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Human Development and Family Studies

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What is Human Development and Family Studies?

This major prepares you to address real-world problems in communities across the globe. Through innovative research and outreach programs, you can improve the lives of children, adolescents, adults, and families. You’ll also help faculty in research projects, practicums, and internships.

You can choose between two concentrations:

  • Child and Adolescent Development
  • Family Studies

Child and Adolescent Development explores the development of children and adolescents. This includes emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development. You'll learn how biology and society influence the health and well-being of children and youth.

Family Studies teaches you how families and romantic partnerships function, develop, and change in response to the challenges of modern life. You'll learn the latest research and theories on dating, marriage, divorce, diverse families, and resilience.

Career Options

  • Child, Family, & Community Services
  • Child Life Specialist
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Counseling
  • Education
  • Human Resources
  • Law
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Research
  • Pediatrics
  • Physical Therapy
  • Public Health
  • Social Work

Post-Graduation Success1

88% employed or continuing education

48% employed after graduation

40% attending graduate school

$36,396 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: Center for Behavior Intervention, Signature Consultants, Westside Children's Therapy View All

Sample grad school destinations: Boston University, University of Illinois at Chicago, Washington University in St. Louis View All

Program Resources

College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences Program Webpage Degree Requirements Transfer Guide

Graduation & Retention2

3.9 years to degree

92% freshman retention rate

80% four-year graduation rate

89% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $12,254
  • Fees: $4,608
  • Expenses3: $15,952
  • Total: $32,814

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $29,704
  • Fees: $4,608
  • Expenses3: $16,292
  • Total: $50,604

International

  • Tuition: $30,594
  • Fees: $4,608
  • Expenses3: $16,292
  • Total: $51,494

Related Majors

1 Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three academic years, including the 2014-2015, 2015-2016, 2016-2017, and 2017-2018 graduating classes. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website.

2 Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

3 Expenses are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. Learn more about costs.

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