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.

Explore the Curriculum

Post-Graduation Career Snapshot

Explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation with a list of high-demand occupations. Discover how you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles through examples of potential career pathways.

High Demand Occupations

  • Caseworker
  • Enrollment Specialist
  • Community Health Worker
  • Family Support Specialist
  • Housing Navigator

National Median Salary

$52,400
The median salary is based on national job listings for the above occupations that require five years experience or less.

Future Career Pathways

As you gain experience, you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles. Here are pathway occupations you might explore:
  • Family Case Manager
  • Director of Social Services
  • Child Welfare Supervisor
Data sourced from Lightcast, a leading provider of labor market analytics and workforce data. 2025.

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.

Accelerated Degree Info

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.

Excited NDSU marching band members

Now is your moment to expand your horizons for a brighter future at NDSU.

Apply Now

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.

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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.

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Request Information

Receive personalized information about your program of interest and see how NDSU supports your academic and career goals.

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