A Purpose-Driven, Interdisciplinary Foundation
The Human Development and Family Science program is an interdisciplinary, pre-professional program for Carolina undergraduates committed to improving the lives of individuals, families, and communities. This unique program prepares students through classroom instruction and experiential opportunities, for careers in the “helping professions” and in organizations that serve children, youth, and adults. It also provides a strong foundation for pursuing graduate study in human services, counseling, allied health, education, and more.
Understanding Human Development Across Contexts
The development of young children, adolescents, and their families is best understood through a broad, interdisciplinary perspective — one that honors psychological, sociological, economic, medical, educational, and cultural experiences. Our students complete courses in education (including human development and family science, policy, innovation, and leadership), sociology, psychology, allied health, social work, and related disciplines to gain deep, foundational knowledge of children and families and of the diverse contexts and relationships that shape human growth and development across the lifespan.
Real-World Experience That Leads to Impact
Through a required internship, our students gain valuable professional skills and real-world experience in workplaces that often align with their professional goals and ambitions. Some students also gain experience in research labs at the UNC School of Education and across the UNC-Chapel Hill campus.
Equipped for Graduate Study and Service-Oriented Careers
Upon graduation, students leave Chapel Hill equipped with evidence-based approaches and the ability to advocate for individual and community well-being, embrace a range of voices and experiences, promote lifelong health, and take a strengths-based approach to serve children, families, and communities.