The Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, Life Span Human Services option, is a 120-credit program. A grade of C or better is required in any HDFS course taken to satisfy the degree requirements. To earn this degree, you must successfully complete:

• 27 credits prescribed courses
  • 18 credits prescribed courses for the major
  • 9 credits prescribed courses for the Life Span Human Services option
• 36 credits additional courses
  • 13 credits for the major including Development, General Education GQ and US/IL cultures courses
  • 9 credits in 300 to 400 level HDFS courses
  • 14 credits in approved field practice
• 12 credits supporting courses as related to the major
• 45 credits general education (including 3 credits in electives)

Consultation with your World Campus academic adviser to help you navigate your completion of this degree is strongly recommended. 

The curriculum can help you learn how people and families change over time — biologically, psychologically, economically, and socially. You will study how family relationships, peers, social institutions (e.g., schools, work environments), income, religion, cultural background, and government policies all affect an individual's development and how interventions in these settings can facilitate growth and reduce problems in development. You will also investigate moral, ethical, and legal issues you will face as a professional, and learn to evaluate alternative approaches to promoting optimal development.

The program also provides a great stepping-stone into graduate-level studies.