Department of

Counseling, Human Development, and Family Science

Welcome to the Department of Counseling, Human Development, and Family Science (CHDFS) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Our department promotes optimal development and holistic well-being across the lifespan through research and practice that honor the complexities of individuals, families, and communities. With guidance and support from our dedicated faculty and staff, our graduates pursue careers in family and human services, education, professional counseling, and counselor education.

Undergraduate Students

Graduate Students

Our Core Values

We value systemic and equity-oriented approaches that embrace the richness of human experiences. We pursue interdisciplinary rigor and excellence as we center relationships, integrity, humility, and co-creation in pursuit of our mission.

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Undergraduate Students

Our programs prepare professionals to work alongside individuals, families, and communities to face the different challenges of today’s complex society. We offer an undergraduate major in human development and family science (HDFS) that leads to the certified family life educator credential alongside minors in HDFS , Counseling and Human Services, and Interpersonal Skills. Through applied and engaged experiences, graduates are well-equipped to bring these skills into diverse work settings or continue to graduate study.

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Graduate Students

Our programs prepare professionals to work alongside individuals, families, and communities in pursuit of optimal development and well-being. Our CACREP-accredited master’s degree in counseling includes specialized practice areas in clinical mental health and school counseling. Our CACREP-accredited doctoral degree in counselor education prepares professional counselors for advanced roles in supervision, teaching, research, and leadership. Finally, our master’s and doctoral degrees in human development and family science prepare culturally responsive scientists who make significant contributions to society as scholars, educators, and professionals.

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I am constantly amazed by the care and compassion that faculty and instructors demonstrate towards the students in our programs. They truly go above and beyond to ensure that students are receiving a quality education and that they are prepared to go out into the world and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children, families, and communities!