Major in Human Development and Family Science
Our BS in Health and Human Sciences with a major in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) is focused on understanding human development and family systems in context and enhancing the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, and their communities. Inside and outside of the classroom, HDFS students learn knowledge and skills that can be applied to working with individuals and families. The major is designed to be interdisciplinary in nature in order to accommodate the special interests and strengths of students, while also allowing for flexibility and individualization.
About the Major
By completing the HDFS major, graduates will:
- Critically evaluate and apply concepts related to human development
- Critically evaluate and apply concepts related to contemporary family processes and transitions in the context of marriage, relationships, and parenting.
- Interact professionally and work effectively with individuals and families in diverse community contexts
Why consider a major in HDFS?
Students in HDFS have opportunities for careers working with individuals and families across the lifespan with a range of possibilities. This major is unique in that it provides opportunities to explore multiple interests with an array of populations making students adaptable and marketable.
Students who graduate with a degree in HDFS often pursue careers in fields such as early intervention, non-profit programs, adoption/foster care, wellness in rehab, among many others. Our students work with individuals from birth through aging individuals in home and center-based settings. Many HDFS graduates further their education in disciplines such as child life, counseling, pediatrics, and family law.
Become a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE)
Our major is a CFLE-approved program, and our students are eligible to apply for the CFLE credential following graduation. The CFLE credential increases individuals’ credibility in the field of family life and provides focused expertise in a range of content areas such as human sexuality and family resource management.
Core Faculty Members
Robin Anderson
Lecturer
Juli Dolezal
Clinical Assistant Professor
Megan Haselschwerdt
Associate Professor
Sally B. Hunter
Clinical Associate Professor
Elizabeth I. Johnson
Professor
C. Tanner Kilpatrick
Clinical Associate Professor
Elsa Nownes
Clinical Assistant Professor
Spencer Olmstead
Professor, Associate Head, and HDFS Graduate Program Director
Amy Rauer
Professor
Daniela Salinas
Professor
Heidi Stolz
Professor and Undergraduate Programs Director
Alex Tucker
Lecturer
Julia Yan
Assistant Professor
HDFS gave me a strong foundation in understanding human development and family dynamics, which has been invaluable in my career as a school counselor. The supportive faculty and hands-on learning opportunities were the most impactful parts of my experience.
Hunter Terrill-Fox, M.Ed.
Class of 2018
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the Child and Family Studies (CFS) major Community Outreach track?
We are growing in exciting new ways. Prior to Fall 2024, this major was known as Child and Family Studies Community Outreach Track. You will still see under that name for academic catalogs published before Fall 2024.
All the courses I need for the Child and Family Studies (CFS) major Community Outreach track disappeared. What happened?
Effective Fall 2024, these courses have a new prefix, HDFS (i.e., Human Development and Family Science). The numbers for the courses are the same. HDFS and CFS prefixes are interchangeable, and DARS will recognize both.
Can I substitute a course in the major?
Yes! Substitutions are possible to accommodate a students’ need to follow a specific catalog year. To discuss a substitution and complete the necessary forms, contact CEHHS Office of Advising and Student Services.
What are my capstone options for my senior year?
Nearly all students complete the HDFS practicum in which you work with a local partner agency (HDFS 480N) for a semester. In very special circumstances, students with strong research foundations and interests may partner with an HDFS faculty member to complete an HDFS research practicum (HDFS 490).
I am interested in being a Child Life Specialist. Will this degree help me meet the requirements?
Many of the HDFS courses will help you prepare for a career in Child Life; however, our program does not meet all requirements for the Child Life certification. Please consult the Child Life Certification website for a complete list of requirements: https://www.childlife.org/Certification/
What is unique about the HDFS major at UTK?
The supportive faculty members in HDFS are a uniquely positive aspect of the program!
Contact Us
Administrative Program Specialist – TBD
HDFS Practicum, Dr. Juli Dolezal
HDFS Advising & Student Success Coordinator, Dr. Sally Hunter
CHDFS Undergraduate Coordinator, Dr. Heidi Stolz
CEHHS Advising https://cehhsadvising.utk.edu/