Apr 19, 2024  
2016-2017 Undergraduate Bulletin 
    
2016-2017 Undergraduate Bulletin [ARCHIVED]

Human Development and Family Studies, B.S.


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Introduction

The Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) field is dedicated to the study of human development and the interrelationships among individuals, families and communities. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws from other social sciences but has established distinct assumptions, approaches to studying families, and world view. A multidisciplinary approach provides students with both a broad perspective and specialized knowledge. Our goal is to foster positive sensitivity to the needs of families and their members through the lenses of relationships, culture, gender, age, and life stage, among others.

The program integrates academic study with significant experiential learning with individuals of all ages, families and community groups. Students are involved in observation/participation, field experience, independent study and practicum throughout the program. Hospitals, human service agencies, community groups, adolescent group homes and homes for senior citizens provide opportunities for the synthesis of practical and theoretical knowledge.

General Requirements
Bachelor of Science Degree

Total for graduation 120 credits  
General Education 46 credits  
Major Studies 74 credits  

Students must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 within the major studies for graduation and to register for the internship experience.

Program Requirements


Racial and Ethnic Studies (6 credits*)


Three credits must be selected from RES-A.

Global Perspective (6 credits*)


Complete a program of university-approved work or study abroad or 6 credits of global perspective approved courses. 

General Education (46 credits)


Analytic Reasoning and Natural Sciences (10 credits)


Courses must be from the areas of analytical reasoning and natural sciences. At least one mathematics or statistics course and a natural science course with a lab are required.

Arts and Humanities (6 credits)


Courses must be from two or more areas including art history, creative arts, foreign language and culture, history, literature, music appreciation, performing arts and philosophy.

Social and Behavioral Sciences (12 credits)


Choose 3 additional credits from one or more areas including anthropology, economics, geography, political science, psychology and sociology.

Contemporary Issues (3 credits)


Courses must be selected from the list of approved contemporary issues courses.

Social Responsibility and Ethical Reasoning (3 credits)


Courses must be selected from the list of approved social responsibility and ethical reasoning courses.

Selectives (3 credits)


Courses/credits may be selected from any category to meet the 40-credit requirement.

Electives (9 credits)


Select additional courses to fulfill the 120-credit requirement.

Note(s):


The B.S. Human Development and Family Studies undergraduate degree program at the University of Wisconsin-Stout has been reviewed by the National Council on Family Relations. It has been recognized as an NCFR CFLE-approved program offering coursework covering the content required for the Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) designation. Graduates of NCFR CFLE-approved programs qualify to apply for the CFLE designation via an Abbreviated Application process.

Student-Designed Concentration, Certification or Minor (15 credits)


Students complete the degree with selectives chosen in consultation with the program director, or any minor in consultation with the advisor.

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