Human Development Sciences (B.S.)

Family & Child Sciences | Developmental & Learning Sciences | Human Movement Sciences | Education Sciences

Concentrations

Learning Outcomes

Careers

Accreditation

Next Steps

Contact

Highlights

Courses

Cost

Concentrations

Learning Outcomes

Careers

Accreditation

Next Steps

Contact

Highlights

Courses

Cost

About

The Human Development Sciences major provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding human beings at various stages of their lifespan, as well the complex challenges and possibilities facing children, adults, families and communities. The program emphasizes that effective interventions require understanding multiple, interconnected systems that shape human development. Graduates are equipped to promote well-being and address problems by understanding the crucial interplay between individuals and broader familial and social dynamics.

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Course Catalog

Program Highlights

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Requirements

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Concentrations

The Human Development Sciences major includes four concentrations, each of which provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to address the needs of children, adults, families and communities through evidence-based practices:

Family and Child Sciences examines the complex, interconnected factors that shape child development and family well-being. Emphasizing an intervention-focused approach, students learn to support children and families across diverse community contexts, and are prepared to address real-world challenges through informed, systems-based practice after graduation.
Developmental and Learning Sciences explores human development and learning across the lifespan, from early childhood to adulthood. Students engage with coursework that emphasizes direct interaction with individuals and families in real-world settings. This concentration prepares graduates for careers in educational, community and human service settings, as well as for further study in related fields.
Human Movement Sciences focuses on the study of physical activity, health and human performance across the lifespan. Students explore topics of motor development, kinesiology and coaching while gaining an understanding of how movement supports overall well-being. This concentration prepares graduates for careers in health, fitness, and recreation, as well as for further study in allied health professions.
Education Sciences provides a broad foundation in educational systems, policy and practice. It is designed for those interested in careers in education-related fields such as youth development, community organizations or policy. Although this concentration does not lead to teacher licensure, it may align with or complement requirements for alternative pathways to conditional certification.

Advising & Support

The College of Education and Human Development Advising Center provides students with academic guidance and personal support before they set foot on campus through graduation and beyond. Our professional advising team and student support staff build genuine relationships and provide timely information to help you navigate your program, college life, internships, work and whatever else is on your plate.

Program Learning Outcomes

The Human Development Sciences curriculum is designed to prepare students to understand human development across the lifespan through an interdisciplinary, systems-based course of study. The program equips graduates to promote the well-being of children, adults, families and communities through evidence-informed practices. Upon completion, students will be able to:

Explain major concepts, theories, and developmental processes related to children, adolescents, adults, families, and communities
Analyze how biological, cognitive, social, cultural, environmental, and institutional factors interact to shape human development and well-being
Apply a systems-based perspective to understanding individual, family, and community challenges
Examine how culture, identity, language, ability, and context influence human development, learning, and access to opportunity

Interpret quantitative and qualitative information relevant to human development, learning, movement, and family/community well-being
Evaluate research, professional literature, and data sources to support evidence-based decision making
Use appropriate methods of inquiry to identify problems, assess needs, and recommend interventions or supports
Apply ethical principles and professional standards in academic and field-based settings
Engage in reflective practice to improve professional effectiveness, self-awareness, and responsiveness to diverse populations
Demonstrate professional communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills in coursework, seminars, and field experiences

Integrate theory and practice through internship/field experiences and other applied learning opportunities.
Design or recommend developmentally appropriate, community-informed, and contextually relevant strategies to support individuals and families.
Apply disciplinary and/or field knowledge and skills within the selected concentration.
Complete a capstone or seminar experience that synthesizes core and concentration learning.
Articulate career pathways, professional goals, and, where relevant, preparation for graduate study or alternative certification pathways.

Careers

Graduates of the Human Development Sciences major are well positioned for careers in a variety of fields, including:

Social work
Children, youth and family services
Child life specialist
Parent educator
Case or care manager
Early interventionist

Advocacy and nonprofit work
Business and human resources
Health educator
Occupational therapist
Researcher

For students wishing to continue on to graduate school, a degree in Human Development Sciences is preparation for a variety of programs, including:

Social Work
Marriage and Family Therapy
Law
Occupational Therapy
Public Administration/Nonprofit Leadership

Psychology/Certified Professional Counselor
Medicine
School Counseling
Speech Pathology
Reading/Literacy Specialist

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At a Glance

College of Education & Human Development

Degree Level

Undergraduate Major

Degree Earned

Bachelor of Science in Child Development & Family Relations

Concentrations

Early Childhood Education

Individual and Family Studies

Mode of Study

In-Person

time to Complete Degree

120 Credits

College of Education & Human Development

Degree Level

Undergraduate Major

Degree Earned

Bachelor of Science in Child Development & Family Relations

Concentrations

Early Childhood Education

Individual and Family Studies

Mode of Study

In-Person

time to Complete Degree

120 Credits

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Open to students in all majors

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Scholarships

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Next Steps

Contact

Education & Human Development

Shibles Hall

umaine.edu/edhd

207.581.2441

coehd@maine.edu

Admissions

Undergraduate

Estabrooke Hall, Room 115

go.umaine.edu

207.581.1561

207.581.1213

umaineadmissions@maine.edu

International

Chadbourne Hall, Room 122

go.umaine.edu/international-undergraduate-admissions/

207.581.3437

207.581.2920

internationaladm@maine.edu

Black Bear Bridge Week

For incoming first-year students

Aug. 24-28

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