George Mason University United States

Human Development and Family Science, BA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Human Development and Family Science, BA at George Mason University equips you to support the well-being of individuals and families through a strengths-based, interdisciplinary approach. You will explore crucial areas such as individual and family development, parent-child relations, and family services delivery, gaining competencies recognised by the National Council on Family Relations. This undergraduate degree is ideal if you are passionate about understanding human growth across the lifespan and are driven to make a positive impact in diverse communities through informed practice and advocacy.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Arts degree is studied over four years, integrating core coursework with practical experiences. You will engage with subjects like research methods, family law, and social policies, and choose electives aligned with your career interests, from early childhood education to family advocacy. A key component is your internship and analysis experience, where you will apply your learning in real-world settings. You will graduate prepared for diverse careers in human services, policy, and further graduate studies, equipped with essential skills in program planning, evaluation, and ethical practice.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program explores human development and family science through core coursework covering individual and family development across the lifespan, services delivery, and relationship dynamics. Students will engage with research methods and gain practical experience through internships. Major electives allow for specialization in areas such as child development, health, communication, law, and social policy, providing a comprehensive understanding of individuals and families within various societal contexts.

1 Core Courses in the Major (Total: 31-34 Credits):

Individual and family development
Lifespan development
Individual and family services delivery
Parent-child relations
Special topics in human development and family science
Internship and analysis in human development and family science
Advanced internship and analysis in human development and family science
Research for social change
Research methods in psychology
Methods and logic of inquiry
Advanced family processes
Issues in family relationships
Contemporary families and intimate relationships
Psychology of intimate relationships
Family financial literacy and resource management
The hospitalized child and family
Therapeutic benefits of play
Family law and public policy

2 Major Elective Choices (Total: 12 Credits):

Human anatomy and physiology I
Family and health communication
Delinquency and the juvenile justice system
Law and justice around the world
Foundations of language and literacy for diverse young learners, birth-age 5
Inclusive curriculum for young learners: planning instruction and guidance
Introduction to early childhood special education
Health care delivery in the United States
Dimensions of mental health
Child development
Sociology of delinquency
Family and health communication
Introduction to public health
Personal health
Dimensions of mental health
Applied cross-cultural psychology
Contemporary families and intimate relationships
Child and family welfare
Introduction to law and society
Health ethics, leadership, and advocacy
Public law and the judicial process
Public policy analysis
Social justice consciousness and action
Qualitative research methods
Legal and ethical issues in human services

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,220.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,220.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,220.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 40,220.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 160,880.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Fairfax Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

60%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesClinical & Medical ServicesCorporate Finance & TreasuryHealthcare ConsultingInsurance & Risk ManagementInvestment Management & Asset ManagementPublic Health & EpidemiologySoftware Development & Engineering

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Booz Allen Hamilton

inova health services

Why Study Human Development and Family Science, BA at George Mason University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

George Mason University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at George Mason University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Human Development and Family Science, BA at George Mason University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours weekly during terms and full-time during breaks. On-campus jobs don’t require special permits, but off-campus work needs university approval after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English proficiency requirements. For Duolingo, an overall score of 110 is needed, while TOEFL and IELTS have minimum thresholds as specified.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as family advocates, counselors, family program coordinators, or community service managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree focuses on family-centered approaches to promote health and well-being. Key topics include internal dynamics of relationships and social policies affecting families.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Human Development and Family Science program accepts students for enrollment in January and August. Make sure to apply well in advance to secure your spot.
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