Online Bachelor of Science in Family & Human Development
Studying human development and family studies prepares you to provide key human services for the people who need them most. In Arizona State University's Bachelor of Science in family and human development program you will develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills that will help you promote healthy human development and family relationships.
Quick facts
Next start date: 05/16/2023
Total classes: 41
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Degree questions, answered.
Have questions about the Family & Human Development (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!
What is human development and family studies?
Human development and family studies focus on the physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of individuals and families across the life span. The field concentrates on understanding human development and the societal issues facing individuals within the context of families. Professionals in this area work to address these issues and implement solutions that improve child development and family relationships.
The curriculum for our family and human development bachelor’s degree explores the historical, theoretical and academic frameworks used to explain human development and family behavior. It also examines family relationships, marriage, cultural diversity and more, completely online. Our courses emphasize the well-being of children, youth and adults, both individually and in families.
What will I learn in a family and human development degree?
ASU Online's family and human development bachelor’s degree combines traditional, broad-based liberal arts education with a focus on both the theory and practice of human development and family studies. This means you can develop knowledge and abilities that are applicable in your personal life as well as a wide variety of positions and career paths.
Can I become a marriage and family counselor with this degree?
Students in the family and human development program develop valuable abilities applicable to many types of careers in therapy. However, to pursue a career in marriage and family therapy you will need additional education, certification and licensure.
Certified Child Life Specialist designation
Although the Certified Child Life Specialist designation cannot be earned at Arizona State University, students can take a series of classes, outlined by their academic advisor to help them complete the required coursework portion of the CCLS certification. Final determination on the eligibility of coursework is up to the Child Life Organization. This degree program does not offer the 600-hour internship requirement to be eligible to sit for the CCLS exam. Visit childlife.org to learn more about the eligibility requirements for certification.
Does my human development and family studies degree say 'online'?
Family and human development courses
As a student of human development and family studies, you can explore courses with concepts ranging from personal growth in human relationships to infant and toddler development. Coursework in the program will help you gain knowledge in human development and family dynamics while acquiring related skills in writing, diversity awareness, interpersonal communication and statistics. A wide range of electives means you can customize your educational journey to align with your personal and professional goals. Featured courses include:
FAS 201: Careers in Family and Human Development
FAS 331: Modern Family Relationships (SB)
FAS 370: Family Ethnic and Cultural Diversity (SB & C)
CDE 232: Human Development (SB)
FAS 101: Personal Growth and Relationships (SB)
CDE 430: Infant and Toddler Development in the Family (SB)
CDE 450: Childhood Disorders and Family Functioning (L)
What can I do with a family and human development degree?
As a graduate of this program, you can seek out a variety of positions related to human services. You will be well-equipped for careers focused on serving the needs of children and families in education, government agencies, nonprofit organizations or business.
You can also pursue a master’s or doctoral degree. A master’s degree in human development and family studies could lead to senior positions in human services. An advanced degree in marriage and family therapy or psychology could lead to careers as a therapist or counselor while a master’s degree in education could qualify you for teaching positions. Possible career paths for Bachelor of Science in Family and Human Development include, but aren’t limited to:
Advocate
Family and Consumer Sciences Professor (FACS Professor)
Government Programs Specialist
Guidance Counselor
Human Resources Specialist (HR Specialist)
Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
Mental Health Counselor
Preschool Teacher
Social Services Director
Faculty who encourage excellence in 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 Faculty Mentor.
- Outstanding Lecturer.
- Professor of the Year.
- William T. Grant Foundation Scholars.
Faculty who encourage excellence in 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 Faculty Mentor.
- Outstanding Lecturer.
- Professor of the Year.
- William T. Grant Foundation Scholars.
Family and Human development bachelor’s admission requirements
first-year student
You are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain admission to ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.
Supporting the next generation of family and human development professionals
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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