Human Development and Family Science (HDFS), Bachelor of Science

As the only program at Ohio State with a primary focus on family and human development, you will learn how humans develop physically, emotionally and socially throughout the lifespan in the context of the family. This broad-based interdisciplinary degree provides students with the knowledge and expertise to shape an interesting and impactful career helping individuals, families and communities. And the personalized attention from the HDFS faculty makes a large university seem small, where students feel understood, challenged, encouraged and supported.

Tara Mick

2019

HDFS is a great choice for those who wish to pursue a career in the helping fields. It is a flexible major that I could simultaneously track with pre-med and enjoy the extra content I was learning.

Yifan Zhang

I took some HDFS classes my freshman year and I was in love with it. The professors and faculty genuinely care about their students’ learning experiences instead of just trying to push their students to get good grades. I really love the flexibility of the program, too. It is great for international students to have that flexibility to take online classes and complete their degree.

Student opportunities

teacher explaining to school kids human body

HDFS Club

The program student organization providing opportunities for networking, academic/professional development, and faculty connections.

Elective Opportunities

With a large number of elective courses available, you can double major, double minor, or simply take supporting courses to meet your learning interests and professional goals.

Field Experience

Experiences at the Crane Center for Early Childhood Research and Policy, Star House and adult rehabilitation centers are just a few of the places to see your future career in action.