Human Development and Family Science (HDFS)

Examines how individuals and families function and develop over the lifespan. Uses a multidisciplinary approach to integrate theories of family science and human development emphasizing the role of contextual factors in contemporary families' lives. Explores the impact of gender, socioeconomics, race/ethnicity, culture, and immigrant status on human development and family relationships. Introduces a basic model of scientific inquiry and theorizing. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May not be repeated for credit.

Introduces personal and family financial planning and resource management throughout the lifespan. Integrates theories of family finance and resource management using a multidisciplinary approach. Emphasizes role of contextual factors in contemporary families' financial lives. Explores impact of gender, socioeconomic, race, ethnicity, and culture on family finance and resource management. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.

Offers an overview of human services delivery with a focus on families. Explores the historical and social contexts as well as the theoretical orientations of systems that shape delivery of services to families. Examines: 1) economic and cultural barriers that prevent families from gaining access to services; 2) social policy surrounding services for families; 3) ethical and legal issues in family services. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.

Examines the philosophy, purposes, and concepts of Child Life Specialists. Explores developmental and psychological needs of hospitalized children, their families, and those who provide services to children. Examines the impact of illness and illness-related stressors on the dynamics of the family and strategies for coping. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to INTS 323.

Examines the history of therapeutic play programs, theoretical basis for play and how the application of play techniques are used to promote healing, growth, and development for children and adolescents as it relates to multiple professions including child life. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to INTS 313.

Examines family system dynamics and processes, with an emphasis on cultural and contextual factors that influence family functioning and well-being over the lifespan. Examines both healthy and dysfunctional family processes (including abuse, neglect, and family violence). Explores evidence-based practices and interventions that promote family health, resilience, and well-being. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.

Examines contemporary family life and the impact of government laws, policies, and programs on families over time and across contexts and cultures. Explores the intended and unintended consequences of policies for diverse families across a variety of policy matters, from anti-poverty and social welfare policies to health and environmental policies. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.

Provides study on selected topic or emerging issue in Human Development and Family Science. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 12 credits.

Enables students to discuss work-related experiences within the context of developmental and family theories and research. Fosters and promotes professional development through class and small group discussions, activities, lectures, guest speakers, and practical assignments. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.

Supports students in the development and implementation of a program for staff and/or clients at internship site. Examines internship-related experiences within the context of developmental and family theories and empirical research. Contemplates and prepares for the transition to professional. This course is a required internship experience. Note: Students will have 10 hours in the classroom and complete 125 hours in the field. Offered by School of Integrative Studies. Limited to three attempts.