Making a difference through research and practice
The University of Delaware’s Department of Human Development and Family Sciences is an academic unit that prepares undergraduate and graduate students for a career in early childhood education, family studies or human services.
We value diversity, inclusion and the promotion of positive human development within the rapidly changing global environment in which we live. By providing a rigorous curriculum and practical field experience, our students develop the skills to become leaders in their fields. Our students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members to conduct research and provide service throughout the region, country and world.
We are here to help you help others
Our programs prepare students to make a difference by working in areas such as family and community services, non-profits, family law, disability services, counseling and early childhood education.
By combining intensive coursework with multiple field placements, our students graduate with the skills necessary to succeed in inclusive classrooms.
Graduates join the fields of human services, psychology, public policy, and social work helping to support individuals and families in their communities.
This program teaches students how to facilitate workplace training and navigate legal aspects of workplace administration.
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The Human Services major gave me the opportunity to grow personally and professionally beyond the classroom. During my junior year, I completed an independent study with Dr. Karpyn to research anxiety in school classrooms, and completing a 400-hour internship as an undergraduate allowed me to gain confidence and valuable skills no course could teach. I will be starting a Master’s in Social Work program next year, and I believe that my internships and academic courses prepared me to succeed in and beyond graduate school.