Human development and family studies focus on the physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of individuals and families across the life span. In this program, you’ll explore the historical, theoretical and academic frameworks used to explain:
- Cultural diversity.
- Family behavior.
- Family relationships.
- Human development.
- Marriage.
You’ll also examine societal issues individuals face within the context of family. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to address these issues and implement solutions that improve child development and family relationships in both the private and public sectors.
Get on the fast track to becoming a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE)
This program is designated as a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE)-approved program by the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR). This designation allows graduates who complete the required coursework to fast track their applications to become certified family life educators (CFLE) without taking the CFLE exam. If you’re interested in this credential, meet with an academic advisor to confirm if you’re a candidate for the fast-track program and to ensure you choose the correct courses.
The skills you’ll develop in this program
Courses in this program provide you with a deep understanding of human behavior, family relationships and human development. As you progress through these courses, you’ll also gain transferable skills, including:
- Interpersonal skills.
- Research methods.
- Statistical analysis.
- Written communication.
This program emphasizes practical application, allowing you to immediately implement your learning in your personal and professional life.
Human development and family studies prepares you to provide key human services for the people who need them most. Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in family and human development program equips you with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to promote healthy human development and family relationships.
Courses in this program explore concepts ranging from personal growth in human relationships to infant and toddler development. Coursework will help you gain knowledge in human development and family dynamics while acquiring related skills in writing, diversity awareness, interpersonal communication and statistics. With a wide range of electives to choose from, you can customize your educational journey to align with your personal and professional goals.
As a part of The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Social and Family Dynamics is home to prestigious faculty members who excel in research and teaching. Highlights include:
- Centennial Professor
- Dean’s Excellence in Teaching
- MacArthur Fellow
- Most Inspirational Professor
- Outstanding Lecturer
- Outstanding Faculty Mentor
- Outstanding Teaching Professor Award in Social Sciences
- Professor of the Year
- Urie Bronfenbrenner APA Lifetime Achievement Award
- William T. Grant Foundation Scholars
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
students enrolled as of fall 2024
in research expenditures in FY23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
undergraduate degrees
graduate degrees
for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation
Although the Certified Child Life Specialist designation cannot be earned at Arizona State University, students can take a series of classes, outlined by their academic advisor to help them complete the required coursework portion of the CCLS certification. Final determination on the eligibility of coursework is up to the Child Life Organization. This degree program doesn't offer the 600-hour internship requirement to be eligible to sit for the CCLS exam. Visit childlife.org to learn more about the eligibility requirements for certification.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”