Online Master of Science in Family & Human Development
In this master’s degree in family and human development at ASU Online, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to promote healthy individual and family development. Study the factors that promote successful relationships and positive outcomes for individuals and families across the life span.
Quick facts
Next start date: 05/16/2023
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Family & Human Development (MS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
What will I learn in this family and human development master’s program?
As a student pursuing the masters in human development and family studies program, you will gain an advanced understanding of the various issues facing children, youth and families. You will also learn how to address these needs and promote healthy relationships. Courses will cover a variety of topics ranging from family relationships and parenting to research and social statistics.
Much of the coursework in this human development degree focuses on skills that can be applied in a variety of human services positions. This program gives you the opportunity to develop your own professional talents in a way that relates to your interests and the communities you wish to serve in your career.
Will getting a master’s in family and human development license me to be a therapist or counselor?
While the information you learn in this program could be beneficial to therapists and counselors, this degree does not enable you to seek licensure as a professional counselor or marriage and family therapist. An advanced degree in psychology would be a more direct path to a career in counseling or therapy.
Instead, this program puts you in a position to build practical abilities that support children, families and community groups. The knowledge and skills gained in this degree can still expand your career prospects and prepare you for other senior roles related to family and human development.
Does my master's in human development and family studies say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.
Human development and family studies graduate courses
Family and human development master’s classes focus on building practical abilities and knowledge. All of the courses in this degree are taught by full-time faculty with PhDs in the field and a passion for helping students. The curriculum offers insight into many critical factors related to family and human development, such as child development and diversity. Courses in this program include:
Theoretical Issues in Child Development
Capstone 1
Capstone 2
Research Methods
Social Statistics
Diversity and Society
Leadership and Social Justice
Marriage and Family Relationships
What can I do with a master’s in family and human development?
A master's in human development and family studies can equip you with skills applicable to a broad range of positions in human services. Graduates have pursued careers in everything from human resources and community support to early childhood centers and crisis intervention.
As a terminal postgraduate degree, the coursework in this program may be useful to people in counseling, teaching or social work positions, but it does not provide a direct path to these careers nor is it intended to lead to a PhD program or licensure or certification as a therapist or counselor. After completing a master’s in human development degree, you can find employment in a variety of fields and settings including:
Adoption agencies.
Child protective services.
Crisis intervention organizations.
Early childhood centers.
Education support and administration.
Family support and child care.
Family violence centers.
Government agencies.
Group homes.
Full-time faculty with a passion for family and human development
The School of Social and Family Dynamics is home to prestigious faculty members who excel in research and teaching.
- Centennial Professor.
- Dean’s Excellence in Teaching.
- MacArthur Fellow.
- Most Inspirational Professor.
- National Council on Family Relations Fellow.
- Outstanding Lecturer.
- Professor of the Year.
- William T. Grant Foundation Scholars.
Full-time faculty with a passion for family and human development
The School of Social and Family Dynamics is home to prestigious faculty members who excel in research and teaching.
- Centennial Professor.
- Dean’s Excellence in Teaching.
- MacArthur Fellow.
- Most Inspirational Professor.
- National Council on Family Relations Fellow.
- Outstanding Lecturer.
- Professor of the Year.
- William T. Grant Foundation Scholars.
Family and human development master’s degree online admission requirements
Applicants to the Master of Science in family and human development program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
A leading institution for effective, broad-based and applicable education
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to be socially aware, critical thinkers and global citizens.
25,500+
$140 million
23
95+
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
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