Master of Science (M.S.) Major in Human Development and Family Sciences (Thesis Option)

FCS 5301. Graduate Assistant Development.

This course provides structured preparation for graduate teaching and instructional assistants in higher education instructional roles. The course introduces participants to institutional expectations, instructional responsibilities, and evidence-informed teaching strategies that support undergraduate learning. Students examine campus resources, professional standards, and common instructional scenarios relevant to graduate assistant roles. Emphasis is placed on professional conduct, effective communication, and instructional awareness. Through module-based learning and reflective assignments, students examine the relationship between disciplinary knowledge and instructional practice in university course settings.

FCS 5311. Statistics and Data Analysis for Family and Consumer Sciences.

This course provides an in-depth examination of statistical techniques commonly used in family and consumer sciences research and practice. Topics include variables and measurement, descriptive statistics, data visualization, inferential statistical methods, t-tests, analysis of variance, chi-square tests, correlation, simple linear regression, and multiple regression. The course includes the use of statistical software for data management and analysis. Emphasis is placed on interpretation and application of statistical findings to inform decision-making in applied settings. A scholarly paper integrating literature review, data analysis, and interpretation is included as a component of the course.

HDFS 5159. Internship in Child Life.

This course is a structured clinical experience for students preparing for careers in child life. The course emphasizes professional conduct and ethical practices, applied skill development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and integration of academic concepts into real world practice. Students complete assigned internship hours at a clinical site under the supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist, engage in reflective documentation, and meet all college, school, and program requirements associated with internship participation. This course is required for students in the child life concentration.

HDFS 5199B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment in Human Development and Family Sciences. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students complete their thesis research project, including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and writing of the final thesis. Through this experience, students demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. Students remain enrolled in this course or another alternative Thesis B course across semesters as needed until the thesis is completed and approved by the thesis committee.

HDFS 5299B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment in Human Development and Family Sciences. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students complete their thesis research project, including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and writing of the final thesis. Through this experience, students demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. Students remain enrolled in this course or another alternative Thesis B course (e.g., HDFS 5199B) across semesters as needed until the thesis is completed and approved by the thesis committee.

HDFS 5302C. Administration and Evaluation of Family and Child Service Programs.

This course focuses on the management and effectiveness of diverse family and child service programs. This course will include the following topics: management strategies, leadership skills, cultural responsiveness, program evaluation strategies and methods, fiscal management, and ethics.

HDFS 5302D. Advanced Theory in Family Sciences.

This course focuses on critically evaluating theoretical concepts and current research in family sciences. Recent trends in family theories, family structures, and transitions are emphasized.

HDFS 5305. Foundations of Play.

This course examines theoretical foundations, historical perspectives, and empirical research on play in relation to child development. Students analyze major theories of play and evaluate how play is conceptualized across developmental domains. Course content includes scholarly examination of medical play, play therapy and other play-based interventions (e.g., music therapy, art therapy, and animal assisted interventions) as they are described in research and professional literature. Emphasis is placed on understanding how play is studied, applied, and evaluated in diverse professional contexts without prescribing specific practices or interventions. Through critical analysis of research findings and case examples, the course positions play as an object of scholarly inquiry relevant to developmental science and applied human development fields.

HDFS 5341. Advanced Child Development.

This course examines human development from conception through adolescence, focusing on major domains of development including physical, cognitive, emotional, and social processes. Developmental change is analyzed within multiple contexts, including families, peer groups, schools, cultural systems, and socioeconomic environments, with attention to how these contexts relate to variation in developmental processes. Major theoretical frameworks and empirical research in developmental science are used to examine key processes and mechanisms underlying developmental change across childhood and adolescence and to interpret patterns of developmental continuity and change.

HDFS 5342. Advanced Theory in Family Sciences.

This course examines major theoretical frameworks and current research in the field of family sciences. Emphasis is placed on analyzing contemporary trends in family theories, family structures, and family transitions. Students critically evaluate and compare leading theoretical perspectives, which may include family systems theory, ecological theory, symbolic interactionism, family development theory, the family life course perspective, conflict theory, family stress theory, social exchange theory, family resilience theory, attachment theory, and biosocial theory.

HDFS 5343. Child Life Specialist.

This course introduces students to the scope of child life practice and the impact of illness, injury, and hospitalization on children and families. Students study child life professional competencies, including assessment, coping, therapeutic play, psychological preparation and family-centered care. Emphasis is placed on theoretical foundations and evidence-based practices used by child life specialists when interacting with children and families in a variety of settings. Students examine research related to children’s coping and adjustment and learn to apply child life principles and professional practices in developmentally appropriate and evidence informed ways. This course includes content necessary for pursuing application to child life internships and applying for the national Child Life Certification Exam.

HDFS 5344. Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health.

This course provides an interdisciplinary understanding of infant and early childhood mental health, with emphasis on social and emotional development from infancy through early childhood. Students analyze research within the domains of developmental processes, risk factors, and the role of family, caregivers, and the environment as it relates to infant and early childhood well-being. The course explores assessment principles, developmental disorders, and evidence based approaches to prevention and early intervention. Attention is given to the responsibilities of an infant mental health specialists as they observe, document, and interpret developmental and relational patterns of children.

HDFS 5347. Grief and Bereavement in Children, Adolescents, and Parents.

This course examines grief and bereavement across the lifespan through theoretical, historical, and contemporary perspectives. Students study major models of grief, factors that influence bereavement responses, and research on varied experiences among children, adolescents, and adults. The course also investigates approaches used by child life specialists and other professionals in interactions with individuals and families experiencing loss. Evidence-based perspectives and therapeutic activities for grieving children, adolescents, and families are reviewed. Course content addresses ambiguous loss, developmental transitions, palliative care, and professional considerations related to self-awareness and self-care. This course fulfills Child Life Certification Commission requirements for grief and bereavement coursework.

HDFS 5348. Pain and Anxiety Management for Children.

This course examines theoretical, developmental, and clinical foundations relevant to understanding pediatric pain and anxiety within healthcare environments. Students study non pharmacological approaches used by child life professionals and related practitioners to support children and families during medical experiences. Emphasis is placed on assessing pain and anxiety, identifying factors that influence coping, and analyzing evidence based interventions that promote adjustment. The course also explores professional roles, communication practices, and the systematic use of observation to understand the healthcare environment. Through lectures, case examples, and applied activities, students evaluate a range of therapeutic and preparatory techniques while developing skills for communicating effectively with children, caregivers, and interdisciplinary teams.

HDFS 5350. Research Design and Methods in Human Development and Family Sciences.

This course provides an in-depth examination of research design and methods in human development and family sciences. Topics include the nature of scientific research, ethical principles, sampling techniques, levels of measurement, reliability, and validity. Students explore major socio-behavioral research approaches, including survey, qualitative, and experimental methods, as well as basic data analysis. Emphasis is placed on the critical evaluation of research reports, with attention to methodological rigor, internal and external validity, and the interpretation of findings in developmental and family research.

HDFS 5352. Issues in Human Development and Family Sciences.

This course examines current issues in human development and family sciences through conceptual, methodological, and multidisciplinary lenses. Students study how contemporary research frames questions in the field, how theories guide interpretation, and how methodological choices shape conclusions. Attention is given to evaluating empirical findings, comparing disciplinary approaches, and considering how research informs professional practice across a variety of settings. Emphasis is placed on developing the ability to assess evidence, engage with multiple perspectives, and understand how scientific inquiry contributes to knowledge in human development and family sciences.

HDFS 5354. Administration and Evaluation of Family and Child Service Programs.

This course examines the management and effectiveness of family and child service programs. Topics include program planning and design, management and leadership practices, survey and assessment development, program implementation, evaluation methods, fiscal management, and professional standards. Students analyze and assess how programs operate and are adapted across different community contexts and organizational settings. Program areas may include parenting and family support services, youth programs, early childhood programs, trauma-informed and mental health services, and community health and wellness initiatives.

HDFS 5355. Advanced Independent Study.

This course is an advanced study of a topic in Human Development and Family Sciences. Students engage in reading, research, and scholarly inquiry to examine a focused topic selected in consultation with and approved by a supervising graduate faculty member. The course emphasizes independent academic work and research practices relevant to advanced study in the field. Emphasis is placed on research competency, theoretical integration, methodological approaches, and scholarly communication appropriate to graduate-level study. The course may be repeated once for credit when the topic of study varies.

HDFS 5357. Comparative Studies in Child Development.

This course focuses on the study of contemporary issues affecting children in varied contexts. Students explore how values, beliefs, and policy environments influence developmental processes and practices that support children. Emphasis is placed on reviewing and evaluating empirical research, understanding multidisciplinary perspectives, and examining how global and national policies relate to children’s daily experiences. The course addresses evidence-based interpretation of research while considering diverse viewpoints and professional responsibilities in human development and family sciences.

HDFS 5358. Practicum in Human Development and Family Sciences I.

This course provides a structured, supervised practicum experience in human development and family sciences settings. Students engage in applied professional activities under the guidance of a graduate faculty instructor and an on-site professional supervisor. The course emphasizes the application of disciplinary theoretical perspectives, professional standards, and workplace practices in real world contexts. Through reflective assignments and structured supervision, students examine and experience the relationship between academic preparation and professional roles within human development and family sciences organizations.

HDFS 5359. Practicum in Human Development and Family Sciences II.

This course provides a continued, supervised practicum experience in human development and family sciences settings. Students engage in applied professional activities under the guidance of a graduate faculty instructor and an on-site professional supervisor. The course emphasizes the application of disciplinary theoretical perspectives, professional standards, and workplace practices in real world contexts. Through reflective assignments and structured supervision, students examine and experience the relationship between academic preparation and professional roles within human development and family sciences organizations. Utilizing knowledge and skills gained in Practicum 1, students complete an in-depth research informed project and report that examines professional experiences, organizational contexts, and applied problem solving within the field. Prerequisite: FCD 5358 or HDFS 5358 either with a grade of "CR".

HDFS 5394. Advanced Adolescent Development.

This course provides an in-depth examination of major theories and research on adolescent development. Students study biological, cognitive, and social transitions while analyzing how family, peer, school, and broader sociocultural contexts shape adolescent developmental processes. Emphasis is placed on investigating risk and protective factors that explain variability in adolescents’ psychosocial adjustment. Students synthesize theoretical perspectives and empirical research to develop evidence-based practice and policy recommendations that address real-world challenges and promote positive development among contemporary adolescents.

HDFS 5399A. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s initial thesis enrollment. As a structured research experience, this course is where students earn course credit for preparing their thesis proposal. Students complete supervised research under the direction of a graduate faculty member and in collaboration with their thesis committee members. This course covers the formulation of a research topic and research questions or hypotheses, the development of a critical review of literature, the application of a research design, and the writing of the thesis proposal. This course is repeatable for credit. No thesis credit is awarded until a thesis course like HDFS 5399B is completed.

HDFS 5399B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment in Human Development and Family Sciences. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students complete their thesis research project, including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and writing of the final thesis. Through this experience, students demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. Students remain enrolled in this course or another alternative Thesis B course (e.g., HDFS 5199B) across semesters as needed until the thesis is completed and approved by the thesis committee.

HDFS 5599B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment in Human Development and Family Sciences. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students complete their thesis research project, including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and writing of the final thesis. Through this experience, students demonstrate their mastery of advanced research design and implementation, as well as scientific writing. Students remain enrolled in this course or another alternative Thesis B course (e.g., HDFS 5199B) across semesters as needed until the thesis is completed and approved by the thesis committee.

HDFS 5659. Internship in Child Life.

This course is a structured clinical experience in child life settings. The course includes professional conduct, ethical practices, applied activities, interdisciplinary collaboration, and integration of academic concepts into real-world practice. Students complete internship hours at a clinical site under the supervision of a Certified Child Life Specialist and engage in reflective documentation in accordance with program guidelines. This course is required for students in the child life concentration.

HDFS 5660. Advanced Practicum.

This course provides an extensive structured, supervised practicum experience of 300 hours in human development and family sciences settings. Students engage in applied professional activities under the guidance of a graduate faculty instructor and an on-site professional supervisor. The course emphasizes the application of disciplinary theoretical perspectives, professional standards, and workplace practices in real-world contexts. Through reflective assignments and structured supervision, students examine and experience the relationship between academic preparation and professional roles within human development and family sciences organizations. Prerequisite: Instructor approval.

HDFS 5999B. Thesis.

This course represents a student’s continuing thesis enrollment in Human Development and Family Sciences. Under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the thesis committee, students complete a thesis research project, including data collection, analysis, interpretation, and writing of the final thesis. The course includes application of research design, implementation, and scientific writing practices. Students remain enrolled in this course or an alternative Thesis B course (e.g., HDFS 5199B) across semesters as needed until the thesis is completed and approved by the thesis committee.