The School of Education’s Human Development and Family Studies program has received certification from the National Council on Family Relations, which provides the program’s graduates access to provisional certification as Certified Family Life Educators.
“We are delighted to receive news of this certification,” said Fouad Abd-El-Khalick, dean of the School of Education. “It serves as a recognition of the quality of our HDFS program and its strength in preparing students for careers in a wide range of fields.”
The certification came after the NCFR reviewed the HDFS program for its content and rigor in ten areas related to family life education, examining its courses, curricula, student assignments and other materials.
Diana B. Lys, assistant dean of educator preparation and accreditation, said: “CFLE certification is a rigorous process. Achieving this certification demonstrates the depth and breadth of our HDFS program.”
Three faculty members who teach in the HDFS program — Program Director Helyne Frederick, Yuliana Rodriguez-Vongsavanh, and Meghan Walter — hold the CFLE credential. They, along with faculty members Dana Riger, Emily Halpin, Katie Leech, and Kara Hume helped to create and revise courses to ensure that the program aligned with the NCFR’s standards.
The certification effort was led by Frederick, who previously led two programs through CFLE certification and recertification and has served on the NCFR’s review committee.
“I am grateful that our leadership and faculty supported this process to help bolster our students’ preparedness for the job market and graduate study,” Frederick said.
With the certification, HDFS students who graduate from the program after completing a set of designated HDFS courses may apply for provisional CFLE certification. Students and alumni of the program who do not complete the designated courses may complete their certification through an exam administered by NCFR as well as a demonstration of competence in the ten content areas.
NCFR approval allows graduates of these programs the opportunity to apply for provisional CFLE certification without taking the CFLE exam.
Approximately 130 degree programs at universities and colleges throughout the United States and Canada have been CFLE-approved by NCFR.
About the HDFS program
Launched in 2016, the Human Development and Family Studies program serves Carolina undergraduates who wish to pursue careers in helping professions or to prepare for graduate study. The program includes a substantial internship component that places students in a wide range of social services, health, and other professional organizations.
Applications to the program are sought in Fall and Spring semesters. The next application deadline is Oct. 13 for students who wish to join the program next spring.