Program Curriculum

The program is flexible so that students can build a plan consistent with their own interests. The program functions as a small cohort of students. Cohort groups learn and study together as they complete courses.

Specialties:

  • Gerontology
  • Work/family issues
  • Family policy
  • Family resource management
  • Child and adolescent development
  • Family stress and abuse
  • Program planning

Courses

Six courses are required, two courses are offered each summer for three consecutive summers. Classes meet for two weeks, one course in the morning and one in the afternoon. It is possible to complete the degree in two years and one month. Course sequence is as follows:

Summer 1     

  • HD-FL-715 Theories of Family Process (afternoons)
  • HDFL-728 Family Life Issues (mornings)

Summer 2     

  • HDFL-746 Theory Based Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
  • HDFL-704 Child and Family Services

Summer 3     

  • HDFL-742 Lifespan Family and Human Services Seminar
  • HDFL-740 Issues in Family Life Education


Work on the 6-credit thesis or 2-credit topics paper can begin any time after completion of the research methods course. Elective credits can be completed during summer school sessions or during the semesters. It will be possible to complete this degree in two years and 1 month, the time from the beginning of the first summer cohort experience to the third and final summer cohort experience.