Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad, interdisciplinary foundation in human development and family studies, combining theory, research methods and applied practice. Core topics typically include lifespan development, child and adolescent development, adult and ageing development, family systems, parenting and caregiving, and human sexuality. Students also study research design and statistics, program evaluation, public policy affecting families, and ethical issues in human services.

Programme structure commonly includes a sequence of lower-division courses that introduce developmental theory and research methods, followed by upper-division modules that offer deeper study and applied skills. Typical modules and subjects you can expect are:

• Lifespan Human Development – major theories of development from infancy through older adulthood.
• Child and Adolescent Development – cognitive, emotional and social development in early life stages.
• Family Systems and Relationships – family dynamics, communication, and lifecycle transitions.
• Research Methods and Statistics – quantitative and qualitative methods for studying human development.
• Program Planning and Evaluation – designing, implementing and assessing community and family programmes.
• Community and Public Policy – policies that affect family wellbeing and social support systems.
• Practicum/Internship – supervised field experience in community agencies, schools, health settings or social service organisations.
• Electives and Special Topics – options may include gerontology, early childhood intervention, multicultural issues, prevention and intervention strategies.

Many students complete a supervised practicum or internship placement, which develops applied skills in assessment, case management, family education and client advocacy. The curriculum emphasises evidence-based practice and prepares students to work collaboratively with professionals in allied fields.

Entry requirements

Typical entry into the bachelor’s programme requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with a competitive academic record. Applicants are usually assessed on their secondary school GPA and high school coursework in English and mathematics. Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on current institutional policies.

Additional considerations for admission and progression may include:

• A personal statement or essay demonstrating interest in human development and service to families.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, counsellors or community supervisors.
• Successful completion of any required placement checks for practicum, such as a criminal background check, health screening or proof of immunisations, where placements with vulnerable populations are involved.
• For transfer applicants, submission of college transcripts showing completion of general education requirements and prerequisite courses.

Specific minimum GPA requirements, transfer credit rules and documentation details are set by the university and should be confirmed with Georgia Southern University admissions prior to application.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services move into a range of entry-level and paraprofessional roles in human services and community settings. Common career paths include:

• Family support worker or family outreach specialist in community agencies and non-profits.
• Paraprofessional roles in early childhood education and child care programmes.
• Case manager or client advocate in social services, housing, or health-related agencies.
• Program coordinator or youth services worker in schools, after-school programmes and juvenile services.
• Community education and prevention specialist focusing on parenting, relationship skills or health promotion.
• Positions in public policy, research assistance or programme evaluation with governmental or advocacy organisations.

Many graduates also pursue graduate study in social work, counselling, family therapy, education or public health to qualify for clinical licensure or specialised professional roles. Coursework in research methods and program evaluation also prepares students for roles in applied research and policy analysis.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a programme grounded in applied learning and community engagement, with multiple campus locations that connect students to a wide range of practicum sites and local partner organisations. The department emphasises small-class interaction, mentoring by faculty with applied and research expertise in human development and family studies, and opportunities for hands-on experience through supervised internships.

Students benefit from a combination of classroom-based instruction, research opportunities and field placements that develop practical skills valued by employers and graduate programmes. The university’s regional community networks and commitment to service-learning make it practical for students to gain direct experience with diverse populations and real-world programmes while completing their degree.