Illinois State University United States

Human Development & Family Science (B.A.)

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 Bachelor of Arts in Human Development & Family Science at Illinois State University is designed for aspiring professionals passionate about fostering individual and family well-being across diverse communities. You will explore the complexities of human growth, family dynamics, and societal influences, preparing you to address critical issues in areas such as child development, nutrition, and family life education. This undergraduate degree provides a strong foundation for careers focused on educational, preventive, and intervention services, equipping you with the knowledge to make a tangible difference in people's lives.

This full-time, on-campus program is structured over four years, offering a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage with subjects ranging from nutrition and interior design to apparel merchandising and early childhood education, often through hands-on projects and professional practice internships. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for roles in family life education, child advocacy, community outreach, and various other fields where understanding human development and family systems is paramount.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts program in Human Development & Family Science offers a comprehensive curriculum covering foundational knowledge and specialized areas. Students will explore human and family development across the lifespan, delve into nutrition, and examine various aspects of family life, including diversity, relationships, and challenges. The program also provides opportunities to study interior design, fashion, and food science, preparing graduates for diverse professional roles.

1 100 Level Classes

Introduction to Family and Consumer Sciences
Human And Family Development
Fundamentals Of Human Nutrition
Environmental Design Elements:Studio
Introduction to Teaching Family and Consumer Sciences
American Family: Change & Diversity
Principles Of Food Preparation
Computer-Aided Design for Interior Design
Apparel Product Development I
Professional Practice: Internship In Family & Consumer Science

2 200 Level Classes

Problem Solving and Research Methods in Family & Consumer Sciences
Dynamics Of United States Contemporary Health Issues
Food Planning, Marketing, And Cost Controls
The Hospitality Industry
Building Information Modeling Foundations for Interior Design
Nutrition Through The Life Cycle
Interior Construction And Building Systems
Nutrition Counseling And Assessment
Advanced Apparel Construction
Cultural Diversity In Dress
Enduring Issues For Couples And Families
Textiles
Fashion Trend & Industry Analysis
Apparel Design
Parenting
Resource Management for Individuals and Families
Teaching Interior Design in Family and Consumer Sciences Education
Teaching Fashion in Family and Consumer Sciences Education
Drafting For Interior Design
Visual Communication For Interior Design
Development And Guidance of Preschool Children
Development And Guidance Of Infants And Toddlers
Multicultural Family Studies
Issues and Development in Middle Childhood
Independent Study
Undergraduate Teaching Experiences In Family And Consumer Sciences
Independent Honor Study

3 300 Level Classes

Professional Leadership in Family and Consumer Sciences
Professional Leadership in Human Development and Family Science
Professional Leadership in FCS Teacher Education
Professional Leadership in Food, Nutrition and Dietetics
Professional Leadership in Interior Design
Professional Leadership in Fashion Design and Merchandising
Materials and Finishes in Interior Design
Emerging Technology in Interior Design
Adolescence And Emerging Adulthood In Cultural Context
Families In Later Life
Psychosocial Care of Children & Families in Healthcare Envir
Advanced Child Development Applications
Organization And Administration Of Early Childhood Programs
Couple Relationships
Family Crises
Community Nutrition
Medical Nutrition Therapy
Early Childhood Nutrition Education
Nutrition For Health & Physical Fitness
Food Science
Nutrition And Metabolism
Food Service Management
Quantity Foods
Special Topics In Food And Hospitality Management
Special Topics in Food & Hospitality Management: Sustainability
Special Topics in Food & Hospitality Management: Beverage Appreciation
Flat Pattern Design
Advanced Textiles
Draping And Design
Clothing And Behavior
Economics Of Fashion
Apparel Product Analysis
Decision-Making For Consumers
Family And Consumer Public Policy
Family Life Education Methods
Value of Play in Human Development
Restaurant Operations
History Of Interior And Environmental Design I
Interior Design I: Studio
Interior Design Business Practices
Environmental Lighting Design
Human Factors In Interior Environments
History Of Interior And Environmental Design II
Rendering For Interior Designers
Curriculum in Family and Consumer Sciences Education
Methods in Teaching Family and Consumer Sciences Education
Fashion History I
Fashion History II
Bereavement, Grief and Loss
Helping and Communication Skills for FCS Professions
Apparel Collection Development
CAD For Apparel Design

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Brokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCorporate Finance & TreasuryEconomic Research & PolicyHealth Technology & Digital HealthHome Health & Long‑Term CareInsurance & Risk ManagementInvestment Management & Asset ManagementMental Health & CounselingPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Advocate Health Care

Carle Health

Health Care Service Corporation

Why Study Human Development & Family Science (B.A.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at Illinois State 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 & Family Science (B.A.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks on campus without a separate work permit. Off-campus work may be allowed after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To be admitted, you must meet specific English test scores: Duolingo (overall 105), TOEFL (overall 79), IELTS (overall 6.5), or PTE (overall 53). Make sure to achieve the required scores in all relevant sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers in family life education, child advocacy, community outreach, and more.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on human growth and family dynamics, providing a solid foundation for understanding child development and nutrition. You'll engage in hands-on projects and internships to apply what you learn in real-world settings.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can begin the Bachelor of Arts in Human Development & Family Science program in January, June, or August. Make sure to apply before these intake months to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️