Human Development and Family Science is the advanced scientific study of familial, societal and cultural factors that shape human development and family relationships throughout the lifespan, from infancy to end of life. The program provides advanced theoretical knowledge and extensive experience with diverse research methodologies under the guidance of widely published faculty researchers.

The Human Development and Family Science Department offers a Ph.D. for students interested in investigating critical issues such as factors influencing academic success in childhood and adolescence, intimate partner violence in teen dating relationships, coping with changes that occur in the later stages of life and social and cultural factors that influence developmental outcomes across the course of life.