17:1
Student-to-faculty ratio
R1 Ranked
NDSU is a nationally top-ranked research university
94%
Recent graduates employed or continuing education
#1
North Dakota University with the Best Student Life
Discover your passion and make a lasting impact with NDSU’s human development and family science degree program. Perfect for those inspired to work with children, adults and families, HDFS offers an unparalleled blend of hands-on experience, innovative curriculum and versatile career opportunities. With a focus on family and human development across the lifespan, students gain deep insights into how individuals grow and interact within families and society. Situated in the vibrant Fargo-Moorhead metro area, you’ll benefit from unique internship and community service opportunities with local organizations, such as child care programs, mental health centers and hospitals. Graduates are thriving as family counselors, child life specialists, educators, financial planners and more.
Post-Graduation Career Snapshot
High Demand Occupations
- Caseworker
- Enrollment Specialist
- Community Health Worker
- Family Support Specialist
- Housing Navigator
National Median Salary
Future Career Pathways
- Family Case Manager
- Director of Social Services
- Child Welfare Supervisor
Capture the Moment at NDSU
Shape Your Future
NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.
Choose a Path That Works for You
Choose from three specialized options—adult development and aging, child and adolescent development and family science—or pair your major with dual degrees in social work or elementary education to expand your career horizons.
Work in the Best Environment
Learning takes place in state-of-the-art facilities like Evelyn Morrow Lebedeff Hall and the Family Life Center, which feature classrooms, research labs and a child development center.
Professional Development and Leadership
Broaden your horizons and expand your experience outside of the classroom through student organizations, including the Human Development and Family Science Club, the North Dakota Association for the Education of Young Children and the North Dakota Family and Consumer Sciences Association. Participation in extracurricular activities help build strong connections with peers and allow you to develop leadership skills.
Accelerated Master’s Option Available
High-achieving undergraduates can complete both their bachelor's degree and a Master of Science in Human Development and Family Science in five years.
Tuition & Costs
NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To support you in covering tuition and expenses, we provide a wide range of need-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid options.
Admission Info
At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking a dynamic learning environment within a supportive, welcoming community.

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Connect with a Counselor
Discover the right path for you with guidance from your personal admission counselor. We’re here to help you explore programs, navigate the admission process and find scholarships.
Visit NDSU
Experience what it’s like to be part of the Bison community. Tour our campus, meet with faculty, enjoy a meal in a dining center and discover why NDSU feels like home.
Request Information
Receive personalized information about your program of interest and see how NDSU supports your academic and career goals.