About

The Department of Human Development and Family Studies prepares students to understand child development, adolescent changes, family relationships, and cultural influences, essential for creating effective prevention and intervention practices.

Students are trained to work in organizations that provide strategic interventions, education, advocacy, policy reform, and research. They graduate with leadership and research skills to improve the quality of life, especially for those facing significant challenges.

Faculty, who are nationally and internationally recognized experts, mentor students throughout their studies. They explore topics such as parent-infant relationships, race, identity development, aging, developmental disparities, gun violence, refugee welfare, early childhood leadership, and family dynamics. Together with alumni, they influence policies, develop culturally sensitive parenting programs, train teachers, shape childcare programs, and support refugee and immigrant communities. Undergraduates have opportunities for research, internships, and hands-on training with infants and young children.

Degrees Offered

Our programs consistently receive top rankings, including the 4^th-ranked doctoral program in the country and being ranked 2^nd for its online programs and “best value” degrees. Bachelor’s degree graduates have foundational knowledge of sociocultural influence and equity that shape individuals’ school, work, and relationship experiences. All students participate in a field-based internship addressing prevention, intervention, and education practices. Online and in-person programs include the M.Ed. in Birth through Kindergarten (BK) Administration, B.S. NC teacher licensure, the B.S. in Early Care and Education, and a post-B.S. certificate in Leadership in Infant and Toddler Learning. Research-track PhD students examine the biological, relational, early educational, social, and cultural foundations of development and their implications for families. A defining focus of HDFS degree and certificate programs is an emphasis on applying strength-based approaches to the study and work conducted with diverse children and families.

Department Highlights

HDFS offers online degree options, undergraduate research opportunities, study abroad opportunities, large scale funded research projects and educational initiatives for diverse groups (National Research Center on Hispanic Children & Families; Child & Family Research Network; Child Care Education Program lab school; North Carolina Rated License Assessment Project; Early Childhood Leadership & Policy Network; Triad Child Study)

• The department is committed to inclusion, integrity, community and intentionality.
• All students receive professional development mentoring from faculty.
• Students entering the major before their 3rd year as a UNCG student are encouraged to explore a study abroad experience.
• Faculty are renowned experts in early childhood development, education and policy; parent-child relationships; adolescent development; marriage, divorce, and blended families; and sociocultural contexts including immigrant and refugee issues.
• Faculty and students represent diverse racial and ethnic groups.
• Ranked #1 Best HDFS among NC (2021) by Universities.com; and #1 Best Online Bachelor’s in HDFS Programs by BestColleges.com.