Academic/Course Planning
HDFS Major Maps
  • Need help finding your way through NDSU and beyond? Get major-specific advice on coursework, work experience, connections, broadening perspectives, and life after graduation–all in one place. Major Maps provide suggestions on how to make the most of your NDSU experience, but you are not limited by these recommendations. Use them as a starting point, and create your own tailored map.
College of Health and Human Sciences Curriculum Guides

HDFS Courses Offered 
*Deviations from this plan can occur.

Field Experience

  • Credits for HDFS Adult Development & Aging, Child & Adolescent Development, and Family Science options. Students should begin preparing for field experience in their junior year.
Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE)

  • The National Council on Family Relations (NCFR) offers the only program to certify family life educators.

  • HDFS Students who have taken designated courses and earned a baccalaureate degree may apply for Provisional Status as Certified Family Life Educators and following two years of experience in family life education, may apply for Full Certification.
Elementary Education and HDFS
  • Students who are pursuing their Elementary Education degree are also HDFS majors, so much of the advising information is the same as it is for other HDFS students. Information specific to the Elementary Education degree can be found below.

  • Program Information and Frequently Asked Questions

    • Printable file with information about the dual degree program and answers to questions about program requirements, registering for VCSU classes, teaching licensure, certifications and endorsements, and program costs.
Social Work and HDFS
  • Students who are pursuing their Social Work degree are also HDFS majors, so much of the advising information is the same as it is for other HDFS students.
5 Year Accelerated Masters (BS + MS Degrees) in HDFS
  • The HDFS Department is instituting a new Accelerated Masters program that allows high-achieving undergraduates to complete both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in HDFS in 5 years.
Tri-College University
  • Can’t find the class you want at NDSU? Learn about taking classes at other area colleges that will count for your NDSU degree.
Selecting a Minor
  • Students in the HDFS Adult Development & Aging, Child & Adolescent Development, and Family Science options are required to take a major outside the department. Common minors are Women & Gender Studies, Psychology, Wellness, and Criminal Justice.
Research and Senior Thesis Opportunities
  • Why Participate in Research? Participation in research as an undergraduate student provides you with valuable experience that will continue to benefit you long after you graduate.
  • Senior Thesis: This is a particularly useful option for students thinking of going on to graduate school. A senior thesis requires a student to complete an independent research project under the supervision of faculty member. More specific requirements for the senior thesis are outlined on the next page.
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