Human Development and Family Science University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Overview

The Human Development and Family Science programme at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln provides a comprehensive academic foundation in family science research and professional application. Students gain the intervention skills necessary to prevent interpersonal problems and strengthen family relationships across the lifespan.

This degree is designed for individuals who wish to work directly with children, youth, and families in various community settings. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates can effectively support diverse populations. Students explore how individual development is fostered within the family system from conception to death.

The programme also serves as a robust preparation for those intending to pursue graduate education.

Why Human Development and Family Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln offers a distinctive learning environment within the College of Education and Human Sciences. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates ecological systems theory to understand complex social environments. The institution emphasises professional and ethical behaviour, preparing students for high-level interactions in public and private agencies.

Facilities include supervised early childhood laboratory settings where students can observe and participate in the care of preschool children. The programme also offers global learning opportunities, such as study abroad experiences that examine family health and wellbeing in international contexts. These features provide a global perspective on human development.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 30330 per year
• National fee: USD 30330 per year
• Local fee: USD 11100 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Life Skills For Success
• Human Development and the Family
• Child Development, Birth to 3
• Child Development, 3 to 8
• Child Guidance and Classroom Environments
• Social Emotional Development and Guidance
• Family Finance
• Development of the Preschool Child
• Infancy
• Family Science
• Dating and Couple Relationships
• Assessing Young Children and their Environments to Enhance Development
• Development of Curriculum for Children ages Birth to 3
• Development of Curriculum for Children ages 4 to 8
• Understanding and Adapting for Developmental Differences
• Early Childhood Education
• Practicum Experiences with Young Children
• Children's Creative Expression in Early Childhood Education
• Inclusive Early Childhood Education Literacy Methods
• Families in the Economy
• Curriculum Planning in Early Childhood Education
• Working with Families in Communities and Schools
• Working with Parents
• Literacy Methods for Young Children
• Math, Science & Nature Integrated Methods Birth - Kindergarten
• Mathematical Content Knowledge for Teachers of Young Children
• Student Teaching Seminar in Family and Consumer Sciences
• Teaching Clothing in Middle & Secondary Schools
• Administration and Supervision in Early Childhood Settings
• Diversity in the Lives of Young Children and Families
• Health, Safety, and Nutrition
• Technology and Young Children
• Global Case Studies in Refugee Health & Wellbeing
• Family and Violence in the Global Context
• Educational Programming
• Addictions and Families
• Family Stress and Crisis, Coping and Recovery
• Human Sexuality and Society
• Child Illness and the Family
• Global Family Health and Wellbeing
• Child and Family Policy

Careers with Human Development and Family Science

Graduates from this programme pursue diverse roles within the human services sector. Common career paths include working as family support specialists, foster care specialists, and family consultants. Many graduates find employment within state departments of health and human services or non-profit organisations.

Specific roles held by recent alumni include juvenile detention officers, family permanency specialists, and caseworkers. The degree also prepares individuals for service-oriented positions in AmeriCorps. These roles focus on supporting children and families through crisis intervention, advocacy, and community-based programming.