
jxs176@psu.edu

Altoona

Lauren P. Jacobson
Assistant Teaching Professor, Human Development and Family Studies
Hawthorn Building 123
3000 Ivyside Park
Altoona, PA 16601
814-949-5333
lpj100@psu.edu

Harrisburg

Barbara E. Carl, Ph.D.
Program Coordinator
Olmsted Building W314
Middletown, PA 17057
717-948-6386
bec109@psu.edu

University Park

Sarah Krupp
Academic Adviser
119 Health and Human Development Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-864-1744
seg143@psu.edu

World Campus

Undergraduate Academic Advising
301 Outreach Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-3283
advising@outreach.psu.edu

Suggested Academic Plan

The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2020-21 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition (Note: the archive only contain suggested academic plans beginning with the 2018-19 edition of the Undergraduate Bulletin).

Brandywine Campus

Life Span Human Services Option: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at Brandywine Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 129*3HDFS 229, 239, or 249N* 3
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15‡ 3HDFS 315Y* 3
General Education Course3CAS 100, 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ 3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 15 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 229, 239, or 249N* 3HDFS 311*3
HDFS 301* 3HDFS 312W*3
EDPSY 101 or STAT 200*†13-4ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D‡ 3
General Education Course3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
Supporting Course3General Education Course3
 Supporting Course3
 15-16 16.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 411*3HDFS 414* 3
HDFS Course 300/400-level*3HDFS 418* 3
General Education Course3HDFS 428, 429, 433, or 445* 3
General Edcuation Course3HDFS Course 300/400-level* 3
Supporting Course 400-level3General Education Course3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 455* 3HDFS 495A* 9
HDFS 490* 2HDFS 495B* 3
HDFS Course 300/400-level* 3 
General Education Course3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
Supporting Course 400-level3 
 15.5 12
Total Credits 119-120

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Life Span Developmental Science Option: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at Brandywine Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 129*3HDFS 229, 239, or 249N*3
ENGL 15‡ 3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 15 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 229, 239, or 249N*3HDFS 311*3
HDFS 315Y*3HDFS 312W*3
CAS 100, 100A, 100B, or 100C‡ 3ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D‡ 3
EDPSY 101 or STAT 200*†3-4US Cultures3
General Education Course3General Education (GHW)1.5
 Supporting Course3
 15-16 16.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 301*3HDFS 418*3
HDFS 428, 429, 433, or 445*3HDFS 428, 429, 433, or 445*3
HDFS Selections*3HDFS Selections*3
General Education Course3Supporting Course 400-level3
General Education Course3Supporting Course3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 16.5 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 494 or 494H*3HDFS 494 or 494H*3
HDFS Course 400-level*3HDFS Course 400-level*3
HDFS Course 400-level*3Supporting Course 400-level3
HDFS Course 300/400-level *3Supporting Course3
Supporting Course 400-level3 
 15 12
Total Credits 120-121

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Advising Notes

Major requires departmental approval. In consultation with an adviser and Program Coordinator, students must submit an application for the Life Span Developmental Science option during their 5th or 6th semester.

DuBois Campus

Lifespan Human Services (LSHS) Option with a Focus on Children, Youth & Families: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at DuBois Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 1293CAS 1003
HDFS 2393General Education Course- Natural Science3
ENGL 153General Education Course - Quantitative (EDPSY 101)3
General Education Course- Social Science3HDFS 2293
General Education Course- Humanities or Arts3Supporting Course3
First Year Seminar0-1 
 15-16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 3113HDFS 3013
HDFS 315Y3HDFS 312W (Writing across the curriculum)3
Supporting Course3General Education Course- GN (BIOL 155 if offered)3
ENGL 202A3General Education Course- Social Science3
General Education Course- Health 3HDFS (300-400 level)3
General Education Course- GQ3-4 
 18-19 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 4113HDFS 4143
HDFS 4183HDFS 433 or 445 (or Supporting Course)3
HDFS 429 (or 400 Level Supporting Course)3Course with US cultures designation3
General Education Course- Humanities or Arts3Supporting Course (400 Level)3
Supporting Course (400 level)3General Education Course- Humanities or Arts3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 4013HDFS 4024
HDFS 4553HDFS 495C6-8
General Education Course- Natural Science3 
General Education Course- Humanities or Arts3 
Electives3-6 
 15-18 10-12
Total Credits 118-125

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Fayette Campus

Life Span Human Services Option: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at Fayette Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 129 or 239 (GS)*3STAT 200†*4
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3HDFS 129 or 229 (GS)*3
PSU 81CAS 100‡3
General Education Course 3General Education Course3
General Education Course 3General Education Course3
Quantification (GQ)‡3 
 16 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 129 or 239 (GS)*3HDFS 311*3
HDFS 301*3HDFS 312W3
HDFS 315Y*3Supporting 400-Level Course- Other Selections*3
General Education Course3United States Cultures- Additional Requirement for HDFS*3
General Education Course3Supporting Course-Consult with an Adviser*3
 15 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 411*3HDFS 418*3
Supporting 400-Level Course- Other Selections*3HDFS 414*3
General Education Course3HDFS 429, 433, or 445*13
ENGL 202A‡3Supporting Course in Other Selections- Consult with an Adviser*3
HDFS 300/400-Level Other Selection*3General Education Course3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 16.5 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 490*2HDFS 495A*9
HDFS 455*3HDFS 495B*3
HDFS 429, 433, or 445*3 
General Education Course3 
Elective3 
General Education Course (GHW)1.5 
 15.5 12
Total Credits 121

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Advising Note:

Students should work with their adviser to address any deficiencies in MATH or World Languages in their first year.

Mont Alto Campus

Lifespan Human Services Option: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at Mont Alto Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 129*3HDFS 229*2, HDFS 239*3, or HDFS 249N*5 (GS)3
ENGL 15 or 30H*‡ 3CAS 100*3
MATH 4 (or General Education Course)3General Education Course (GQ)‡3
General Education Course3Supporting Course13
General Education Course3General Education Course3
PSU 81 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 229*2, HDFS 239*3, or HDFS 249N*5 (GS)3HDFS 315 (Y)* 33
HDFS 301*23ENGL 202A3
HDFS 311*23US Cultures (for HDFS major)3
STAT 200*‡†4Supporting Course13
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 16 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 300/400-level Course*3HDFS 411*3
HDFS 300/400-level Course*3HDFS 414*3
HDFS 312W*3HDFS 429*3, HDFS 433*2, or HDFS 445*4 (Advanced Development course)3
General Education Course3400-level Supporting Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 401*3HDFS 402* 34
HDFS 418* 23HDFS 495C*6-8
HDFS 455* 23Elective5-6
400-level supporting Course3 
General Education Course3 
 15 15-18
Total Credits 122-125

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Scranton Campus

Life Span Developmental Science Option: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at Scranton Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PSU 81CAS 100A† 3
ENGL 15 or 30H3EDPSY 101 or STAT 200*†3-4
HDFS 129* 3HDFS 229 or 239*3
Quantification (GQ)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3 
 16 15-16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 229 or 249N*3HDFS 311* 3
HDFS 301* 3300/400-Level HDFS Course (Option Req. #3)*3
HDFS 312W*3Supporting Course (Option Req. #6)*3
HDFS 315* 3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 15 16.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 428, 429, 433, or 445*3HDFS 418*3
Supporting Course 400-Level (Option Req. #5)*3HDFS 428, 429, 433, or 445*3
Supporting Course (option Req. #6)*3ENGL 202A†3
HDFS US Cultures Requirement*3Supporting Course 400-Level (Option Req. #5)*3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
Health and Wellness (GHW)1.5 
 16.5 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 494 or 494H*3HDFS 494 or 494H*3
Supporting HDFS Course (Option Req. #3)*3Supporting Course 400-Level (Option Req. #5)*3
Supporting HDFS Course (Option Req. #3)*3Supporting HDFS Course (Option Req. #4)*3
Supporting HDFS Course (Option Req. #4)*3Supporting Course (Option Req. #6)*3
Supporting Course (Option Req. #6)*3Elective3
 15 15
Total Credits 124-125

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Program Notes

  • Students are encouraged to take HDFS 312W in semester 3, if possible.
  • In consultation with an adviser, students will find a faculty member during their 5th or 6th semester to serve as the supervisor for HDFS 494, research project. This is a two-semester senior-year project culminating in semester 8 research paper.

Advising Notes

  • Math 21 is considered the standard 1st semester GQ. Students are encouraged to check with their adviser on the appropriate math sequencing if not placed in MATH 21 first semester.
  • It is recommended that General Education Arts (GA) and Humanities (GH) be taken in junior and senior year if student plans to study abroad.
  • HDFS US cultures requirement suggested in semester 5 is in addition to the University Requirement.
  • HDFS 315 satisfies the University Requirement for US cultures.
  • IL may be combined with GA, GH, or GS.
  • Credit adjustments should be made if free elective credits are needed for a total of 120 credits minimum (which includes semester 8).

LIFE SPAN Human Services OPTION: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at Scranton Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PSU 81CAS 100A† 3
ENGL 15 or 30H3EDPSY 101 or STAT 200*†3-4
HDFS 129* 3HDFS 229 or 239*3
Quantification (GQ)3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3 
 16 15-16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 229 or 249N*3HDFS 311* 3
HDFS 301* 3300/400-Level HDFS Course (Option Req. #3)*3
HDFS 312W*3Supporting Course (Option Req. #6)*3
HDFS 315* 3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 15 16.5
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 411*3HDFS 414*3
300/400-Level HDFS Course (Option Req. #3)*3HDFS 418*3
Supporting Course (option Req. #6)*3HDFS 429 or 445 (or Supporting 400-Level Course (Option Req. #5))*3
HDFS US Cultures Requirement*3HDFS 455*3
General Education Course3ENGL 202A† 3
Health and Wellness (GHW)1.5 
 16.5 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 401*3HDFS 402*4
HDFS 433 or 428 (or Supporting 400-Level Course (option #5))*3HDFS 495C*8
Supporting 400-Level Course (Option Req. #5)*3 
General Education Course3 
Elective3 
 15 12
Total Credits 121-122

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Program Notes

  • Students are encouraged to take HDFS 312W in semester 3, if possible.
  • HDFS 401 must be the semester before HDFS 495C and HDFS 402.
  • International cultures (IL) may be combined with GA, GH, or GS.
  • HDFS US cultures requirement is in addition to the University Requirement.
  • HDFS 315 satisfies the University Requirement for US cultures.

Advising Notes

  • MATH 21 is considered the standard 1st semester GQ. Students are encouraged to check with their adviser on the appropriate math sequencing if not placed in MATH 21 first semester.
  • Students should consult with their advisers concerning appropriate supporting courses.
  • This is a recommended plan and is not meant to substitute for students meeting with their academic advisers. Any deviations from this plan should be discussed with students' academic advisers.

Shenango Campus

Lifespan and Human Services Option: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at Shenango Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15‡3Art Elective (GA)3
HDFS 129*3CAS 100A‡3
PSU 81Quantification Elective (GQ)‡3
Humanities Elective (GH) (IL)3HDFS 239 or 249N*3
Natural Science Elective (GN)3US Cultures Course (US)*3
Social and Behavioral Science Elective (GS)3 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
Health and Physical Activity Elective (GHA)3Supporting Course- Consult with an Adviser*3
HDFS 229*3HDFS 301*3
HDFS 311*3Natural Science Elective (GN)3
HDFS 315Y*3Social and Behavioral Science Elective (GS)3
STAT 200*†‡4Art Elective (GA)3
 HDFS 312W*3
 16 18
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
Supporting Course - 400 Level*3ENGL 202A or 202D‡3
Natural Science Elective (GN)3Supporting Course - 300/400 Level HDFS*3
Supporting Course - 300/400 Level HDFS*3HDFS 411*3
Elective3HDFS 455*3
Supporting Course - Consult with an Adviser*3HDFS 433 or 445*3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 401*3HDFS 402*4
HDFS 414*3HDFS 495C*6-8
HDFS 418*3 
Supporting Course - 400 Level3 
Humanities Elective (GH) (US)3 
 15 10-12
Total Credits 120-122

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Program Notes

Students must complete a 3-credit course in "United States Cultures (US)" and a 3-credit course in "International Cultures (IL)."

Lifespan and Human Services Option with Certification Family Life Education (CFLE): Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at Shenango Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15‡3Art Elective (GA)3
HDFS 129*3CAS 100A‡3
PSU 81Quantification Elective (GQ)‡3
Humanities Elective (GH) (IL)3HDFS 239 or 249N*3
Natural Science Elective (GN)3US Cultures Course (US)*3
PSYCH 1003 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
Health and Physical Activity Elective (GHA)3HDFS 249N*3
HDFS 229*3HDFS 301*3
HDFS 311*3Natural Science Elective (GN)3
HDFS 315Y*3Social and Behavioral Science Elective (GS)3
STAT 200*†‡4Art Elective (GA)3
 HDFS 312W*3
 16 18
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 431*3ENGL 202A or 202D‡3
Natural Science Elective (GN)3HDFS 412*3
HDFS 440*3HDFS 411*3
HDFS 429*10-3HDFS 455*3
CAS 2033HDFS 433*10-3
PSYCH 422*3 
 18 12
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 401*3HDFS 402*4
HDFS 414*3HDFS 495C*6-8
HDFS 418*3 
HDFS 424*3 
Humanities Elective (GH) (US)3 
 15 10-12
Total Credits 120-122

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Program Notes

Students must complete a 3-credit course in "United States Cultures (US)" and a 3-credit course in "International Cultures (IL)."

York Campus

Life Span Human Services Option: Human Development and Family Studies, B.S. at York Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15 or 30H‡ 3HDFS 239 or 229*3
HDFS 129*3CAS 100‡ 3
General Education course6General Education course6
General Education course (GHW)1.5General Education course (GHW)1.5
 13.5 13.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 301*3ENGL 202A‡ 3
HDFS 229 or 249N*3HDFS 311*3
US3HDFS 312W*3
STAT 200 or EDPSY 101*3-4General Education course3
General Education course (GHW)1.5HDFS (300 or 400 level)3
 13.5-14.5 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 315Y*3HDFS 411*3
HDFS Development (400 level)3400 level course*3
HDFS (300 or 400 level)3400 level course*3
Supporting course3Supporting course3
General Education course6General Education course6
 18 18
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
HDFS 401*3HDFS 402*4
HDFS 4143HDFS 495C*3-8
HDFS 418*3 
HDFS 455*3 
400 level course*3 
Elective3 
 18 7-12
Total Credits 116.5-122.5

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy University Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

GWS, GQ, GHW, GN, GA, GH, and GS are abbreviations used to identify General Education program courses. General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ) and Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS, and Integrative Studies). Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of ‘C’ or better.

Integrative Studies courses are required for the General Education program. N is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate an Inter-Domain course and Z is the suffix at the end of a course number used to designate a Linked course.

Career Paths

The demand for HDFS graduates is strong because the HDFS major provides students with a valuable foundation for understanding important social trends: The population of older people is growing, and the number of trained persons who can provide help and assistance to them falls far short of the need; Social problems such as child abuse and drug and alcohol problems affect many individuals and families; Young adults face many social and economic pressures that can lead to problems in work and relationships.

Careers

Many HDFS graduates go directly to the workplace based on their understanding of people, their knowledge of group dynamics, and their skills in training and in program development and evaluation. Many positions are in human services and health care settings while others are in business and industry: Assisted living, adult day services and nursing homes Day-care centers and preschools Drug and alcohol treatment centers and hospitals Child and domestic abuse centers and runaway shelters Human resources or marketing departments of large companies Development/fundraising for educational or nonprofit organizations.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS FOR GRADUATES OF THE HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND FAMILY STUDIES PROGRAM

Opportunities for Graduate Studies

The HDFS major is also excellent preparation for graduate school in the social, behavioral, and health sciences. In recent years, our majors have pursued graduate studies in: Counseling (e.g., school counseling, counseling psychology) Social work Health professions (e.g., nursing, occupational therapy, medicine) Psychology and Human Development & Family Studies Elementary and Secondary Education Law and Business.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES FOR GRADUATE STUDIES

Contact

Brandywine

25 Yearsley Mill Road
Media, PA 19063
610-892-1438
jmz15@psu.edu

http://brandywine.psu.edu/human-development-and-family-studies

DuBois

1 College Place
DuBois, PA 15801
814-375-4833
jlb5810@psu.edu

http://dubois.psu.edu/human-development-and-family-studies-0

Fayette

2201 University Drive
Lemont Furnace, PA 15456
724-430-4284
esb12@psu.edu

http://fayette.psu.edu/human-development-and-family-studies-bs

Mont Alto

112 Wiestling Hall
Mont Alto, PA 17237
717-749-6210
r2y@psu.edu

https://montalto.psu.edu/academics/bachelors/human-development-family-studies-degree

Scranton

111B Dawson Building
Dunmore, PA 18512
570-963-2674
jam81@psu.edu

http://worthingtonscranton.psu.edu/human-development-family-studies

Shenango

147 Shenango Avenue
102 McDowell Hall
Sharon, PA 16146
724-983-2953
rxa32@psu.edu

http://shenango.psu.edu/hdfs

York

15 Romano Administration Building
York, PA 17403
717-771-4161
jxs176@psu.edu

http://york.psu.edu/academics/baccalaureate/human-development-and-family-studies

Altoona

DIVISION OF EDUCATION, HUMAN DEVELOPMENT, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
Hawthorn Building 123
3000 Ivyside Park
Altoona, PA 16601
914-949-5333
lpj100@psu.edu

http://altoona.psu.edu/academics/bachelors-degrees/human-development-family-studies/request-information

Harrisburg

SCHOOL OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES AND EDUCATION
Olmsted Building, W314
717-948-6059
dlk33@psu.edu

https://harrisburg.psu.edu/behavioral-sciences-and-education/human-development-and-family-studies/bachelor-science-human-development-and-family-studies

University Park

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND FAMILY STUDIES
119 Health and Human Development Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-8000
HDFSinfo@psu.edu

https://hhd.psu.edu/hdfs

World Campus

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND FAMILY STUDIES
119 Health and Human Development Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-8000
sac301@psu.edu

https://www.worldcampus.psu.edu/degrees-and-certificates/human-development-and-family-studies-bachelors/overview